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2-Day Ilhavo Itinerary
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Ilhavo in 2 days
If you only have 2 days to spend in Ilhavo, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
With favorites like Dóri Restaurante - Marisqueira, Forum Aveiro, and Restaurante Praia Do Farol, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like Porta 36 and Dóri so you can get the best taste of Ilhavo while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Ilhavo?
Visiting Ilhavo? See our Ilhavo Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
Table of contents
- Ilhavo in 2 days
- Most popular attractions
- Northwest side of town
Day 1
Most popular attractions
For day 1, we strategically grouped the most popular attraction, Aveiro Museum, with surrounding point of interests to start your trip off with a bang. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 8 hours of your day.
1
•Rasa T — Google reviewAidan M — Google reviewDaud — Google reviewKeith B — Google reviewAlf C — Google reviewSean H — Google reviewMajed A — Google review
Forum Aveiro
4.4
(29649)
4.1
(927)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Restaurant
Forum Aveiro is a charming retail complex with classic stone architecture, offering over 70 stores and a food court. Located on Rua Batalhao de Cacadores, it provides a mainstream shopping experience with 86 stores ranging from clothing, accessories, and jewelry to books, gifts, and sports equipment. The mall also features a children's play area, cinema complex, on-site Wi-Fi accessibility, and various dining options.
Very nice centre to get a good dose of retail therapy, the centre is very modern , located in the old town area with an underground car park to avail of. The centre is beside the canal with the boats frequently passing by . There are so many fashion shops and all the brand names as well as so many more . Definitely worth a visit whilst in town .
Aidan M — Google review
Excellent shopping mall in Aveiro.
High quality and excellent price. All rage if clothes are avaliable.
Mall Building is higher in quality 👌
Next to the boating area.
Very modern retail centre filled with all the big names and more , the central arcade is very open and airy lined either side with various shops spread over two levels . The central area has bench seating and kiosks . Very nice place to visit and have some retail therapy.
Pin wheel display is amazing 🤩 perfectly matched.
This mall has a lot of clothing stores. Tourist can find free toilet here.
What a delight to find and discover this wonderful unique town
It has everything old and new with stunning canals along with beaches that's are just 10 minutes drive away
Apologies, I do not wish to waste my time writing reviews that will be rejected by Google's "brilliant" AI.
I enjoyed my day trip stopping by different towns on the way from Portugal to Madrid. We stopped in Aveiro, where we took pictures, ate, and enjoyed the history.
Nice open mall with many shop and good food court.
R. do Batalhão de Caçadores 10 Store 2.2a, 3810-064 Aveiro, Portugal•
3 min · 0.17 mi
2•Seokjin H — Google reviewEsrf G — Google reviewRoger M — Google reviewCris J — Google reviewDana F — Google reviewMonsieur C — Google reviewSteven G — Google review
Aveiro Museum
4.6
(2848)
4.5
(440)
Museum
History Museums
Aveiro Museum, housed in a 15th-century convent, offers a glimpse into the city's history, art, and culture through its collection of religious art and artifacts. The museum is known for its striking architecture, including the tomb and choir of Princess Santa Joana, chapels, chapter room, and a richly decorated church with magnificent gilded carvings and tiles. It also features a religious collection comprising paintings, sculptures, and ancient furniture.
A small, beautiful museum. It used to be a cloister with multiple chapels, and it now has an adjacent museum. Here you can find more about Saint Princess Joanna story.
Don't miss it if you like churches and you are in Aveiro!
Denise P — Google review
Originally founded in 1461 as the Convent of Jesus (Convento de Jesus), this building was later transformed in the 16th to 18th centuries with Baroque-style renovations. Since 1911, it has served as a museum. Today, it is an important cultural site where visitors can admire Baroque art, the tomb of Princess Saint Joana, intricate azulejo tilework, and architectural details of historical significance. It is particularly meaningful for those interested in art, architecture, and religious history. A highlight is the tomb of Santa Joana, designed by João Antunes, which showcases masterful marble craftsmanship.
※ Included in Aveiro Museum Pass.
The Aveiro Museum, set in the former Convent of Jesus, is a true cultural gem. Its stunning Baroque chapels and sacred art collections are breathtaking, and learning about Princess Saint Joana is inspiring. Even better, admission is free on the first Sunday of each month — a perfect chance to explore!
It is a surprising voluminous museum of princess Santa Joana. The rich collection of religious artifacts is a feast to the faithful. Even though I don't subscribe to Catholic teaching, the life of Princess Santa Joana must have been a story of devotion that moved and loved by many.
