Visit Aveiro to discover a landscape dominated by water.

Aveiro, next to the sea and the ria (estuary), is crossed by a network of channels through which moliceiros (local boats) meander. These slim, colourful vessels used to be used to collect algae and seaweed, and today are for sightseeing trips. Visiting on foot does not mean too much effort either since the city is flat, and anyone who enjoys cycling can take a "BUGA" - bicycles made freely available by Aveiro City Council. 

Aveiro has a number of buildings in Art Nouveau style that are worth seeing. Many are situated along the main channel, but there are some off the beaten track and in other locations. The location of the buildings is indicated in a guide available at the Tourist Office and you can get to know this style even better in the Museum dedicated to it.

Another important place to visit is the Aveiro Museum in the Convent of Jesus, where you can admire the Mausoleum of Princess Saint Joana and the gilded woodcarvings that decorate the interior of the church. These are to be found in abundance in the chapel of Senhor das Barrocas and with less exuberance in the Misericordia Church, whose mannerist portal deserves mention. Those who appreciate contemporary Portuguese architecture should not miss the University buildings.

Emblematic of the city is the sweet made with eggs and sugar - the “ovos moles" (soft eggs) that are sold in wooden barrels or wrapped in a crusty wafer in different shapes. But before this treat, you can comfort your stomach with the delights that the sea offers, such as shellfish, fresh fish grilled or casseroled and eels, characteristic of this region, which are served casseroled or marinated.

Nearby
There are several places nearby that are worth visiting. Crossing the Ria by boat, you pass through the saltpans and can admire the whiteness of the salt, which during the summer season is formed into pyramids to dry in the sun. On the other side, the São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve is about 15 minutes away, with its almost wild beaches.

Those who prefer more entertainment can head South to the Praia da Barra, where they will see the tallest lighthouse in the country, or the Costa Nova, known for its striped “sheds”. Nearby is Ílhavo, a town of strong fishing traditions well documented in its Maritime Museum.