Coimbra, Portugal
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Coimbra, Portugal. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Coimbra?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Coimbra, they said:
"Coimbra is a popular destination for expats due to its rich history, affordable cost of living, and pleasant climate. Before retiring in Coimbra, it's important to understand the local culture, language, and lifestyle. Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, and while English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations, it may not be as widely spoken among the older population. Therefore, learning some basic Portuguese phrases can be beneficial. The cost of living in Coimbra is generally lower than in many other European cities. However, it's important to budget carefully and consider all potential expenses, including housing, utilities, healthcare, and groceries. Healthcare in Portugal is of a high standard and is relatively affordable. Expats are eligible for public healthcare once they become residents, but many also choose to have private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage. Portugal has a warm Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Coimbra, located in the central part of the country, experiences a slightly cooler and wetter climate than the southern regions. Portuguese cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a focus on fresh seafood, meat, and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Coimbra has a variety of restaurants and markets where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes. Portugal has a relaxed pace of life, which many retirees find appealing. However, it's important to be aware that this can also translate to slower customer service and longer waiting times in shops and restaurants. Portugal has a comprehensive public transportation system, and Coimbra is no exception. Buses and trains are reliable and affordable, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas. Portugal has a high safety rating, but like any city, Coimbra has areas that are safer than others. It's important to research neighborhoods thoroughly before deciding where to live. Finally, it's important to understand the process of becoming a resident in Portugal. This typically involves providing proof of income or savings, obtaining a Portuguese tax number, and opening a local bank account. It's recommended to seek advice from a legal professional to ensure all paperwork is completed correctly," remarked one expat living in Coimbra, Portugal.

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.
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What do I need to know before moving to Coimbra?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Coimbra?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Coimbra?
- What is the average cost of housing in Coimbra?
- How do I meet people in Coimbra?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Coimbra?
- What should I pack when moving to Coimbra?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Coimbra?
- Will I be able to find a job in Coimbra?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Coimbra?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Coimbra?
- What is the social scene like in Coimbra?
- What advice to expats in Coimbra have about housing?
- What are medical services in Coimbra like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Coimbra?
- Is the cost of living in Coimbra high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Coimbra?
- Why do people move to Coimbra?