Beautiful museum. Very affordable. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Not too busy. Parking was a small challenge because it is located in a popular part of Aveiro but it only took ten minutes to find a spot. Highly recommend.
The museum has a large number of beautiful religious artifacts and it is located on a feminine Dominican convent built in 1458. The ticket to the museum allows the visitor to get access to multiple historic sites in Aveiro.
The permanent exhibition of the museo is a must see. The location an it's history a very interesting. It takes you to another time and life style. Imagining living amongst the nuns and there strict daily routine. The rooms are breath taking, the Church of Jesus, the high choir and the paintings and other art pieces are all qorth seeing. Bring some time for this museo, as takes some time to explore.
A delightfull place to visit, combining both the old architecture of the monastery and the more recent museum area. There are stunning areas of worship where objects are displayed and a large collection of paintings reserved for the more modern area. Only a few euros to enter a great place to spend time. Photography is permitted (no flash).
Av. Santa Joana, 3810-164 Aveiro, Portugal•
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Where
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
7 min · 0.36 mi
3•Giviko K — Google reviewJib I — Google reviewTatiana K — Google reviewQujid — Google reviewBruna P — Google reviewAiste A — Google reviewEugene N — Google review
Maré Cheia
4.6
(3296)
4.5
(1495)
affordable
Restaurant
Portuguese restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Maré Cheia is a seafood restaurant located in Aveiro, Portugal, known for its quality and fresh fish dishes. The restaurant takes advantage of the city's rich maritime resources to offer delicious grilled fish, fish stews, and eel stew. It has garnered praise from locals for its impeccable service and welcoming atmosphere. While some visitors may have had mixed experiences with certain dishes, Maré Cheia remains a popular choice for those seeking well-prepared seafood in the area.
absolutely perfect food was delicious and the service was amazing. they even have tanks of the sea food alive and the place looks superb 🙏 thank you
Daniel P — Google review
Perfect!!! I have never ever in my life eaten such a delicious fish. Sea bass was cooked to perfection. Service was excellent. Prices are really cheap. Highly recommend.
Amazing meal! The mixed platter for 2 (110€) was plenty for my very hungry family of 4, next time we would also order 4 seafood soups (best in the world, dairy free). Freshly weighed before cooking, I wouldn’t mind heading there from Porto to sit at the bar in the back. Our total was 140€, including wine, a steak, 2 soups, moules. We could barely eat dinner, this meal was so good and plentiful.
Great place with amazing sea food. I do advise to book for dinner in advance. Preferably go for dinner around 20:00. Service personnel were very accommodating, active in reservation (called us the moment the space freed up for us earlier than original reservation time).
The soup, stir-fried vegetables, and grilled fish were truly memorable. The stir-fried vegetables, in particular, were the best I had in Portugal. The staff were also very friendly and welcoming.
Possibly the best seafood rice I’ve ever had. Rice was ‘Al dente’ and had the perfect texture and no shortage of seafood (clams, shrimps, half a lobster). Great vinho verde options as well, and friendly service. I can’t recommend this dish enough. Dish for 2 cost 56 euros plus wine starting at 8 the bottle.
We came here for dinner as we wanted to try sapateira (crab). For the starters we had some bread with butter and vegetable soup. Soup was nice, nothing too special. Crab was good, one was enough for 2 people. I wouldn't say that sapateira was something wow, it was ok. It had some crab shell in the mix, not sure if it's supposed to be like this or not, but not the best experience.
Great food, one of the best we tried in Portugal. Everything is melting in your mouth. But the most amazing thing about this place is service. Claudio is a waiter or rather host who you very rarely meet. Friendly and knowledgeable, with great sense of humor, he anticipated our questions and needs. Fantastic! Thank you, Claudio!
R. de José Rabumba 8, 3810-125 Aveiro, Portugal•
6 min · 0.33 mi
4•Alfred N — Google reviewChristian B — Google reviewEkin — Google reviewRob — Google reviewSeokjin H — Google reviewYoshi M — Google reviewFabian V — Google review
Ponte dos Laços de Amizade
4.6
(9898)
4.0
(78)
Bridge
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Ponte dos Laços de Amizade, also known as Ponte dos Carcavelos, is one of Aveiro's oldest and most iconic bridges. Its yellow color and the city coat of arms featuring an eagle make it a picturesque spot along the canal in Bairro do Beira Mar. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around Aveiro, often referred to as the Venice of Portugal, and take boat trips through the charming canals.
