Aveiro: The Complete Guide

Aveiro

Aveiro is a picturesque town characterized by a network of numerous canals that are spanned by low-arched bridges. It is situated in Central Portugal at the mouth of the Vouga River and separated from the sea by a long sandbar, which protects clusters of islets. The architecture in Aveiro is reminiscent of Flemish style, which contrasts beautifully with the natural surroundings of low-lying willow-reed flatlands, salt marshes, misty dunes, and rice paddies.

The lagoon is a hub of activity, where brightly painted swan-necked boats, called “barcos moliceiros,” traverse the waters. These flat-bottomed vessels carry fishers who harvest seaweed used for fertilizer. They are on the lookout for eels, a regional specialty. Beyond the town, visitors can find extensive salt pits, with fog-white pyramids of drying salt lining the landscape. The entire setting is a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors, unique landscapes, and a rich local culture and history.

History of Aveiro

Aveiro, a city located in the central region of Portugal, has a rich and multifaceted history that spans several centuries, marked by periods of prosperity and decline. Here’s an overview of its historical development:

Early History

Aveiro’s history dates back to the Roman period, evidenced by Roman artifacts found in the area. Initially, it was a small fishing community benefiting from its proximity to a large coastal lagoon, the Ria de Aveiro.

Medieval Period

During the Middle Ages, Aveiro grew in importance due to its salt pans and fishing industry. The town received a charter in 1515 from King D. Manuel I, which officially recognized it as a city and allowed it more autonomy in managing its affairs. The city also became an important port, with its economy centered around maritime trade, salt production, and shipbuilding.

16th to 18th Century

The 16th century was a period of expansion and wealth, driven by the salt industry and the growing importance of its port for international trade, especially with Brazil and other Portuguese colonies. The construction of various religious buildings, like the Convento de Jesus, during this period reflects Aveiro’s prosperity.

However, the city faced significant setbacks in the 17th and 18th centuries due to sediment build-up in the lagoon, which hindered naval access and led to economic decline. Efforts were made to clear the channels, but these were only partially successful.

19th Century Industrialization

The 19th century brought industrialization and modernization, including the development of railways. Aveiro’s connection to the national railway network in 1864 marked a turning point, revitalizing the city’s economy and restoring its status as a vital commercial and industrial hub. This period saw growth in the urban fabric of the city, with expansion beyond the old city walls.

20th Century to Present

The 20th century continued to see growth and modernization in Aveiro, including significant urban development. The University of Aveiro, established in 1973, has been pivotal in transforming the city into a vibrant academic and technological center. Today, Aveiro is known for its unique historical architecture blended with modern influences, its continuing salt production, and its tourism, especially involving the moliceiros (traditional boats) in the canals.

Aveiro’s history of maritime trade, salt production, and industrial growth has given it a unique cultural heritage, making it one of Portugal’s most interesting and attractive cities to visit. The city continues to embrace both its historical roots and its modern developments, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Visiting Aveiro for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Aveiro on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1 Best places to See in Aveiro

This complete guide to Aveiro not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Aveiro and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Convento de Jesus em Aveiro

Mosteiro De Jesus   Museu De Aveiro
CC BY-SA 3.0 / David Machado
The convent's current facade, which boasts three doorways with stunning frontons, bearing the royal coat of arms on the central one, dates back to the 18th century. The building has retained several former convent areas, including the atrium that serves as the entrance hall, the 15th century cloister adorned with a collection of Renaissance columns, several Manueline chapels embellished with…
Location: Aveiro Museum, Avenida Santa Joana, Aveiro, Portugal | Hours: 10am-12.30pm & 1.30-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/child €5/free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Convento de Jesus em Aveiro

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Best Day Trips from Aveiro

A day trip from Aveiro offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Aveiro provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Espinho

Espinho
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ricardo Saraiva de Almeida
Espinho, located in northern Portugal, is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, seafood delicacies, and relaxed atmosphere. The town’s golden sands and rolling Atlantic waves make it a popular destination for beach lovers and surfers alike. Praia de Espinho, one of the main beaches, offers stunning sea views and a lively boardwalk lined with restaurants and cafés,…
Visiting Espinho

