Aveiro, Portugal is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Situated in the Aveiro District of Central Portugal, Aveiro offers many activities for visitors to explore and take part in. From its unique canals reminiscent of Venice to its delicious seafood restaurants, to its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, and quaint villages. Making it an ideal destination for any traveler looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Aveiro has something to offer everyone, no matter what their preference or budget may be.
Language Portuguese
The currency Euro €
Where to stay in and around Aveiro
Aveiro has a range of accommodation options to suit any budget, to check out your options for accommodation, I highly recommend Booking.com as they offer good cancellation policies.
Aveiro has a wide selection of hotels, guest houses, and hostels located within the city center and its surrounding areas. Hotels range in price and sophistication depending on your needs. Aveiro is also home to some luxurious resorts that offer guests all the amenities of home.
For those looking for a more unique experience, Aveiro has some stunning boutique and bed & breakfast options. These are ideal for travelers who want to explore Aveiro in a local and intimate setting. Aveiro also has camping sites within the city that offer great value for money.
We stayed at an apartment “The lodge in Blue” right in the center, the location was amazing, and the apartment itself was very nice and had everything we needed, it has 5 bedrooms, it does have stairs if you are traveling with kids. You can also park your car (if you are driving) along the canal which is about a 5-minute walk to the apartment. The host of the Apartment was a lovely lady and very helpful. Be sure to consider the “Lodge in Blue” for your accommodation, you can walk to everything.
If you like staying in Hostels, you can book your hostel with Hostel Worldwide. This will save you money to use on more exciting things.
Getting to Aveiro
Aveiro is easily accessible via bus, train, or car. The closest airport to Aveiro is Porto Airport (OPO), which is approximately 85km away. You can drive your own vehicle if you are renting one in Portugal. Getting to Aveiro by car is an easy and convenient option.
Aveiro is located in the center of Portugal and can be accessed via the A1 highway which connects Aveiro with other major cities in Portugal such as Porto, Lisbon, and Coimbra. Driving to Aveiro from Porto takes about 1 hour and takes around 2.5 hours from Lisbon, keep in mind these are toll roads.
We had a car in Portugal so it made it much easier to explore Aveiro in our own time and at our own pace.
The train is also a popular way to get to Aveiro from cities such as Porto and Lisbon. Aveiro has its own train station which offers regular connections to both of these cities. Aveiro can also be reached by the regional train service Aveiro-São João da Madeira or Aveiro-Coimbra, making it easy and convenient to explore the surrounding area.
How to pay tolls in Portugal
Driving in Aveiro requires visitors to understand Portugal’s toll system. Tolls can be paid in cash (at the time of passing through) or by using an electronic toll tag device. The electronic toll tag is called Via Verde and is convenient for those who will use highways frequently during their visit.
It can be purchased at all Via Verde outlets, at post offices, or online. Drivers will need to register the device with their vehicle information and then add credit to it. Once registered, you can use the device at any of Portugal’s toll plazas.
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The best time to visit Aveiro, Portugal
The best time to visit Aveiro is from April to September. During this period, Aveiro offers the very best in terms of weather, sightseeing opportunities, and activities. Aveiro experiences mild temperatures during these months with an average temperature ranging between 14°C and 27°C.
Aveiro has a subtropical climate which means it has hot and humid summers and mild winters. This makes Aveiro the perfect destination for both summer and winter holidays.
During the summer months, Aveiro’s beaches are incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike. Aveiro is also home to some stunning parks and gardens where you can take a relaxing stroll or enjoy a picnic in the sunshine.
Is Aveiro expensive to visit
Aveiro is an affordable destination for travelers, with a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets it is generally less expensive than other cities in Portugal such as Lisbon and Porto but it still offers plenty of great amenities and activities at reasonable prices.
Food and drinks tend to be more expensive in Aveiro’s restaurants than those in other cities, however, Aveiro has some great local eateries that offer delicious meals at very reasonable prices. Aveiro also offers a range of public transportation options, making it easy and inexpensive to get around and in Aveiro city center itself you can honestly just walk around and explore the city’s sights and attractions, saving you a ton.