The canals of Aveiro are a captivating destination that beautifully combines tranquility and charm. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ this area offers a serene escape with its picturesque waterways, colorful moliceiro boats, and quaint bridges. Walking along the canals, you’ll be greeted with stunning reflections of the surrounding architecture, adding to the magical atmosphere.
The area is incredibly peaceful, making it an ideal place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature and the city’s history. Unlike the bustling crowds of larger tourist spots, Aveiro’s canals maintain a quiet charm that feels intimate and inviting. The resemblance to Venice is unmistakable, yet it carries its own unique character that sets it apart.
Whether you choose to explore by taking a traditional boat ride, enjoying a coffee at one of the nearby cafes, or simply sitting by the water to soak in the ambiance, the canals offer something special for everyone. They are not just a highlight of Aveiro but a testament to the city’s cultural and natural beauty. A visit to Aveiro is incomplete without spending time here—it’s an experience that will leave lasting memories.
Mahmoudi A — Google review
This bridge is the heart of Aveiro — from here, you can easily hop on a boat tour or start a peaceful walk through the historic center.
We joined a boat ride right next to this spot, gliding under old bridges and learning about the town's history. After that, we strolled through the nearby square and admired the tiled buildings and quiet churches.
It's calm, scenic, and charming — one of the most relaxing parts of our Portugal trip. Highly recommended.
Very charming place which reminds me a little bit of the Amsterdam canals. There is also a market every Sunday where locals sell 2nd hand items and antiques.
It’s a beautiful ponte, surrounded by shopping malls, street markets (depending on the day and time), coffee shops and bars. The coffee shops along the river offer the best view, I totally recommend it. It is just a peaceful place to walk alongside of the river.
Nice canal that runs through Aveiro , easy to walk along, there is a market that is near this bridge and it’s not to far to walk from the main train station. The main bus station is very close to the train station
This modest pedestrian bridge, built with wood or metal, blends seamlessly into the traditional canal setting of Aveiro. In 2014, two university students in Aveiro began tying ribbons to the bridge, turning it into a symbolic place to celebrate friendship and love. Today, the railings are covered with thousands of colorful ribbons, creating a vibrant and heartfelt display. Many visitors continue the tradition, leaving behind their own ribbon as a token of connection and memory.
Enjoy a wonder walk along the canal in Aveiro. This is a fun quiet place to hang around for couple of hours. I like the view in the afternoon, such a beautiful sunset. Then went to a coffee shop and tried some local sweets, which were extremely high in sugar but delicious.
Nice place to be and see little boats floating by. It is easily accessible the inner city. Especially nice to get out of the masses of people in the shopping mall.
4 min · 0.19 mi
5•Sara P — Google reviewAlejandra B — Google reviewMinh L — Google reviewRoman V — Google reviewSorina O — Google reviewAnthony G — Google reviewAlon K — Google review
Subenshi Sushi
4.7
(4168)
4.5
(1594)
affordable
Japanese restaurant
Subenshi Sushi is a top choice for sushi in Portugal, known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional service. The restaurant offers traditional sushi with a modern twist and is housed in a stunning location with an impressive aquarium view. Guests praise the attentive staff and the exquisite presentation of dishes, which are described as works of art. The menu features a blend of traditional and innovative flavors that showcase the chef's brilliance.
One of the best sushi experiences I have ever had. Highly recommended and will visit as many times as I can
Arash R — Google review
One of the greatest experiences I’ve had recently! From the moment we arrived, all the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful with my 3 yo son who was a bit unsettled at the beginning. The atmosphere is unique and the food is fantastic!! They accommodate all the dietary requirements, including for pregnant women 🤩 We will definitely be Back!!
We visited around midday and the food was excellent overall – only one of the rolls in the combo wasn’t to our taste. However, I wanted to point out something that left a negative impression: we noticed that the hostess at the reception was offering a complimentary glass of wine to most guests as a welcome gesture.
My husband and I are relaxed people and currently on vacation, so we were quite surprised that we were not offered the same, especially when it seemed that everyone else around us was. I don’t know if it was because of how we were dressed or just a biased attitude, but it came across as quite classist.
We’ve dined at some of the best sushi restaurants and for us, this kind of gesture is not a luxury – it’s about feeling welcomed and respected as a guest. We don’t believe we should have to look a certain way to be treated equally. Experiences like this leave a bad taste, no matter how good the food is
Services and atmosphere were top notch. The digital menu was hard to use, too much switching back and forth and trying to remember what we wanted to order. They should just try to digitize the ordering process too to make the experience smoother. Sushi was good but nothing special.
