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If you’re in Porto and looking for a delightful day trip, go to Aveiro and Costa Nova. These charming locations are just 45 minutes away by train or an easy drive, offering a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and plenty of fun.
As soon as you step off the train in Aveiro, make the tourist office your first stop. Grab a map and ask about guided tours or local tips to make the most of your visit. Depending on the time of year, there are different possibilities.
Aveiro has unique canals and Venetian-style gondolas (called moliceiros). Although it might remind some of Venice, it has a distinct character.
Aveiro has long been known for its salt production, and you can find artisanal sea salts in the markets and shops—perfect for cooking or gifting.
If you’re looking for something unique, check out the outdoor sea salt spa. It’s a soothing way to experience the town’s salty heritage.
A visit to Noeirinha is a great way to learn about salt production in Aveiro. Located at Marinha da Noeirinha, this private property offers an up-close look at the traditional methods used to harvest salt.
If you’re interested in relaxing, the Aveiro Salt Spa is also located here. It’s a different experience where the therapeutic benefits of salt take center stage.
Keep in mind that Marinha da Noeirinha offers several services, all for a fee.
You can find them on their Facebook page for the latest updates.
Aveiro is a very walkable town, but you can borrow a bike for free at one of the city’s bike stations to cover more ground. Pedal along the water and in town to get a feel for the place and admire its architecture. The city’s ceramic tiles are especially striking—they’re not just decorative but tell stories of Aveiro’s history and culture.
Look for local craft markets and shops where you can buy locally made ceramics and other handmade items.
No visit to Aveiro is complete without trying its famous pastries, especially the ovos moles, a sweet treat made with egg yolks and sugar. The city also boasts excellent restaurants where you can sample fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes.
After exploring Aveiro, head to Costa Nova, a fun coastal town just a short bus or taxi ride away.
Costa Nova is best known for its colorful striped houses. These buildings were originally fishermen’s storage huts, painted in bold stripes to make them easy to spot. Today, they’re iconic and make for fantastic photo ops that have been converted into summer beach homes.
The beach at Costa Nova is beautiful, perfect for swimming or simply lounging on the sand. Off-season visits are ideal if you prefer a quieter time by the water. The area can get quite crowded during summer, but even then, the energy and activity are part of the charm.
One of Costa Nova’s standout features is its protected sand dunes. The city has built wooden walkways to preserve the dunes while allowing visitors to explore. Walk along these paths for incredible coast and ocean views and enjoy the sea breeze.
If you’re taking public transport, note that buses to Costa Nova don’t run frequently. The stop is on the left side of the Aveiro canal, so check the schedule and be prepared for a potential wait. Alternatively, taxis from Aveiro’s train station cost about €12-16. Driving is also a convenient option if you prefer flexibility.
Timing: Costa Nova is busiest in summer. Visiting in spring or autumn ensures fewer crowds and easier access to restaurants and the beach.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes for Aveiro, sunscreen for Costa Nova, and your camera.
Plan Ahead: If you’re relying on public transport, double-check schedules to avoid long waits, especially for the bus to Costa Nova.
Spending a day in Aveiro and Praia da Costa Nova is an exciting way to get to know Portugal’s coastal beauty.
This trip is a blend of relaxation and exploration, from canals and salt spas to striped houses and sandy beaches.
It’s a reminder that life over 50 is about discovering new places, savoring the moment, and embracing the adventure.
Subenshi has amazing sushi and cooked Japanese food.
Porta 36
They do not have a site, make a reservation on FORK or Google.
Ostraveiro, not a restaurant and for those of you who are oyster aficionados.
Updated with new restaurants on December 2024
Marguerite Beaty, Blogger, Photographer & Artist
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