Things to do in Bairrada DOC

Experience the beauty of Aveiro’s channels on a tour aboard a colorful Portuguese gondola (Moliceiro) on this half-day tour from Porto. Ride along naturally formed channels that connect to the river and to the sea. Meet your guide at our Meeting Point near S. Bento Train Station in Porto and board a comfortable van for your transfer to Aveiro. Immerse yourself in the culture of this former fishing village, where residents once relied on the river, the sea, and salt production for their livelihoods. Start your experience at the fish market square, offering great views of the city center. Then, embark on an one-hour cruise aboard a vibrantly painted, traditional Moliceiro boat, gliding through the city's channels. After the cruise, your guide will take you to the Costa Nova neighborhood by the sea, where you can admire the small, brightly colored houses with vertical stripes. Your experience concludes with a return to the city of Porto.

In this tour, the walk difficulty level is easy/medium! You`ll walk only 5km and downstream! We leave from Porto towards Arouca town where we will stop shortly for bathrooms and coffee. After a short drive, we`ll arrive at the Walkways and go across the Suspension Bridge! It spans 516 meters-long across the valley and hangs 175m above the Paiva river! Notice: crossing the bridge is not mandatory. You have the option to skip it. Then, you`ll walk the Paiva Walkways downhill in a total length of 5km over a wooden boardwalk zig-zagging along the left bank of the river. Trail Areinho-Vau. The walk will be followed by another highlight of our day: lunch! (fish and vegetarian options also available) After a power nap in the van, we`ll arrive to Costa Nova! Costa Nova is one of the highlights of Portugal – a beautiful fishing village known for its striped colorful houses! Time to enjoy Aveiro, also known as the “Portuguese Venice''! Discover the city center on a short walk, enjoy some free time and relax on a boat trip to see the charming city through the canals! Finish the day back in Porto.

A journey through two of the most beautiful cities in the north of the country with surprises, history and curiosities.Do you know what we are talking about? We'll tell you all the details... Aveiro We leave early in the morning to make the most of the day. A walk through the most beautiful areas of the city to work up an appetite and continue on to the Carcavelos Bridge, a symbol of Art Nouveau, which we will tell you about in detail and also a good place from which to go to the Chapel of São Gonçalinho, which houses relics from the 18th century. We have a few stories to tell you! But for stories, you should go to the Arte Nova Museum, which allows you to learn about the social and cultural context of the origin of the movement while you sit in Captain Major Pessoa's tea house and listen to live jazz music. Quite an experience! Next, if you choose the option, we'll take a 45-minute ride aboard one of the traditional "Moliceiros" boats, similar in design to the Venetian gondolas. Before finishing, we will make a last stop at the Monument to José Estêvão Coelho de Magalhães, one of the most illustrious politicians in the history of Portugal. But what about all the recommendations and picturesque spots we've told you about? You have free time to explore the city at your leisure! Recommendation: Don't leave without trying the local gastronomy! Costa Nova We'll then leave Aveiro and head towards Costa Nova, one of Portugal's most spectacular beaches, known for the iconic striped houses that line the bay. You will be able to take pictures and enjoy a guided tour of the beach most loved by lovers of water sports such as surfing, windsurfing or sailing. Capelha do Senhor da Pedra This picturesque 17th century chapel is located on the rocks of the beach of the same name in Vila Nova de Gaia. Its privileged location on the granite makes it stand defiantly in front of the Atlantic despite not reaching 10 metres in height. Built on a hexagonal plan in 1686 in a place of pagan cults, it stands out for its main altar with Baroque carvings and the two side altarpieces that surround the crucified Christ. The access stairway is 150 metres from the promenade, so it is necessary to cross the sand and stones to reach it. This means that, at high tide, it is impossible to walk to it as it is surrounded by the sea. It promises to be an unforgettable experience, book now!

Depart Porto and journey south to the beautiful coastal city of Aveiro on the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the historical city center to admire the bold Art Nouveau residences and charming foot bridges across the canals. Take stunning pictures of the Baroque-style cathedrals and other amazing architecture. Learn more about the history of the city and how it grew from a small fishing village to the 2nd most populous city in the Centro Region of Portugal. Hear how salt production in the salt marshes played an important role in the city's economy, from the days of the Romans. Then, climb aboard one of the traditional moliceiro boats used to collect sea grass in the lagoon. Cruise along the canals of the "Venice of Portugal" to admire the colorful fishermen's houses of Costa Nova beach and get amazing views of the landscape.

