Aveiro Canals Guide
Gondolas of Portugal: Glide Through Aveiro's Waterways Guide
Welcome to Aveiro, often called the "Venice of Portugal," a charming city defined by its intricate network of canals. Forget the bustling streets for a while and immerse yourself in a unique perspective of this coastal gem. The Aveiro canals offer a tranquil and picturesque experience, showcasing the city's Art Nouveau architecture, colorful Moliceiro boats, and the overall laid-back atmosphere that makes Aveiro so special. Historically, Aveiro's canals were crucial for the city's economic development, particularly in the harvesting of moliço (seaweed), used as fertilizer. The Moliceiro boats, originally designed for this purpose, are now iconic symbols of Aveiro, adorned with vibrant and often humorous paintings depicting scenes from daily life and local traditions. The canals also played a significant role in the salt production industry, another key element of Aveiro's past. The main activity for tourists is undoubtedly taking a ride on a Moliceiro boat. These guided tours offer a fascinating glimpse into Aveiro's history and culture, as you gently glide through the canals, passing by historic buildings, salt pans, and the bustling fish market. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the local delicacy, "ovos moles," a sweet confection made from egg yolks and sugar, shaped like seashells and other maritime motifs. You can find them in numerous pastry shops along the canal banks.
Transportation
From Aveiro train station, the canals are a short walk (approximately 10-15 minutes). Several bus lines also serve the city center and canal area. Look for buses heading towards 'Centro' or 'Forum Aveiro'.