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How to Get to Coimbra

How to Get to Coimbra

Coimbra Central Portugal, Portugal Travel Guide

Major Airports & Flights

Porto Airport OPO

Located approximately 120 kilometers north of Coimbra, OPO serves as a significant hub for northern Portugal.

Airlines and Routes

  • OPO serves numerous European low-cost carriers, including Ryanair and EasyJet.
  • Flag carriers like TAP Air Portugal and Lufthansa also operate here.
  • Direct flights mainly originate from major European cities.

Lisbon Airport LIS

Situated approximately 200 kilometers south of Coimbra, LIS is Portugal's largest international airport and a major European gateway.

Airlines and Routes

  • LIS functions as TAP Air Portugal's main international hub.
  • Wider range of airlines and direct flights from North America (e.g., United States, Canada).
  • Also serves direct flights from South America, Africa, and major European cities.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

Flight prices are highest during peak summer (June-August) and major holidays. Shoulder seasons offer better value.

Peak Season

Expect higher costs during summer and around Christmas, Easter, and Carnival.

Shoulder Season Benefits

April-May and September-October usually bring good weather and moderate flight costs.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Airport Services LIS & OPO

  • Duty-free shops and a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
  • Car rental services from major international companies.
  • Currency exchange booths and ATMs.
  • Baggage services and free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminals.

Transfers to Coimbra

  • From OPO (Porto): Metro to Campanhã train station, then direct train to Coimbra-B (~1.5 hrs).
  • From OPO (Porto): Direct long-distance buses (Rede Expressos) from Porto bus terminals (~1.5-2 hrs).
  • From LIS (Lisbon): Metro to Oriente train station, then direct train to Coimbra-B (~1.5-2 hrs).
  • From LIS (Lisbon): Direct long-distance buses from Lisbon's bus terminals (~2.5-3 hrs).

Finding Best Flight Deals

Flight Deal Clubs

Consider joining Dollar Flight Club for discounted fares.

Comparison Websites

Use Skyscanner to compare prices across various airlines.

Flexibility

Be flexible with your travel dates to find cheaper flights.

Travel by Land

Train Connections CP

Comboios de Portugal (CP) is Portugal's national rail company, with comprehensive train services. Coimbra serves as a railway hub, connecting to major cities.

Stations

  • Coimbra-B station: Main station for long-distance trains (Alfa Pendular, Intercidades).
  • Connects Coimbra to major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and Faro.
  • Coimbra-A station: City center station, mainly serves regional/urban trains; connects to Coimbra-B.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Rede Expressos and Flixbus are major intercity bus operators. They link Coimbra to most Portuguese cities and towns.

Main Operators

  • Rede Expressos: Frequent services from Lisbon and Porto to Coimbra; main terminal near city center.
  • Flixbus: Another budget-friendly option, connects Coimbra to various cities across Portugal and some international destinations.
  • Buses often offer a more economical travel alternative compared to trains.

Self-Driving in Portugal

Driving in Portugal offers freedom and flexibility, especially for exploring the wider region around Coimbra.

Driving Requirements

  • Valid national driver's license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be needed.
  • Credit card for security deposit. Most rental companies require drivers to be 21 or 25+.
  • Road conditions: Motorways (A-roads) are excellent (toll roads, many electronic Via Verde).

Car Rental & Driving Tips

Car rental companies operate at Lisbon and Porto airports, as well as in Coimbra city.

Practical Advice

  • Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Consider purchasing full insurance coverage for peace of mind.
  • Driving and parking in Coimbra's historic center are challenging due to narrow, cobbled streets.

Important Driving Information

  • Driving is on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h (urban), 90 km/h (national roads), 120 km/h (motorways).
  • Portuguese drivers can be assertive; remain vigilant.
  • Parking in Coimbra's historic center is very limited; use public garages outside.
  • Alcohol limits are strict.
  • Rental car companies usually provide a transponder for automatic toll payment.

River and Sea Travel

Sea Access Not Applicable to Coimbra

Coimbra, an inland city on the Mondego River, does not offer direct sea or major river access for transportation.

Notes on Sea Arrivals

  • The closest major cruise ports are Lisbon and Porto (Leixões).
  • If arriving by cruise, arrange land transportation from these cities to Coimbra.
  • Immigration procedures for sea arrivals happen at major coastal ports.

River Transportation

The Mondego River within Coimbra is navigable for small recreational boats and a few tourist boat tours.

Usage of Mondego River

  • The river is not used for significant public transportation or long-distance travel.
  • Small boat trips offer a pleasant way to see the city from a different perspective.
  • Do not plan on using the river for arrivals or departures in a practical travel sense.

Departure Timing - Air

Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights; 1.5-2 hours for Schengen/domestic flights.

Departure Timing - Land

Arrive 30-45 minutes before scheduled train or bus departures.

General Advice

Allow extra time for travel from Coimbra to the airport; double-check times the day before.

Check Before You Go

Always check your flight, train, or bus times the day before your departure for any last-minute changes.
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