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We have all asked ourselves at one point, is Aveiro worth visiting? Aveiro is known as the Venice of Portugal. This beautiful coastal city combines colorful canals, stunning architecture, and fresh seafood into a compact, walkable city. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know. This includes why Aveiro’s Moliceiro boat rides and striped Costa Nova houses are unique to Aveiro.
We share the best day trip from Porto, and whether it’s better for a day trip or overnight stays. We’ll also talk about practical tips like transportation, weather, and hidden spots most tourists miss. In the end, you’ll know exactly how to best plan your visit. Yes, we will share our honest opinion on whether Aveiro is worth visiting. Spoiler, it’s worth visiting, but let’s discuss 7 reasons why and what you should know as you plan for Aveiro. Aveiro is just one of the top day trips from Porto you can take!
Is Aveiro Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons Why
From riding through canals on historic Moliceiro boats to pastel-striped houses in Costa Nova, this small, but vibrant city shines. Here are 7 reasons why we have concluded yes to the question, is Aveiro worth visiting? Let’s discuss secret beaches, the iconic ovos moles treat, and why it’s the perfect day trip from Porto. These reasons will also reveal all the things to do in Aveiro!
Cruise the Canals on a Colorful Moliceiro Boat
Ride through Aveiro’s canals on a moliceiro boat felt like I was back in Venice. These gondola-like vessels were once used to harvest seaweed however, now offer 45-minute tours. On the tour, you will pass by Art Nouveau buildings, and learn about the salt trade. If going outside of a tour, go early to avoid crowds. However, if you visit on a tour it will be all organized by the tour operator.
Aveiro Costa Nova Candy-Striped Beach Houses
When visiting Aveiro, you can’t miss stopping by Costa Nova’s striped houses! The Costa Nova houses are bright pink, blue, red, and yellow, right by the water. We took a lot of photos here. The best spot is near the canal where the houses reflect in the water. Fun fact: These were once used by fishermen to store nets! Grab a coffee at a nearby café and walk to the beach afterward.
Taste Aveiro's Sweetest Secret: Ovos Moles
Aveiro’s ovos moles are a must try! It’s made from creamy egg yolk filled in rice paper shells. This is a 500-year-old nun’s recipe. We provide two great spots to try them. Our favorite is the first location. The Ovos moles have EU-protected status. This means that for them to be called Ovos moles, a strict traditional method of making them must be followed. This protects the quality and heritage of this renowned treat.
Confeitaria Peixinho (1856): Its seashell-shaped treats are almost too pretty to eat. The rich, silky filling won me over, surprisingly light!
M1882 Ovos Moles: These have a stronger yolk flavor but are still considered to be another great option.
Art Nouveau Gems in Aveiro’s City Center
Aveiro’s Art Nouveau architecture is a popular attraction for design lovers. If you have more than a day, we recommend checking out two attractions. The Aveiro Museum (formerly a fish-salting factory) and Casa de Chá with its floral ironwork. Locals say the best walking route is along Canal Central. This is where buildings like Major Pessoa Residence display stained glass and beautiful balconies. You will also find the “Aveiro” sign near the train station.
Aveiro’s Underrated Beaches
Aveiro’s beaches aren’t as busy or as picturesque as the Algarve region in Portugal. Although locals noted that Praia da Barra is great for sunbathing & waves, and Costa Nova Beach is much calmer. We visited Costa Nova Beach during our short visit however, the weather was a bit chilly to fully enjoy it.
Explore Aveiro Salt Flats
The salt flats (salinas) are Aveiro’s hidden ecological gem. You can take a Salt Tour Aveiro (€10) for hands-on lessons in traditional salt harvesting. We unfortunately didn’t have enough time for this on our day in Aveiro.
Quick Day Trip from Porto
Aveiro is very easy to visit for half or day! From Porto, you can take the train for ~€4, and takes 55 minutes. From Lisbon, it’s a 2.5-hour drive or train ride. We did a Porto to Aveiro day trip. Skip to the Aveiro Day Trip from Porto: Step-by-Step Itinerary for all the info.
How to Get to Aveiro: Trains, Buses & Flights
Porto to Aveiro Train: Cheap, Fast & Scenic
The train from Porto to Aveiro is cheap from €3.90. From Sao Bento Station in Porto, it generally takes 1 hour and 7 minutes for this ticket price. The faster trains that take 45 minutes cost between €16.50, and €22.60. The ride is super scenic as pass by rivers, farms, and cute towns. Trains run all day. To avoid crowds, the morning trains are quieter.
To check your route and ticket prices we recommend visiting the official website. You can purchase tickets in advance.
Lisbon to Aveiro: Best Routes by Train, Bus or Car
There are 4 ways to travel from Lisbon To Aveiro.
