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Aveiro Nature & adventure

Our most recommended Aveiro Nature & adventure

From Porto: Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge

1. From Porto: Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge

Cross the second Worlds Longest Suspension Footbridge - the Arouca 516 - and walk the Paiva Walkways, considered one of the most beautiful trails in the world (seven kilometers). Restore your energy with a delicious traditional lunch in a typical Portuguese restaurant. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at Aveiro, the so-called “Portuguese Venice” and traverse the canals on a boat trip. Wander through the old quarter to see the main Art Nouveau buildings, the fish market, and taste one of the city's delicacies, soft eggs. Last but not the least, see the famous haystacks of Costa Nova. Discover the magnificent fishing village with its wooden houses in bright striped colors.

From Aveiro/Ilhavo: Barra, Costa Nova, and Vista Alegre Tour

2. From Aveiro/Ilhavo: Barra, Costa Nova, and Vista Alegre Tour

We’ll leave Aveiro and cross the Central Canal, arriving in the traditional salt fields and the Environmental Interpretation Centre, where we’ll attempt to spot flamingos. Next, we will visit Aveiro’s two quays - the distant-water fishing quay and the commercial quay - where we’ll learn more about the region’s natural evolution and economic history. At Praia da Barra we will gaze upon the man-made opening where the lagoon meets the sea. This structure was built in the early nineteenth century, using the stone from Aveiro’s medieval city walls. The majestic lighthouse stands out in the beautiful Atlantic landscape, accompanying us as we enjoy a short walk by the sea. We will also walk-through Costa Nova, along the typical striped wooden houses. These used to be fishermen’s abodes and are nowadays part of one of the most beautiful and original coastal landscapes in Portugal. You will also have a chance to taste our Portuguese custard tarts (Pasteis de Nata), in one of our local bakeries. We will then drive to Vista Alegre, a small settlement where the famous Vista Alegre Factory is located. Built in 1824, it’s renowned internationally for its ceramic and glassware production. We’ll then visit the museum, with the possibility of watching the artists delicately paint the ceramic pieces in the workshop (workshop closed during the weekend). Still in Vista Alegre, we’ll also have a look through the local chapel, Capela da Nossa Senhora da Penha de França, a seventeenth-century national site, decorated with Portuguese tiles (azulejos) and frescoes. Before returning to Aveiro, you’ll also have a chance to briefly visit the Factory shop and outlet.

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What people are saying about Aveiro

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 13 reviews

An amazing day !!! Ricardo was the most kindest and professional host. He assisted so much and ran the day so smoothly so our group could see everything. Dinner was fantastic and authentic. My favorite part really was meeting 4 others from different parts of the world and together we spoke about all of our country & cultures. Felt like I was in another part of Canada, but a more spectacular view of Portugal. I would do this again in a heartbeat and so should you !!!

We loved walking across the Arouca bridge and doing the Paiva walkways! The lunch afterwards was delicious and the guide was very knowledgably and friendly. Highly recommend the trip :)

This was a great experience. Our guide was very hospitable and kind. The lunch was delicious. Really great activity for all ages!

What a fantastic experience! It’s a must see. Well worth the money. Traditional Portuguese Lunch was delicious!

This is an amazing location, worth seeing! Ricardo is the best! Thank you!