Aveiro Portugal: What to Do and See on Your Day Trip, Aveiro, Portugal

The first time we visited Aveiro, we didn’t expect to fall for it so quickly. But from the moment we stepped off the train and caught sight of the old train station, covered in gorgeous azulejos, we knew this small city on Portugal’s central coast was something special.

Often called the Venice of Portugal—and for good reason—Aveiro is full of colorful boats, winding canals, and beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. It’s the perfect place for a great day trip, a relaxed weekend, or even a longer stay if you’ve got plenty of time to explore.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time, coming in for a day trip from Porto, or coming back for a closer look, here are the top things to see and do in Aveiro—and why it should be on your list if you’re exploring northern Portugal.

We first arrived by train, and even before stepping into the city proper, we knew we were in for something special. Just outside the station, look to your right and you’ll see the old Aveiro train station—its walls covered in traditional azulejos (Portuguese tiles). That quiet, sunlit moment—just us, the tiles, and the scent of the sea—was the beginning of our Aveiro story. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).