Things to Do in Coimbra in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Coimbra
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect crisp autumn weather for walking Coimbra's historic hills without summer heat - temperatures stay comfortable for climbing to Alta and exploring the old town on foot
- Peak season for chestnuts (castanhas) - street vendors appear throughout the city selling fresh roasted chestnuts for €2-3, a beloved autumn tradition locals cherish
- University reopening creates vibrant student atmosphere - October marks the start of the new academic year, filling cafés, bars, and cultural venues with energy after quiet summer months
- Ideal conditions for visiting Biblioteca Joanina and indoor attractions - rainy days provide perfect excuse to spend hours in the stunning baroque library and university museums
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain showers throughout the day - while not heavy, the 10 rainy days mean you'll need flexible indoor/outdoor planning and waterproof gear
- Student accommodation booking surge - university reopening means limited budget accommodation and higher prices for hostels and student-friendly lodging
- Early sunset at 6:30 PM limits evening outdoor exploration - significantly shorter daylight hours compared to summer months affect photo opportunities and walking tours
Best Activities in October
University of Coimbra Historic Walking Tours
October's cool weather makes climbing to Alta district comfortable, while returning students add authentic academic atmosphere. The 12-15°C morning temperatures are perfect for exploring cobblestone paths without summer's exhausting heat. Rain often clears by afternoon, creating dramatic lighting for photography of the university's baroque architecture.
Mondego River Valley Cycling Routes
October offers ideal cycling conditions with cool mornings and minimal summer heat. The 70% humidity feels refreshing rather than oppressive for physical activity. Routes through quintas (wine estates) showcase autumn colors, and grape harvest season may still be active in early October.
Traditional Portuguese Cooking Classes
October brings seasonal ingredients like fresh chestnuts, late harvest vegetables, and new wine. Indoor activities are perfect for rainy days (10 expected in October). Classes often feature autumn comfort foods like caldo verde and roasted dishes that locals crave as temperatures drop.
Fado Performance and Music Venues
October marks the return of university fado traditions as students return. Evening entertainment becomes more appealing with early 6:30 PM sunsets. The melancholic autumn mood perfectly matches fado's emotional depth, and venues are lively with student performers and audiences.
Conimbriga Roman Ruins Day Trips
Cool October weather makes exploring the extensive outdoor archaeological site comfortable - summer heat can be overwhelming for the 2-3 hours needed to see the mosaics and villa remains properly. The 16 km (10 mile) distance from Coimbra makes it perfect for half-day excursions when city rain arrives.
Aveiro and Costa Nova Beach Towns
October's mild weather perfect for exploring colorful canal boats and striped beach houses without summer crowds. The 45-minute train journey offers scenic views, and cooler temperatures make walking Aveiro's canals and sampling ovos moles comfortable all day.
October Events & Festivals
Queima das Fitas Academic Festival
Student celebration marking the beginning of the academic year with processions, concerts, and traditional academic ceremonies. Features ribbon burning ceremony, student performances, and street festivities throughout the historic center.
Chestnut Harvest Festivals
Local quintas and surrounding villages celebrate magusto (chestnut festivals) with roasted chestnuts, new wine, traditional music, and folk dancing. Markets throughout Coimbra feature seasonal chestnut-based foods and crafts.