Aside from Lisbon, Sintra ,Douro Valley and Porto thinking of adding a night in Aveiro. Is it worth staying just one night? Any highlights? Restaurant recommendations? Looks like a charming area. This is a Winter planned trip.
Thanks!
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7840 posts
We spent a couple hours there in 2023 on our drive up to Porto and felt it was enough. The main draw seems to be the very touristy canal boat ride. We skipped it. The historic center is charming and like many other small towns in the country. If arriving mid-day or in the afternoon it’s probably fine for a night. I have no idea what’s open in the winter.
Posted by
Western WA
209 posts
I personally wasn't impressed, also a couple of hours since it was easy enough to stop when driving. Perhaps take a look at Braga or Guimaraes instead. I think Guimaraes would be a nice place to spend a night since the historic town is charming and the birthplace of Portugal.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1926 posts
I agree with the other posters - I was pretty underwhelmed with Aveiro. I also agree with the Braga or Guimaraes suggestions. Other possibilities would be Coimbra, Tomar and Évora. I like all five of these smaller towns better than Aveiro.
Posted by
USA
764 posts
While I thought Aveiro was cute, I don't think I'd spend a night there. One thing I enjoyed was taking a Bolt out to Costa Nova to see the striped houses and walk along the beach. I did all this as a day trip from Porto. The train station at Aveiro is definitely picture worthy if you want a nice selfie. Oh, this was on a January trip, but my jacket kept me warm even with the winds off the ocean.
Posted by
Washington, DC USA
652 posts
I too was underwhelmed and a little disappointed with Aveiro although it is pleasant enough for a short stay. There are some restaurants that server very good, very fresh fish.