Dear Wandering Spirit,
If you are travelling around Portugal, make sure you spend one day in Coimbra. It is a city you can discover on your own. No map or guidebook is needed for traversing its ancient streets, because it is all waiting to be found.
Portugal's Most Ancient University
One of the most important reasons why you should visit Coimbra is its stunning university. 
The University of Coimbra is the oldest university in the Portuguese-speaking world and one of the oldest in the whole of Europe. It was founded in 1290.
Formerly the capital of Portugal during the Middle Ages, the town has maintained its traditional styles up to now. I was impressed by how many students live here, many of them from all over the world.
During my visit I saw many of them wearing the traditional costume and I admit, I felt like I was in a Harry Potter movie! 
Historical Heritage in Coimbra
Each year in May they celebrate the legendary international student festival, named Queima das Fitas (Burning of the Ribbons). On this day, students sing Fado on the staircase of the monastery. In the evening, the town becomes wild. The semester ending is celebrated with street food and an infinite amount of drinks.
You must absolutely visit Sé Velha, Sé Nova and Santa Clara-a-Nova. Apart from Coimbra’s numerous beautiful churches and cathedrals, enjoy a pleasant walk through the bright city centre and the narrow streets of the Baixa (downtown) as well.
The Fado Tradition
Coimbra is well known for its particular Fado music, which goes deep to your soul. I was incredibly moved by my experience of listening to the solemn notes of the Portuguese ‘guitarra’ while I sat in a café with a drink.
You feel a bit of that ‘saudade’ that is in the air of Portugal, but no worries, you will not be the only tourist with eyes full of tears and goosebumps. 🪕
I only had one day in Coimbra. If you have a bit more time, I highly recommend you take a boat trip on the Mondego river and a visit one of the many amazing gardens. Quinta das Lágrimas offers you a truly romantic walk with your partner that you will not soon forget.
You will also not want to miss a visit of the Biblioteca Joanina and the tremendous panorama of Coimbra rooftops from the bell tower. My recommendation for this last activity: Make sure you wear comfy shoes as there are many narrow stairs (and a few moths – just in case you have a phobia). 📚
Does Coimbra sound like your next travel destination? Let me know in the comments! ⬇️
Also, check out my Portugal travel journal.
