Centro
Coimbra’s university, medieval monasteries, mountains and the Atlantic
The centre runs from the lagoon city of Aveiro to the Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range on the mainland. Coimbra has one of Europe’s oldest universities, and the monasteries of Alcobaça and Batalha and the Convent of Christ in Tomar are all World Heritage sites.
On the coast, Nazaré is known for very large winter waves. This guide groups the districts of Aveiro, Coimbra, Leiria, Santarém, Viseu, Guarda and Castelo Branco as Centro; official tourism regions differ slightly.
What to eat and drink
Leitão da Bairrada (suckling pig), queijo da Serra, ovos moles de Aveiro
When to go
Late spring to early autumn; Serra da Estrela can have snow in winter
Must-see places
Aveiro
Canals and colourful moliceiro boats, with beaches nearby.
Coimbra
A university town on a hill; the University of Coimbra is World Heritage.
UNESCOBatalha & Alcobaça
Two great medieval monasteries a short drive apart, both World Heritage.
UNESCOTomar
The Convent of Christ, former seat of the Order of the Templars in Portugal and World Heritage.
UNESCONazaré
Fishing town famous for very large winter surf.
Serra da Estrela
The highest mountain range on the mainland, known for its cheese.
Sources: Visit Portugal · UNESCO · checked 2026-11-06