Solo Adventure in Historic Coimbra

Sunday Strolls and Garden Wonders

Today was a day dedicated to the simple pleasures of life – a leisurely exploration of Coimbra's beautiful parks and gardens. After days filled with historical landmarks and academic vibes, I needed a day to unwind amidst nature's embrace. It was a day to recharge before diving back into the cultural richness of this amazing city.



My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante GreenSide. I opted for a traditional Portuguese roll with cheese, coupled with a strong café com leite. It was just the fuel I needed for a day of walking and exploration. GreenSide was a great choice as it provided a variety of vegetarian options and a cozy atmosphere. I overheard some students discussing their upcoming exams. It reminded me of my own days back in Mozambique, studying electrical engineering. Though the subjects were different, the atmosphere of ambition and hard work felt comfortingly familiar.


Experience fresh and vibrant vegetarian cuisine at Restaurante GreenSide in Coimbra – where health meets flavor in every dish.

With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I headed towards my first destination: Sereia Garden. The air was crisp, a typical late February morning in Portugal, and the sun was just beginning to peek through the clouds. As I approached the garden, I was immediately struck by its grand entrance – a triumphal arch adorned with statues representing Faith, Hope, and Charity. The garden, also known as Parque de Santa Cruz, was teeming with locals and tourists alike, all eager to soak in its beauty.


Discover tranquility at Sereia Garden in Coimbra, where lush landscapes and vibrant flora create a serene escape for all travelers.

I wandered through the well-manicured paths, admiring the ornate statues and the large fountain topped by Triton, the Greek god of the sea. It was a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. I found a quiet bench beneath a towering tree and simply sat, listening to the gentle murmur of the fountain and the soft rustling of leaves. It was moments like these, far from the familiar streets of Edmonton, that made my solo trip so special.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of a city's green spaces.

Next on my list was the Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra. This botanical garden is not just a collection of plants; it's a living museum, a testament to the university's long-standing commitment to education and research. As I walked through the gates, I was transported to a world of exotic flora from all corners of the globe. The garden is divided into different sections, each showcasing a unique ecosystem. I was particularly impressed by the tropical greenhouse, a humid haven filled with lush vegetation and vibrant colors. The air was thick with the scent of exotic flowers, and the sounds of chirping birds filled the air.


Discover the stunning biodiversity and serene beauty of Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra, a must-visit botanical garden in Portugal.

I spent hours wandering through the garden, marveling at the diversity of plant life. There was a Narcisário exhibition which featured a wide array of Narcissus species. Apparently, the Iberian Peninsula is the center of origin for this genus. It was fascinating to learn about the unique characteristics and adaptations of each plant. I made sure to take plenty of pictures, hoping to share the beauty of this place with Fatima and the kids back home. Nelson would have loved the exotic plants, and Sheila would have been mesmerized by the colorful flowers.



By lunchtime, I had worked up quite an appetite. I made my way to Restaurante Tapas nas Costas for a taste of local cuisine. The restaurant was located in the Quebra Costas area, a charming district known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. I decided to try a selection of tapas, including the polvo à Tapas nas Costas (octopus) and the alheira com ovos e grelos (sausage with eggs and greens). The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and convivial. I even struck up a conversation with a local couple who were enjoying a Sunday lunch. They shared some recommendations for other hidden gems in Coimbra, which I promptly jotted down in my journal.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Portugal at Restaurante Tapas nas Costas in Coimbra, where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, I decided to visit the Parque de Santa Cruz, also known as Jardim da Sereia. This park, created in the 18th century, offered a serene escape with its baroque-style statues and fountains. As I strolled through the park, I noticed many university students relaxing and chatting, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The park's entrance, marked by a triumphal arch, led to a grand staircase and an elegant fountain topped by a statue of Triton, often mistaken for a mermaid.


Discover tranquility at Parque de Santa Cruz, a lush park in Coimbra offering historical features and a peaceful atmosphere for every traveler.

Before heading back, I decided to do some shopping at Alma Shopping. I needed to pick up a few souvenirs for Fatima and the kids, and Alma Shopping seemed like the perfect place to find something special. The mall was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to indulge in some retail therapy. I browsed through the various shops, eventually settling on a beautiful hand-painted tile for Fatima and some traditional Portuguese sweets for Nelson and Sheila. I even found a small soccer ball with the Benfica logo for Nelson, knowing how much he loves the sport.


Discover a world of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Alma Shopping in Coimbra, where every visit is a new adventure.

For dinner, I chose Restaurante Loggia, enticed by its reputation for combining great food with stunning views. Located near the Machado de Castro National Museum, the restaurant offered a panoramic vista of Coimbra's upper town and the historic University of Coimbra. I opted for the buffet, which included a variety of local specialties. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was relaxed and sophisticated. As I savored my meal, I watched the sun set over the city, casting a warm golden glow over the ancient buildings. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante Loggia in Coimbra.

As I walked back to my accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. Coimbra's parks and gardens had offered a welcome respite from the city's historical and academic intensity. The beauty of nature, combined with the flavors of local cuisine and the warmth of the Portuguese people, had created a day of pure bliss.



Tomorrow, I plan to visit the National Museum Machado de Castro and explore more of Coimbra's cultural treasures. I'm also looking forward to visiting Casa-Museu Miguel Torga and Casa-Museu Bissaya Barreto, which should offer a deeper insight into the lives and works of these prominent Portuguese figures. And, if time allows, I might just treat myself to a glass of wine at Noster Taberna & Wine Bar, a perfect way to unwind after another day of exploration.



Before drifting off to sleep, I made sure to charge my camera and organize my notes, eager to capture more memories in the days to come. Even though I missed Fatima and the kids, I knew that this solo adventure was something special, a chance to reconnect with myself and discover the beauty of a new world.



Boa noite, Coimbra. Until tomorrow!