Hot tip: Throughout Portugal during lunch hours, if you keep an eye out for the “meal of the day” you will be able to enjoy a delicious and traditional meal at good prices, a “meal of the day” normally consists of bread, meal, drink (alcohol or non-alcohol) and coffee, sometimes it can include soup also, all for around €7-10 euros. Each cafe or restaurant offers different meals of the day, so keep an eye out, this will save you a lot of money, meal of the day is generally on offer from 12 noon to around 230pm.
Somedays we would have our breakfast at our accommodation and then have a “meal of the day” as they are always quite big meals and then something lite for dinner or we cooked at our accommodation, keeping costs down.
Ok, now we have covered the basics it’s time to check out the 13 Top Things To Do And See In Aveiro Portugal.
13 Must see things in Aveiro
Costa Nova Beach
Costa Nova Beach is one of Aveiro’s most stunning beaches, known for its spectacular golden sand and sparkling blue waters. Located to the west of Aveiro, Costa Nova Beach offers a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy such as sunbathing, swimming in the ocean, or taking a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk. You can also take part in some exciting water sports activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing.
Costa Nova Beach is also famous for its unique striped houses which line the beach. The colorful buildings have become Aveiro’s signature, with their bright and cheerful colors adding a unique charm to Aveiro’s coastline.
These iconic buildings are considered to be Aveiro’s most emblematic attraction, and make for great photo opportunities. The colorful striped houses were originally used as storage for Aveiro’s fishermen.
The bright colors were chosen to help the fishermen easily find their homes after a day out at sea. Nowadays, many of Aveiro’s striped houses have been converted into vacation homes or restaurants, making them great places to relax and enjoy Aveiro.
Take a Canal Cruise
Aveiro is known as “the Venice of Portugal” because of its many canals that offer visitors the opportunity to see Aveiro’s unique sights from a different perspective. Take a canal cruise to explore Aveiro’s canals and admire the beautiful buildings, churches, and bridges along the way. Cruise under the iconic Ponte Laços de Amizade, Aveiro’s most beloved bridge.
We did our canal cruise with “Aveiro Moments” which cost around 32 euros for a family of 4. We loved our cruise guide, she was fun and so happy and provided lots of knowledge on Aveiro and the kids loved her.
Admire the Old train station
Aveiro’s old train station was originally built in 1864 and is steeped in historical significance. The azulejos-tiles are impressive. Aveiro’s old train station is a must-see sight. This Art Nouveau building is an architectural masterpiece and a perfect example of Aveiro’s unique charm.
Relax at Aveiro Beach
Aveiro Beach is Aveiro’s main beach and a great place to relax and enjoy Aveiro’s beautiful coastline and take in the stunning views of the iconic lagoon. Enjoy activities such as sunbathing, swimming, water sports or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk.
Aveiro Beach has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby, so you can easily find some delicious food or drinks after a day of sunbathing or swimming.
Visit the Historical sites around Aveiro
Visit one of the many historical sites such as Aveiro Cathedral, Castle of São João da Madeira, or Church of Santa Maria da Feira to learn more about Aveiro’s past. Aveiro is also home to many museums such as the Aveiro Regional Museum and Aveiro Maritime Museum that showcase Aveiro’s history, culture, and art.
Aveiro Museum
Located in the center of Aveiro and houses many artifacts that tell Aveiro’s story, from its ancient times to the present day. See archaeological finds, portraits of important figures from Aveiro’s history, and much more.
Aveiro Cathedral
A stunning example of gothic architecture in Portugal. Climb to the top of the belfry for a breathtaking view of Aveiro or wander around the cathedral’s grounds to admire its intricate designs.
Castle of São João da Madeira
An impressive sixteenth-century fortress located on the outskirts of Aveiro. The castle was originally built to protect Aveiro from its enemies, but now it serves as a great place to explore and admire Aveiro’s unique history. The castle features a number of interesting exhibits and activities that tell Aveiro’s story.