Good service and food quality is very high. The prices are a little bit on the high side, but considering a very touristic place, they are still reasonable
One of our favorite in Porto. The chef never disappoints. 3 of us had miso soup, the fourth enjoyed the crepes. We order ceviche, udon pasta( thick pasta)for one,chef’s choice for 3 of us. We had Sangria, Coke Zero and water. All were delicious and we enjoyed it to the last piece. Our kids from Canada, admired the beauty of the building also.
Crazy how good and unique the food is. I’m a pretty picky eater and loves every single bite. ❤️
You pay here (quite a lot) for the design, service and Instagram posts. The food is ok, not more. It is served with all sorts of effects like smoke and big decorative plates which are very instagrami. Because of these so many decorations and effects the sushi is overshadowed.
Beautiful design of the place, very good service though. If you dont make a reservation you get a free glass of sparkling wine for the wait, so perhaps I would recommend not to reserve a table if you want this perk.
R. Carlos Aleluia 4 17, 3810-077 Aveiro, Portugal•
I'll never travel to Ilhavo without this trip planner again
Where to eat
Under a 5-minute walk from Maré Cheia, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.
Porta 36
3.7
(1215)
3.5
(781)
affordable
Restaurant
Porta 36, located across from O Bairro near Mercado do Peixe, boasts a stylish black and white design with an international twist on local products. The restaurant is known for its Pao de Lo de Ovar dessert, grilled oysters, and selection of wines. The cozy space offers great customer service and attentive servers who are quick to replace any running-out items. Guests can enjoy delicious Portuguese food accompanied by Fado music in the background.
Possibly the best steak with cream mushroom sauce I have ever had. Service was exceptional. Great location. My friends had the vegetaruan pasta and the seafood mix with shrimp. They all raved about the experience.
Tricia W — Google review
While passing through Aveiro, we thought we'd grab something to eat. After a short walk through the city streets, we found this restaurant where we decided to stop for a bite to eat.We didn't have high expectations but we were pleasantly surprised ordering something basic from their menu of the day. Overall it was very tasty and cheap, worth trying if you're in a hurry and you don't have enough time to explore the city in search of the perfect restaurant
It is in the center and the right next to my hotel , the waiter was very nice and welcoming , the food did not take long and it was really nice .
The octopus salad was really good , and the shrimp was delicious as well , the only comment i have is that the shrimp was not deveined and i had to clean it. But otherwise , satisfied with the service and the quality. Would visit again.
We stopped by this place by chance without checking any reviews, and that was our mistake. We ordered grilled shrimp and squid, and they arrived completely burned. The waiter just said that's how it's supposed to be. Very disappointing. The wine was good, though.
Food was not good. Stale chips, beef very undercooked(asked for medium rare got barely rare)
Waitress and waiter were very nice but very understaffed and took a long time.
Very overpriced when comparing quality of food and drinks to similar restaurants in the city.
Postive note: cool patio and had heaters for a chillier than usual night.
Amazing quality food. The restaurant is small but cozy and the service was quick and efficient. I had prawn curry and it was amazing.
We had lunch here and chose the daily special. I had the cod casserole-type dish, cod with cream, and my husband had the duck rice. Both meals were delicious and the special included bread, two glasses of wine. We also ordered dessert and my husband had an espresso. All included it was less than €30. Great deal! Service was friendly and efficient. Highly recommend!
We went there at 19h sharp, and there was no need for a reservation. We took the platter of presunto and cheese, the seafood mix, and the chocolate mouse/pavlova desert. The food was amazing with correct proportions, but I haven't been there enough to know if it's consistent. I recommend our order due to the quality, quantity, and price... Great place to dine out as a couple or small group
Largo da Praça do Peixe 36, 3800-105 Aveiro, Portugal•
I'll never travel to Ilhavo without this trip planner again
Day 2
Northwest side of town
For day 2, we recommend exploring the northwest side side of town. Start the day off with Casas Típicas da Costa Nova, then wind down and take it easy by the time you get to Vista Alegre Atlantis, SA. All together, your day would be filled with about 7 hours of non-stop fun.
1•Maureen W — Google reviewDon H — Google reviewMurillo P — Google reviewBrigita B — Google reviewFlo — Google reviewClayton S — Google reviewAleksandra S — Google review
Casas Típicas da Costa Nova
4.7
(14379)
5.0
(4)
This place is so cute! The striped houses are definitely a site to see! Across the way you have an entire walking path and the river next to it. Take the time to walk, look at the houses and stop at the souvenir shop, you will find unique items here!
