Why Spain is a great place for kids
Choosing the city that's right for you
Choosing the visa that's right for you
More than just great weather
Why Spain provides a better quality of life
How we Plan
What we pack
Choosing Travel Insurance
Book Your Hotel
with Booking.com
Book Your Car
with RentalCars.com
Book Your Flight
with Skyscanner.com
Book Your Tour
with GetYourGuide.com
Our Camera Gear
How We Fly
Choosing Your Destination
Your Family Guide to...
Costa Nova
Costa Nova and Aveiro are charming destinations in central Portugal, with Costa Nova famous for its colorful striped beach houses and sandy beaches, while Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” is renowned for its picturesque canals, Art Nouveau architecture, and delicious local cuisine, including the traditional ovos moles (soft eggs) pastry.
Discovering the Enchanting Charm of Costa Nova
and Aveiro, Portugal
Introduction
Just along the picturesque Atlantic coast of central Portugal, the charming town of Costa Nova and the nearby city of Aveiro offer families a nice blend of stunning beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, and unique traditions. Known for their colorful striped houses, tranquil canals, and delectable seafood, these two destinations provide an idyllic getaway for those seeking a taste of authentic Portuguese life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the many wonders of Costa Nova and Aveiro, from their must-see attractions and exciting activities to their mouthwatering cuisine and fascinating history.
Part I: Costa Nova
1. Praia da Costa Nova (Costa Nova Beach) – The centerpiece of Costa Nova is undoubtedly its stunning beach, stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. This wide, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, with its rolling waves and refreshing sea breezes. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas or simply lay down a towel and soak up the sun. The beach is also home to several bars and restaurants, offering refreshing drinks and delicious snacks throughout the day.
2. Palheiros da Costa Nova (Costa Nova Striped Houses) – One of the most iconic sights in Costa Nova is the rows of colorful striped houses that line the beachfront. These charming wooden structures, known as “palheiros,” were originally built by local fishermen to store their gear and have since been transformed into summer homes and vacation rentals. The houses are painted in vibrant stripes of red, blue, green, and yellow, creating a picturesque and whimsical atmosphere that has become synonymous with Costa Nova.
3. Mercado de Costa Nova (Costa Nova Market) – Every Monday morning, the Costa Nova Market comes to life, offering a lively and authentic shopping experience. Here, visitors can browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, locally caught seafood, handcrafted goods, and traditional Portuguese products. The market is a great place to sample regional specialties, such as the famous “ovos moles” (soft eggs) and “pão de vale de ílhavo” (a local bread), and to pick up unique souvenirs to take home.
4. Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse) – Just a short walk from the center of Costa Nova stands the impressive Barra Lighthouse. Built in the 19th century, this towering red and white structure offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a small fee and enjoy the breathtaking vistas from the observation deck.
5. Ria de Aveiro (Aveiro Lagoon) – Costa Nova sits on the edge of the Ria de Aveiro, a stunning lagoon system that stretches for over 45 kilometers along the Portuguese coast. The lagoon is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including various species of birds, fish, and crustaceans. Visitors can explore the lagoon by boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, taking in the serene beauty of the water and the lush greenery that surrounds it.
Part II: Aveiro
6. Canais de Aveiro (Aveiro Canals) – Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is famous for its picturesque canals that wind through the city center. Visitors can take a leisurely boat tour on a traditional “moliceiro” boat, admiring the colorful houses and graceful bridges that line the waterways. The boat tours typically last around 45 minutes and provide a unique perspective on the city’s charm and history.
7. Museu de Aveiro (Aveiro Museum) – Housed in a former convent, the Aveiro Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. The museum features an extensive collection of religious art, including stunning azulejos (Portuguese tiles), intricate wood carvings, and ornate gold leaf work. Visitors can also explore the beautifully preserved cloisters and learn about the daily life of the nuns who once inhabited the convent.
