2 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.

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.