C R — Google review
Super quaint but also a bit like Venice beach or the Jersey shore - lighthouses and mini-golf! Had some great food including right on the beach.
Not much to see here apart from the somewhat unique and colourful houses.
There's also a meat market and a few cafes.
This is more like an interesting rest stop on the journey to Aviero.
Toilet facilities are available here.
These striped houses are absolutely charming and give a special character to Costa Nova. The original idea behind their colorful design dates back to when they were fishermen’s houses — the bright colors helped the fishermen spot their homes from afar while out at sea.
It’s a truly picturesque and unique place that captures the authentic spirit of coastal Portugal.
Really cute, colourful houses. You can take a walk in the promenade near water or near the colourful houses.
All the routes are pretty flat. Lots of parking spaces to leave your car.
Would not go out the way to visit, but it was nice walk
Suuuuuper pretty houses! Some are very well maintained and some are not in a good shape, some are painted very colorful and some are not. All in all it’s around 500m of cute houses. Absolutely worth a visit!
Beautiful spot to take photos and walk along the street. Highly recommend this spot and hitting up the market as well for some baked treats.
What a lovely street with fun stripey houses. Highly recomended to snap a few great pictures.
Av. José Estevão 65, Gafanha da Encarnação, Portugal•
4 min · 0.21 mi
2•Kevin A — Google reviewAidan M — Google reviewVN — Google reviewCarole K — Google reviewBruno R — Google reviewChristopher S — Google reviewDiana U — Google review
Mercado da Costa Nova
4.4
(3275)
4.6
(21)
Seafood market
Food & Drink
Farmers Markets
Best seafood ever! I bought a huge crab and it was full! The bakery looked dangerous so I had to cover my eyes and run. There are some nice shops to buy souvenirs. They also have great fair goodies across the street. This one stop filled all the gaps in my trip.
Paul R — Google review
Not much to see or do here. The quaint striped homes are good for a drive-by but that’s about it. Markets were not big or varied. Our guide didn’t know much about the area either which didn’t help.
Oh wow if you like a bit of fish this pkace is definitely not to be missed . From early in the morning the fish comes into this busy market , literally just of the boats , the place is so busy with stall holders shouting the price of the fish thier selling to attract you , along with the smell of the fish and the sheer buzz of all the goings on , it’s not be missed . There is also fresh bread and bakeries in the same complex along with a butchers . The fish for sale looks absolutely amazing. We didn’t buy fish this day but I’ll definitely be back soon to buy some.
Lots of seafood options and fresh.
Freshest fish, helpful vendors.
The freshest fish you will find and the people prepare the fish how you would like. Also you can have a chat and they will give you tips on how to cook the fish.
Great fish market and bakery section attached. Go early while the selection is larger.
Lots and lots of fresh seafood options!
It is cheap and has a lit of fish and bakery . Everything wirg good Quality
Av. José Estevão 236, Costa Nova do Prado, 3830-453 Gafanha da Encarnação, Portugal•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
11 min · 0.59 mi
3•Krzysztof Z — Google reviewBrigita B — Google reviewL M — Google reviewEsra D — Google reviewEmilia K — Google reviewArtur V — Google reviewNicky K — Google review
Praia da Costa Nova
4.6
(12430)
4.5
(699)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Praia da Costa Nova is a stunning beach destination that captivates visitors with its unique charm. This picturesque stretch of sandy coastline, extending over 9 kilometers along the western peninsula, is renowned for its vibrant striped houses that create a colorful backdrop against the golden sands and rolling dunes. The beach offers ample space for sunbathing and relaxation, even during peak summer months when the northern section tends to attract more crowds.
Strong winds all day, it is not very crowded, so you can feel really small compared to the ocean, walking alone on the beach, hearing big waves and wind coming past you, it feel so good.
Daud — Google review
Vivisted in February. Wide beach( can't imagine how busy it is getting in the summer). Was warm enough for a walk, nice to admire nature in action when waves struck the stone made up shore. Few restaurants are open and serve food and drink.
There is a wooden path that stretches a long way next to the dunes and the beach.
It is much easier to walk on the path than on sand, but both feel nice 😁
A large and beautiful beach, clean and with fine white sand, without shells or stones. Big waves and the unbridled power of the ocean.
One of the most beautiful beach i have ever seen. Very relaxing.
