REGIÃO DE COIMBRA

Mira is a captivating destination on Portugal’s Silver Coast (Costa Prata), renowned for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and serene natural landscapes. Nestled between Aveiro and Figueira da Foz, this charming town offers travelers a tranquil retreat infused with authentic Portuguese charm.

Praia de Mira: Sun, Surf, and Sand Praia de Mira shines with its expansive golden sands and the invigorating waves of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a favorite among beachgoers and surfers alike. Adjacent to the beach lies the picturesque Barrinha Lagoon, a haven for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy sailing, canoeing, and windsurfing. The surrounding pine forests provide a refreshing backdrop for leisurely strolls and nature appreciation.

Cultural Treasures and Historical Sites Delve into Mira’s rich history by visiting the Gândara Territory Museum, which offers insights into the region’s traditional way of life. The town center is adorned with landmarks such as the Pillory of Mira, the statue of Infante D. Pedro, and the Mother Church of São Tomé, which dates back to the late 17th century. The Garden of Visconde da Corujeira offers a serene, relaxing setting amidst lush greenery and historical monuments.

Mira’s extensive cycle-pedestrian paths meander through scenic landscapes, connecting the town to its beaches and neighboring villages. Along the way, you can discover traditional water mills and designated picnic areas, ideal for family outings and nature enthusiasts.

The area around Cantanhede is diverse, complete with historical sites, natural beauty, local industries, and coastal retreats. Cantanhede’s history dates back to at least 1087, with its name derived from the Celtic word “cant,” meaning “great stone,” referencing the region’s notable quarries.

Sites like the Igreja Matriz de Cantanhede and the Igreja da Misericórdia showcase the town's architectural heritage, reflecting centuries of religious and cultural significance. The Museu da Pedra celebrates the local limestone’s contribution to Portugal’s Renaissance sculpture.  

Escape civilisation and head for the Piscina Natural de Ançã, a natural spring pool offering a refreshing experience amidst lush surroundings. Alternatively, head for the beach, Praia da Tocha, which provides golden sands and opportunities for surfing, bodyboarding, and observing traditional fishing practices.  

The region’s clay-rich soils favour viticulture, producing internationally acclaimed wines, especially sparkling varieties. The Adega Cooperativa de Cantanhede plays a pivotal role in this winemaking tradition. 

Biocant Park, a biotechnology hub, signifies Cantanhede’s commitment to scientific research and innovation. Annually, the town hosts EXPOFACIC, a prominent agricultural, commercial, and industrial fair that attracts thousands of visitors. 

Strategically located between Coimbra and Aveiro, Cantanhede is easily accessible by road, making it a convenient destination for travellers exploring central Portugal.

Deep in the heart of Portugal’s Bairrada region, Mealhada is a charming town renowned for its iconic gastronomy, historic landmarks, and lush natural landscapes.

Mealhada is famously known for its “Leitão à Bairrada” (roast suckling pig), a dish synonymous with the town’s identity. This delicacy, often accompanied by Bairrada’s sparkling wines, draws foodies from all over. The annual “Festa do Leitão” celebrates this culinary tradition, offering visitors a chance to indulge in local flavours and festivities. 

Parque da Cidade, Mealhada’s city park, spans 14 hectares and offers recreational spaces, walking paths, and an Environmental Interpretation Centre, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers.

On the northern slopes of the Serra do Buçaco mountain 25km (15.5 miles) north of Coimbra, lies the Parque Nacional do Buçaco (formally "Bussaco"), a forest sanctuary cultivated by Carmelite monks since the 17th century. Buçaco is famed for its scenic beauty and richness of vegetation. Within the three-mile-long perimeter, a network of footpaths takes you through 105ha/260 acres of the semi-cultivated park that leads past picturesque fountains, ponds, chapels, follies, and amazing vistas. Cars are allowed through the three entrances of Porta das Ameias, Porta da Serra or Porta da Rainha, and all roads lead to the magnificent Palace Hotel do Buçaco. [ More About ► ]

Buçaco Palace

At the heart of the park, surrounded by flowerbeds complete with a garden maze, stands the former summer residence and hunting lodge of Dom Carlos I. Built between 1888 and 1907 by the Italian architect Luigi Manini in an impressive Neo-Manueline style. It is an architectural folly, with influences from Lisbon's Jeronimos Monastery, Venice's Doge's Palace, and Bavaria's Graustark Palaces, consisting of galleries with flamboyant arches, armillary spheres, turrets, and spires.

