Aveiro

Known for:

canals, Art Nouveau architecture, coastal landscapes

Time needed:

1 day for the city, 2 days for the wider area

From Lisbon:

2.5-3 hours by car

From Porto:

1 hour by car

Must do:

a moliceiro (gondola-like boat) ride

Must try:

ovos moles

Fun fact(s):

Aveiro is often called "the Venice of Portugal"; The gondola-like boats, before becoming tourist attractions, were actually used by locals to transport seaweed for fertilizing fields.

Visit nearby:

Costa NovaVista Alegre Factory

About

Aveiro's history is closely connected to the water. Its waterways were essential to fishing, salt production and trade, while the surrounding lagoon provided the conditions for agriculture and the collection of aquatic vegetation.

The city became particularly prosperous during the 16th century. The salt industry and fishing flourished, and Aveiro became involved in the Portuguese cod-fishing expeditions to Newfoundland. In 1515, King Manuel I granted Aveiro a royal charter, reflecting its growing importance. However, in 1575, storms and sand accumulation damaged the lagoon’s connection to the sea, severely affecting the city’s economy.

Aveiro’s connection to the Atlantic was restored in the 19th century with the construction of the Barra Nova channel, which opened in 1808 and remains central to the region’s character today.