Very nice beach with long and wide shore with nice and soft sand. Along the beach h there are a lot of wooden paths that allow you to enjoy a long walk with great views of the beach and ocean. Even though it was August the water was very cold so it is not nice for swimming. Also the coast is very windy.
Nice beach with Coffee shps and restaurants. The sea is dangerous.
Lovely clean beach with lifeguard and was easy to park on a weekday in early July.
R. da Quinta do Cravo 17, Gafanha da Encarnação, Portugal, USA•
3 min · 0.98 mi
4•Aidan M — Google reviewSeokjin H — Google reviewMiguel M — Google reviewHavva G — Google reviewAidan M — Google reviewJorge A — Google reviewRenata V — Google review
Praia da Barra
4.7
(2799)
4.4
(297)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Praia da Barra is a must-visit destination on an Aveiro beach tour, offering romantic and picturesque scenery near the mouth of the Aveiro river. The beach boasts well-maintained wooden walkways leading over dunes to a wide open expanse with plenty of space for surfers and beachgoers. During the summer months, it becomes one of the most popular beaches in the area, while in spring, fall, and winter it offers a calm atmosphere.
Visited in Feb. Can't imagine how busy it gets in the summer months. Decent weather we had in Feb and good for a stroll. One restaurant opened on the beach front at this time.
Krzysztof Z — Google review
Just a lovely beach so close to the town, there are bars restaurants along the long wood deck path overlooking this soft white sand beach with the calm waves and good for paddling, swimming and surfboards. The beach is very big with loads of space for all to enjoy and have fun . The town and main shops are only a short stroll away .
This is a wide, sandy beach known for its long stretch of shoreline and well-maintained coastal promenade. It offers excellent conditions for water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and kite surfing, making it a popular destination for active beachgoers. During the winter months, the beach sees strong, consistent waves that attract surfers despite the low water temperatures—typically around 14°C. Even in summer, the water rarely exceeds 20°C. Outside the winter season, the shallow and calmer waters make it ideal for families and leisure swimmers. The beach is also visually striking, with the iconic Farol de Aveiro and a backdrop of gently curving dunes creating perfect photo opportunities—especially at sunset, when the entire scene is bathed in golden light.
This is my favorite beach. Lots to do and see. Great for fishing, walking on the extensive board walks, spending thd day at the beach or at many beach bars. There is always something to do or just do nothing. Enjoy.
Such a beautiful place with huge waves. It’s not crowded like other beaches.
Fantastic beach and close to the town (within east walking distance) and a parque de Autovannas (campervan area) very close by the beach has life guards on duty during the summer months and has bars/restaurants along the long boardwalk that goes all the way along from the beach up past the next beach (however there is a part of the boardwalk that is impassable (June 2025 ) the beach is good to swim at and loads of space .
Wonderful beach and place to visit. Not only for its quircky stripe houses but also the beach and the beach bar. We had a great time here and will definitely return when visiting Aveiro.
Very active beach. Which is fantastic. Yet late afternoon with a drink very relaxing.
3 min · 1.1 mi
5•Gina L — Google reviewSeokjin H — Google reviewEKATERINA B — Google reviewAnuj Y — Google reviewBrigita B — Google reviewConnection E — Google reviewCain L — Google review
Farol de Aveiro
4.6
(11894)
4.4
(211)
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Landmark red-&-white lighthouse, built in 1893, with 288 steps to sweeping ocean vistas.
Lovely place to visit with lots of very interesting and unusal history surrounding this area.
We did an afternoon tour which was very informative.
Steve A — Google review
I stopped into this place on my way driving from Porto to Lisbon. Like many beach towns it also was a bit quiet because only a small number of people live year-round in the small coastal towns. I loved the lighthouse on the beach very cool. I can imagine that during July and August these towns are brimming with tourists. It’s nice to take a walk on the beach without all of the noise and crowds
Standing at 62 meters in height (66 meters above sea level), this is the tallest lighthouse in Portugal and the second tallest in the Iberian Peninsula. It was designed in 1879 and completed in 1893. Since the automation of its operations in 1990, the lighthouse has been unmanned. The exterior features a distinctive pattern of red and white horizontal stripes. Inside, there are 271 stone spiral steps followed by 20 steel steps and an elevator. Visitors can access the interior during designated hours on Wednesdays. From the top, you can view the actual lighthouse beacon and enjoy sweeping panoramas of Praia da Barra, the Atlantic coastline, the Aveiro Lagoon, and nearby towns.
Note: Visitors are required to use the staircase to reach the top; the elevator is not available for public use. In addition, there is no online reservation system. A staff member is present on site, but entry is informal—visitors must either call ahead or knock at the lighthouse door to speak directly with the staff for access.
