Coimbra's 30-Year Wait Ends: Not a Metro, But a Metrobus Finally Arrives – What Locals Really Think

Coimbra's New Metrobus System Launches After Decades of Delay

After 30 years of anticipation, Coimbra has unveiled its Sistema de Mobilidade do Mondego (SMM), but not in the form of a metro as originally promised. Instead, the city now boasts an electric articulated bus system running on dedicated lanes. The service began its experimental phase on Friday, August 29, 2025, offering free rides to the public.

First Impressions from Early Riders

Among the first to experience the new metrobus was Joselina, who boarded the vehicle, marveled at its length, and chose her seat carefully. Noticing others still outside, she called out to a companion, "Eh Vilela, então não entras?" (Hey Vilela, aren't you coming in?). This moment captured the mixed emotions of residents—curiosity and a sense of long-awaited progress, even if it's not the metro they envisioned.

The launch was attended by Minister Miguel Pinto Luz, who tested the system alongside citizens, highlighting the government's involvement in this significant infrastructure update. The metrobus aims to improve urban mobility in Coimbra, addressing decades of transportation challenges.

While the project falls short of the initial metro proposal, it represents a step forward in sustainable transport, utilizing electric buses to reduce environmental impact. The experimental phase will allow for public feedback and adjustments before a full rollout.

For more details on the background of this project, you can refer to this related article.