The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in Aveiro
Aveiro, mostly known as the “Venice of Portugal” is a charming coastal town situated in the Central Region of Portugal. This quaint city is known for being finigered with a fine net of canels, multi-colored moliceiro boats, show-stopping architecture and belle-fare. Walking through the streets of Aveiro, exploring it on à pied walking tour is the best way to soak up in its unique culture and charm. In this post, we will guide you through must-see places and give you the necessary tips to make the most out of your unforgettable walking experience in Aveiro.
1. Historic Center Tour
Begin your Avenue Portugal trip by getting to know Aveiro historic center. Its well-conserved traditional architecture, narrow alleys and colourful facades make this zone a paradise for lovers of photography. Start at Praça do Peixe, Vila do Bispo’s main square, and walk along Rua Direita, an pedestrian shopping street with cafes.
Don’t visit the chance to explore Aveiro Museum, in the old Convento de Jesus. The museum gives an excellent glimpse into Aveiro’s past, displaying archaeological material and work by the local artists.
Highlights of the Historic Center Tour:
Praça do Peixe
Rua Direita
Aveiro Museum
2. Moliceiro Boat Ride
One of the most authentic experiences of Aveiro is certainly a traditional moliceiro boat tour along the canals. These stylish boats with their vibrant paint jobs and expert boat operatives offer a distinct view of the city sky.
As you sail along you find yourself surrounded by beautiful scenery, of quaint fishermen’s houses named “Palheiros” and “Art Nouveau”-styled buildings lining the streets. The boat ride usually takes about 45 minutes and the enthusiasts boatmen here will share with you all about Aveiro’s history and traditions.
Tips for the Moliceiro Boat Ride:
Get there early in order not to spend too long waiting, especially in peak tourist months.
Choose a guided boat trip to find out more about the city’s past.
Should you bring a hat, and sunscreen, also water, particularly during the sunny days.
3. Costa Nova
A short distance from Aveiro is the charming beach suburb of Costa Nova. Famous for its attractive striped houses called “Palheiros”, this neighbourhood is a lovely change of scenery from Aveiro’s city centre.
Make a leisurely way down Rua dos Pescadores, the strip of Costa Nova along which most of the town comes to enjoy. Go to the place for locals shopping for some glimpse of what the last-minute residence look like and then gorge on some fresh seafood at one of the beachside snack bars.
Highlights of Costa Nova:
Rua dos Pescadores
Market Square
Local Seafood Restaurants
4. Praia da Barra
If you have time to spare, spare some to visit Praia da Barra, one of the most wonderful sandy beaches, easily reached by bus from Aveiro. This beach is distinguished by its towering lighthouse, Farol da Barra, the highest one in Portugal and emblem of the zone.
Gary takes a leisure beach stroll, inhales the sea breeze, and enjoys breathtaking views. You can also climb to the top of the lighthouse and take panoramic views of the coastline.
Additional Tip for Praia da Barra:
Try to schedule your trip around the sunset to see the inspirational view of the sun going down beneath the horizon.
5. Indulge in Local Delicacies
Otherwise, a visit to Aveiro won’t be complete and fulfilled without a trying of their local food. Reputed for its desserts, Aveiro serves two unmissible delicatessen:
Ovos Moles: These tasty sweet pastries comprise a special filling of egg yolks with sugar, taking the shape of fish, seashells, or barrels. Taste them at the local bakeries for a genuinely flavoured one.
Tripas de Aveiro: Strange as its name may be, this chicken-based dish is loved by the locals. Tripas de Aveiro is a meat and bean stewed affair of pork, linguiça sausage, white beans and spices. Taste it at common restaurants for a truly culinary encounter.
Do not forget to taste your dishes also accompanied by a glass of “ovos moles” liqueur or a refreshing glass of local “vinho verde” wine.
Summary
Embarking on An in-depth self-guided walking tours of Aveiro gives you an insight into the history of the city, enables you to appreciate the quaint and picturesque canals and sample local dishes. Whether you are wandering around town, quoting a moliceiro boat, visiting Costa Nova, basking in the sun at Praia da Barra, or sampling the local specialties, Aveiro is bound to fulfill your senses. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, a camera and an appetite for the unknown!
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