It was a moment, I haven't entered, I just visited the area in the mid September, the area is amazing. There is long side of the beach with several places around to have a drink. IT'S A COMBINATION of art nouveau in the down town with peaceful Beach time just 10 min away, car drive. I AM NOT FAMILIAR whether public transportation could be used to reach the place, BUT IF YOU WANT PEACEFUL ESCAPE AND SUNSET OR SUNRISE, IT IS YOUR PLACE TO GO.
Amazing place. Good restaurants nearby and calm beach. I recommend doing the 1.5 km walk across the bank. Its fun and you feel the water. Ample parking.
It stands 62 meters (203 feet) tall, making it the tallest lighthouse in Portugal (but not the tallest one in Europe).
The stone lighthouse was completed in 1893 to mark the entry to the Aveiro Lagoon.
It is only open for a very short period of time- for a few hours on wednesday... so if you want to clikb it, you have to really plan it.
Lots of parking spots available nearby
The tallest lighthouse in Portugal! 🇵🇹 beautiful especially at sunset. I heard that you can visit it on Wednesday from 14:00 to 17:00.
Very cool walkable area. I was unfortunately there during the forest fires so everything was a bit cloudy and shops were closed.
However, this is a wonderful area to hang with family. There's a walking path alongside the water and plenty of restaurants to choose from.
13 min · 7.5 mi
6•Burak A — Google reviewAndré L — Google reviewLeonardo M — Google reviewCláudia A — Google reviewFrancisca R — Google reviewJaqui S — Google reviewRita A — Google review
Vista Alegre Atlantis, SA
4.6
(3188)
4.5
(407)
Museums
Specialty Museums
Amazing spot. It is a part of Portugal's history. There's much art in porcelain. You can buy many pieces there, as well. You will take about 2 hours there. The ticket's cost is 6 EUR, but it's worth.
Carlos L — Google review
200 years of ceramic production history 🫡 When you are around the factory, dont miss out on visiting museum, outlet and Bordallo Pinheiro stores ;)
I really liked the museum but the best part was the temporary exhibition at the beginning of the walking tour. The entire museum shows a lot of porcelain pieces but only in the beginning temporary exhibition was I given an explanation of the craft with proper detail and objects as examples.
Beautiful store and amazing history behind vista alegre, definitely a must visit.
Great place to visit. So much story and detail at the exposition, worth the money for sure. 👌
The place is very Nice. It was good to learn How this Company has evolved over de years. the Guide had deepth understanding and explaind everything Very good! Now i apreciate this Brand more
What kind of church asks for money to enter? Such a bizarre concept I’ve never seen before as a Portuguese person.
“Then Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves.”
Matthew 21:12-17
Vista Alegre should be ashamed that they’re attempting to profit off worshippers who want to look at this amazing church.
Great experience! A quiet place. Didn't manage to visit the Chapel but everyone says is amazing!
Vista alegre Atlantis, 3830-292 Aveiro, Portugal•
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Where to eat
Even the most seasoned adventurers need a break to chow down some food. Close to Mercado da Costa Nova, these restaurants are about a 1-minute walk away.
Dóri
4.6
(2488)
4.2
(691)
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Restaurant
Dóri is a fantastic place to savor a variety of fresh seafood. The attentive and professional service adds to the overall experience, but it's advisable to make reservations in advance due to its popularity. The menu boasts delicious options such as grilled octopus, clams, and grouper, with the homemade cheesecake being particularly outstanding. The seafood festival dish and massada dishes are highly recommended for those looking for something special.
A solid choice for seafood lovers when you are in the area. This was our second visit. The sea bass we had on our first visit was the best we've ever had. The second time around, we went with their recommendation and we really enjoyed the grouper. The octopus salad was also well made. We'll definitely return on our next visit to Aveiro. Reservations are highly recommended during the high season.
Sila A — Google review
4.6 I recommend eating at Dori and making a reservation in advance.
The food was great with generous portions. I would recommend the Lenguado and the octopus salad.
The atmosphere was good and the waiter was nice.
We were celebrating a birthday so we requested a special dessert but they forgot about it. They also switched up the meat doneness. Besides that everything was great.
We went here for my birthday. The service was fantastic. We enjoyed the food. We had previously gone afew years ago. We will definitely go again .
Top place to eat see food 🤘
Fish is great here, but yah, the see food is the best..
Highly recommended..
This is a must STOP for Lunch or Dinner in Costa Nova..
