Living in Coimbra: Portugal’s Most Liveable Mid-Sized City
Coimbra blends culture, history, and affordability better than almost anywhere in Portugal. Here’s why it’s one of the best cities to live in.
A City That Balances It All
When people imagine living in Portugal, they usually picture beaches, vineyards, or cobbled villages. But Coimbra offers something different — balance.
It’s big enough to have all the conveniences you need — hospitals, shopping centres, universities, and good transport links — but small enough to feel personal, safe, and manageable.
Located almost halfway between Lisbon and Porto, Coimbra sits in the heart of the country, surrounded by rolling hills and the River Mondego. It’s a city that works beautifully for those who want access to the coast (Figueira da Foz is just 40 minutes away) but prefer an inland base.
Enjoying lunch by the Mondego River in Coimbra with our friends!
The Feel of Coimbra
Coimbra is full of life thanks to its famous university — one of the oldest in Europe — which brings music, culture, and energy to the city. You’ll see students wearing traditional black capes, hear Fado echoing through old streets, and find cafés where old locals sit next to students revising over coffee.
It’s not a tourist city in the same way as Lisbon, and that makes daily life calmer and more authentic. The centre is walkable, there’s a good bus network, and locals are friendly but busy — it feels like a working city, not a resort.
Cost of Living in Coimbra
Coimbra is one of the most affordable medium-sized cities in Portugal. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the centre can range from €600–€800, and you’ll find family homes from €900–€1,200 depending on the area.
Groceries, cafés, and restaurants are cheaper than the coast, and healthcare access is excellent — the Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra is one of Portugal’s top public hospitals.
For families, there are international and bilingual schools, plenty of green spaces, and good transport links. You can get to Porto or Lisbon by train in under two hours.
Lifestyle Highlights
Riverside walks and cycling paths along the Mondego
Historic architecture and cobbled streets with endless charm
Live Fado performances in the old town
A thriving café scene and year-round cultural calendar (our current favourite is ‘Hello Sunday’)
Easy access to the beaches of Figueira da Foz
Figueria Da Foz is only 45 minutes away!
It’s a place that offers Portuguese life at its best — grounded, friendly, and affordable.
Thinking About Moving to Coimbra?
If you’re planning a scouting trip or want to get a real feel for the city before committing, Your Casa Key can help.
We offer:
Virtual viewings so you can see properties remotely
Relocation support to help you register, find rentals, and settle in
Licensed buyer’s agents who can guide you through buying property safely
📍 Explore more at yourcasakey.com
🎥 Or watch our Change of Plan video on Coimbra for a first-hand look at life there.
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