The Church of Santa Maria da Feira
Beautiful example of Aveiro’s baroque architecture. The church features a stunning interior composed of marble and intricate stonework, as well as gilded altarpieces and frescoes. Take in the beauty of Aveiro’s baroque architecture and admire the church’s stunning interior.
Aveiro Maritime Museum
Great place to learn about Aveiro’s connection to the sea. It showcases Aveiro’s rich maritime history and its importance in Portugal’s fishing industry. Explore exhibits on Portuguese seafarers, Aveiro’s shipbuilding industry, and Aveiro’s fish processing plants.
Visit Praia da Barra beach and Farol de Aveiro (Aveiro Lighthouse)
Praia da Barra beach is Aveiro’s widest and most popular beach. It stretches along Aveiro’s coast for several kilometers, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun. Enjoy activities such as swimming or sunbathing in the crystal clear waters of Aveiro’s Atlantic Ocean.
Take a peaceful walk along Aveiro’s boardwalk and enjoy stunning views of Aveiro’s coastline.
Farol de Aveiro (Aveiro Lighthouse) is Aveiro’s iconic lighthouse that offers breathtaking views from its top. Climb the stairs to the top of Farol de Aveiro for incredible views of Aveiro’s coastline, Aveiro’s lagoon, and Aveiro city itself. The lighthouse is the tallest in Portugal, It stands 62 meters tall and 66 above sea level and it is still currently fully operational since 1893.
The lighthouse is open every Wednesday, hours differ in winter and summer, but there is 3 scheduled times that you can go inside and climb the 288 steps to the top.
Visit the Aveiro Salt Pans
Found on the south end of Aveiro, it is an open lagoon filled with seawater that is used to extract salt from the water. The Aveiro Salt Pans are one of Portugal’s most important salt production sites and have been in operation since the 13th century.
Explore Aveiro’s salt industry on a guided tour, or take a boat ride to see the Aveiro Salt Pans up close. See the traditional methods and tools used past and present by Aveiro’s salt producers to harvest the salt.
Wander around Aveiro Old Town
Aveiro Old Town is the perfect place to explore Aveiro’s rich history and culture. Wander down the narrow cobblestone streets, admire Aveiro’s colorful buildings, and stop for a bite to eat at one of Aveiro’s many restaurants.
Take a stroll along Aveiro’s canals and witness Aveiro’s unique Moliceiros, traditional boats that glide across Aveiro’s canals. Visit Aveiro Cathedral and admire its stunning gothic architecture, or explore the local market to sample Aveiro’s delicious cuisine. Aveiro Old Town is a great place to learn about Aveiro’s culture and history and admire its unique architecture.
Try Aveiro’s many Local Cuisine’s
Aveiro’s local cuisine is a must-try for foodies. Sample Aveiro’s traditional Eel stew, or try many of Aveiro’s delicious seafood dishes. Indulge in local sweets such as ovos moles (egg yolks and sugar) or amêndoa laminada (almond cakes). Enjoy a traditional dish such as caldeirada de enguias (Eel stew), but no visit to Aveiro is complete without trying the Ovos Moles, we tried a sample of different flavors from a beautiful bakery across from where we boarded our Moliceiros tour, so keep an eye out.
Souvenir shopping around Aveiro and Rua de Santa Joana
A great place to shop for souvenirs and unique finds. Aveiro has numerous shops that line Aveiro’s canals, selling everything from traditional Portuguese pottery to Aveiro’s famous Ovos Moles (egg yolk sweets). Aveiro is also home to Rua de Santa Joana, a large shopping street with plenty of shops and boutiques that you can explore. Aveiro’s souvenir shops are filled with unique items ranging from handmade jewelry to Portugal-themed t-shirts.
Visit the Ponte Laços de Amizade (Bridge of Friendship)
Visit Aveiro’s most iconic bridge, the Ponte Laços de Amizade (Bridge of Friendship). You will find this bridge just outside the Forum shopping center. This beautiful bridge is one of Aveiro’s most photographed landmarks and a symbol of Aveiro’s deep bond with its sister city, Aveiro. The bridge is decorated with handmade ceramic tiles that represent Aveiro’s friendship and connection to Aveiro.