Train: Train is the fastest option! The shortest train ride takes about 2 hours from Lisbon to Aveiro. Tickets start at €20 for the cheapest train. However, the fastest train can be €33.
Car: You can drive the A1 highway and takes about 2.5 hours. You should also consider gas as a potential cost and renting the car.
Lisbon to Aveiro Google Maps Driving Route
Bus: You can take a bus such as FlixBus. It will cost ~€13 which is cheaper than a train. However, it will take 3 hours to get there.
Flying In? Nearest Airports to Aveiro (With Transfers)
The closest major airport to Aveiro is Porto Airport (OPO). The second major airport in Portugal is Lisbon (LIS).
Porto Airport (OPO): The closest major airport to Aveiro is 88km away. Review the routes from bus or train routes from Porto airport to Aveiro.
Lisbon Airport (LIS): Lisbon airport to Aveiro is 248km. Review the best routes using a bus or train from Lisbon Airport to Aveiro.
Aveiro Half Day Trip from Porto: Step-by-Step Itinerary
One of the best ways to explore Aveiro is by taking an organized tour from Porto! We went on an enjoyable half-day tour from Porto. We will share all the Aveiro attractions included on the tour which highlights the must-see spots! This tour makes it quick and worth it to visit Aveiro and provides round-trip transportion from Porto.
You can pre-book tickets in advance to reserve your spot for this tour. Now let’s get into the details on what you can expect.
1st Stop: Aveiro Costa Nova
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
The first stop after boarding the Bus from Porto is Costa Nova. It’s a charming seaside village near Aveiro, known for its colorful striped houses. These houses are traditionally called palheiros. We learned that these houses were once used by fishermen. The houses are different colors because it was a way for the fisherman to distinguish their houses from one another. You have under one hour to take pictures around the area and walk around. You will then board the bus to Aveiro for the moliceiro boat ride.
2nd Stop: Aveiro Molicero Boat Canal Tour
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
The Aveiro Moliceiro Boat Canal Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Aveiro. It is, of course, the Venice of Portugal. You will board a moliceiro boat for a peaceful tour through Aveiro’s canals. As you glide along the canals, you’ll admire pastel-colored buildings, Art Nouveau architecture, and historic sites.
The tour provides a unique way to explore the city’s culture, and learn about its fishing traditions. The molicero boat guides were hilarious and entertained all the visitors. We found it a relaxing and scenic way to experience the heart of Aveiro.
3rd Stop: Self-Guided Aveiro City Tour
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
After the Moliceiro boat ride you have about 45 minutes to explore the city. Then you will board the bus back to Porto. You can explore things like the Church of Aveiro’s Mercy, and its beautiful picturesque square. Walking through Aveiro and observing the beautiful architecture is simply breathtaking. Each street you walk down is very different from the next. There is one thing you can’t do before you leave, and that is try an ovos moles.
4th Stop: Trying Aveiro's Ovos Moles
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
Ovos Moles de Aveiro is a very famous Portuguese sweet born in Aveiro. It’s made from a filling of sugar and egg yolks inside a rice paper shell. You will find shapes like seashells, fish, or barrels. These shapes all symbolize Aveiro’s maritime history.
Peixinho, one of the most iconic shops in Aveiro. Founded in 1856, it’s the oldest ovos moles producer in the city using traditional recipes passed down through many generations. The store inside was stunning. Visiting Peixinho is like stepping into Aveiro’s history, where you can taste authentic Portuguese flavors in a charming setting.
Aveiro Day Tour Ends: Board Bus or Take Train Back?
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
So is Aveiro worth visiting after taking this tour? Yes, this tour provided the best highlights both Costa Nova & Aveiro have to offer. At this stage of the day you can either board the bus back to Porto or stay in Aveiro.
We chose to stay in Aveiro to spend more time walking around the city. Furthermore, we wanted to have a very special dinner in the city. The restaurant in Aveiro we chose provided a multi-course culinary experience highlighting Aveiro’s local products.
Dinner at One Of The Top Aveiro Restaurants
Our dinner at Salpoente, located in historic salt warehouses at Cais de São Roque, Aveiro, was unforgettable. The restaurant honors the Ria de Aveiro region with beautifully plated, flavorful dishes in a modern setting.
We opted for Chef Duarte Eira’s Tasting Menu, a Michelin Guide-worthy experience. Salpoente offers three tasting menus, including a vegetarian option, with wine pairings for €30—a must-try! The Chef’s Tasting Menu adds an element of surprise, as the chef creates four unique moments for your meal. It’s a perfect mix of mystery and exceptional cuisine. The seafood was some of the best quality we had when visiting Porto. The perfect finale dessert, an elevated Ovos moles-inspired dessert took my taste buds to another planet!
After this meal if you would ask, is Aveiro worth visiting? We would literally come back to Aveiro to have this meal once again.
