Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a charming city filled with picturesque canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Located on Portugal’s central coast, Aveiro offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, history, and culinary delights. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying a while, here’s a friendly guide to the best things to do in Aveiro.
Table of Contents
- Cruise the Canals on a Moliceiro Boat
- Stroll Through the Historic City Center
- Visit the Aveiro Museum (Museu de Aveiro)
- Taste Ovos Moles, Aveiro’s Sweet Specialty
- Tie a Ribbon on the Friendship Bridge
- Visit the Stunning Aveiro Train Station
- Explore the Costa Nova Beach and Its Iconic Striped Houses
- Take a Walk Along the Aveiro Salt Pans
- Discover the Ria de Aveiro Lagoon
- Relax at Praia da Barra
- Bike Through the City
- Visit the Fish Market (Mercado do Peixe)
1
Cruise the Canals on a Moliceiro Boat
One of the most iconic experiences in Aveiro is taking a ride on a moliceiro, the traditional painted boats that glide along the city’s canals. Originally used to harvest seaweed, these boats are now a symbol of Aveiro and a great way to explore the city from the water.
Cost: Around €10–€15 per person for a 45-minute ride.
Tip: Book your tour in advance to secure a spot, especially during the busy summer months.
Guided Tour Recommendation
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
Aveiro: Traditional Moliceiro Boat Tour – Click Here
2
Stroll Through the Historic City Center
Aveiro’s city center is a feast for the eyes, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through the narrow lanes, stop by quaint shops, and admire the stunning Art Nouveau facades, which are among the best-preserved in Portugal.
Must-Visit Spot: The Rossio District, where you’ll find beautiful buildings and charming cafes.
Tip: Take your time exploring on foot to fully appreciate the city’s details.
3
Visit the Aveiro Museum (Museu de Aveiro)
Housed in a former convent, the Aveiro Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s history and religious heritage. The museum’s highlight is the tomb of Saint Joana, an intricately carved masterpiece in the Baroque style.
Cost: Entry is €4.
Tip: Allocate about an hour to explore the museum’s exhibits and the stunning convent architecture.
4
Taste Ovos Moles, Aveiro’s Sweet Specialty
No trip to Aveiro is complete without trying ovos moles, the city’s signature dessert. Made from egg yolks and sugar, these sweet treats are often shaped like seashells or barrels and wrapped in delicate rice paper.
Did I like it?
As a very picky eater, especially when it comes to texture, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but I was pleasantly surprised! The center was slightly sticky yet perfectly balanced between sweet and savory. They say you can’t visit Aveiro without trying one, so I gave it a shot, and it exceeded my expectations. I hope you’ll give it a try too!
Best Spots: Try ovos moles from Pastelaria Rossio or Confeitaria Peixinho, two of the city’s most renowned bakeries.
Tip: Pair them with a coffee for the ultimate mid-morning snack.
5
Tie a Ribbon on the Friendship Bridge
One of the most charming traditions in Aveiro is tying a ribbon on the Friendship Bridge (Ponte dos Laços de Amizade). Located over the Cojo Canal, near Fórum Aveiro, this pedestrian bridge is covered in colorful ribbons, each representing love, friendship, or a special wish.
How to Participate:
- Get a Ribbon – You can buy one at local shops or from vendors nearby. Some boat tours even provide them as part of the experience.
- Make a Wish & Tie It – Write a message or a name, then secure your ribbon to the bridge’s railing, adding your own touch to this beautiful tradition.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
Pro Tip: Combine this with your moliceiro boat tour, as many pass right by the bridge!
6
Visit the Stunning Aveiro Train Station
The Aveiro Train Station is a must-see for architecture lovers and photographers. Its exterior is decorated with stunning blue and white azulejos (ceramic tiles) that depict local history, culture, and landscapes.
Free to Visit: No tickets or entrance fees, just step outside and admire its beauty
It’s an Incredible Photo Spot: The detailed tilework makes for a perfect backdrop.
Easily Accessible: Located at Largo da Estação, it’s just a short walk from the city center.
7
Explore the Costa Nova Beach and Its Iconic Striped Houses
Just a short drive from Aveiro, Costa Nova Beach is famous for its brightly painted striped houses, known as palheiros. These former fishing shacks are now a beloved symbol of the area and make for stunning photos. Enjoy a stroll along the sandy beach or relax with a drink at a seaside café.
Getting There from Aveiro:
Costa Nova Beach is only 11 km (7 miles) from Aveiro, making it an easy trip. You can reach it in about 15–20 minutes by car/taxi. If you prefer public transport, local buses run regularly from Aveiro to Costa Nova, with the journey taking around 30 minutes. Another fun option is to rent a bike in Aveiro and cycle along the scenic route to the beach, which takes about 40–50 minutes.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
8
Take a Walk Along the Aveiro Salt Pans
The salt pans of Aveiro are a unique attraction that highlight the city’s historic salt production industry. Take a guided tour to learn about the traditional methods of salt harvesting and enjoy the beautiful views of the wetlands and their reflection pools.
Cost: Guided tours start at around €5.
Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there’s little shade in the area.
9
Discover the Ria de Aveiro Lagoon
The Ria de Aveiro lagoon is a haven for nature lovers. This vast network of waterways is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it perfect for birdwatching, kayaking, or simply enjoying a peaceful escape from the city.
Tip: Rent a bike and explore the trails along the lagoon for a more active adventure.
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10
Relax at Praia da Barra
Located just a short distance from Aveiro, Praia da Barra is a beautiful beach perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. The beach is also home to the Barra Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Portugal, which offers panoramic views of the coast.
Getting at Praia da Barra from Aveiro:
Praia da Barra is located about 10 km (6 miles) from Aveiro, making it easily accessible. By car/taxi, it’s a quick 15-minute drive. Public buses also connect Aveiro to Praia da Barra, with services running frequently throughout the day; the journey takes approximately 25 minutes. For those who enjoy cycling, you can rent a bike in Aveiro and follow the scenic path to the beach, which takes about 40–50 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the seaside breeze while watching surfers ride the waves.
11
Bike Through the City
Aveiro is a bike-friendly city with plenty of flat terrain and designated bike lanes. Rent a bike and explore at your own pace, visiting key attractions like the canals, salt pans, and nearby beaches.
Tip: Check out the free bike rental program called BUGA, available at kiosks throughout the city.
12
Visit the Fish Market (Mercado do Peixe)
For a glimpse into local life, head to the Mercado do Peixe, where fishermen sell their fresh catches daily. Even if you’re not buying, it’s fascinating to watch the lively atmosphere and see the variety of seafood on offer.
Tip: Visit in the morning when the market is most active.
Final Thoughts: Aveiro Awaits!
Aveiro is a city that combines the best of Portugal: stunning architecture, delicious food, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re cruising its picturesque canals, savoring ovos moles, or exploring its sandy beaches, Aveiro promises a magical getaway. Pack your sense of adventure and come discover the “Venice of Portugal” for yourself!
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What’s Next?
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