The Ponte Laços de Amizade (Bridge of Friendship) is also known for its colorful ribbons. Colorful ribbons are tied to the bridge as a symbol of love or friendship.
Visitors often tie colorful ribbons in Aveiro’s vibrant colors, red, blue, and yellow. The red ribbon symbolizes Aveiro’s strong will, courage, and passion, the blue ribbon stands for Aveiro’s deep connection to its sister city Aveiro, and the yellow ribbon represents Aveiro’s bright spirit and energy.
You can tie their own ribbon to Aveiro’s Ponte Laços de Amizade (Bridge of Friendship) as a symbol of Aveiro’s love or friendship. You should write your name and the date they visited Aveiro or the date your partnership started on the ribbon before tying it to the bridge.
The colorful ribbons are also believed to bring good luck and fortune, so make sure you tie one on the bridge during your visit!
Visit the Ponte dos Carcavelos (Carcavelos Bridge)
This magnificent bridge spans the Canal de São Roque – stretching between Beira Mar’s old fishermen’s district to its iconic salt flats. Built-in 1953 after an earlier structure collapsed in 1942.
You will find beautiful arches adorned with Aveiro’s silver eagle symbol on its green coat of arms. You can enjoy the beauty of this bridge by walking or during a cruise on a traditional Moliceiros and get the history told by your guide.
Shop at the Forum Shopping Centre
The Forum Aveiro Shopping Centre is a must-visit destination for shopaholics. Located in Aveiro’s historic center, it offers visitors a wide array of shops and boutiques to explore. Shoppers will find major retailers such as Zara, Mango, and Bershka, as well as local Aveiro brands. Don’t forget to explore Aveiro’s beauty shops for Portuguese-made cosmetics, skincare products, and fragrances.
Forum Aveiro Shopping Centre you will find plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, and even an ice cream parlor! Besides these, the Forum Aveiro Shopping Centre also offers events and activities such as movie screenings, live performances, and more to keep visitors entertained all year round.
The open-air shopping center has ribbons hanging from the ceiling as you find outside of the center on the Ponte Laços de Amizade making it a very photogenic spot, you can even head up onto the roof and be surrounded by plants, trees, and chairs to take in the views of Aveiro.
We spent 3 months in Portugal, we did a solid 3 week’s trip around Portugal starting in Porto and our second stop was in Aveiro, there are so many great places to explore in Portugal, given Portugal is quite a small country it is very possible to fit many destinations in within a short period of time, especially compared to my home country Australia which is far too big to squeeze a lot in, in a short time. in Less then 3 hours if you are driving you can visit the beautiful towns of Fatima, Batalha, and Nazaré as you head down South, or head North to Porto, Braga, and the must-see Geres National Park.
Is Aveiro worth visiting?
The Aveiro region of Portugal is a truly unique destination. With its beautiful canals, bridges, and beaches Aveiro has something for everyone to enjoy. The city’s shopping and culinary culture offers a fantastic selection of traditional Portuguese goods and restaurants to explore.
Aveiro is also home to some iconic landmarks such as the Ponte Laços de Amizade (Bridge of Friendship) with its colorful ribbons and the Ponte dos Carcavelos (Carcavelos Bridge), Relax at Praia da Barra beach or admire Barra’s impressive lighthouse, be fascinated by the colors of the houses along Costa Nova beach.
Aveiro is a place full of culture, beauty, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for any traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends, or simply a relaxing vacation Aveiro is the perfect destination for your trip. With its vibrant colors and friendly locals Aveiro is sure to offer you an experience you won’t forget!
Have Fun Exploring Aveiro!
We hope you have a great time in Aveiro and if you have any questions or need help planning your trip feel free to contact us. Aveiro is one of our favorite places in Portugal and we’d love to share our experiences with you.
Happy travels! 🙂