Situated between Porto and Lisbon, the city of Aveiro is often called the “Venice of Portugal” due to its picturesque canals, colourful houses, and rather romantic atmosphere… But Aveiro is much more than that : it is a city rich in traditions, gastronomy, and history!

A symbolic tradition, the Bridge of Friendship

In the heart of the city, the Ponte dos Laços de Amizade (literally “Bridge of Friendship Ties”) is an iconic spot where visitors attach colourful ribbons to symbolise their friendship or love. This colourful tradition dates back to 2004 and has become a symbolic gesture for both locals and tourists, forming an integral part of the city’s charm.

Aveiro’s traditional boats

The moliceiros are traditional flat-bottomed boats, originally used to collect moliço (a type of seaweed used as fertiliser). Today, they are brightly painted and offer scenic tours along the city’s canals. Tours last around 45 minutes and allow visitors to explore the main canals of Aveiro. You can book your ride either on-site or online, with prices around €15 per person during peak season for this guided moliceiro experience.

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A must-try sweet treat !

Ovos moles (literally “soft eggs”) are a traditional Aveiro confection made from egg yolks and sugar, often shaped like shells or fish. This recipe dates back to medieval convents and today is protected by a designated origin status. To see how they are made (and, of course, to taste them!), a visit to the Oficina do Doce is a must.

The salt pans of Aveiro

The Aveiro salt pans are a living testament to the history of salt production in the region. Today, guided tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about traditional salt harvesting techniques and this unique ecosystem. Tours can be booked on-site.

Practical information

The best time to visit is during spring or autumn because these seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. You can easily reach Aveiro by train from Porto or Lisbon, or by car (it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Porto).

We tried Restaurante O Bairro, the Portuguese cuisine was excellent (traditional dishes), while O Telheiro is better known for its fresh seafood.