Venice of Portugal: 21 things to do in Aveiro, Portugal

Looking for the best things to do in Aveiro, Portugal? With its scenic city canals, lively boats cruising around, charming bridges, delicious ovos moles, stunning architecture, glazed tile facades, and some of the best hidden gems in Portugal, Aveiro has so much to offer!

We spent a whole week living in Aveiro, Portugal, exploring everything this unique city has to offer. It quickly became one of my favorite areas in Portugal! In this blog post, you’ll find the best things to do in Aveiro with photos, descriptions, and locations on Google Maps. Happy travels!

Read more » 15 best Instagram spots in Aveiro, Portugal

1. Go on a gondola boat ride in Barcos Moliceiros!

There is one main reason why Aveiro is called the “Venice of Portugal”—its system of canals winding through the city center. These waterways allow for transportation in special traditional boats called Moliceiros, which are quite similar to the gondolas in Venice, Italy.

These Moliceiro boats were once used for harvesting seaweed (moliço), but today they are primarily used for tourism. The most common Moliceiro tours follow four urban canals: Canal Central, Canal da Pirâmides, Canal do Cojo, and Canal de São Roque.

The boat trip is very entertaining, with engaging guides who share stories about the city. Along the way, you will see landmarks such as the Art Nouveau architecture in the city centre, salt marshes, and fish warehouses, and you will pass under several bridges.

To take a tour on these colorful boats, head to the main canal—Canal Central—where you’ll find vendors on both sides. They are easy to spot, as they wear official uniforms. Be sure to choose an English-speaking tour! The ride costs around 10 EUR and lasts about 45 minutes.

Location: Moliceiros Pier – Canal Central

2. Taste the traditional Ovos moles de Aveiro!

Ovos Moles de Aveiro translates to “soft eggs from Aveiro” and is the name of a local pastry delicacy from the city. It consists of a soft, paste-like mixture of egg yolk and sugar, encased in an airy rice paper shell shaped like a fish or a seashell.

This famous pastry has been awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the European Union, meaning it can only be made in Aveiro. Tasting this unique treat is definitely one of the best things to do in Aveiro!

The origins of this pastry come from convents. It was reported that nuns used lots of egg whites to starch clothes used in religious ceremonies and were left with lots of egg yolks. Then they had to come up with different recipes in order to not waste them.

Today you can buy Ovos moles de Aveiro in many places around the city – basically in every pastry shop and bakery. However, I recommend going to a beautiful local sweets shop Confeitaria Peixinho right next to the boat canal.

There you can buy a single piece to just taste it or a box of them if you like them or want to bring them home as a souvenir. They even have a couple of tables on the upper floor for you to enjoy Ovos moles de Aveiro or other delicious pastries with a drink.

Location: Confeitaria Peixinho

3. Explore the riverside and admire the Art Nouveau facades!

Aveiro is known for another iconic feature—the beautiful Art Nouveau architectural style. Many buildings throughout the city showcase this elegant design, and Aveiro is even part of the Réseau Art Nouveau Network, a group of European cities with a rich Art Nouveau heritage.

Aveiro experienced a big boom during the 19th and 20th centuries with the expansion of the transportation network and the opening of artificial canals in the city which resulted in economic growth and an increase in population in later years.

In the 20th century, many of Aveiro’s beautiful Art Nouveau buildings were constructed by wealthy families who wanted to showcase their status.

The Art Nouveau buildings are usually characterized by elegant curves, intricate floral motifs, and ornate iron balconies.

You can see some prominent examples along the promenade that runs alongside the central canal. The whole canalside looks like an open-air museum!

However, there is an actual Art Nouveau Museum (Museu de Arte Nova) too located inside one of the most beautiful Art Noveau buildings in Aveiro.

Location: Art Nouveau Museum

4. Cross the Friendship Bridge and tie a ribbon!

Due to the numerous canals winding through the city, Aveiro is home to countless bridges spanning across them. One of the most unique is the Friendship Bridge or Ponte dos Laços de Amizade in Portuguese.

Located in the heart of the city next to the Forum Aveiro shopping mall, this bridge is a great spot to watch Barcos Moliceiros gliding along the canal and passing underneath.

The most unique feature of this bridge, which you will immediately notice, is that it is covered with countless colorful ribbons. For this reason, the bridge has become one of the main attractions in Aveiro.

These friendship ribbons are placed by friends and couples as a symbolic gesture and they serve as a lighter and simpler alternative to the traditional love padlocks. That’s a great idea if you ask me!

You can buy these ribbons in many stores around the city—usually, they are displayed outside near the windows so you can easily spot them. After purchasing one, you write your name on it and tie it to the bridge.

Although this tradition began with a single bridge, several bridges in Aveiro are now decorated with colorful ribbons. If you’re visiting Aveiro with your loved one or friends, this charming tradition is definitely one of the bucket list of things to do in Aveiro!

