DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Coimbra Botanical Garden

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
park
—°10
Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)

Weather…

The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra was established in 1772 by the Marquis of Pombal and is one of the oldest and most significant scientific gardens in Portugal. Spanning approximately 13.5 hectares, it is a key component of the University of Coimbra's UNESCO World Heritage site. The garden is divided into two main areas: the formal terraced garden, characterized by classical architecture and fountains, and the woodland area known as the Mata, which features a diverse collection of exotic and native trees. Notable landmarks within the garden include the 19th-century iron and glass greenhouses, which were pioneering structures at the time of their construction. Beyond its role in botanical research and conservation, the garden provides a peaceful urban oasis for students and tourists alike. Its collection showcases plants from across the globe, reflecting Portugal's historical maritime connections and its long tradition of botanical exploration that continues to this day.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C101012141619212120171310
Rain mm10878847751238143811211995

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
The Coimbra Botanical Garden is conveniently accessible via the local public transportation network. Most visitors use the nearby urban areas as a practical starting point for their exploration of the park.
📅
Best season
The mild spring and early autumn months usually offer the most pleasant weather for a visit. It is typically advisable to avoid the intense midday heat during the peak summer season here.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
The grounds feature generally flat and well-maintained pathways that are highly suitable for easy walking. No special hiking skills are needed to navigate this historic and natural space.
🎒
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended to explore the area comfortably. Bringing adequate sun protection and a small water bottle is also typically advised for warmer sunny days.
🅿️
Parking
Designated parking near this popular attraction is usually quite limited during busy hours. Relying on public transportation or paid parking facilities in the surrounding area is often best.
⚠️
Safety
Visitors should always remain on marked paths to protect the local botanical collections and environment. Standard urban precautions against petty theft are generally recommended in this area.
⏱️
Time needed
Exploring the park and its diverse plant species typically requires about one to two hours of your time. This allows a relaxed pace to appreciate the horticultural design and green spaces.

Geography

Coordinates
40.20560, -8.42220

Facts

  • Founded in 1772 during the reforms of the Marquis of Pombal.
  • Part of the University of Coimbra's UNESCO World Heritage listing.
  • Covers a total area of approximately 13.5 hectares.
  • Features an iconic iron greenhouse dating back to 1859.
  • Maintains a collection of over 1,200 distinct plant species.
  • The Mata section serves as an urban forest with centennial trees.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

University of CoimbraUniversity of Coimbra<1 km · NWExplore →
Palácio de São MarcosPalácio de São Marcos7 km · WExplore →
ConímbrigaConímbriga13 km · SWExplore →
LousãLousã18 km · SEExplore →
PenelaPenela19 km · SExplore →
BuçacoBuçaco20 km · NExplore →
Mondego RiverMondego River20 km · WExplore →
CantanhedeCantanhede22 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Coimbra Botanical Garden (10)

Aqueduto de São Sebastião

Roman aqueduct in Coimbra, part of the historic water supply system.

Casa das Artes Bissaia Barreto - Monumentais

Arts centre in Coimbra, hosting exhibitions and cultural events.

Casa Museu Bissaya Barreto🏛 museum

Museum in Coimbra, dedicated to the life and work of Bissaya Barreto.

Instituto Justiça e Paz

Cultural centre in Coimbra, focusing on social justice and peace.

Coimbra Tram

Historic tram in Coimbra, part of the public transport network.

Círculo de Artes Plásticas de Coimbra - Círculo Sede

Fine arts centre in Coimbra, with exhibitions and workshops.

Museu dos Transportes Urbanos de Coimbra🏛 museum

Museum of urban transport in Coimbra, displaying historic vehicles.

Swing of the Major Seminary of Coimbra

Swing on the grounds of the Major Seminary in Coimbra, offering views.

Capela de São Miguel

Chapel of the University of Coimbra, Manueline style, 16th century.

Teatro Académico Gil Vicente

Theatre in Coimbra, venue for university performances.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was this garden founded?
It was founded in 1772 by order of the Marquis of Pombal as part of the University of Coimbra.
Does visiting the garden cost anything?
General access to the garden is free; fees only apply to special guided tours.
What is the bamboo forest?
It is an area of the garden featuring a dense, shady collection of various bamboo species.
What are the architectural highlights?
The iron gate and the historic 19th-century greenhouse are especially worth seeing.
What are the opening hours in winter?
From October to March, the garden is open daily from 09:00 to 17:30.
Coimbra Botanical Garden: where is it located?
Coimbra Botanical Garden is located in Portugal.
Coimbra Botanical Garden: what is there to see?
Highlights include Aqueduto de São Sebastião, Casa das Artes Bissaia Barreto - Monumentais, Casa Museu Bissaya Barreto.
Coimbra Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Coimbra Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra was established in 1772 by the Marquis of Pombal and is one of the oldest and most significant scientific gardens in Portugal.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Portugal →

Nearby cities

Vila Nova de Gaia — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Vila Nova de Gaia
This city is located opposite Porto on the southern bank of the Douro.
Figueira da Foz — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Figueira da Foz
This coastal city is located at the mouth of the Mondego River.
Ermesinde — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Ermesinde
Ermesinde is a city in the Porto Metropolitan Area.
Espinho — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Espinho
Espinho is a popular seaside resort south of Porto.
Póvoa de Varzim — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Póvoa de Varzim
This coastal city in northern Portugal is a popular holiday destination with a strong fishing tradition and a major casino.
Matosinhos — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Matosinhos
Matosinhos is a port city located just north of Porto.
Gondomar — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Gondomar
Gondomar is situated on the Douro River near Porto.
Vila do Conde — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Vila do Conde
This historic city is located at the mouth of the Ave River.
Caldas da Rainha — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Caldas da Rainha
This city is known as a major center for thermal spas and ceramics.
Torres Vedras — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Torres Vedras
This city north of Lisbon is famous for its traditional carnival and its historic role in defending against Napoleon's troops.
São João da Madeira — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
São João da Madeira
São João da Madeira is a city south of Porto.
Valongo — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Valongo
Valongo is a city in the Porto Metropolitan Area.
Trofa — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Trofa
Trofa is a young city located north of Porto.
Entroncamento — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Entroncamento
Entroncamento is the heart of the Portuguese railway system.
Barcelos — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Barcelos
This northern Portuguese city is world-famous for its ceramic tradition.

History & landmarks

Conímbriga — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Conímbriga
One of the largest and best-preserved Roman settlements in Portugal, famous for its intricate mosaics.
Alcobaça — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Alcobaça
Alcobaça is famous for its massive Cistercian monastery and the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês.
Lamego — Coimbra Botanical Garden (Portugal)
Lamego
A historic baroque city in the Douro Valley, famous for its monumental staircase leading to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies.