Aveiro, Portugal: Gondolas, Salt Flats, and Art Nouveau Charm

05/15/2025|BitesSightsFlights.com|
A scenic view of a historic iron bridge over a river with boats in the water.

They call it the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ but Aveiro has a rhythm all its own. With painted moliceiro boats drifting through canals, a legacy of salt production, and bursts of Art Nouveau color on every corner, this coastal city makes for a whimsical and low-key day trip from Porto or Coimbra.

A Little History

Aveiro’s prosperity grew from its salt flats and maritime trade. The canals were originally dug to transport seaweed and goods. Today, Aveiro is known for its picturesque waterways, elegant architecture, and traditional sweets called ovos moles, made with egg yolks and sugar.

Top Things to Do in Aveiro

  • Take a ride on a moliceiro – brightly colored boats with hand-painted panels.
  • Explore the Art Nouveau architecture – especially near the Rossio area.
  • Visit the Museu de Aveiro – housed in a former convent.
  • Walk or bike the canals – rentals are available right by the water.
  • Visit the salt pans (salinas) – and learn about their history.

My Favorite Moments

We floated through the canals on a sunny afternoon, snapping photos of painted boats and tiled buildings. There was something peaceful about Aveiro—a sense that we didn’t have to rush. We ended our visit with ovos moles from a tiny bakery by the water and it was the perfect sweet sendoff.

Photo Tips & Instagram Spots

  • Moliceiro boats from the pedestrian bridges
  • Colorful façades in the old town
  • Salt flats at golden hour
  • The grand staircase inside the Museu de Aveiro

Tips for Visiting

  • Getting There: Easy day trip by train from Porto or Coimbra.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall when boat rides and markets are active.
  • How Long to Stay: Half-day or full-day trip works well.
  • Dining: Try ovos moles from a traditional confeitaria near the canals.

Fun Fact

The moliceiro boats were originally used to collect seaweed from the lagoon for agricultural fertilizer—not for tourists. Each boat features unique, often cheeky, hand-painted artwork at the bow.

Plan Your Trip to Aveiro

Want to include Aveiro in your Portugal itinerary? I can help you build a stress-free travel plan filled with colorful stops like this one. Visit my [Work With Me] page or check out the full Portugal Travel Guide for more ideas.

Looking for more scenic cities? Explore my Portugal Travel Guide with stories from Coimbra, Douro Valley, Lisbon, and more.