Buçaco Palace Hotel

The individually decorated rooms have a classic décor and a satellite TV for a modern twist. They all include period furniture, ranging from 18th-century to Art-Nouveau pieces, and some rooms overlook the hotel’s extensive gardens.

Book Online ►

Sitting 380 metres above sea level in the little spa town of Luso, huddled in a picturesque setting in the northwestern foothills of the Buçaco National Park. Famed for its chalybeate and radioactive mineral springs. Their healing powers are used to treat rheumatic and bronchial disorders. The water supply the many spa hotels in the area. The water is also bottled and is highly regarded within Portugal. Indeed, the spa waters transformed the fortunes of the 11th-century town after its discovery in the 1800s. Rainwater is filtered through the quartz bedrock of the Serra do Buçaco mountain before emerging through a spring in the centre of the town. The main drinking fountain is popular with those who treasure the waters of Luso, and it's not uncommon to find people filling bottles. The town is characterised by the Art Nouveau houses and mansions, which date back to the town's heyday.

Mortágua is a charming town that blends natural beauty, interesting history, and cultural heritage. Located approximately 30 kilometres from Coimbra, it is an ideal destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and authentic Portuguese experiences.

Mortágua’s diverse terrain offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The Aguieira Dam, also known as Barragem da Foz do Dão, is a prominent feature, providing picturesque views and recreational fun. Nearby, the Ecopista do Dão, a scenic cycling and walking trail, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s lush greenery. 

The town’s chequered history is evident in its landmarks. The Pelourinho de Mortágua, a Manueline-style pillory, stands as a testament to the town’s medieval past. Additionally, the Centro de Interpretação - Mortágua na Batalha do Bussaco offers insights into the significant Battle of Bussaco, highlighting Mortágua’s role in Portugal’s military history.  

For a deeper understanding of local traditions, the Raízes & Memórias - Núcleo Museológico da Irmânia showcases rural life in the late 19th century, recreating various scenarios of daily life and emphasising the community’s connection to the land.

Oliveira do Hospital boasts an abundance of historical sites. The Roman Ruins of Bobadela are a testament to the town’s ancient past, offering visitors a glimpse into Roman architecture and urban planning. Nearby, the Igreja Moçárabe de São Pedro de Lourosa, dating back to the 10th century, showcases unique Mozarabic architectural elements. The Olive Oil Museum provides insights into the traditional methods of olive oil production, a staple of the region’s economy and culture.   

The Avô River Beach offers a serene setting for relaxation and swimming, surrounded by lush landscapes. The Alvoco das Várzeas River Beach is another picturesque spot, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks. Hiking and cycling trails abound, providing opportunities to explore the region's scenic beauty.

Piódão is ensconced on the slopes of the Serra do Açor mountain range, and its jumble of tightly packed houses blends into the landscape. The main building material is the distinctive schist that makes up the bedrock in the region. One striking feature of each building is blue-coloured doors and window frames. According to local legend, blue coloured gloss paint was the only item available in the village store. One structure does stand out, however, the parish church dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception, which is whitewashed and supported by some rather peculiar cylindrical buttresses. It was built and paid for by the residents of Piódão in the early 19th century.

The village's isolation has helped to preserve many of the original age-old features, as well as being the perfect hideaway for outlaws fleeing the authorities. It's believed that one of the murderers of D. Inês de Castro went into hiding here, thus escaping the wrath of D. Pedro I (14th century). Today, Piódão serves as a base camp for hikers keen to explore the rugged beauty of the Serra do Açor. [ More About ► ]

The picturesque municipality of Arganil is surrounded by the Serra do Açor mountains and is blessed with natural beauty, historical charm, and cultural richness. This tranquil destination is ideal for travellers seeking an authentic Portuguese experience. 

