Is Aveiro worth visiting? Best of Venice of Portugal
By TravelswithMR | April 29, 2025
Often referred to as the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro is a small city filled with canals, colorful boats, and vibrant streets. You can ride along the canals by taking traditional moliceiro boat tours or stroll past beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. Aveiro truly stands out as a great place to add to your Portugal road trip. It’s a city that blends a relaxed coastal vibe with just enough history and culture to make you want to linger a little longer.
No visit to Aveiro would be complete without stopping by the nearby Costa Nova, just 15 minutes away, a beautiful seaside neighborhood famous for its striped, candy-colored houses lining the beach. With sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, Costa Nova has the perfect mix of charming streets and a laid-back beach atmosphere. It’s one of the best places to enjoy the sun, take a few colorful photos, and try fresh seafood after a morning of sightseeing.
Just make sure to keep your expectations in check — social media tends to overhype this place. While Aveiro is a coastal city with some similarities to Venice, it’s not quite the same. It’s lively, not quiet, but still very charming. If you’re not short on time during your Portugal vacation, particularly if you’re staying in Porto, it’s definitely a perfect place to add to your itinerary. It makes for a relatively easy and great day trip, whether you drive or take the train (there’s a train station right in Aveiro) — especially if you combine it with a visit to Costa Nova.
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15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AVEIRO
- 1-Boat Ride on a Traditional Moliceiro
- 2-Wander Around the Ria de Aveiro
- 3-Try Ovos Moles
- 4-Stroll Through Parque Infante Dom Pedro
- 5-See the Art Nouveau Buildings
- 6-Walk Across Ponte dos Carcavelos
- 7-Visit Museu de Aveiro / Mosteiro de Jesus
- 8-Wander Around Aveiro’s Canals
- 9-Visit the Museu de Arte Nova
- 10-Explore the Aveiro Cathedral
- 11-Discover São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve
- 12-Visit Costa Nova and its Iconic Colored Houses
- 13-Check out Mercado da Costa Nova
- 14-Relax at a Costa Nova Beach
- 15-Where To Eat In Aveiro & Costa Nova
HOW TO GET TO AVEIRO
Aveiro is easily accessible by car or train, making it a perfect place for a quick getaway. From the train station, it’s just a short walk into the city centre. Aveiro makes an ideal day trip from nearby cities like Porto or Coimbra. While you’re there, don’t forget to try the local sweet specialty, ovos moles — a delicious and creamy treat that Aveiro is famous for.
The best time to visit Aveiro is during the summer months, when the weather is warm, the beaches are at their best, and the vibrant canals are full of life. However, spring and early fall are also great options if you prefer fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
HOW TO GET TO AVEIRO FROM PORTO
Aveiro is about 75 kilometers (around 47 miles) south of Porto.
By car, it takes roughly 50 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. You can park at Parque Estacionamento Nossa Sra Aflitos, a free parking lot just a short walk from the main street of Aveiro. Try to arrive early, ideally before 10 AM, to find a spot easily. (Ignore the locals trying to “help” you park unless you’re willing to tip them a few Euros.)
If you’re taking the train, the journey is easy and takes about one hour, with frequent departures from Porto’s Campanhã Station. No matter how you travel, Aveiro is one of the easiest and best day trips you can take from Porto.
HOW TO GET TO AVEIRO FROM LISBON
From Lisbon, Aveiro is about 255 kilometers (around 158 miles) north.
Driving takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. You can also take a direct train from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations, with the journey typically taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Although it’s a bit farther compared to Porto, Aveiro is still a doable day trip if you start early — or an easy stopover if you’re planning a longer Portugal road trip.
15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AVEIRO
1 - Boat Ride on a Traditional Moliceiro
One of the first things you’ll notice in Aveiro are the colorful, gondola-like boats floating through the canals. These traditional boats, called moliceiros, were originally used to harvest seaweed but today are mostly used to show visitors the beauty of the city from the water. Hopping on a moliceiro is one of the best ways to experience this charming city up close.
The ride usually lasts around 45 minutes and costs about 13€ for adults and 6€ for children. Here are some options for moliceiro boat tours — you’ll find boats lined up along the main canal, ready to take you on a relaxing ride.