Location: Friendship Bridge in Aveiro

5. Visit the iconic four statues on the bridge!

Right next to the Friendship Bridge is a large square called General Humberto Delgado Square, which also functions as a bridge over the central canal. While boats sail underneath, cars drive over it, making it a lively and unique part of the city.

What makes this central square special is the four bronze statues placed at each corner, representing traditional figures from Aveiro’s history. Their names (or rather, their professions) are A Salineira, O Marnoto, O Fogueteiro, and A Parceira do Ramo.

A Salineira was a woman responsible for transporting salt in wicker baskets from the boats to the warehouses. O Marnoto was the man in charge of extracting artisanal salt using wooden tools, which is a physically demanding job.

O Fogueteiro and A Parceira do Ramo come from Aveiro’s entertainment traditions. O Fogueteiro was responsible for launching fireworks during festive days, while A Parceira do Ramo, dressed in traditional clothing, would present flowers to the new butlers during celebrations.

Location: General Humberto Delgado Square

6. Explore the traditional tiles in Aveiro streets!

Portugal and tile artworks is a match made in heaven. Their art never ceases to amaze me and it is always worth taking a look at some of the best tile artwork examples you have around wherever you are in Portugal.

Some of my favorite tile artworks in Aveiro include the stunning façade of the Casa de Santa Zita building, located near the Aveiro Museum (Museu de Aveiro). This building features intricate blue and white tile mosaics, depicting elegant patterns and traditional Portuguese scenes.

Another place is the Ceramic Mural right in front of the Confeitaria Peixinho sweets shop. It showcases different patterns and illustrations from local traditions and culture. I wouldn’t know what they mean but they looked beautiful!

Probably the most impressive tile artwork can be found next to the central canal—a long wall adorned with detailed illustrations depicting moments from the daily lives of the people who once lived here.

This tilework was my favorite of all! The scenes include traditional activities such as salt production and fishing, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage through beautifully crafted azulejos (Portuguese tiles).

Location: Casa de Santa Zita – Ceramic Mural – Long wall of illustrations

7. Marvel at the 15th-century convent at visit the tomb of Princess Saint Joan in the Aveiro Museum!

I am not usually one of those who like to visit all possible museums. However, I am quite fascinated by indescribably beautiful architecture from centuries ago. So is it worth visiting the Aveiro Museum? Absolutely!

The museum is located inside the 15th-century Covent of Jesus. This is the place where Princess St. Joana, daughter of King Afonso V, lived and died. The intricate marble tomb of Princess St. Joana can be visited inside the museum.

The museum also hosts the Church of Jesus. It is an absolutely stunning work of art with 16th-century gilded woodwork, tile illustrations along the walls as well as numerous paintings depicting moments from the life of Princess St. Joana.

One of the most interesting figures inside the museum is the high-choir room. It hosts an organ as well as a statue of the crucified Christ. The uniqueness of the statue is revealed when you look at the face of Christ from both sides – from one side it looks like it is smiling, but from the other side, it seems saddened.

The museum also hosts a massive collection of religious arts – paintings, sculptures, artifacts from religious buildings, and ceremonies. This is the perfect place to go in Aveiro if you are looking for a piece of the history of this city. The entrance costs 5 EUR.

Location: Aveiro Museum

8. Stop by the Cathedral of Aveiro!

Right across the street from Aveiro Museum you will find the most important religious building in Aveiro – the Cathedral of Aveiro! You can visit the cathedral for free, so go there and take a look inside! It is a rather simple building, but beautiful nevertheless.

The cathedral has a beautiful baroque portal framed by four columns and decorated with floral elements. It also features beautiful Portuguese tiles, gilded altarpieces, and beautiful chapels of significant value.

One of the most outstanding pieces you will find inside is the baroque organ from 1754 which is now deactivated. A new modern organ was put inside the church in 2013. This is a beautiful place for a quick visit when you are somewhere nearby in Aveiro!

Location: Sé Catedral de Aveiro

9. Admire the stunning tilework at the Old Aveiro Railway Station!

Inaugurated in 1856, Old Aveiro Railway Station is probably the most beautiful building in Aveiro and one of the most beautiful train stations in Portugal as well!

This snow-white building with traditional blue tile illustrations is a true hidden gem you must see in Aveiro. To me, this was one of my favorite attractions to visit in Aveiro!

It was built as one of the stops on the Lisbon-Porto railway line. The facade of the building is covered with 59 tile panels. The illustrations include traditional activities, local landscapes, and representations of local figures. This was one of the best places to visit in Aveiro and one of my favorites for sure!

Location: Old Aveiro Railway Station

10. Be blinded by the gold at Carmelita de Aveiro church!

One of my favorite things to do in Aveiro was visiting this little church – Carmelita de Aveiro. On the outside, this church looks like absolutely nothing interesting to see. However, the inside was pretty jaw-dropping.