Arganil is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The Fraga da Pena waterfall, located within the Serra do Açor, cascades amidst lush greenery, providing a serene spot for relaxation and photography. Nearby, the Mata da Margaraça forest offers well-marked trails through one of Portugal’s last remaining native woodlands, perfect for hiking and nature observation. The Alva River provides kayaking, swimming, and picnicking opportunities along its banks. The Ecopista do Dão, a converted railway line, offers a scenic route for cycling and walking, connecting Arganil to neighbouring regions.

Arganil is close to many celebrated schist villages, Piódão, Benfeita, and Vila Cova de Alva. Arganil boasts several cultural sites, including the Mosteiro de Folques, a medieval monastery with significant historical value. The town’s central area features the Teatro Alves Coelho, a venue for local performances, and the Biblioteca Municipal Miguel Torga, named after the renowned Portuguese writer.

Snuggled between the Serra da Lousã and Serra do Açor mountain ranges, the charming town of Góis offers a serene retreat for travellers seeking natural beauty and local culture. Bathed by the Ceira River, Góis is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and traditional villages. 

Góis is a draw for nature enthusiasts. The Peneda River Beach is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation, surrounded by lush greenery. For hikers and adventurers, the Penedos de Góis—majestic rock formations reaching up to 1,040 meters—provide trails with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The nearby Serra da Lousã offers additional hiking and biking paths through dense forests and scenic vistas.

The town’s long and chequered history is evident in its architecture and landmarks. The Igreja Matriz de Góis, a 15th-century church, is a testament to the town’s historical significance. Nearby, the ruins of Góis Castle offer a glimpse into the region’s medieval past. The Centro Cultural de Góis hosts various cultural events and exhibitions, showcasing local art and traditions.

Góis is part of the Schist Villages network, known for its distinctive slate architecture. Villages like Aigra Nova and Pena offer visitors a chance to experience traditional Portuguese rural life, with narrow winding streets, rustic houses, and a peaceful ambience. These villages are often surrounded by terraced fields and ancient forests, perfect for leisurely walks and cultural immersion. 

Adventure seekers can engage in canyoning in the Ribeira da Pena or explore the Ceira River’s walkways. The region’s diverse terrain makes it ideal for mountain biking, bird watching, and nature photography.

Straddling the banks of the Mondego River, Coimbra is one of Portugal’s most historic and culturally rich cities. Coimbra was the medieval capital of Portugal (1139–1256). It is now best known as the home of the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1290. The university, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominates the city’s skyline and offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of academic tradition. Top attractions include the Joanina Library, a baroque masterpiece housing over 300,000 volumes, and the ornate Chapel of São Miguel with its brightly painted ceiling.   

Beyond academia, Coimbra boasts a wealth of historical sites. The Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) is a prime example of Romanesque architecture, while the Monastery of Santa Cruz houses the tomb of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Across the river, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha offers insights into the city’s monastic past. For a journey further back in time, the nearby Roman ruins of Conímbriga feature some of the best-preserved mosaics in Europe.  

Coimbra’s cultural scene is vibrant, with traditional Fado music echoing through its streets. The city’s Botanical Garden, established in 1772, provides a tranquil escape with its diverse plant collections. Culinary delights await as well; local specialities include “Leitão à Bairrada” (roast suckling pig) and “Pastéis de Santa Clara,” a sweet pastry originating from the city’s convents. [ More About ► ]

Although Conimbriga isn't the largest Roman city in Portugal, it is the best preserved. It's believed only ten per cent of the site has been excavated. 16km (10 miles) south of Coimbra, close to the town of Condeixa-a-Nova, the site includes an informative museum, ancient baths, houses, a forum, an amphitheatre and city walls. However, the Romans were not the first to settle here. When they arrived in the second century BC the site had been settled for at least five hundred years by local Celts. The name Conimbriga derives from an early, possibly pre-Indo-European element meaning "rocky height or outcrop" and the Celtic word Briga, signifying a defended place. Others think that the element Coni may be related to the Conii people. Using the capacity of the amphitheatre as a guide, it's estimated that 10, 600 people once lived in Conibriga. A few hours spent here is an interesting insight into Roman life.

