Car Hire Coimbra

Located in the Centro region, two hours north of Lisbon, the university city of Coimbra is one of Portugal’s history-filled gems. Set on a hillside above the majestic Rio Modego, Portugal longest river, Coimbra – pronounced ‘kweem-bra’ - was once the medieval capital of Portugal. Its university is one of the oldest in Europe and for visitors and students alike it’s regarded as the Oxford or Cambridge of Portugal.

As well as the appeal of this fascinating city, if you are planning a trip to the central area of Portugal between Lisbon and Porto, you have a treat in store for this is a region full of charm. With its mix of medieval cities, monasteries, attractive towns, rolling hills, forests and river valleys, the area around Coimbra is the perfect destination for a Portugal road trip.

Book now to collect your Avis hire car in Coimbra and get set to create your perfect driving adventure.

Our rental station is situated in the heart of Coimbra, close to the Mondego River. Cross the Santa Clara bridge, admiring the lovely views, and you're right in the middle of the old town, with its independent shops and tapas bars. 

What are the age requirements for hiring a car in Coimbra? 

The minimum rental age in Portugal at 21, and drivers must have held their licence for at least one year. If you are under 25, a young driver surcharge is added for each day of the rental. Check the rental terms shown during booking for the exact requirements at your pick-up location. Please bring your full, valid driving licence when you collect the car. 

Can I pick up my hire car in Coimbra and return it to another location? 

Yes. One-way rental with Avis lets you collect your car in Coimbra and return it to another Avis location. Availability and any one-way fee depend on your route, so check when you book. Many Avis locations also offer 24-hour drop-off, which makes one-way trips more flexible. 

What documents do I need to hire a car in Coimbra? 

Bring your full, valid driving licence, the payment card used for your booking and photo ID such as a passport. Requirements can vary by country and car group, so check your booking confirmation before you travel. 

What is parking like in Coimbra? 

The historic centre has steep, narrow streets and limited parking, so most visitors use car parks near the river or at the edge of the old town. Many hotels offer parking, so check before you arrive. Look out for signs and payment instructions, as rules can vary from one area to the next. 

What type of car should I hire for Coimbra? 

A compact car suits the steep streets and tight car parks. For longer trips with family or luggage, an estate or SUV is more comfortable. You can choose your preferred car group and add any extras you need when you book. 

If you are driving in Portugal for the first time, it’s best to you familiarise yourself with the country’s driving rules before picking up your car. Some key road rules in Portugal include driving on the right and overtaking on the left. Be aware that mobile phones may only be used with a headset or hands-free device and you should not use the horn in a built up area unless in danger. For more information check out the latest road rules in Portugal.

The sparkling white centre of historic Coimbra is an inspirational but compact cityscape. You’ve the chance to release your inner student on a visit to Coimbra’s historic Palace of Schools to stroll the University precinct – a UNESCO World Heritage site - and while you are there, explore the magnificent Biblioteca Joanina. This beautiful baroque building houses around 60000 rare and antique books.

Head next to the former Bishop’s Palace to take in the view from the terrace at the Machado de Castro Museum before diving into spot treasures on show at one of Portugal’s foremost museums.

Don’t miss the honey coloured Old Cathedral that looks more like a fortress than a church from the outside. Wander to the Santa Cruz Church and Monastery regarded as one of Portugal’s most important churches.

Coimbra’s Old Town is a place to immerse yourself in a maze of narrow streets, independent shops, and small cafes. A pedestrian street divides the lower part of the old town (Baixa) from the upper (Alta), the perfect place to watch the world go by.

Hiring a car in Coimbra gives you the opportunity to explore some of central Portugal’s wildest, hidden landscapes.  A highlight is a road trip around the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, a mountain range with a route that you can drive over as far as the summit, Torre.

Buçaco

Another magical outdoor escape from Coimbra is the Buçaco Forest, around 30min drive north of the city. Carmelite monks planted this 260-acre arboretum 350 years ago – a highlight is the display of camelia blossom in Spring. At the heart of the forest is the spectacular Buçaco Palace, built for the Portuguese royal family and today a luxury hotel.

Conimbriga

Step back through the centuries on a road trip to the Roman ruins at Conimbriga around 45min drive south of Coimbra.  Conímbriga was occupied by Roman troops in 139 BC and from it developed the capital city of the Lusitania province. Today the ruins are among the most impressive in Europe.

Aveiro

You might feel you’ve travelled across borders on a day trip to the town of Aveiro. With its colourful houses, central canal and gondolas for navigation, there are shades of Venice here. Aveiro is a 50min drive northeast of Coimbra via the A1 highway and being by the coast a drive here provides the ideal opportunity to explore some of central Portugal’s glorious coastline.

Avis helps you explore central Portugal at your own pace. Book direct and you get the benefits below, whatever the length of your trip. 

• Fully flexible
  Enjoy fee-free flexible booking with full cash refunds and no vouchers.

• Savings on coverage
  When you choose Avis Inclusive you can experience total peace of mind with no extras or surprises. Pay one upfront price for free Roadside Assistance Plus and 25% discount on comprehensive zero-excess cover.

• Loyalty benefits
  Join our free loyalty programme Avis Preferred, and benefit from priority service, discounts and more.

• Faster collection
  Save time at the counter by registering your details in advance with our simple and free QuickPass. You could be on the road sooner than you think.