Construction of the church began in 1704. The interior is a stunning combination of gilded carvings, spectacular paintings, and beautiful tiles. Which puts it amongst the best hidden gems to visit in Aveiro. The best part – the entrance is free!

I spent quite some time admiring the vaulted ceilings with numerous paintings, the massive gilded carving as the altarpiece, and bedazzling walls with altars and traditional tile illustrations.

You also get to visit one of the back rooms which is equally stunning – especially the wooden ceiling with ornate illustrations. This is a must-visit spot in Aveiro even if you only have 10 minutes to spare!

Location: Carmelita de Aveiro church

11. Pay a visit to Ponte dos Carcavelos!

Ponte dos Carcavelos is one of the many bridges in Aveiro, however, this is a special one. Built in 1953, it is one of the oldest bridges in Aveiro. And it is definitely the most beautiful bridge in the city.

Painted in yellow color with white balusters, this bridge also boasts a beautiful green coat of arms of Aveiro city. It has an eagle on it – the symbol of the city. The bridge spans over the São Roque Canal.

The Ponte dos Carcavelos bridge is within walking distance from the heart of the Old Town, but since it is slightly outside the main area, it tends to get fewer visitors. So this is the perfect spot to come if you want photos without crowds!

Location: Ponte dos Carcavelos

12. Peek inside Igreja da Misericórdia de Aveiro church!

Igreja da Misericórdia de Aveiro is an attractive church in the heart of Aveiro city next to Plaza de la República. It draws everyone’s attention thanks to the beautiful facade. Construction of the church was completed in 1653.

The front of the church is covered with blue and white tiles, however, the entrance portal of the church is made of stone and built in the Baroque style featuring four Corinthian columns and limestone statues.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, it served as the Cathedral of Aveiro. You can visit this church for free. The interior is also covered with detailed tiles with patterns as well as gilded decorations. The beautifully vaulted altarpiece features multiple paintings in gilded frames.

Location: Igreja da Misericórdia de Aveiro

13. Go souvenir shopping and taste the flavors at Mercado Coletivo Aveiro!

Wherever you travel, tasting local flavors is always a must-do experience. One of the best places to do that is at local markets. Mercado Coletivo Aveiro offers a variety of local products, whether you’re looking for something to eat on the spot or to bring home as a gift.

Here, you can find fresh vegetables, fruits, and high-quality meat, but the highlight is the fish market, where vendors sell an impressive selection of fresh fish and fresh seafood straight from the nearby coast.

However, my favorite stalls were the cheese stands, offering a variety of delicious local cheeses. Besides these, you can also buy snacks like nuts, cookies, pastries, and fresh bread.

One of the best things to do in Aveiro is souvenir shopping. I already mentioned the traditional Ovos Moles pastries, which you can buy in a beautifully designed box at Confeitaria Peixinho.

Another must-buy souvenir is salt from the local salt flats, as well as classic Portuguese tiles and handcrafted products made of cork, or a box of pastel de nata – traditional Portuguese egg tarts. For more souvenirs, check out the area around Obelisco da Liberdade!

Location: Mercado Coletivo Aveiro – Obelisco da Liberdade

14. Take a photo at the ‘I love Aveiro’ stairs!

Just a short walk from the historic center you will find massive stairs with ‘I love Aveiro’ painted on them. Probably one of the best Instagram spots in Aveiro you will find. This catchy phrase always works. Don’t forget to snap a photo, if you happen to be nearby!

Location: ‘I love Aveiro’ stairs

15. Check out fishermen’s houses at Costa Nova!

Costa Nova is Aveiro’s coastal village, located just 10 kilometers from the city center. The village is famous for its colorful houses with candy-striped facades lining the waterside promenade—one of the most Instagrammable places in Aveiro!

These houses are actually called ‘palheiros’ and were originally built by local fishermen as storage spaces for their fishing gear. Over time, they were redesigned, and today, some of them house restaurants, while others remain residential properties.

Visiting these colorful houses was one of my favorite things to do in Aveiro and one of the main reasons I wanted to visit the city in the first place. I’m telling you, these vibrant homes are some of the cutest you’ll ever see!

You can get to Costa Nova by taxi, public transportation, or car from Aveiro. We had a rental car, so we drove there and easily found parking right in front of these charming houses (location below).

Location: Fishermen’s houses at Costa Nova – Parking at Costa Nova

16. Enjoy the white-sand Aveiro beaches!

The coastal area of Aveiro boasts a stunning white sand beach, Praia da Barra, that is both vast and unspoiled. The beach is wide and extends along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean for miles.

There is plenty of space for tourists and locals alike to relax, sunbathe, or take long scenic walks by the shore. It is an ideal destination for beach lovers. I especially loved the fresh breeze from the ocean as well as the natural unspoiled beauty of this area.