As you float through the canals, you’ll pass colorful houses, pretty bridges, and the vibrant streets of the old town. The guides usually share bits of the city’s history along the way, often with a good sense of humor. It’s a fun and easygoing way to get a first impression of Aveiro. If you’re visiting during the summer months, the canals are even livelier, with plenty of boats on the water and outdoor cafes full of energy.
Colorful moliceiro boats are definitely the main attraction and a great way to start your Aveiro adventure.
2 - Wander Around the Ria de Aveiro
If you’d rather stay on land, wandering along the Ria de Aveiro is just as beautiful. The ria is a network of canals that flows through the city, and walking along them lets you take your time and enjoy the atmosphere. The best part is that you’ll see the same colorful boats passing by, charming bridges like Ponte dos Carcavelos, and tiled buildings that add so much character to the city streets. It’s an easy, flat walk that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon.
You can also spot little cafes, shops, and benches where you can sit and just watch the world go by. If you love photography, the reflections of the houses and boats in the water are especially beautiful. The whole area feels lively without being too overwhelming, and it’s a great way to get a feel for Aveiro’s relaxed, coastal vibe. It’s also one of the main reasons why this area is often compared to Venice — though on a smaller, more laid-back scale.
3 - Try Ovos Moles
When in Aveiro, you absolutely have to try the city’s most iconic sweet: ovos moles. These little pastries are made with a creamy egg yolk and sugar filling, wrapped in a thin, almost rice paper-like shell. Ovos moles are unique to the region and have even been recognized as a protected product by the European Union. You’ll see them sold all over city center, often shaped like seashells, fish, or barrels — this sweet treat is a tribute to Aveiro’s deep connection to the sea.
Even if you’re not usually a fan of overly sweet desserts, it’s worth tasting ovos moles for the experience alone. They’re small, rich, and the perfect grab-and-go treat while strolling the canals or relaxing at a café. Many local shops offer beautifully packaged boxes too, so they can be a unique souvenir from your Aveiro day trip.
4 - Stroll Through Parque Infante Dom Pedro
If you’re looking for a little green escape in the city, head to Parque Infante Dom Pedro. This peaceful park is the perfect place to take a slow walk, relax under the shade of the trees, or even have a little picnic. It’s beautifully laid out with walking paths, small ponds, fountains, and lots of benches where you can sit and enjoy a quiet moment away from the busier parts of town.
The park is not huge, but it’s very charming and well cared for, so it’s a lovely spot to recharge, especially after walking around the canals. If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll appreciate the open spaces to run around. And if you love nature photography, the reflections in the ponds and the colorful flowers in bloom during the summer months make for some beautiful shots.
It’s a reminder that Aveiro isn’t just about the canals — it also offers pockets of green where you can slow down and enjoy a more peaceful side of the city.
5 - See the Art Nouveau Buildings
As you wander through Aveiro, you’ll quickly notice that it’s filled with stunning buildings with Art Nouveau architecture. These early 20th-century structures are known for their intricate tiles, elegant ironwork, and colorful façades. The city even has a designated Art Nouveau trail that you can follow if you want to dive deeper into the history and architecture or you can take a walking tour.
Some highlights are: the Art Nouveau Museum, located inside the beautifully restored Casa Major Pessoa, Cooperativa Agrícola Building, Museu da Cidade, Aveiro Rossio House, Building of the Ovos Moles House, Cooperativa Agrícola Building, House of the Architect Silva Rocha
You don’t necessarily have to follow a map — just strolling through the center of Aveiro will let you stumble across some of the most beautiful examples. Look out for the gorgeous tile work and curved windows that make these buildings feel like works of art.
It’s a fun and easy way to explore the city, and it really adds to Aveiro’s charm as the perfect place for architecture lovers and casual wanderers alike.
6 - Walk Across Ponte dos Carcavelos
One of the prettiest bridges in Aveiro is the Ponte dos Carcavelos. This small but charming footbridge crosses over the canals. It’s a popular photo spot and a great place to pause and admire the view of the moliceiro boats floating by. Walking across it is quick, but it’s one of those little moments that adds something special to your visit.
