Unforgettable Aveiro Day Trip from Porto by Train

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Looking for an easy day trip from Porto that offers a change of pace, scenic canals, and a touch of seaside charm? An Aveiro day trip from Porto is a great way to experience a different side of Portugal just an easy train ride away.

Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a charming town famous for its colorful Moliceiro boats, Art Nouveau architecture, and relaxed vibe. Just a short ride away is Costa Nova, with its iconic striped houses and beautiful beach.

I took this trip myself, and while Aveiro isn’t packed with major sights, it’s a lovely place to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the coastal atmosphere. In this guide, I’ll show you how to get from Porto to Aveiro, the top things to do, and whether this day trip is worth it for you.

Table of Contents

How to Get from Porto to Aveiro by Train

Taking the train is the easiest and most affordable way to do an day trip from Porto to Aveiro. The journey takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the train. It can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially if you’re taking the cheaper option.

You have two train choices:

Urban train (U): €3.90 one way, slower but budget-friendly. Tickets can only be purchased at the station, but you can check the timetable online.
Alfa Pendular (AP): €13 – €23 one way, faster and more comfortable, but more expensive. Tickets can be bought online in advance.

The urban train departs from São Bento, Porto’s beautiful station known for its azulejo tiles. It also stops at Campanhã, where the faster train departs. I chose the urban train from São Bento, not just for the savings, but for the chance of catching a train from the beautiful station.

By the time we got to Campanhã, the train was already full, and many had to stand. So, if you’re taking the urban train, I highly recommend boarding at São Bento to get a seat!

inside a train station in Porto with blue azulejo tiles on the wall — The train to Aveiro sets off at the beautiful São Bento train station

Things to Do in Aveiro

If you’re wondering how to make the most of your visit, this charming canal town has plenty to offer. For a more in-depth guide, check out my post about Things to Do and See in Aveiro, where I cover all the best activities.

1. See the Azulejo Tiles at the Old Train Station

House next to the train station in Aveiro with blue tiles on the facade, one of the best things to do in Aveiro Portugal — The old train station in Aveiro

One of the best perks of arriving in Aveiro by train is that you’re greeted by a piece of history as soon as you step outside. Right next to the modern train station stands the old Aveiro train station, covered in stunning azulejo tiles depicting local life and historical scenes.

It’s worth taking a moment to admire the artwork before setting off towards the city center.

2. Take a Moliceiro Boat Ride

Two boats on a canal next to a palm tree in Aveiro Portugal — Aveiro is Portugal’s Venice

Aveiro is often called the “Venice of Portugal” thanks to its scenic canals and colorful houses. One of the best ways to experience the town is by taking a ride on a Moliceiro, the traditional, gondola-like boats that cruise through the waterways.

Several companies offer 45-minute tours for about €13, all following a similar route. Guides share insights into Aveiro’s history, canals, and salt production in multiple languages.

A heads-up, at the start of the tour, they may offer to take your photo. If you say yes, be prepared to pay €5 for a printed copy at the end.

🛶 Book your Moliceiro boat tour now!

3. Admire the Art Nouveau Architecture

Typical art deco facade of a building of Aveiro; walking through the old town is one of the best Aveiro Portugal things to do — Typical art deco facade of a building of Aveiro old town

Aveiro is a great place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere, especially if you appreciate architecture. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll come across stunning Art Nouveau buildings with intricate details and colorful facades.

For a deeper look into this architectural style, you can visit the Art Nouveau Museum, which showcases the history and influence of Art Nouveau in Aveiro.

🤩 Visit the most beautiful building on a walking tour!

5. Visit Costa Nova: Striped Houses & Sandy Beach

Colourful striped houses in Costa Nova, just outside Aveiro — The colorful striped houses of Costa Nova

Quiet beach in Costa Nova Portugal — The colorful striped houses of Costa Nova

Just 7 km from Aveiro, Costa Nova is home to Portugal’s most Instagrammable houses, traditional fisherman’s homes painted in vibrant, colorful stripes.

You can reach Costa Nova by bus (€2.45 one way), but be prepared, it took us 45 minutes due to traffic, and public transport doesn’t show up on Google Maps. The bus stop is easy to find, just across the canal from where the Moliceiro boats depart.

Get off at the final stop, and the famous striped houses will be right in front of you. Beyond the picturesque houses, Costa Nova also boasts a beautiful, wide sandy beach, perfect for relaxing.

Just be sure to head back to Aveiro early enough to catch your return train to Porto, or your day trip might turn into an overnight stay!

Where to Eat on Your Day Trip

A bowl of Pad Thai and a Buddha bowl on a table with a glass of water next to it in Aveiro

Aveiro is mainly known for fresh seafood and Ovos Moles, a traditional egg-based dessert, so not very vegan-friendly. However, there are two all-vegan restaurants, Musgo and Raiz, but both are closed on Sundays, and we visited on a Sunday.

Luckily, we found Green Point, a great choice with an extensive vegan-friendly menu. Their vegan tuna was delicious. It’s just outside the city center and a short walk from the train station, perfect before heading back to Porto.

🤩 With a guided tour you can combine a Aveiro and Coimbra day trip from Porto to see the best of both cities!

Final Thoughts: Porto to Aveiro Day Trip

An Aveiro day trip from Porto by train is a great way to experience a different side of Portugal. From its colorful canals and Art Nouveau buildings to the famous striped houses of Costa Nova, Aveiro offers a scenic getaway from the city.

While it’s not the most action-packed destination, Aveiro’s charm lies in its atmosphere, perfect for travelers who love wandering, photography, and coastal vibes. If that sounds like your kind of trip, Aveiro is absolutely worth visiting!

Looking for more easy getaways from Porto? Check out my guide to the best day trips from Porto by train!