If you’ve been dreaming of a Venetian getaway but dreading the crowds and steep prices, this Portuguese city may just be the next best thing to visit.
Dubbed by holidaymakers as the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ the charming coastal city of Aveiro offers a similar atmosphere to its Italian counterpart.
Aveiro has earned its nickname thanks to its picturesque canals, vibrant boats, and Art Nouveau architecture.
Gondola-like vessels – called moliceiros – glide along the city’s three main canals, offering water tours of the estuary that cuts through the heart of the city.
Aveiro is around half the size of Venice, meaning its streets are far more relaxed, allowing visitors to explore without navigating through dense crowds.
Dubbed by holidaymakers as the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ the charming coastal city of Aveiro offers a similar atmosphere to its Italian counterpart
Aveiro has earned its nickname thanks to its picturesque canals, vibrant boats, and Art Nouveau architecture
Much like Italy’s “City of Water,” Aveiro has a rich maritime history and a thriving fishing industry, as reported by LadBible.
For those seeking a slice of adventure, there are plenty of activities to dive into, from canal cruises to salt spas to surfing lessons along Portugal’s stunning central coastline.
The city is also known for its sandy beaches, including the popular Barra Beach and the scenic São Jacinto Beach, perfect for sunbathers and swimmers alike.
During summer months, temperatures can reach 29 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal European destination to catch some rays.
If you’re more interested in sampling local flavours and beverages, Aveiro has you covered at a fraction of Venice’s cost.
Instead of gelato and tiramisu, you’ll find plenty of cheap beer to keep your spirits high – and at just €2 (£1.74) for a pint, you may even forget all about missing Italy’s iconic treats.
Additionally, a meal at a good restaurant can set you back just €8 (£6.98), meaning you can indulge in local Portuguese dishes without breaking the bank.
According to the Center of Portugal, traditional dishes served in restaurants and homes across Aveiro include “ovos-moles” – a sweet dessert made of sugar and egg-yolks – and “Caldeirada de Enguias,” an eel stew seasoned with saffron.
Aveiro is around half the size of Venice, meaning its streets are far more relaxed, allowing visitors to explore without navigating through dense crowds
During summer months, temperatures can reach 29 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal European destination to catch some rays
Much like Italy’s “City of Water,” Aveiro has a rich maritime history and a thriving fishing industry
Aveiro train station
If you’re still not sold on swapping Venice for Aveiro, the cost of getting there might convince you.
Flights to the nearest airport in Porto are a steal, with return tickets from the UK costing as little as £26 on Ryanair and easyJet.
With flights departing from cities including London, Leeds, Bristol, Belfast, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, there’s no shortage of options. After landing, it’s just a quick hour-long drive to Aveiro.
Accommodation is equally affordable, with a stay at the four-star beachfront Costa do Sal Hotel Boat Lounge costing as little as £27.50 per person per night when sharing a room – half of what you’d expect to pay in Venice.
So, for those looking to soak in the beauty and history of a canal city without emptying their wallet, Aveiro offers a budget-friendly and crowd-free alternative to Venice – complete with sunny beaches, colourful boats, and plenty of local charm.