7 - Visit Museu de Aveiro / Mosteiro de Jesus
If you want to dive deeper into Aveiro’s history, head to the Museu de Aveiro (Aveiro Museum), located inside the beautifully preserved Mosteiro de Jesus, a 15th-century convent. This former monastery-turned-museum gives you a fascinating look into the city’s religious roots and architectural past.
Inside, you’ll find stunning azulejos (Portuguese tiles), intricate woodwork covered in gold, and hand-painted ceilings that highlight the craftsmanship of past centuries. The museum also houses a collection of religious art, historical artifacts, and exhibits about daily life in Aveiro through the ages. It’s one of the best cultural stops in town and easy to explore without feeling too big or overwhelming.
You’ll get to walk through peaceful cloisters, the ornate old chapel, and few beautifully tiled rooms full of Baroque details. One section is dedicated to Princess Saint Joana, who lived here after choosing a religious life, and her story adds a special touch to the visit.
It’s a calm, reflective space — perfect if you want a break from the lively canals and busy streets. And if you’re visiting on a Sunday, entrance is , making it a great budget-friendly stop during your Aveiro trip.
8 - Wander Around Aveiro’s Canals
The canals of Aveiro are what give the city its famous nickname — the Venice of Portugal. They wind through the heart of the town, lined by colorful buildings, charming bridges, and vibrant moliceiro boats floating by. Walking along the canals is one of the most enjoyable things to do here, giving you a different perspective of the city compared to just seeing it from the boat tours. It’s a relaxing way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you visit during the summer months when the city is a bit more lively.
Each turn of the canal reveals something new — street art, hidden cafes, tiny shops, or a scenic bridge perfect for a photo. Many of the bridges, especially Ponte Laços de Amizade (Bridge of Ties), are decorated with colorful ribbons tied to the railings. These ribbons symbolize friendship, love, and personal connections. You can even buy one from nearby shops and tie it on yourself. It’s a fun local tradition — kind of like the love lock bridges in other places, but lighter and more colorful.
9 - Visit the Museu de Arte Nova
Right in the city center of Aveiro, the Museu de Arte Nova is a small museum that’s big on charm. It’s inside one of the city’s most beautiful buildings, known for its stunning Art Nouveau design. The wavy ironwork, colorful tiles, and detailed façade make it worth a visit even before you step inside.
The museum itself is quick and easy to explore — perfect for a short stop while walking around town. It shares a bit about Aveiro’s connection to the Art Nouveau movement and the architectural style that makes parts of the city feel so unique. There’s also a cozy little café on the ground floor where you can take a break with a coffee and people-watch from the windows.
If you enjoy pretty buildings, cool design, or just want a low-key cultural stop, this is a sweet spot to check out.
10 - Explore the Aveiro Cathedral
Also in the city center, the Aveiro Cathedral — also known as the Church of São Domingos — is another lovely spot to visit. It’s one of the oldest buildings in town, dating back to the 15th century. From the outside, it looks pretty simple with its white stone walls — but step inside, and you’ll see beautiful altars, carved details, and beautiful chapels that reflect a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles.
The cathedral isn’t very big, so you don’t need a lot of time here, but it’s a meaningful stop if you enjoy architecture and quiet, historic spaces. It’s a very peaceful inside and a nice break from the busier streets. Plus, it’s located close to many of the other main sights, so it’s easy to fit into your perfect day trip itinerary around Aveiro.
11 - Discover São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and spend some time in nature, head to the São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve. Just outside of Aveiro, this is a protected and quiet coastal area made up of sandy dunes, pine forests, and wild beaches along the Atlantic. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk, birdwatching, or just enjoying the fresh ocean air.
There are several trails you can follow, some leading you through the dunes and others taking you to nearly deserted beaches. It’s quiet, especially compared to the busy beaches closer to town, and feels like a hidden gem. Bring some water, good walking shoes, and maybe a picnic to make the most of your visit.
If you’re visiting Aveiro during the summer months, it’s a refreshing place to cool off with an ocean breeze and far fewer crowds.
