CityBuddy
English
Tourist scams and rip-offs in Coimbra, Portugal: how to avoid them
Photo made by Carlos Machado on Pexels.com
Coimbra is a calm, university-driven city with a low serious-crime rate, though visitors should watch for the usual pickpocketing and overcharging in tourist areas. The main risks are petty street theft, taxi overcharging near the station, and poor ATM rates. Overall it is a safe, friendly destination for tourists.
Updated October 2026
Common scams in Coimbra, Portugal and how to avoid them
1. Pickpocketing in tourist areas
How it works: Distraction teams work around the university hill and old town, bumping or crowding you while an accomplice lifts your wallet or phone. Busy narrow streets and trams make easy targets.
How to avoid it: Keep bags zipped and in front, avoid keeping valuables in back pockets, and stay alert in crowded spots.
2. Overcharging from the station
How it works: Some unlicensed or unmetered drivers outside Coimbra B or the coach station quote inflated flat fares for short journeys or take long detours. Fares may not match the meter.
How to avoid it: Use the official taxi rank and confirm the meter is running or agree a fair fare before leaving.
3. Unexpected table charges
How it works: A few tourist-service restaurants add bread, butter, or cover charges to the bill that were not requested, sometimes without listing prices clearly.
How to avoid it: Ask whether items are free before accepting and check the bill before paying.
4. Fake petitions and rosaries
How it works: People approach tourists with a petition to sign or offer a sprig of rosemary or a rosary, then demand payment for the unwanted item once it is in your hand.
How to avoid it: Politely decline eye contact and keep walking, and never take an item handed to you.
5. Overpriced tour tickets
How it works: Street sellers and some kiosks near the university sell tour or transport tickets marked up well above the official price, especially to short-stay visitors in a hurry.
How to avoid it: Buy tickets only from official ticket offices, the transport operator, or the city tourist office.
Official tickets for the top sights in Coimbra, Portugal
Skip street sellers: book official tickets and tours with free cancellation.
From the airport to the city centre
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)
The main gateway is Lisbon airport, about 2 hours away. Use the official taxi rank and agree on the meter or a fixed fare before departing. Refuse unlicensed drivers who approach inside the terminal.
Best alternative: Train from Lisbon (Santa Apolonia or Oriente) via the Alfa Pendular or Intercidades services arriving at Coimbra B station (about 120 min)
Public transport: tickets, validation and fines
- Single ticket
- €1.70 (A single bus fare on the municipal SMTUC network covers one boarding.)
- Validation rules
- Validate your ticket in the onboard validator as soon as you board the bus. Inspectors may check at any time and tickets without a valid stamp are treated as invalid.
- Paying by card
- Cash and the local SMTUC Andante-style card are commonly used; contactless bank card tap acceptance is limited so carry small change.
Tipping and service charges
Tipping: Optional and appreciated: rounding up the bill in restaurants and cafes is normal, and leaving a small tip for guides is fine but not required. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip.
Cover and service charges: Service is usually included in the bill in Portugal, so an extra tip is optional. Cover or bread charges are uncommon but if bread appears on the table you may be charged, so confirm before eating it. Check the menu shows prices.
Cards, ATMs and currency exchange
Always choose to be charged in euros and decline dynamic currency conversion at the terminal. Prefer bank-attached ATMs over independent machines, which often carry high fees. Check the screen for any fee before withdrawing.
Areas where extra care is advised
- Around Coimbra B station: Mainly fine but keep bags closed and stay alert late at night, where pickpockets can target travellers arriving or waiting.
- Old town streets at night: The narrow lanes near the university and Santa Cruz are generally safe, but keep valuables out of sight when crowded or after dark.
Emergency number
112
Planning your budget?
Frequently Asked Questions about Coimbra, Portugal
Is Coimbra, Portugal safe for tourists?
Do I need to validate public transport tickets in Coimbra, Portugal?
Is tipping expected in Coimbra, Portugal?
What is the emergency number in Coimbra, Portugal?
Based on widely reported traveler experiences and official advice. Prices are approximate and change; check current fares on arrival. Updated October 2026.