Best Italian Restaurants in Coimbra
Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars
Coimbra's Italian dining scene is a delightful surprise in this historic university city. While you might come for the ancient libraries and cobblestone streets, you'll stay for some of the most authentic Italian flavors outside of Italy itself. From family-run trattorias serving handmade pasta to innovative pizzerias with perfectly charred crusts, the Italian restaurants here have earned their stellar reputations through consistent quality and genuine hospitality. The best part? These aren't tourist traps trading on location alone—locals pack these spots night after night, which tells you everything you need to know.
This guide brings together 10 exceptional Italian restaurants in Coimbra, each boasting ratings of 4.5 stars or higher from hundreds (sometimes thousands) of diners. Whether you're craving a classic margherita pizza, rich carbonara, or regional Italian specialties you won't find everywhere, these establishments deliver. I've included everything from intimate neighborhood gems with just a handful of tables to more spacious spots perfect for group dinners. The average rating across all these restaurants sits at an impressive 4.7 stars, so you really can't go wrong—but some might just become your new favorite place in the city.
Featured Restaurants
Zé Manel dos Ossos
This beloved Coimbra institution tucked down a charming alley has earned its stellar reputation from nearly 3,000 diners who rave about its authentic Portuguese atmosphere and hearty traditional fare. The casual, no-frills setting and wallet-friendly prices make it a favorite among both locals and travelers seeking genuine home-style cooking in an intimate space. Arrive early or be prepared to wait, as this small gem fills up quickly, especially during lunch hours when the daily specials draw crowds.
Terraço Da Alta
Perched in Coimbra's historic upper town, Terraço Da Alta draws both locals and travelers with its inviting bar atmosphere and impressive views that make it perfect for evening drinks and light bites. With over 1,700 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.6-star rating, visitors consistently praise the relaxed vibe and quality offerings at reasonable prices. Arrive around sunset to snag a terrace spot and soak in the ambiance that keeps this neighborhood favorite buzzing year-round.
Pizzaria Mia Bella
Pizzaria Mia Bella has earned its stellar reputation among both locals and visitors in Coimbra's Celas neighborhood, with over a thousand glowing reviews praising its welcoming atmosphere and quality Italian fare. This mid-priced gem offers a relaxed setting where you can enjoy authentic pizzas and drinks without breaking the bank, making it a reliable choice for casual dinners or gatherings with friends. Given its popularity reflected in the impressive rating, consider making a reservation during peak dinner hours to secure your spot at this beloved neighborhood favorite.
Bresca Coimbra
Bresca Coimbra has earned its stellar reputation among over a thousand diners who praise this mid-priced gem in the heart of Coimbra for its diverse culinary offerings and welcoming atmosphere. With such consistently high ratings, travelers appreciate the quality-to-value ratio and the variety that ensures everyone in your group will find something to love. Given its popularity and central location on Rua Visconde da Luz, booking ahead is wise, especially for dinner service when this local favorite fills up quickly.
Italianino
Italianino has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from nearly 700 diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that goes beyond typical Italian fare. The restaurant's popularity among both locals and travelers speaks to its consistently good food at reasonable mid-range prices in the heart of Coimbra. Book ahead or arrive early, as this beloved spot fills up quickly, especially during peak dinner hours.
La Piccola Cucina Italiana Pizza E Pasta
This beloved Italian spot in Coimbra has earned its stellar 4.9-star rating from over 500 diners who rave about its authentic pizza and pasta dishes served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The consistently high praise suggests you'll find quality ingredients, generous portions, and that hard-to-find combination of excellent food at reasonable prices. Book ahead if possible, as places this popular with both locals and travelers tend to fill up quickly, especially during evening dinner service.
Calma Tavern
Tucked away on a charming Coimbra side street, Calma Tavern lives up to its name with a relaxed atmosphere that has earned it a perfect 5-star rating from hundreds of satisfied diners. Travelers consistently praise this gem for its welcoming vibe and quality dishes that showcase diverse culinary influences, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving comfort food or something more adventurous. With its popularity evident in the impressive review count, booking ahead or arriving early is wise to snag a table at this local favorite.
Culinary Experiences in Coimbra
Discover food tours, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences