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Coimbra Spring 2026

WHAT TO DO IN COIMBRA DURING THE SPRING?

With warmer days and longer evenings, spring is the perfect time to enjoy Coimbra’s outdoor charm. Wherever you go, the city’s vibrant spring atmosphere is sure to make every moment unforgettable. Terraces fill with life, gardens bloom, and the historic streets invite you to slow down and explore.

A visit to Coimbra wouldn’t be complete without expe-riencing its most iconic landmark: the UNIVERSITY. Explore the historic Paço das Escolas, admire the stunning Biblioteca Joanina, and take in the breathtaking views of the city from this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From the University, wander through the surrounding his-toric streets of Alta, where centuries of history echo through stone archways, quiet courtyards, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city.

Take a walk through the BOTANIC GARDEN and along the RIVER GREEN PARK, and enjoy a refreshing drink by the river. The blooming flowers and lush greenery make these spots perfect for a relaxing spring afternoon.

Visit the SANTA CRUZ MONASTERY, where Portugal’s first kings are buried. You can finish your day at the iconic SANTA CRUZ CAFÉ, listening to Fado and tasting a Cruzio, one of Coimbra’s traditional sweets. Or visit the HOTEL OSLO ROOFTOP and enjoy a cocktail while taking in the beautiful view over the city and the University skyline.

Across the river, PORTUGAL DOS PEQUENITOS offers a charming park with miniature versions of Portugal’s monuments and cultural heritage, especially delightful for children and families.

Don’t forget to explore the local shops in downtown Coimbra to find unique souvenirs for your loved ones. Some local favorites include GANG OF FOUR, TROUXA MOCHA, LOJA DAS MEIAS, CHAPELARIA SALGUEIRO’S, and the centenary wine cellar A CAMPONEZA, where you can discover excellent Portuguese wines and regional delicacies.

Spring is the perfect season to embrace Coimbra’s outdoor beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Let yourself be enchanted by the charm of this historic city.

MARCH

END FESTIVAL

24–26 MARCH

Coimbra welcomes the END Festival, a gathering dedicated to contemporary dramaturgy and performance. Through readings, open rehearsals, workshops, and live shows, the festival invites audiences to step inside the creative process and experience theatre in its most raw and evolving form. A meeting point for artists, ideas, and new voices, where the stage expands beyond its limits and creation unfolds in real time.

SANTOS DA CASA FESTIVAL

27 MARCH – 13 MAY

Born from the long-running radio show of the same name on Rádio University of Coimbra, the Santos da Casa Festival has been showcasing the best of Portuguese music since 1999. Dedicated to emerging and independent artists, the festival brings fresh sounds to different venues across Coimbra. A true celebration of national music, this festival is the perfect opportunity to discover new talent and experience live performances in an intimate and authentic setting.

PEDRO JÓIA

29 MARCH

Renowned Portuguese guitarist Pedro Jóia brings his extraordinary artistry to the Antiga Igreja do CONVENTO SÃO FRANCISCO. Blending classical and flamenco influences, the acclaimed musician performs a selection from his celebrated repertoire. With compositions by great Portuguese masters such as Carlos Paredes, Armandinho, and José Afonso, this concert promises an intimate journey through the richness and emotion of Portuguese guitar music.

APRIL

ANOZERO

11 APRIL – 05 JULY

Anozero returns to Coimbra with a new edition of the city’s contemporary art biennial. Centered on the theme “To hold, to give, to receive,” the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on ideas of exchange, care, and shared experience through art, architecture, design, and other creative practices. Hosted at the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, this major cultural event transforms the historic space into a vibrant meeting point between artists, artworks, and the public.

Viagens entre Paredes

18 APRIL

This special concert marks the closing of the celebrations for the centenary of Carlos Paredes, one of the most iconic figures of Portuguese guitar music. Featuring the Coimbra guitar performed by Hugo Gamboias, accompanied by the Orquestra Clássica do Centro, the concert explores Paredes’ timeless melodies in new orchestral arrangements. Blending classical, traditional, and fado influences, this performance invites the audience on a musical journey through the rich legacy of Portuguese guitar.

COIMBRA BD

11 - 26 APRIL

Taking place at CONVENTO SÃO FRANCISCO, Coimbra BD brings together artists, fans, and creators to celebrate the world of comics and illustration. With exhibitions, workshops, talks, and live drawing sessions, the festival transforms the city into a vibrant meeting point for storytelling and creativity.

