Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal
Aveiro is a hidden gem that will captivate your senses and will leave you longing for more.
If you're visiting Porto, Portugal, taking a day trip to the charming city of Aveiro is a must. Often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," My first time to Aveiro was by mistake, my friends were hungry and looking for a restroom. The beauty of driving in Portugal is that every village, town or city you get in lost in tends to leave you longing for more.
Often referred to as the “ Venice of Portugal”, with its picturesque canals, colorful Moliceiro boats, rich history, and vibrant culture, this charming coastal town will transport you to a serene world that feels like you’re stepping into a fairytale.
Explore Aveiro, Portugal: A Perfect Blend of History and Beauty
The Beauty of the Canals
Aveiro's defining feature is its network of canals, lined with colorful Moliceiro boats. These traditional boats were historically used for harvesting seaweed, but today they offer scenic rides along the canals, allowing visitors to explore the city from a different perspective. Cruising through the narrow waterways, adorned with quaint bridges and charming buildings, is a delightful way to soak in the beauty of Aveiro.
The Historic Charm
Aveiro is a town steeped in history, offering a glimpse into its fascinating past. As you wander through the narrow cobbled streets, you will be mesmerized by the architectural beauty of the Art Nouveau houses that exude an old-world charm. Be sure to visit the Aveiro Cathedral, an imposing structure that dates back to the 15th century. The intricate design and awe-inspiring grandeur of this cathedral are worth exploring.
Gastronomy and Delicacies
Aveiro is a culinary haven, especially for seafood lovers. Known as the birthplace of "ovos moles," a traditional Portuguese dessert made with egg yolks and sugar, Aveiro offers a plethora of sweet indulgences. Don't miss the chance to try these delicacies, shaped like shells, fish, or barrels, and beautifully wrapped in rice paper. Make a stop at A Barrica or Confeitaria Peixinho to taste centuries of tradition and sweetness.
Additionally, Aveiro is famous for its fresh seafood. From grilled sardines to traditional fish stews, the local restaurants serve up an array of mouthwatering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of chilled Vinho Verde, a crisp and refreshing regional wine.
Costa Nova
A short distance from Aveiro lies Costa Nova, a must-visit destination for nature and beach enthusiasts. This vibrant beach is renowned for its distinctive striped wooden houses, called "palheiros," which create a beautiful contrast against the golden sand and deep blue sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque boardwalk, breathe in the salty ocean air, and take in the panoramic views. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and embracing the coastal beauty.
How to Get to Aveiro from Porto
Fortunately, getting to Aveiro from Porto is easy and offers various transportation options.
By Train
One of the most convenient and popular ways to travel from Porto to Aveiro is by train. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and offers a comfortable and scenic ride. Porto has two main train stations, São Bento and Campanhã, but the train to Aveiro departs from São Bento station.
1. Start by taking the Porto Metro to São Bento station. The metro system is efficient and straightforward to navigate in Porto.
2. Once at São Bento, head to the main ticket hall or the self-service machines to purchase your train ticket to Aveiro. Trains usually run regularly throughout the day, but it's a good idea to check the schedule in advance.
3. The train ride from São Bento to Aveiro offers stunning views of the Portuguese countryside. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
4. Once you arrive at Aveiro train station, you can stroll into the city center, which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or even hop on one of the local buses to reach your desired destination.
By Bus
If you prefer bus travel, there are several companies that operate direct routes from Porto to Aveiro. The journey takes approximately one hour, depending on traffic, and is a budget-friendly option for travelers.
1. Several bus companies, such as Rede Expressos, Transdev, and Flixbus provide service from Porto to Aveiro. You can check their websites or visit the bus terminals to get the updated schedules and purchase your tickets.
2. The main bus station in Porto is the "Terminal Rodoviário Campo 24 de Agosto." From there, you can catch a direct bus to Aveiro.
3. Once you arrive at Aveiro's bus station, you will be within walking distance to the city center. If your destination is further away, taxis and local buses are readily available.
By Car
Renting a car in Porto gives you the freedom to explore Aveiro and its surrounding areas. Don’t sweat if you get lost, thankfully English is commonly spoken in Portugal.
