A Quick Stop in Aveiro: Color, Canals, and Coastal Flavor

On our way to a housesit in Oliveira do Hospital, we took a quick detour to Aveiro, often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal.” With its charming canals, brightly painted boats, and unique blend of architectural styles, it turned out to be a memorable and worthwhile stop.

Located along the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, this coastal city was once an important seaport. Today, it’s a vibrant town where tradition meets creativity. We spent the morning strolling along the canals, taking in the colorful facades and tiled buildings. Each house seemed to have its own personality, and street art added a playful, artistic touch around nearly every corner.

One of the day’s highlights was lunch—rich and flavorful arroz de marisco (seafood rice) at a cozy local restaurant. We couldn’t leave without trying ovos moles, Aveiro’s signature dessert made with egg yolks and sugar, shaped like little seashells. They were as delicious as they were unique.

Aveiro gave us a vivid, bite-sized experience of Portugal’s coastal culture before we headed inland. It’s an ideal stop for anyone exploring the central region and looking to add a bit of color, flavor, and history to their journey.

Learn more about visiting Aveiro here:
https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/visit-aveiro