Discover the Top Attractions in Aveiro: Beyond the Canals!
Situated an hour south of Porto, Aveiro has earned the nickname “Venice of Portugal” due to its picturesque canals, drawing tourists from all over. Intrigued by the comparisons to Venice, my travel companion, Glenn, and I decided to explore this charming city for ourselves.
During our three-night stay, we realized that Aveiro has much more to offer than just its canals. In this blog post, we aim to highlight the best experiences and attractions that Aveiro has in store for visitors. We personally visited most of these attractions, providing insights and firsthand accounts that can assist you in planning your own itinerary.
Join us as we delve into the diverse wonders of Aveiro and help you make the most of your trip!
Admire the Exquisite Azulejos at the Train Station
Upon your arrival in Aveiro, chances are you’ll find yourself at the train or bus station, conveniently located near each other. As you embark on your journey, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the old train station in Aveiro and marvel at its remarkable facade. This grand white building with a vibrant orange rooftop is adorned with captivating blue Azulejos, depicting scenes from Aveiro’s local life surrounding the salt flats and canals. It’s a sight of extraordinary beauty and a must-see when you first arrive in the city.
Explore the Cathedral of Aveiro
Nestled in the heart of the city, right next to the Aveiro Museum, stands the Cathedral of Aveiro, also known as Sé de Aveiro. Originally established as a Monastery of the Dominican Order in 1423, this architectural gem is also referred to as Igreja de São Domingos. Admission to the cathedral is free during its opening hours, which we regrettably don’t recall. Nevertheless, a visit to this sacred site offers a glimpse into Aveiro’s rich history and religious heritage.
Immerse Yourself in Art at the Aveiro Museum
While Aveiro boasts several museums, the Aveiro Museum undoubtedly claims its fame. Within its walls, you’ll encounter a captivating collection of Portuguese art spanning the 15th to 20th century. What sets the Aveiro Museum apart is not only its impressive exhibits but also its intriguing past. Originally established in 1461 as a convent for the feminine Dominican Order, the museum showcases not only art but also the exquisite church and chapel, making it a cherished destination for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Although my companion Glenn and I never had the opportunity to explore the museum ourselves, it is highly regarded as one of the top attractions in Aveiro due to its splendid architecture and captivating treasures.
Stroll Through the Enchanting Old Town
A delightful way to immerse yourself in the charm of Aveiro is by taking a leisurely walk through its old town. The historic quarter of Aveiro is a treasure trove of vibrant Azulejos, colorful buildings, statues, art, narrow winding streets, and picturesque churches. You can meander along the canals from the city center and let the path lead you to new discoveries. As you wander, you’ll be captivated by the sight of colorful bridges spanning the canals and the graceful Moliceiros boats gracefully sailing by. Exploring the quaint streets of Aveiro is a joy in itself, so embrace the opportunity to get lost and relish the enchanting scenery.
Embark on a Captivating Canal Boat Tour
Aveiro is renowned for its canals and the iconic Moliceiros boats, earning it the well-deserved title of the “Venice of Portugal.” A boat tour through the canals is an absolute must-do when visiting Aveiro. Numerous companies offer canal tours, allowing you to select the one that suits your preferences. We had a wonderful experience with a tour called “Aveiro no Coração.” Departing from the canal near the fish market, the tour cost €13 per person and lasted approximately 45 minutes. Throughout the excursion, we gained insights into Aveiro’s rich history, culture, and architectural wonders. We were treated to breathtaking views of beautiful buildings and even reached the tip of the salt flats, where we received a small bag of salt as a souvenir. We highly recommend indulging in a boat tour as it provides an unparalleled way to truly experience the essence of Aveiro.
Celebrate Love at the Lovers’ Bridge
While exploring the canals of Aveiro, Glenn and I came across several bridges adorned with colorful ribbons. During our boat tour, we learned that couples visit these bridges to tie ribbons, symbolizing their eternal love and strengthening their bond. Naturally, we couldn’t resist partaking in this charming tradition ourselves. Despite any perceived cheesiness, it turned out to be a delightful and heartwarming experience. We found a small kiosk near the canal close to the Forum shopping mall, where we purchased a ribbon for €0.5. After inscribing a heartfelt message on it, we joyfully tied it onto the bridge. If you’re visiting Aveiro as a couple, we highly recommend making a visit to the vibrant bridges near the canal, close to the Forum shopping mall, to partake in this romantic gesture.