Explore the Best of Portugal with an Unforgettable Tour Combining Nature, Culture, and Traditional Gastronomy This tour takes you to iconic destinations like Costa Nova and Aveiro, a delicious traditional lunch in Arouca, the thrilling 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge crossing, and a hike along the famous Paiva Walkways. Costa Nova: The Charm of the Striped Houses The first stop on your tour is the picturesque Costa Nova, famous for its colorful fishermen's houses with vertical stripes that captivate visitors from all over the world. Take stunning photos while enjoying the fresh coastal breeze and the unique beauty of this seaside village. Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal and the Moliceiro Boat Ride Next, we head to Aveiro, affectionately known as the "Venice of Portugal." Here, you’ll have the chance to take a ride on a moliceiro, a traditional boat once used for collecting seaweed (moliço). During the ride through the city’s canals, admire the Art Nouveau architecture, the salt pans, and the unique charm of this historic city. Traditional Lunch in Arouca Savor the flavors of Portuguese cuisine! In Arouca, you’ll be welcomed with regional dishes. It’s a gastronomic experience that will delight your taste buds. 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge: Thrills in the Heights Get ready to cross the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world. Spanning 516 meters and hanging 175 meters above the Paiva River, the crossing offers breathtaking panoramic views of waterfalls and the region’s wild nature. It’s an exhilarating experience for adventurers. Paiva Walkways: A Connection with Nature After the bridge crossing, embark on a hike along the Paiva Walkways, a wooden trail built along the cliffs of the Paiva River. The route offers stunning views of waterfalls, such as the Aguieiras Waterfall, and majestic rock formations, providing an intimate connection with pristine nature. This tour is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure, spectacular landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. Book your tour now and discover why Costa Nova, Aveiro, Arouca, and the Paiva Walkways are must-visit destinations in Portugal!

The Colónia Agricola de Ílhavo located 5 minutes from the center of Aveiro has a breathtaking landscape with an unmissable fauna and flora. Along the 6 km ride enjoy all this nature while riding one of the most docile and lovable animals on the planet. All this immensity gives you a feeling of being in a completely stunning and natural place, in the middle of the forest. The rides take place entirely in rural space dating from around 1700, during this route take the opportunity to meet the species of flora, and fauna, where you can relax and enjoy the serenity of this place, where there is a perfect setting for bird watching. The breathtaking views make the ride an incredible experience.

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.

Departing from the city of Porto, in a short, comfortable and private trip of 30 minutes, discover the beauty of the city of Aveiro and its famous Ria de Aveiro. Enjoy the peace and tranquility that this place provides. At your own pace and away from the crowds, interact with the community and learn about their stories in a mix between nature and gastronomy, in a unique and unforgettable experience. Have a memorable lunch at a local restaurant and choose the places to enjoy: • discover why it is known as the Venice of Portugal • explore its numerous canals and bridges. • visit the fish market, past Art Nouveau buildings, convent of Princess Saint Joana, Vista Alegre Museum. • Enjoy the colorful moliceiro boats and add a cruise on the Ria Aveiro, to further explore the city from the Ria. • discover Costa Nova, where you will have the opportunity to see and photograph the colorful fishermen's houses, typically painted with vertical stripes. Return in comfort to your hotel in Porto after a day that will surely remain in your fondest memories. This is a private tour. You can adapt the program according to your preferences.

This captivating journey begins in the vibrant city of Porto, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure to the enchanting Costa Nova. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by the iconic striped houses that line the coast, their vivid colors creating a picturesque and photogenic backdrop. Next, we’ll take in sweeping views of the Aveiro salt pans, immersing ourselves in the tranquil and atmospheric landscape of these historic salt fields. A visit to Aveiro’s historic center offers free time to wander its charming streets, brimming with cultural and architectural treasures. This delightful blend of modern vibrancy and historic charm creates an ambiance that is truly captivating. The highlight of the day is undoubtedly a moliceiro boat ride along Aveiro’s winding canals. These traditional boats, adorned with bright colors and intricate motifs, offer a serene and picturesque way to explore the city’s aquatic beauty. As we glide through the canals, you’ll witness the impressive skill of the "moliceiro" pilots, whose expertise adds to the experience. Returning to Porto, you’ll carry with you not just vivid memories of the striking landscapes and colorful traditions, but the deep impression of a day rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.

At this tour people will discover two beautiful beaches from Aveiro, Costa Nova and Barra! Before going to the beach you will also see how the famous salt from Aveiro is made at our Salines and also, at the Harbour, you will learn the history of the cured codfish the famous "Bacalhau". Firstly the tour takes you to Barra beach where you will have about 15 minutes to explore the beach and admire the tallest lighthouse in Portugal. After Barra the tour continues at the beautiful Costa Nova beach where you will have 20 minutes to enjoy and discover the famous colourdful houses and where you can try the "Tripa of Aveiro". At the end of the tour you will recieve a voucher for you to try the famous sweet from Aveiro, the "Ovos Moles".