4 Best Hotels in Coimbra, Coimbra and Central Portugal

The gardens of this palatial building are part of Portuguese history: it was here where Pedro, son of King Afonso IV, and Inês de Castro, lady in waiting to the royal court, met secretly and fell deeply in love. It was a tragic tale, and they say the garden's ancient fountain runs with her tears. The palace is now a grande dame hotel with a plush velvet reception area, a library and other richly furnished common rooms, and even a small chapel. There's a Turkish bath and sauna, large outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and---rarest of amenities for a city hotel---a golf course. The hotel restaurant, Arcadas, has lovely views over the gardens, and both dinner and lavish breakfasts can be enjoyed al-fresco when weather permits.

A stylish boutique option close to the university, Sapientia impresses with its attention to detail (think: a welcome glass of wine and thoughtful design elements) plus an excellent restaurant with one of the prettiest terraces in the city. Two pairs of architects worked on the project, which transformed three architecturally distinct buildings into one overwhelmingly chic hotel. A rooftop bar with lovely views over the city is another selling point, and it's a terrific place to watch the sunset.

This striking Art Nouveau building on the banks of the Rio Mondego is a Coimbra landmark, and has been hosting visitors to the city since 1926. If you like your hotels with old-world charm, then this veteran fills the bill. While some of the fixtures and fittings are a little worn, the feeling of stepping back in time helps to compensate, as does the location at the very heart of town. Choose between a river view, or the rooftops of the old town. Two tower suites have the best views of all. 

Set in the old town, this hotel feels right at home with the city's historic buildings and is a short walk to most of the city's attractions. Split between several buildings in the immediate area, the rooms are individually decorated, with a "more is more" approach that embraces rich velvets, ornate light fixtures, and abundant use of golden tones against exposed stone walls. Breakfast is served in-room, and there are some nice welcoming touches like sparkling wine and cakes. There's a small spa and Turkish bath, and some suites even have like their own whirlpool tubs.