Welcome to Aveiro, a charming coastal city in Portugal. Due to its picturesque canals, colorful buildings, and serene passenger boats, many refer to it as the “Venice of Portugal”, but we think it’s much more than that. On a personal note, I knew nothing of Aveiro until I started researching my family history and found my DNA traces back there. I’m excited to share this gem with you! With its unique atmosphere, this enchanting city is truly one-of-a-kind.
This guide will help you discover the best of what Aveiro has to offer, so you will be ready to explore!
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Aveiro, a Romantic City
Aveiro is a small city with a lot of charm. Visitors can easily spend all day walking along the tranquil canals and staring out at the boats while sipping on a glass of wine. Aveiro doesn’t look like most cities. It experienced a population boom in the 19th and early 20th centuries, resulting in an abundance of colorful Art Nouveau (Novo) and Art Deco buildings.
As you would expect from a Portuguese city, the cuisine in Aveiro is fresh and delicious. Indulge in the famous ovos moles (a delicate sweet egg-based pastry), eel dishes (usually fried or put in a stew – trust us, they’re delicious!), and regional wines.
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Tour the City and Experience the Culture
One of the best ways to see all of the sights of the city while learning its history is with a walking tour. We suggest the Best of Aveiro Private Walking Tour with Personal Cooking Class so you can return home from Portugal with a new skill!
With a private guide, you’ll explore the charming streets of Aveiro, including the fisherman’s neighborhood and the local fish market. Visit the Museu de Aveiro, where you’ll learn about the legendary Princess Joana (the city’s patron saint), and explore the Cattedrale di Aveiro, learning about the Templars’ influence on its construction.
Finally, head to your guide’s home to cook a delicious meal of Pataniscas, featuring Portugal’s national dish (codfish), and savor it with the local espumante da Bairrada (sparkling wine). You’ll experience a warm, personal visit with a true local.
Get Nautical with A Moliceiro Boat Tour
You can’t go to Aveiro without finding your sea legs and hopping aboard a traditional Moliceiro boat (don’t call it a gondola!). Guarantee a spot during the busy season by pre-booking a boat tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Appreciate the picturesque charm of the city from a new angle as you cruise along the Central Canal before floating through the Canal das Pirâmides. From the comfort of your colorful boat, you’ll glide under beautiful bridges in true style.
Aveiro Landmarks and History
Aveiro is a truly unique city with a lot to see. Uncover the hidden stories of Aveiro’s rich history by booking a walking tour, like the Aveiro: Stories, Canals, and Azulejos Guided Walking Tour.
Some of the historical highlights of the city include the Carmelite Convent Church, the Cathedral of Aveiro, the 15th-century Monastery of Jesus, the Church of São Gonçalinho, and the Canal da Fonte Nova. Stop by Praça do Peixe, a lively square in the city center known for its bustling fish market. While walking through the city, take time to admire the beautiful hand-painted azulejos (tiles).
If you visit in January, you can join the traditional festivities at the small Church of São Gonçalinho, where locals make their promises for the year before throwing a cookie over their shoulders. This tradition started during the Middle Ages, and is supposed to bring good luck, especially if you eat the pieces off the floor!
Head to the Beach
Most visitors spend a day relaxing on the nearby beaches. Popular beaches like Barra, São Jacinto, and Costa Nova do Prado are the perfect places to dip your toes into the ocean and lay out in the sun.
Take a stroll along the sandy beach, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming seaside village.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, architecture, or culinary delights, Aveiro offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences to delight every visitor. Boa viagem!
Don’t forget to go to our Trip Tips page for all of your travel needs – Flights, Hotels & Lodgings, Car Rentals, Travel Insurance, and Tour & Activities!
Read More About Portugal!
A Lisbon Holiday – Where the Ocean Meets a Captivating Capital
Things to Do in Porto – An Enchanting City Break in Portugal
Lagos in Algarve: Portugal’s Breathtaking Southern Coastline
Coimbra Portugal: An Overlooked Gem in Central Portugal
Douro Valley Portugal – Wine Tasting with A Magnificent View
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