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Aveiro . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Coimbra

Coimbra
Dubbed as the most romantic city in Portugal, Coimbra served as the inspiration for the renowned song "April in Portugal". Situated on the weather-beaten right bank of the muddy Mondego River, this medieval city is home to numerous churches and also serves as the hub of education in the country. Its university was first founded by Dinis I in Lisbon…
Visiting Coimbra
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Porto

Porto
Porto or Oporto is the second-largest city in Portugal, the capital of the Oporto District, and one of the Iberian Peninsula's major urban areas. Oporto city proper, which is the entire municipality of Porto, is small compared to its metropolitan area, with an estimated population of just 231,800 people in a municipality with only 41.42 km2. Porto's metropolitan area has…
Visiting Porto
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Lamego

Lamego   Portugal
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira
Lamego is a city located in the Viseu District in Northern Portugal. It is situated in the Douro Valley region, known for its picturesque landscapes and world-renowned wine production. Lamego has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. In the Roman period, the city was an important center for trade and agriculture, and later…
Visiting Lamego
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Peso da Régua

Peso Da Regua
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira
Peso da Régua is a town located in the Alto Douro wine region in Northern Portugal, and it is considered the capital of the Upper Douro province. The town is situated on the banks of the Douro River, and it is an important center for the production and trade of port wine, which has been the main economic activity in…
Visiting Peso da Régua
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Guimarães

Hall Of The Dukes Of Braganca In Guimaraes Portugal
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães
Guimarães, often regarded by the Portuguese as the birthplace of their country, is blessed with an abundance of riches that can be almost overwhelming. Nestled at the base of a mountain range, this city, which served as the first capital of Portugal, has managed to preserve a medieval ambience at its core. It was in Guimarães where Afonso Henríques, the…
Visiting Guimarães
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Barcelos

Cavado River In Barcelos
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Krzysztof Golik
Barcelos is a picturesque town in Northern Portugal, celebrated for its vibrant markets, artisanal craftsmanship, and traditional Portuguese charm. One of the main attractions for visitors is the weekly market, one of the largest and most historic in the country. This bustling event offers a mix of fresh produce, hand-painted ceramics, textiles, and regional delicacies, creating a colorful and lively…
Visiting Barcelos

Esposende

Esposende
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Otávio Nogueira
Esposende, a coastal gem in northern Portugal, offers visitors a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful mix of sea, river, and countryside. Located between Porto and Viana do Castelo, it sits at the mouth of the Cávado River and is part of the Green Coast (Costa Verde), a region known for its natural beauty and temperate climate. The town is ideal…
Visiting Esposende

Braga

Braga
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães
Braga is a town steeped in history, with a plethora of churches, palaces, gardens, and fountains visible almost everywhere you turn. The Romans knew it as Bracara Augusta, and it has been inhabited by various conquerors, including the Suevi, Visigoths, and Moors. For centuries, it has served as an archiepiscopal seat and pilgrimage site, with the Visigoths reputed to have…
Visiting Braga
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Vila Real

Vila Real Square
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Varun Shiv Kapur
Vila Real, the capital of Trás-os-Montes in Northern Portugal, is a bustling town located on a plateau in the foothills of the Serra do Marão. The town is connected by bridges that span the deep ravines created by the Corgo and Cabril rivers, which converge here. From a terrace high above, once the site of a castle, visitors can enjoy…
Visiting Vila Real
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Where to Stay in Aveiro

Aveiro offers a diverse range of accommodations catering to visitors looking for canal-side charm, beachfront relaxation, or modern convenience. The Historic Center (Centro Histórico) is an ideal place to stay for travelers wanting to be immersed in Aveiro’s colorful Art Nouveau architecture, traditional moliceiro boats, and lively local markets. This district provides easy access to cultural landmarks, charming cafés, and picturesque canals, offering an authentic experience of the city’s maritime heritage. A recommended hotel in this area is Hotel Moliceiro, featuring elegant rooms with canal views and a prime location in the heart of the city.