Tasting Menu Prices:
Vegetarian Tasting Menu: €52.50pp
Salpoente Tasting Menu: €80pp
Chef’s Tasting Menu: €65pp
Pre-Book Tickets For Aveiro Tour From Porto
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Is Aveiro Walkable?
Yes, Aveiro is easy to explore on foot. The main attractions, like the canals, colorful houses, and markets, are all close to each other.
Aveiro’s City Center: Walkable in 2 Hours
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
Aveiro’s city center is very compact. You can walk around Aveiro’s center for about two hours. During this time you can see the moliceiro boats on the canals, visit the Praça da República. Furthermore, you can check out the fish market and local shops.
Pro Tip: Download This Aveiro Walking Map
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
When visiting Aveiro it can make it worthwhile to have a map. We have provided access to map showcasing all the sights and attractions in Aveiro below.
Map of Aveiro Portugal
FAQs: Is Aveiro Worth visiting?
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Is Aveiro worth visiting?
Is Aveiro worth visiting if you only have 1 day?
Yes, one day is definitely enough to enjoy Aveiro. We took a half-day tour from Porto and stayed another half-day exploring on our own. During the half-day tour, you visit Costa Nova to see the striped houses and Aveiro. In Aveiro, you cover the main attraction; taking a moliceiro boat ride along the canals. In addition, explore the city, and try the famous pastry, ovos moles from a local shop. It’s a compact city, so you can cover most highlights daily.
One day won’t be enough if you’re interested in a salt mine tour and exploring hidden beaches. You may want to consider adding another day. However, we felt satisfied with one day of Aveiro, the attractions we did, and the great food we ate.
What is special about Aveiro, Portugal?
Aveiro, Portugal, is known as the “Venice of Portugal” because of its beautiful canals and colorful moliceiro boats. The city is known for its beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. These buildings add a unique and artistic character to its streets. Aveiro is near stunning beaches like Costa Nova, known for its striped houses.
The gastronomy is a highlight, especially ovos moles, a sweet treat made from sugar and eggs. With its diverse mix of history, culture, and beauty, Aveiro is a special and picturesque destination.
What are the Free Activities in Aveiro?
There are some free activities to consider when visiting Aveiro! You can walk through or explore its vibrant street art scattered throughout the city. Observe the colorful murals near the train station and hidden art pieces along the canals. There are many picturesque bridges and beautiful squares to visit such as Church of Aveiro’s Mercy.
Aveiro vs. Coimbra: Which Should You Visit?
If you’re short on time, we recommend to choose based on your interests. Aveiro is perfect for those who love canals, seafood, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Coimbra, on the other hand, is ideal for history lovers, with its famous university, ancient library, and medieval streets. Both cities are great for day trips, but Aveiro is more laid-back, while Coimbra is richer in history.
How many days to spend in Aveiro?
Aveiro is worth visiting, and you can enjoy it in 1–2 days. Known as the Venice of Portugal, it’s famous for its canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and striped houses in Costa Nova. A day is enough to take a boat ride, stroll the charming streets, and try local treats like ovos moles. However, staying longer lets you explore the salt pans, beaches, and nearby towns like Ílhavo. Even seeing Aveiro for one day makes it a must-see destination. It allows you a differentiated experience you can’t find in Porto.
Final Verdict: Is Aveiro Worth Visiting?
Who Should Visit Aveiro? (Culture Lovers, Photographers, Day Trippers)
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
Aveiro is worth visiting for anyone who loves charming streets, unique food, and beautiful scenery. It’s a great spot for culture lovers, photographers looking for colorful backdrops, and day-trippers exploring Portugal. Its canals, striped houses, and relaxed atmosphere make it a unique destination.
Who Should Skip It? (Nightlife Seekers, Long-Stay Travelers)
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
If you’re looking for lively nightlife or planning a long stay, Aveiro may not be the best choice. The city is small and quiet. It’s better suited for short visits or as a half-day or full stop on your Portugal itinerary.
Our personal recommendation
Morning: Moliceiro Ride & Costa Nova Beach
Aveiro is worth visiting for its charm and character. It’s not as crowded as big cities like Porto or Lisbon but offers its unique vibe. While it’s a great day trip destination, don’t expect big-city energy. As there are so many other day trips like Duorro Valley and Braga and Guimaraes, spread your time! If you only can spare a half-day it’s worth it as there are many convenient ways from Porto. If you value the convenience of a tour having everything prepared for you, we recommend the tour we did!
If you’re interested in the best tour from Porto to the Douro Valley, check out our guide below.
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If you’re staying in Porto, we have created many detailed guides to help you craft your perfect itinerary. Even if you only have one day, check out our Ultimate 1 Day In Porto Guide.
If you’re spending more than 1 day in Porto, check out our Ultimate Porto Itinerary.
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