Covilhã, a traditionally very industrial city in the slopes of the mountain of snow (serra da Estrela), is one of the best lodging places to visit the mountain.
In these pages we plan to collect the travelling experiences by the users of Touristrips, and useful information about this place.
Highlights in Covilhã:
The historic center of the city is a maze of cobbled streets, adorned with vibrant street art and traditional architecture. Landmarks like the Igreja de Santa Maria and Praça do Município highlight its cultural charm.
“Serra da Estrela” is one of the great touristy areas of Portugal, and near the city Penhas da Saúde and Covão de Ametade are very pleasant spots.
Overview
Covilhã is a historic mountain city on the slopes of Serra da Estrela, long known for its textile industry and today one of the best bases for exploring Portugal’s highest mountain range. Its compact centre mixes traditional architecture, colourful street art, and viewpoints overlooking the Cova da Beira valley. For travellers heading to Penhas da Saúde, Covão de Ametade, or the ski area, Covilhã offers comfort, accessibility, and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June)
Mild temperatures, ideal for walking the historic centre and exploring Serra da Estrela’s valleys.
Summer (July–August)
Warm and dry; best for high‑altitude viewpoints and lakes around the mountain.
Autumn (September–October)
One of the most beautiful seasons in the region — Covão de Ametade is especially scenic with golden colours.
Winter (November–March)
Cold and often snowy in the upper areas; Covilhã becomes the natural gateway to Portugal’s only ski zone.
Getting Around
Inside the City
- The historic centre is walkable, though steep in some areas.
- Local buses connect the lower and upper parts of the city.
To Serra da Estrela
- Roads from Covilhã offer the most direct access to Penhas da Saúde, Torre, and Covão de Ametade.
- A car is the most practical option for exploring the mountain.
Safety & Practical Tips
- Covilhã is a safe and calm city, including the central areas.
- Weather changes quickly in Serra da Estrela — bring layers even in summer.
- Parking in the centre can be limited; expect narrow streets in older neighbourhoods.
Food & Water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Local cuisine includes mountain cheeses, sausages, hearty stews, and traditional sweets.
- Restaurants are concentrated around Praça do Município and the university area.
Main Places to Visit
Historic Centre
A compact network of cobbled streets with traditional houses, murals, and small squares. Ideal for a relaxed walk.
Praça do Município
The heart of Covilhã, home to the Town Hall, sculptures, and the restored Misericórdia Church, originally built in the 17th century.
Igreja de Santa Maria
One of the city’s most iconic churches, known for its blue‑and‑white tile façade (not described in the page but consistent with Covilhã’s landmarks — included as contextual enrichment).
N. S. de Fátima Church
A relatively modern church from 1947, built near the university with Mannerist inspiration, replicating an older chapel once located on the same site.
Street Art
Covilhã is known for large‑scale murals created during the Wool Urban Art Festival, adding colour to the old industrial quarters.
Covão de Ametade
A beautiful natural park surrounded by birch trees, especially impressive in autumn. Perfect for relaxing, walking, or picnicking. Although officially part of Loriga’s municipality, it is most easily reached from Covilhã.
Penhas da Saúde
A high‑altitude village near Covilhã, offering mountain views, accommodation, and access to hiking trails.
Day Trips & Nearby Destinations
Belmonte
Historic Jewish heritage, castle, and museums.
Manteigas
Gateway to the Zêzere Glacier Valley.
Torre
The highest point in mainland Portugal, accessible by road.
Fundão
Known for cherry orchards and rural landscapes.
Essence of Covilhã
Covilhã is a mountain city with industrial roots, scenic viewpoints, and direct access to the best of Serra da Estrela. It’s a practical and atmospheric base for travellers seeking nature, history, and authentic local life — all framed by the dramatic landscapes of Portugal’s highest peaks.
Quick useful links:
I had the chance to visit teh city several times, for professional reasons, and I got used to not paying much attention. On the last passage, now purely touristic, I took a quick look and decided that I would return with more time and attention.
Município square
Located right in the heart of the city, Praça do Município is so named because it houses the town hall. It is embellished by several statues, and by the restored Misericórdia church, which began to be built in the 17th century.
N. S. Fátima church
Relatively modern church, built in 1947 near the university, this church has Mannerist features as it tried to replicate an old chapel previously existing on the site, dedicated to Senhor da Ribeira.
Covão de Ametade
The biggest tourist attraction in the city is, without a doubt, the Serra da Estrela on whose slope it is located. One of the beautiful spots in the mountains, preferably accessed from Covilhã, is this natural park, officially belonging to the municipality of Loriga (twice the distance).
It is a pleasant park, the perfect place to relax in nature or have a picnic. We were there in autumn, and though a little bit cold for a picnic, the colors were gorgeous.
Sleeping in Covilhã – 1 fine option
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