12 - Visit Costa Nova and its Iconic Colored Houses
No trip to Aveiro is complete without a visit to Costa Nova, known for its rows of striped, colorful houses that look like they came straight out of a postcard. Originally built by fishermen to store equipment, these candy-colored homes are now some of the most photographed spots in the region. Walking along these cute streets is a highlight of any visit — the cheerful colors, the coastal breeze, and the laid-back vibe make it a place you won’t want to leave.
But Costa Nova is more than just pretty houses — it’s right along the Atlantic Ocean, with a wide, sandy beach perfect for relaxing. After taking a few photos, grab a fresh seafood lunch at one of the nearby restaurants and enjoy the salty air.
If you’re planning your Portugal road trip, Costa Nova is a perfect place to stop for a few hours. It’s about a 30-minute walk from Aveiro or just a short drive, making it super easy to combine both spots into the same day.
13 - Check out Mercado da Costa Nova
If you’re looking to experience the freshest seafood in a truly local setting and an authentic taste of Portuguese coastal life, head to the Mercado da Costa Nova. Located in the heart of Costa Nova, this market is a favourite with both locals and visitors.
It’s known for a huge selection of fresh fish and shellfish that are caught by local fishermen and sold directly at the market. Since the market is located between the Ria de Aveiro and the Atlantic Ocean, it creates a gorgeous picturesque backdrop as you eat, and just makes the overall experience that much better!
The market is divided into sections: one for raw seafood, another for cooked seafood, and areas with local produce and baked goods. With this setup you can purchase fresh ingredients and also sample ready-to-eat delicacies prepared on-site. The cooked seafood section is pretty popular, they have dishes like grilled sardines and octopus salad, showing the rich history of the area’s maritime culture.
The market is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with longer hours during the summer months, so its a perfect stop during your beachside adventure!
14 - Relax at a Costa Nova Beach
Costa Nova isn’t just famous for its colorful houses — it’s also home to some of the prettiest sandy beaches in the area. If you’re in the mood to relax, go for a swim, or just chill by the ocean, this is the perfect spot. Only about a 15-minute drive from Aveiro, one of the easiest seaside escapes nearby.
A few beaches that are worth checking out are Costa Nova Beach (Praia da Costa Nova), Praia da Barra, Praia Nova, and Mirante da Praia da Costa Nova. They’re all known for their soft sand, wide open spaces, and refreshing Atlantic breeze. It’s a wide, sandy beach perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just strolling along the promenade. You’ll also spot Portugal’s tallest lighthouse here — Farol da Barra while you’re there, which makes for a great photo stop during your beach walk.
There’s street parking available near the beach, and when we visited in July, we had no trouble finding a spot. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants if you want to grab lunch or a coffee. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a more lively beach atmosphere compared to Costa Nova’s quieter feel.
Praia da Barra is especially popular during the summer months, so it’s best to visit earlier in the day if you want a good spot by the water. It’s a quick, easy add-on if you’re planning Aveiro day trips.
15 - Where to Eat in Aveiro and Costa Nova
Here are some great spots to check out if you’re wondering where to eat — from cozy restaurants in town to seafood lunches by the beach.
In Aveiro:
Restaurante O Bairro
Ristorante il Libertino
QuéPasa by BarbaAzul
A Nossa Casa
Restaurante Marinhas
In Costa Nova:
Restaurante Clube De Vela da Costa Nova
Bronze Seafood & Lounge Bar
- Visual Restaurante – Bar
Peixe na Costa
Praia do Tubarão
So... is Aveiro worth visiting?
If you’ve made it this far, you probably already know my answer — yes, definitely. Aveiro is a great place to visit. It’s full of charm, from its colorful canals and Art Nouveau buildings to nearby beaches and seafood spots. Just manage your expectations — social media tends to overhype it a bit.
While it’s often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal,” it’s not quite the same. It’s lively and fun, but not overly polished — and that’s part of the appeal. If you’re not pressed for time during your Portugal trip, especially if you’re staying in Porto, Aveiro makes for an easy and worthwhile day trip. Whether you take the train or drive, it’s even better when paired with a visit to Costa Nova.
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