There are many beach bars and lounges for you to enjoy and sand dunes to hide from the wind on windy days. If you are craving some beach time, then this is a great place to go!

We are not beachgoers so we did not spend much time at the beach. However, I really like beach walks and watching the waves hit the shore so this was a nice relaxing moment for us in between our travels.

Location: Aveiro beach

17. Walk through the salt fields at Salinas de Aveiro!

Salt exploration in the Aveiro region dates back to the times when the city didn’t even exist yet. This tradition is the essence of Aveiro and has been a part of their daily lives since the very beginning.

If you can buy one souvenir from Aveiro, then local salt is definitely one of the best things to buy. However, if you have time, you can visit the salt flats and walk around the salt pans on your own.

We did not walk around, but we did stop at the salt flats to take a look at this historic tradition and place. You can very well see the mountains of extracted salt and all the salt ponds reflecting the light in different shades.

Location: Salinas de Aveiro

18. Near Aveiro – stop by the City of Umbrellas!

Agueda is a city in the Aveiro district just a 30-minute drive away from Aveiro city. It is one of the hidden gems in Portugal and one of the best places to visit in the Aveiro district if you time it right!

During the sunny season, the streets in this city are turned into a carnival of umbrellas. I counted about five streets that were covered with colorful umbrellas or other decorations. Some walls of houses and shops also had umbrellas on them.

There were colorful benches, even a decorative car on one of the streets as well as other colorful decorations. Luckily, we visited this place at the end of August so everything was in full swing.

The best streets to go to see the umbrellas are Rua Luís Camões, Rua José Maria Veloso, Rua Jornal Soberania do Povo and Rua Vasco da Gama. I also saw colorful decorations on Rua São Bento street.

Important! These decorations are part of the Umbrella Sky Project – an international initiative that takes place in many different cities around the world. In Agueda, this project can be seen from 1st July to 30 September when they take it down.

They also create a special Christmas project that you can visit during December when the umbrellas are decorated with Christmas lights. If you want to be sure before you go, I recommend contacting Umbrella Sky Project on Instagram.

You can also check out other projects they have around the world and contact them by sending a message or asking in the comments so that you don’t waste your trip to this city just to realize that the umbrellas are not up yet or have already been taken down.

Location: Umbrella Sky Project in Agueda

19. Near Aveiro – visit Igreja Matriz de Válega, the most colorful church in Portugal!

Matriz de Válega church was an absolute favorite of mine and one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Portugal. The whole church is covered by tiles with colorful biblical illustrations on the facade. You can visit this church for free!

The church is located in Válega town in the Aveiro district and is amongst the best places to visit near Aveiro city. Construction of the church started in the middle of the 18th century and lasted for a hundred years.

The tiles continue on the inside as well which is equally as spectacular as the outside depicting numerous biblical characters and scenes. The tile illustrations are combined with wooden panels as well as stunning altarpieces and statues.

The sides of the church are in typical blue and white tiles. There is a cemetery right next to the church for you to take a look at – you can notice some beautiful architecture there. Just check the working hours on Google Maps before you go (link below)!

Location: Igreja Matriz de Válega

20. Near Aveiro – admire the beauty of Buçaco Palace!

Another amazing place in the Aveiro district is Buçaco Palace. The palace is actually a former convent that today houses a luxury hotel. However, in order to visit the palace, you don’t have to book a stay there – the property is accessible to the public for free!

This convent including a luxurious garden with countless species of trees was built in the 17th century. Part of that convent as well as a church is still preserved beside the palace to this day.

The Palace Hotel of Buçaco as we see it today was finished in 1907. The palace proudly boasts a Neo-Manueline architectural style that was born in Portugal. You can freely walk around the palace and the spectacular garden.

It is also possible to take a look inside, however, we did not have time to do that. The area around the palace is called Buçaco National Forest – one of the hidden gems in Portugal. It is a very thick forest with pathways, stairs, and fountains. A beautiful place for a walk!

Location: Buçaco Palace – Fonte Fria fountain

21. Near Aveiro – admire the stunning Igreja Paroquial de Cortegaça church!

Located in Cortegaça village in Aveiro district is this wonderful sight you will remember forever – the stunning Igreja Paroquial de Cortegaça church. The building that we see today was completed in 1918 and was built to replace the temple dating back to the middle of the 12th century.

This striking church is located in a square at the end of an alley of palm trees. The incredible facade was covered with tiles between 1921 and 1923 and depicts religious figures. The church has two flanking towers topped with spires.

The pediment in the middle part is topped by three sculptures. I could only silently admire everything I saw here – it was magical. This church is definitely one of the most exquisite examples of Portuguese tile artworks and you must see it!

Location: Igreja Paroquial de Cortegaça