Indulge in Retail Therapy at Forum Mall
When it comes to shopping, the Portuguese people have a fondness for their malls, and Aveiro is no exception. You’ll discover a delightful shopping experience at Forum Shopping Mall. What sets this mall apart is its open-air concept, allowing you to stroll outside before entering the stores of your choice. Personally, I find this layout much more appealing than being confined within a massive warehouse-like structure for hours on end. The Forum Mall offers a range of renowned clothing stores and popular restaurant chains, making it a perfect destination for a shopping spree in Aveiro.
Admire Aveiro from the Forum Viewpoint
While Aveiro may lack towering church spires or skyscrapers for panoramic views, my companion Glenn and I stumbled upon a small yet noteworthy viewpoint worth including in your Aveiro itinerary. Located atop the Aveiro Shopping Mall, this viewpoint offers a unique perspective. Ascend the stairs to reach the rooftop and make your way towards the edge, overlooking the canal. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a lovely view of Aveiro’s canals and even catch a glimpse of the charming old city center as it unfolds before you.
Immerse Yourself in the Bustling Fish Market
If you have a penchant for fresh seafood, a visit to Aveiro’s fish market is a must. Nestled within a building at Praça do Peixe, aptly named the “Fish Square,” you’ll discover a vibrant hub of culinary delights. Here, you can find an array of popular Portuguese seafood, including sea bream, octopus, sardines, and more. Should you find yourself feeling peckish, venture upstairs to the renowned restaurant known for its fresh fish. While we cannot personally vouch for the dining experience, we can assure you that the fish served here is undoubtedly fresh, ensuring a delectable seafood encounter for enthusiasts like yourself.
Discover the Vibrant Farmers Market
If you have an affinity for markets, make sure to visit the Mercado Manuel Firmino, a delightful farmers market located near the Forum in Aveiro. Here, you’ll find a delightful array of offerings, including vibrant flowers, fresh fruits, and an assortment of other enticing goods. Even if you simply take a leisurely stroll through the market without making any purchases, it still provides a pleasant and immersive experience worth savoring.
Indulge in the Iconic Ovos Moles
While in Aveiro, indulging in Ovos Moles is an absolute must. This local delicacy is a pastry made from a delectable combination of egg yolk and sugar. Although its taste closely resembles the ingredients it comprises, it may not suit everyone’s palate. As someone who isn’t particularly fond of sweets, I found it less appealing, but my companion Glenn quite enjoyed it. Ovos Moles is akin to savoring a chilled egg yolk infused with sugar. Despite my modest description, it remains an essential culinary experience in Aveiro. You simply cannot leave the city without trying this traditional sweet (unless, of course, you have an egg allergy, in which case I release you from this recommendation). You can find Ovos Moles in numerous cafés, confectioneries, and pastelarias throughout Aveiro, and they are reasonably priced.
Immerse Yourself in Art Nouveau Splendor
Aveiro boasts several exquisite examples of Art Nouveau architecture, a distinctive style that emerged in the late 19th century. Art Nouveau represents a departure from the past, embracing sinuous lines and organic shapes to create stunning designs. As you wander the streets of Aveiro, you’ll encounter numerous stunning Art Nouveau buildings, each a testament to this captivating style. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Art Nouveau, a visit to the Museu Arte Nova is highly recommended. Housed in one of these beautiful canal-side buildings, the museum provides insights into the history and intricacies of this art movement.
Capture Memories at the Aveiro Stairs
One of the top tourist attractions in Aveiro is the famous “I love Aveiro” stairs. Located at Rua Gustavo Silva, near the end of the canal, these vibrant stairs provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo. Don’t miss the opportunity to strike a pose and capture the essence of your visit to Aveiro.
Enjoy a Free Bike Ride through the City
While my companion and I didn’t have the chance to experience this ourselves, I believe it’s worth mentioning as a fantastic activity in Aveiro. Take advantage of the free BUGA bikes available for rental and embark on a self-guided bike tour around the city. These bikes can be found near the canal, between Forum Mall and the Farmers Market. Not only is it a cost-effective option, but it also allows you to embrace a healthy and enjoyable way of exploring Aveiro.
Discover the Historic Salt Flats of Aveiro
Exploring the salt flats, also known as Salinas de Aveiro, is a truly historical and significant experience in the city. Aveiro has been renowned for its salt production for centuries, making it a vital center in Portugal’s history. Take the time to visit these salt flats and gain a deeper understanding of Aveiro’s rich heritage.
Embark on a Day Trip from Aveiro
If you’re spending a few nights in Aveiro, I highly recommend taking a day trip to the coast for an enriching adventure. There are several remarkable destinations that can be easily reached by local bus from Aveiro. Consider exploring the São Jacinto Natural Reserve, which requires a boat trip but offers a unique and captivating experience. Allow yourself to discover the hidden gems and breathtaking scenery that lie beyond Aveiro’s borders.