8. Salinas de Aveiro (Aveiro Salt Pans) – Just outside the city center, the Aveiro Salt Pans provide a unique and fascinating glimpse into the region’s traditional salt production methods. These shallow ponds, separated by narrow walkways, have been used for centuries to harvest salt from the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take a guided tour of the salt pans, learning about the history and techniques of salt production and even trying their hand at harvesting salt themselves.
9. Praia da Barra (Barra Beach) – Located just a short drive from Aveiro, Praia da Barra is a stunning sandy beach that stretches for miles along the Atlantic coast. The beach is popular with surfers, thanks to its consistent waves and excellent conditions, but it also offers plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. Visitors can grab a bite to eat at one of the many beachside restaurants or bars, or simply enjoy a long walk along the shore.
10. Oficina do Doce (Confectionery Workshop) – No visit to Aveiro would be complete without sampling the city’s famous “ovos moles,” a sweet egg yolk and sugar confection that has become a symbol of the region. At Oficina do Doce, visitors can learn about the history and production of this beloved treat, watching as skilled confectioners demonstrate the traditional techniques used to create these delicate sweets. The workshop also offers hands-on classes where participants can try their hand at making their own ovos moles.
Part III: Day Trips and
Nearby Attractions
11. Praia de Mira (Mira Beach) – Located just 30 minutes south of Aveiro, Praia de Mira is a charming seaside town known for its long, sandy beach and tranquil atmosphere. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, with plenty of rental options available for surfboards, kayaks, and paddleboards. Visitors can also explore the town’s quaint streets, lined with colorful houses and local shops selling handcrafted souvenirs.
12. Parque Natural da Ria Formosa (Ria Formosa Natural Park) – A bit further afield, around 2 hours drive from Aveiro, lies the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park. This protected coastal lagoon system spans over 60 kilometers and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including flamingos, spoonbills, and seahorses. Visitors can explore the park by boat, kayak, or on foot, taking in the breathtaking scenery and learning about the unique ecosystem that thrives here.
13. Coimbra – Just an hour’s drive from Aveiro, the historic city of Coimbra offers a fascinating blend of ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and academic tradition. Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, Coimbra is known for its stunning baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina, and its lively student atmosphere. Visitors can explore the city’s winding streets, admire the stunning Romanesque cathedral, and sample the delicious local cuisine.
14. Bairrada Wine Region – For wine lovers, the nearby Bairrada wine region is a must-visit. Located just 30 minutes from Aveiro, this picturesque area is known for its rich, full-bodied red wines made from the Baga grape variety. Visitors can tour the local wineries, sample the delicious wines, and learn about the region’s unique terroir and winemaking traditions.
Part IV: Dining and Accommodation
15. Restaurante Salpoente – Located in the heart of Aveiro, Restaurante Salpoente is a beloved local institution known for its delicious seafood and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a wide range of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, including the famous “cataplana,” a traditional Portuguese stew cooked in a copper pot. Be sure to try the “arroz de marisco,” a flavorful rice dish packed with succulent seafood.
16. Canastra do Fidalgo – Nestled in the charming streets of Costa Nova, Canastra do Fidalgo is a cozy and inviting restaurant that specializes in fresh, locally caught seafood. The menu changes daily based on the day’s catch, but always features an array of delicious options, from grilled fish and seafood rice to hearty fish stews and casseroles. The friendly staff and rustic decor create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements the delicious food.
17. Mercado do Peixe (Fish Market) – For a truly authentic dining experience, head to the Mercado do Peixe in Aveiro. This lively fish market is home to several small restaurants that serve up some of the freshest seafood in the city. Visitors can choose their own fish or shellfish from the market stalls, then have it grilled or cooked to order at one of the restaurants. The simple, no-frills atmosphere and delicious, locally caught seafood make this a must-visit for any seafood lover.
18. Hotel Moliceiro – Named after the traditional boats that navigate Aveiro’s canals, Hotel Moliceiro is a charming and stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms with modern amenities, a cozy lounge area, and a delightful outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy breakfast or a glass of wine in the evening. The friendly staff and central location make this an ideal base for exploring Aveiro and the surrounding area.
