Coimbra is the city with the most long standing academic traditions in Portugal and a visit to Coimbra University is a must. Wander through the famous library and enjoy the sight of students in their black gowns, with each tear representing one of the wearer's previous loves.

In the upper part of the city, do not forget to visit the Machado de Castro Museum - the largest Roman building on the Iberian Peninsula - which houses Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque works of arts, as well as a considerable collection of porcelain.

The town centre has much to offer the visitor and the downtown quarter - known as "the Baixa" - by the River Mondego, is a warren of fascinating narrow streets, full of shops, cafés and churches.

Quite apart from the vast number of museums in the city, the Roman ruins of Conímbriga are certainly noteworthy and can be found close to the town of Condeixa-a-Velha.

For children, the Portugal dos Pequeninos theme park is undoubtedly the big attraction, where Portugal's key historical and cultural landmarks are reproduced in miniature constructions, up to 4 metres high.