Map of Aveiro, Portugal
Discover the canals, Art Nouveau facades and striped beach houses of the "Venice of Portugal".
About Aveiro
Aveiro sits on the edge of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, about an hour south of Porto. Its canals, crossed by colourful moliceiro boats that were once used to harvest seaweed, have earned it the nickname "Venice of Portugal". The city is also known for its Art Nouveau buildings, salt pans and the sweet ovos moles.
Things to Do in Aveiro
Moliceiro Boat Tour
A 45-minute cruise along the city canals is the classic Aveiro experience.
Costa Nova
Photograph the candy-striped palheiros (beach houses) and walk along the long Atlantic beach.
Art Nouveau Route
Spot the ornate facades around the central canal, including the Art Nouveau Museum.
Old Railway Station
The original station building is decorated with azulejo panels showing regional scenes.
Museum of Aveiro
The former Convent of Jesus holds the tomb of Princess Santa Joana and fine Baroque art.
Salt Pans
Learn about traditional salt harvesting at the salinas on the edge of the lagoon.
Getting to Aveiro
- From Porto - trains take 40 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes from Campanhã or São Bento
- From Lisbon - Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains take about 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
- From Coimbra - about 40 minutes by train
Nearby
Combine Aveiro with Coimbra to the south or Porto to the north. The beaches of Costa Nova and Barra are a short bus ride away.
Plan your trip to Aveiro
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Aveiro called the Venice of Portugal?
The city centre is crossed by canals where colourful moliceiro boats, once used to harvest seaweed, now take visitors on short cruises.
How do I get to Aveiro from Porto?
Trains from Porto take between about 40 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes, making Aveiro an easy day trip.
What is Costa Nova known for?
Costa Nova, about 10 km away, is famous for its striped wooden beach houses (palheiros) and long Atlantic beach.
What is the typical sweet from Aveiro?
Ovos moles are sweet egg-yolk filling wrapped in thin wafer shells shaped like shells and fish. They have EU protected status.