19. Camélias Guest House – For a more intimate and personalized stay in Costa Nova, consider the Camélias Guest House. This charming bed and breakfast is housed in a beautifully restored palheiro, one of the iconic striped houses that line the beachfront. The guest rooms are cozy and comfortable, with traditional decor and modern amenities. The friendly owners serve a delicious homemade breakfast each morning and are always happy to share their local knowledge and recommendations with guests.
Part V: Culture, History, and Local Traditions
20. Festa da Ria (Ria Festival) – Held each summer in Aveiro, the Festa da Ria is a lively celebration of the city’s maritime heritage and culture. The festival features a colorful parade of moliceiro boats decorated with intricate paintings and designs, as well as live music, dance performances, and plenty of delicious food and drink. Visitors can watch the boat parade from the banks of the canals, join in the festive atmosphere, and learn about the city’s rich history and traditions.
21. Museo da Marinha (Maritime Museum) – Located in a historic salt warehouse on the outskirts of Aveiro, the Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look at the region’s long and storied seafaring history. The museum features an extensive collection of model ships, navigation instruments, and other maritime artifacts, as well as exhibits on the history of salt production, fishing, and shipbuilding in the region. Visitors can also learn about the unique ecology of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon and the important role it has played in shaping the local culture and economy.
22. Vista Alegre – Founded in 1824, Vista Alegre is a renowned porcelain factory located just outside of Aveiro. The factory has a long and prestigious history of producing high-quality porcelain tableware, decorative objects, and collectibles. Visitors can tour the factory museum to learn about the history and production process of Vista Alegre porcelain, admire the stunning collections on display, and even paint their own piece of porcelain in the hands-on workshop.
23. Egas Moniz House Museum – Located in the nearby town of Estarreja, the Egas Moniz House Museum is dedicated to the life and work of António Egas Moniz, a Nobel Prize-winning neurologist who pioneered the development of cerebral angiography and lobotomy. The museum is housed in Moniz’s former residence and features exhibits on his groundbreaking medical research, as well as his personal life and the history of the region. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved house and gardens, gaining insight into the life of one of Portugal’s most famous and controversial scientists.
Part VI: Nature and Outdoor Activities
24. BioRia – Just a short drive from Estarreja, BioRia is a stunning nature reserve and wetland area that offers visitors the chance to explore the unique biodiversity of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. The reserve features a network of walking and cycling trails, birdwatching hides, and observation towers, as well as guided boat tours and nature walks. Visitors can spot a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos, storks, and kingfishers, as well as other wildlife such as otters, turtles, and fish.
25. Costa Nova Golf Club – For golf enthusiasts, the Costa Nova Golf Club offers a challenging and scenic 18-hole course set amidst the stunning coastal landscape. The course features well-manicured greens, strategically placed bunkers, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. Visitors can rent golf clubs and carts, take lessons with a professional instructor, or simply enjoy a leisurely round in the beautiful surroundings.
26. Aveiro Lagoon Cycle Route – One of the best ways to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon is by bicycle. The Aveiro Lagoon Cycle Route is a well-marked and maintained path that runs for over 40 kilometers along the shores of the lagoon, passing through picturesque fishing villages, sandy beaches, and lush marshlands. Visitors can rent bicycles in Aveiro or Costa Nova and set out on a self-guided adventure, stopping to admire the scenery, birdwatch, or enjoy a picnic along the way.
Conclusion
Costa Nova and Aveiro offer visitors a truly enchanting and unforgettable experience, with their stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming local communities. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach vacation, a fascinating historical and cultural journey, or an exciting outdoor adventure, these two destinations have something to offer everyone. From the colorful striped houses and golden sands of Costa Nova to the picturesque canals and charming streets of Aveiro, every corner of this region is filled with beauty, character, and authentic Portuguese charm. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and set out to discover the many wonders of Costa Nova and Aveiro – you won’t be disappointed!
