Aveiro, Portugal may not be the most famous tourist destination, but it should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a small city located on the west coast of Portugal, famous for its canals, colorful boats, and delicious seafood. Here’s our list of the top 10 things to see and do in Aveiro.
1. Take a ride on a moliceiro boat
The moliceiro boats are colorful boats that were once used to harvest seaweed and transport it to land. Nowadays, they are used for tours on the city’s canals. The ride takes about 45 minutes and is a great way to get a view of the city from the water.
2. Visit the Aveiro Cathedral
The Aveiro Cathedral is one of the city’s main landmarks and is located in the old town. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Dominic and is an example of Baroque architecture.
3. Try the local pastry: ovos moles
Ovos moles are a traditional sweet from Aveiro made with egg yolks and sugar. They are usually served in small containers made of rice paper and in various shapes and designs.
4. Explore the Art Nouveau buildings
Aveiro is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, particularly the buildings along the Rua João Mendonça. Take a stroll down this street to appreciate the intricate details and designs of the buildings.
5. Visit the Santa Joana Museum
The Santa Joana Museum is located in the former Convent of Santa Joana and houses a collection of religious art and artifacts. The convent’s chapel is also worth a visit.
6. Go to the Aveiro Market
The Aveiro Market is a great place to try local products such as cheese, sausage, and seafood. It’s a fun and lively market, and you can also find other crafts and souvenirs.
7. Visit the Salt Pans
The Salt Pans are located about 10 kilometers from Aveiro and are a great way to learn about the traditional way of harvesting salt. There is a small museum and guided tours available.
8. Enjoy the beaches
Aveiro has many beautiful beaches, including Barra Beach, Costa Nova Beach, and São Jacinto Beach. They are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
9. Take a bike ride
Aveiro is a very bike-friendly city, and there are many bike rental places available. Take a ride along the canals or through the city’s parks and gardens.
10. Discover the nearby cities
Aveiro is located in a central location in Portugal, making it a great base for exploring nearby cities such as Porto and Coimbra. These cities are easily accessible by train or bus.
In conclusion, Aveiro is a charming and picturesque city that should not be missed when visiting Portugal. With its canals, colorful buildings, and delicious food, it has something for everyone.