An in-depth travel guide to Coimbra - a poetic walk through Portugal's academic capital, the home of Fado and the medieval university city🤍

🏛️ Must-visit attractions 1️⃣ University of Coimbra Biblioteca Joanina: The Baroque Golden House has 50,000 books, and bats are used to protect ancient books (no photography allowed) Tickets: €12.5 (including university tour) University Bell Tower (Torre da Universidade): Climb to the top to overlook the red-roofed city 2️⃣ Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) Romanesque fortress church: stone-carved "Crucifixion Gate" and Arabic-style cloisters Secret: The basement contains the 14th-century bishop's tomb 3️⃣ Stroll along the Mondego River Ponte de Santa Clara: the best spot to take photos of the university skyline Portugal dos Pequenitos: a childlike version of the Portuguese landmark miniature park 4️⃣ Fado experience Fado ao Centro: Small concerts at 18:00 every day (€10), student-style Fado is different from Lisbon 📜 Unique cultural experience 1️⃣ Academic tradition Black robes (Capas e Batinas): Students need to wear black robes before graduation, and use the color of the ribbon to distinguish between departments (law = red, medicine = yellow) Fado de Coimbra: Sad love songs sung by male students, often improvised on the stairs at night 2️⃣ Hidden alleys Rua Quebra Costas: Retro bookstores and Fado clubs are hidden on both sides of the "Brokeback Stairs" #Sign up for tripbest July hotel tester