For those seeking oceanfront beauty and beachside relaxation, staying in the Costa Nova district is the perfect choice. This area is famous for its striped fishermen’s houses, stunning Atlantic beaches, and fresh seafood restaurants, making it an excellent location for travelers who love coastal scenery and outdoor activities. A fantastic option in this district is Costa Nova Hotel, offering stylish accommodations just steps away from the sandy shores and vibrant boardwalk.

If modern comforts and easy transport access are a priority, Aveiro’s business and commercial districts provide contemporary accommodations with sleek interiors, convenient parking, and close proximity to shopping centers and dining spots. These areas are perfect for visitors looking for modern convenience while staying within easy reach of the historic and coastal attractions. A recommended stay in this district is Melia Ria Hotel & Spa, featuring a sophisticated atmosphere, wellness facilities, and a stunning lakeside setting. Whether you’re drawn to historic charm, beachfront beauty, or urban sophistication, Aveiro has accommodations tailored to every traveler’s preference.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Aveiro. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Aveiro Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Aveiro

Aveiro, with its mild climate and charming canals, is a wonderful destination to visit throughout the year. However, the best time to visit might depend on what you’re looking for in terms of weather, events, and crowd size. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you plan your trip:

Spring (March to May): Spring is a fantastic time to visit Aveiro as the city begins to warm up and the days get longer. The weather is generally mild, making it ideal for strolling around the city and exploring the canals by traditional “moliceiro” boats. Spring is also less crowded than summer, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Aveiro, attracting visitors with its warm temperatures and sunny days. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as beach visits near the city or cycling around the lagoon. Aveiro hosts various summer festivals, including the colorful Festa de São Gonçalinho in June. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices during this time.

Fall (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Aveiro, as the weather remains pleasant and the summer crowds begin to thin out. The temperatures are comfortable for outdoor exploration and enjoying the city’s sights without the peak season rush. This season also offers beautiful autumn colors in the parks and along the canals.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Aveiro is mild compared to many other European destinations, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. It’s a quieter time for tourism, which means fewer crowds and potentially lower prices for accommodation. The city’s Christmas lights and decorations add a festive atmosphere, making it a cozy time to visit, though you should be prepared for some rainy days.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Aveiro depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. If you enjoy warmer weather and vibrant city life, summer is ideal. If you prefer fewer tourists and mild temperatures, spring and fall are excellent choices.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 14°C
  • February 15°C
  • March 18°C
  • April 21°C
  • May 22°C
  • June 23°C
  • July 27°C
  • August 28°C
  • September 26°C
  • October 24°C
  • November 17°C
  • December 15°C

How to get to Aveiro

Aveiro, often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal” due to its picturesque canals, is easily accessible by various means of transport. Here’s how you can get to Aveiro:

  1. By Air:
    • The nearest major airport to Aveiro is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, which is about 70 kilometers to the north. This airport serves both international and domestic flights.
    • From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach Aveiro. The drive typically takes about an hour.
  2. By Car:
    • Driving to Aveiro can be very straightforward. From Porto, you can take the A1 motorway, which is the main north-south highway in Portugal. The journey takes about 50-60 minutes.
    • From Lisbon, the drive takes about 2.5 hours via the A1 motorway heading north.
    • If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
  3. By Train:
    • Aveiro has excellent train connections from major cities like Porto and Lisbon. Trains from Porto to Aveiro are frequent, departing from São Bento or Campanhã stations, and the journey takes about an hour.
    • From Lisbon, you can catch a train from Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations to Aveiro. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Both high-speed “Alfa Pendular” services and regular “Intercidades” (Intercity) services are available.
  4. By Bus:
    • Regular bus services connect Aveiro with Porto, Lisbon, and other Portuguese cities. The main bus operator is Rede Expressos, and the bus station in Aveiro is centrally located, making it convenient for reaching the city center.
    • The bus from Porto takes about an hour and a half, while from Lisbon, the journey can take about 3 hours.
  5. By Taxi or Rideshare:
    • Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available from Porto and can provide a direct route to Aveiro. This option offers convenience and flexibility but is more expensive than public transportation.

For those without a car, taking the train is particularly convenient due to the frequency of services and the speed of the journey, especially from Porto. The train stations are well-connected, and trains in Portugal are comfortable and reliable, making them a popular choice for travel between major cities.

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