MAY

WRC Rally Portugal

07 MAY

The Rally Portugal is back, bringing thrilling stages that stretch from the heart of Coimbra to the north of the country. The race kicks off in Coimbra on May 7 at 3pm, when powerful rally cars take over the streets for an exciting start to one of the world’s most iconic motorsport events.

Gogo Penguin

12 MAY

The acclaimed Manchester trio GoGo Penguin brings its distinctive sound to CONVENTO SÃO FRANCISCO, blending jazz, classical music, and electronic in-fluences. Known for their cinematic compositions and powerful live performances, the band presents music from their latest album Necessary Fictions. Expect an immersive concert where piano, bass, and drums flow between acoustic and electronic worlds, creating a captivating musical journey.

SERENATA

12 MAY

The city’s fado echoes through the streets as graduating students gather for a heartfelt farewell filled with tradition and nostalgia. Held at SÉ VELHA, this emotional night marks the beginning of Queima das Fitas, when voices, guitars, and centuries-old academic traditions come together under the stars and is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the soul of Coimbra.

QUEIMA DAS FITAS

22 - 30 MAY

Get ready for nine nights filled with music, dancing, and pure energy as Coimbra’s students celebrate the end of the academic year. With concerts, festivities, and thousands of students gathering at PRAÇA DA CANÇÃO, this iconic event captures the vibrant spirit and traditions of the city.

CORTEJO

24 MAY

The STREETS OF COIMBRA come alive with colour and celebration during the grand parade of Queima das Fitas. Decorated floats carry graduating students through the city as music, laughter, and academic pride fill the air, creating one of the most joyful and memorable moments of the festivities. It’s a unique blend of tradition, joy, and academic pride. An unforgettable experience for both students and visitors alike!

JUNE

CELEBRATORIUM: 322nd Anniversary of Carlos Seixas

11 JUNE

At the Antiga Igreja do CONVENTO SÃO FRANCISCO, this special concert celebrates the birthday of Carlos Seixas, one of the most remarkable Portuguese composers of the 18th century, born in Coimbra. Part of the Celebratorium concert series, the performance combines music and storytelling to bring classical repertoire closer to the audience in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Through works inspired by Seixas’ legacy, the concert offers a beautiful tribute to Coimbra’s rich musical heritage.

CONCERTS FOR BABIES

14 JUNE

At CONVENTO SÃO FRANCISCO, even the youngest audiences are invited to experience music in a gentle and magical way. Inspired by the spirit of June festivities, this special concert fills the space with light rhythms, soft melodies, and a sense of joyful discovery. A tender moment where music, movement, and emotion come together — creating a first, unforgettable connection with sound.

Coimbra Book Fair

19 - 28 JUNE

The Coimbra Book Fair takes place at PARQUE MANUEL BRAGA, bringing books, culture, and lively gatherings to one of the city’s most beautiful riverside settings. Browse dozens of bookstalls featuring publishers, antiquarian treasures, and new releases, meet authors, and enjoy a vibrant program of talks, performances, and activities for all ages. Surrounded by trees and the gentle flow of the Mondego, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the joy of reading.

FEIRA DE ARTESANATO URBANO

Held on the second Saturday of every month, this market takes place at either PARQUE MANUEL BRAGA or PRAÇA DO COMÉRCIO, bringing together artisans and creators with unique handmade pieces. Featuring diverse materials and techniques, many items are crafted from repurposed materials, adding a creative and sustainable touch.

MERCADINHOS DA MARGEM ESQUERDA

Held on the second Sunday of every month, at the ALAMEDA DO UC EXPLORATÓRIO, this lively market brings together local producers, artisans, and creative activities. Visitors can discover fresh seasonal pro-ducts, regional delicacies, handmade goods, and live artistic demonstrations in a relaxed riverside atmosphere that connects food, community, and science.

MONTRA DAS ARTES & OFÍCIOS

Held on the third Sunday of every month, this open-air market takes place along RUA FERREIRA BORGES and RUA VISCONDE DA LUZ, in the heart of downtown Coimbra. Artisans and makers present handmade pie-ces, traditional crafts, and creative works, transforming these historic streets into a lively cultural showcase that celebrates local talent and craftsmanship.

CHECK OUR INSIDER’S GUIDES

More than just shops, these are places where history, tradition and passion come alive.

From timeless classics to hidden gems, these are the places we keep coming back to.

From sunny afternoons to starlit evenings, these terraces are our perfect escape.

Moments of joy, laughter and discovery, perfect for the whole family

Discover the treasures that will make your stay in Coimbra truly unforgettable.

Traditional dishes that bring comfort and flavour to our hearts.

From groceries to daily necessities, find everything you need in the heart of Coimbra.

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