Centro region

The Centro region spreads between Lisbon and Porto, connecting mountain landscapes, coastal towns, and numerous historical settlements. The area features diverse terrain from high plateaus to river valleys, where signs of past eras appear everywhere.

The region was settled during Roman times, and today visitors can see extensive ruins with detailed floor mosaics at Conimbriga. These remains show how important the area was as a trading center and administrative seat.

The University of Coimbra shapes the intellectual life of the region and draws visitors with its ornate library and historic buildings. Students and their traditions give the city a distinctive character that becomes apparent when walking through its narrow streets.

The Serra da Estrela mountains offer hiking trails and mountain experiences in higher elevations, while coastal towns feature beaches and water sports options. Visitors should keep in mind that the region is large and longer drives between highlights are necessary.

A network of 27 schist villages in the mountains was built from local stone and connected by walking paths. These traditional settlements preserve old building techniques that visitors can discover while exploring the narrow streets and stone houses.