"Revolutionary Advancements Reshaping Land Travel"
The Coimbra Region is set to experience a transportation revolution, as the new intermunicipal transport concession is scheduled to begin on August 1st, 2025. The system, operated by the Coimbra Region Intermunicipal Community (CIM/RC), will initially operate as a single-modal system, without the intermodal pass [1].
The transport system boasts an impressive infrastructure, with all necessary computer systems, equipment, and tickets already in place. It will serve the 19 municipalities in the Coimbra region, primarily, and will also connect the region to neighbouring areas [1].
A total of 240 buses will be deployed for the new system, with 186 of them being brand new. This means that approximately 77.5% of the buses are new, ensuring a modern and efficient service for passengers [1]. Each bus will feature free on-board Wi-Fi and air conditioning for a comfortable journey.
The average age of the buses throughout the concession period will be approximately 4.5 years (55 months) [1]. The system will also include fast-track services, such as connections between Coimbra, Montemor-o-Velho, and Figueira da Foz, and even Mira, via Cantanheda.
One of the key features of the new transport system is the connection to Penela [1]. However, it's important to note that as of the launch, users will need to purchase separate tickets for SMTUC buses. This will change once the intermodal pass is in effect [1].
The ticketing system for the new transport system will need to be reconfigured for the intermodal system when it comes into effect. The intermodal system, which includes the Mondego Metro and SMTUC, is expected to be operational in six months, starting in early 2026 [1].
The delay in launching the integrated ticket was caused by complications in the partnerships among the different public transport entities, related to changes in government [1]. Despite these delays, the new transport system is set to provide a significant improvement in transportation for the region's 19 municipalities.
[1] Source: CIM/RC press release, June 2025.
The new transport system, set to revolutionize the Coimbra Region, will not only cover local municipalities but also connect to neighboring areas, aligning it with the finance and transportation industries. The system, operated by CIM/RC, will initially function without the intermodal pass, but plans for its integration with the Mondego Metro and SMTUC are expected in early 2026.