Daily: 10h00 - 19h00 | Adult: €4.00, Concessionary: €2.00
Ruínas Romanas de Conímbriga, 3150 Condeixa-a-Velha. Portugal.
40º 12' 22'' N | 08º 24' 53'' W | +351 239 941 177
infogeral@conimbriga.pt |  Website

The captivating town of Lousã sits below the slopes of the Serra da Lousã mountains. Lousã is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and traditional villages.

Close by are “Aldeias do Xisto” or Schist Villages such as Talasnal, Cerdeira, Casal Novo, Chiqueiro, and Candal which invite visitors to wander through narrow lanes, admire rustic houses, and experience the enduring traditions of rural Portugal.  

Perched above the town, the medieval Castle of Lousã stands as a testament to the region’s chequered history. Nearby, the Nossa Senhora da Piedade Sanctuary and its adjacent river beach offer a serene setting for reflection and relaxation. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Serra da Lousã provides a network of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. Routes lead through dense forests and offer panoramic views. The “Trevim Swing,” a popular attraction, allows visitors to soar above the treetops, capturing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. [ More About ► ]

Located in the fertile plains of the Mondego River, Montemor-o-Velho is a captivating town in Portugal’s Centro region, renowned for its imposing Castle of Montemor-o-Velho, a medieval fortress dating back to the 10th century. Perched atop a hill, the castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields and the Mondego River. Within its walls lies the Igreja de Santa Maria da Alcáçova, a Gothic church that adds to the site’s historical significance.

The town is also home to other notable religious sites, including the Igreja de São Martinho, a 12th-century Gothic church, and the 16th-century Igreja da Misericórdia. The Renaissance-style Capela de São Sebastião and the Manueline-style Fonte dos Anjos fountain further showcase the town’s architectural diversity. 

For families, Europaradise offers a delightful experience. This zoo and amusement park features a variety of animals and recreational activities, making it a perfect outing for children and adults alike. 

Montemor-o-Velho hosts several cultural events throughout the year, celebrating its traditions and community spirit. These festivals often include music, dance, and local gastronomy, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience.

Figueira da Foz is a vibrant coastal city in central Portugal where the Mondego River meets the Atlantic. The town is renowned for its expansive beaches, rich cultural heritage, and lively atmosphere. Often referred to as the “Queen of the Silver Coast,” this seaside resort offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure.

Figueira da Foz boasts some of Portugal’s broadest beaches, with Praia da Claridade being a standout. Its vast stretch of golden sand is perfect for sunbathing, beach sports, and strolls. Just north lies Praia de Buarcos, a favourite among surfers for its consistent waves and scenic backdrop. For panoramic coastal views, a visit to Cabo Mondego is a must. 

  Dive into the city’s history at the Santa Catarina Fortress, which offers insights into Figueira’s maritime past. The Sotto Maior Palace showcases opulent architecture and gardens, reflecting the city’s affluent history. Art enthusiasts can explore the Centre for Arts and Shows (CAE), hosting performances and exhibitions. 

Experience the local culinary scene by visiting the Mercado Engenheiro Silva, where fresh seafood and regional produce abound. Don’t miss out on tasting traditional dishes like “chanfana” or indulging in sweet treats from local patisseries. Throughout the year, Figueira da Foz comes alive with festivals celebrating music, gastronomy, and maritime traditions. 

Beyond the beaches, the Serra da Boa Viagem offers hiking trails through lush forests, leading to viewpoints with breathtaking vistas. Water sports enthusiasts can engage in activities like sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding, making the most of the city’s coastal location. [ More About ► ]