Coimbra, a small town full of historical charm in Portugal, is not only famous for its ancient university, but also a place favored by nature. There are charming sunset views here, attracting tourists from all over the world. Whether it is overlooking the whole city from a high place or strolling along the Alpro River, the sunset in Coimbra always brings people incomparable tranquility and beauty.
1. Coimbra University
Location and Overview
Coimbra University is one of the oldest universities in Portugal, located on a hill in the center of Coimbra. From the height of the university, you can see the whole city, especially at sunset, the golden sunlight shines on the ancient buildings and winding streets, forming a beautiful picture. This is not only a holy place for academics, but also one of the best viewing spots.
Opening hours and recommended playing time
Most areas of Coimbra University are open, and visitors can freely visit the historical buildings on campus, including the university library, St. Michael Church, etc. The university is generally open from 9 am to 6 pm every day, but it is recommended to check in advance to confirm the opening hours of the day.
Transportation route
The University of Coimbra is located in the city center and can be reached on foot. If you stay in a hotel or B&B in the city center, you can easily walk there. You can also choose to take local public transportation. The nearest bus stop is the “Universidade” station.
Booking platform and cost
Visiting the University of Coimbra is free, but some attractions such as the library require tickets. You can learn more and book through travel platforms such as TripAdvisor.
Suitable for the crowd
For tourists who love history and culture, the University of Coimbra is a must-see attraction, especially for photography enthusiasts and those who like to immerse themselves in the ancient atmosphere at sunset.
2. Santa Clara Monastery (Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha)
Location and Overview
The Santa Clara Monastery is one of the most historically significant attractions in Coimbra, located in the south of the city, near the Alpro River. It used to be a place where nuns lived. Although it is now an abandoned site, its antiquity and tranquility provide tourists with an ideal sunset viewing point. Here you can enjoy the perfect combination of the river and the surrounding natural landscape.
Opening hours and recommended visit time
The Monastery of Santa Clara is open every day, usually from 10 am to 5 pm. It is recommended to check the opening hours on the tourist platform in advance to avoid missing the best sunset time.
Transportation route
From the center of Coimbra, you can take a bus to the monastery, or walk for about 20 minutes. If you choose to walk, you will pass by the Alpão River and the scenery along the way is also very charming.
Booking platform and cost
The ticket price of the Monastery of Santa Clara is relatively affordable, usually between 2 and 5 euros. You can book tickets and learn more about it through Booking.com or TripAdvisor.
Suitable for the crowd
It is suitable for tourists who love historical sites and quiet environments, especially those who want to watch the sunset in a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Alvão River Bank (Rio Alvão)
Location and Overview
The Alpão River is the mother river of Coimbra. It passes through the west of the city. Walking along the river bank, especially at sunset, you will enjoy the harmonious interweaving of the city and nature. The river is sparkling, and the sun shines on the water, forming a beautiful picture.
Opening hours and recommended visit time
The Alpro River is a public open area and can be visited at any time of the day. Sunset is the best time to come. It is recommended to arrive an hour in advance to find a comfortable position and wait for the sunset.
Transportation route
The river bank is about a 15-20 minute walk from the center of Coimbra. The trail along the river is very suitable for walking or cycling. If you don’t want to walk, you can choose to take a taxi or public transportation.
Booking platform and cost
The Alpro River is a free and open attraction, so no reservation is required. If you need to rent a bicycle or other means of transportation, you can make a reservation through the local car rental platform.
Suitable for people
Suitable for tourists who love nature and outdoor activities, especially those who like a quiet environment and want to enjoy the beauty of nature at sunset.
4. Coimbra Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra)
Location and Overview
The Coimbra Botanical Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Portugal and is located near the Coimbra University. The garden is rich in plant species and has a quiet environment, which is suitable for visitors to stroll at sunset. The scenery in the botanical garden is ever-changing, especially in the evening when the sun shines through the leaves and shines on the grass, creating a peaceful scene.
Opening hours and recommended visit times
The botanical garden is usually open from 9 am to 6 pm and is closed on Mondays. It is recommended to arrive an hour before sunset to enjoy this beautiful green world.
Transportation route
The botanical garden is located next to the Coimbra University and can be reached on foot. If you live in the city center, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk.
Booking platform and cost
The ticket price for the botanical garden is about 2 to 4 euros, which can be checked through TripAdvisor. If you plan to participate in specific activities or guided tours in the botanical garden, please book it in advance on the platform.
Suitable for people
Suitable for tourists who love nature, plants and quiet environment, especially family tourists and photography enthusiasts.
5. New Square (Praça da República)
Location and Overview
The New Square is the heart of Coimbra and is surrounded by many cafes and shops. The square is spacious and open, and it is an ideal place to enjoy the sunset. Here, visitors can feel the strong urban atmosphere while enjoying the afterglow of the sunset. At sunset, the changes in light and shadow on the square make this one of the most romantic places in Coimbra.
Opening hours and recommended visiting time
The New Square is open all day, and sunset is especially suitable for walking here or sitting in a cafe to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Coimbra.
Transportation route
The New Square is located in the center of Coimbra and is very convenient. No matter where you live, you can easily walk here.
Booking platform and cost
The New Square is a free public area, so there is no need to buy tickets. If you plan to enjoy a drink or meal in a cafe near the square, you can make a reservation through the local catering platform.
Suitable for people
Suitable for tourists who like city views, love socializing and enjoy food, especially for couples and family travelers.
6. Alcáçova de Coimbra
Location and Overview
The Alcáçova is an ancient castle site in Coimbra, located in the southwest of the city. As part of the medieval castle, the Alcáçova has become an ideal place to observe the panoramic view of Coimbra, especially at sunset. As the sun slowly sinks, the golden light shines on the ancient castle and the surrounding city, forming an intoxicating picture. In addition to viewing the scenery, visitors can also learn about the history of the castle and the ancient defense system here.
Opening hours and recommended visiting times
The Alcáçova is usually open from 9 am to 6 pm. In order to better experience the beauty of the sunset, it is recommended that tourists arrive in the evening, stroll in the surrounding streets in advance, enjoy the quiet atmosphere, and wait for the sunset.
Transportation route
It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to walk from the center of Coimbra, passing through some typical Portuguese streets along the way. You can choose to walk or take local public transportation. There are several bus routes nearby.
Booking Platform and Cost
The cost of visiting the Alcaba is relatively low, usually purchased by ticket, which costs about 5 to 10 euros. Since it is a popular historical site, you can book tickets through TripAdvisor or the local tourist information center. If you want to visit in a more comfortable environment, you can also choose a guided tour service to learn more about the history of the castle and the surrounding area.
Suitable for people
The Alcaba is particularly suitable for tourists who love historical sites and scenery, especially photography enthusiasts. In addition, travelers who like a quiet atmosphere will also like the tranquility and historical sense here.
The sunset spots in Coimbra are unique, whether it is the historic monastery, the quiet riverbank, or the green botanical garden, each place provides tourists with a perfect viewing platform. With the recommendation of these five sunset viewing spots, you can better plan your itinerary, enjoy the beautiful sunset in Coimbra, and leave unforgettable travel memories.
