Erasmus in Coimbra means living in a city centred around its university, one of the oldest in Europe. Because of this, everything here is friendly for students.
You will always find something to do. You can meet friendly locals and enjoy fun cultural events. One of these events is the famous Queima das Fitas, a week-long celebration that marks the end of the academic year.
Coimbra is a charming, affordable, and student-centred city that offers an Erasmus destination for an unforgettable experience! Here are some essential tips and key information about living and studying in Coimbra.
Cost of Living in Portugal (Coimbra)
One of the best things about Coimbra is its affordable cost of living compared to bigger cities like Lisbon or Porto. On average, you’ll need about €300 to €800 per month, depending on your lifestyle and interests.
Accommodation: Student residences range from €80 to €450, while private rooms cost between €110 and €250. If you prefer a small apartment, expect to pay around €300-€450 monthly.
Groceries: Typically, between €100 and €200 per month.
Transportation: A monthly student pass costs about €15. However, students under 23 can travel for free with the Passe Gratuito Jovem.
For renting, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages around €400-€530, while outside the centre it drops to about €380-€440.
The Best Area to Stay in Coimbra as a Student
Coimbra has many student-friendly neighbourhoods. The most popular ones are Baixa (lower city) and the city centre. They are close to university buildings, shops, and nightlife. Other great neighbourhoods include Solum, Vale das Flores, Olivais, Celas, and São José.
Public Transportation in Coimbra
Getting around is easy with an efficient public transportation system including buses and trains.
Buses operate daily from 6:00 to 00:00.
A monthly student pass is €15, and free for students under 24 with Passe Gratuito Jovem.
Getting to Coimbra
The closest airports are in Porto and Lisbon, both connected to Coimbra by regular train and bus services.
Plan your arrival carefully: From Porto airport, you can take the metro and train to Coimbra. From Lisbon, trains take about 2.5 hours. Coimbra’s main station, Coimbra-B, is well connected to the city centre.
From Lisbon Airport:
Option 1: Metro to Oriente → Train to Coimbra (approx. 2.5 hours)
Option 2: Metro to Sete Rios → Bus to Coimbra
From Porto Airport:
Metro to Campanhã station → Train or bus to Coimbra (approx. 2 hours)
Coimbra’s bus station is about 15 minutes from the city centre.
Consult the website for times and prices.
Useful Portuguese Phrases
Hi/Hello – Oi / Olá
Please – Por favor
Thank you – Obrigado (if you’re male) / Obrigada (if you’re female)
Good morning – Bom dia
Good afternoon – Boa tarde
Nice to meet you – Prazer
Yes / No – Sim / Não
I don’t understand – Eu não entendo
Learning some basic Portuguese will help you feel a bit more connected and confident.
Coimbra’s Weather
Coimbra has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are warm and dry, reaching up to 30°C. Winters are mild and rainy, with temperatures around 5-15°C. This makes Coimbra a comfortable place to live all year.
What to See in Coimbra: Must-Visit Spots
The historic Old City Center
University of Coimbra, with its iconic Porta Férrea, Torre de Almedina, and the stunning Biblioteca Joanina
Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery
The Botanical Garden
Miradouro do Penedo da Saudade (for amazing views)
The Igreja de Santa Cruz, Sé Velha, and Sé Nova churches
Conimbriga Ruins (perfect for a short day trip)
A peaceful Mondego River Cruise
Must-Try Food in Coimbra
Make sure to try local foods like Pastéis de bacalhau (codfish cakes), Chanfana (goat stew), and Leitão à Bairrada (roast pig). Don’t forget the Pastel de Santa Clara and Pastéis de Tentúgal! Pair any of these with a galão coffee or a Super Bock beer!
4 Things to Know Before Going to Coimbra
- Think about living in a República Estudantil for a unique experience. These are student houses with low rent. They have their own traditions, parties, and flags.
- Don’t miss student festivals. One is Cortejo, the start-of-semester parade. Another is Queima das Fitas, a week-long end-of-year celebration.
- To enjoy your Erasmus life here, think about joining ESN Coimbra. This group organizes trips and social events. They also help you meet other international and local students. A great way to meet people and experience student life in Coimbra.
- OnCampus Abroad travel insurance protects you for medical emergencies and trip disruptions. This way, you can enjoy your time in Coimbra without worries.
Important Phone Numbers
Emergency (police, fire, ambulance): 112
Ready for Your Coimbra Adventure?
Coimbra promises an Erasmus experience full of discovery, friendships, and unforgettable moments. Make the most of your time abroad. Plan ahead, stay open to new experiences, and get the right travel insurance. With OnCampus Abroad, you will receive coverage every step of the way, so you can focus on making memories.
Boa viagem e aproveita Coimbra!