And you are realy close to the beach..
Was expecting better since I have heard so many good things about this place by my local family. We had a variety of local fish and some was overcooked and others were just ok. The fruit platter wasn’t great but the service was pleasant. I don’t think I’d return as there is no value and much better places along this little stretch of street
One of the best seafood restaurants in the world
Must try the seafood rice and grilled seabass
Very good restaurant with good crab and fish soap. Design is modern and service is good. Can easily recommend it.
One of the best seafood places I have ever been. Everything was incredible. Services was magnificent and food, food was delicious. Special mention to the rice with octopus and prawns. We recommend this 100% for everyone who’s visiting that area.
R. das Companhas 2, 3830-000 Gafanha da Encarnação, Portugal•
Zazzaro Pizzaria Restaurante
4.7
(289)
4.6
(37)
Restaurant
Price and food are excellent compared to other nearby restaurants. The best was a creamy tomato soup, but its not creamy at all. And perfect pizza was great too!!
Jackie L — Google review
My wife and I had a great experience at Zazzaro yesterday. The staff was welcoming and friendly. The food was very tasty and well priced. Recommend the vinho tinto de casa, Arancini, bruschetta and pizza. Not pictured but equally tasty, was their affogato!
Zazzaro Pizzaria Restaurante – A Top-Class Experience
We visited Zazzaro without a reservation and were warmly welcomed – clearly a popular place, but the staff still made room for us with great hospitality. We both had pizza followed by tiramisu for dessert. The quality of both the food and dessert was absolutely top-notch. The pizza was perfectly baked with a delicious crust and high-quality ingredients, and the tiramisu was one of the best we've ever had. There is honestly nothing to criticize. Highly recommended!
Awesome pizze in a very nice place, and very good service!
Perfect tiramisu!
By the way... we forgot a box of unfinished food on the table when leaving... and the waiter came running after us to give it. Very nice.
I went here with coworkers and it was a great lunch! The waiters were fantastic and cozy atmosphere. We all ordered pizza and mine was the Diavola, spicy pepperoni. They were delicious, thin crust, as I like! The wine list is great with good options and at a great price.
Had a lovely meal here during our stay July 2025 . I had a very juicy burger with homemade chips , the burger had a fantastic taste to it but I’d have thought it could have been a bit bigger but excellent all the same, the pizzas are very good value and extremely tasty , the service is the best you can expect , very mannerly and obliging staff , the cost is good for the quality of the restuarent. I would definitely recommend this place to all .
Amazing food and staff...Great prices and really really good food.
We had lasagne and the pork rissotto...5*
Excellent food, drinks, and staff! And they were playing Nina Simone… that plus the location? 100% recommend if you’re stopping by or staying in Costa Nova.
Av. José Estevão 192, 3830-453 Gafanha da Encarnação, Portugal•
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Restaurante Praia Do Farol
4.4
(410)
4.4
(87)
affordable
Restaurant
If you're looking for a delightful dining experience, Restaurante Praia Do Farol is a gem you won't want to miss. Nestled in the charming locale of Praia da Barra and Costa Nova, this cozy spot offers an authentic taste of local cuisine that’s both affordable and delicious. While it can get busy, leading to a bit of a wait for your meal, the friendly staff ensures that every moment spent there is enjoyable.
Wonderful service fresh delicious food. We picked the freshly caught fish we liked and the cooked it up with potatoes, kale and a side salad. Really delicious and lots of food. We went with our kids and they were very accommodating with our picky eaters.
Julia F — Google review
Very good meat 🥩 and fish plates. The dishes very tasty and 100% home-cooked. The quality was top.
Unfortunately they served the dishes almost cold. After short reheating it was OK again.
Great place with amazing food! I would recommend to book on advance.
I had one of the best meals I have ever had at Praia do Farol! Our service was absolutely fantastic. We had the special of the day - wild caught sea bass from that same day! The food, wine, and experience was easily the best we have had so far on our trip to Portugal! Thank you again! :)
The restaurant is cozy and the food is OK. We went there for dinner during the week but it is obvious they have staff that are not trained/new and only one Brazilian waiter was giving an outstanding service. The seafood rice was OK and we ordered for 2 people however, the portion it was big. So take that in mind when you order, perhaps for 2 people that are used to eat a lot it might be worth it. We took the leftovers home because it was still rice for 2 people 😅 I would come back here for the food but something that really annoyed me is that for some reason all the 3 waiters disappeared for long periods at the same time and the desserts took a long long time to be served.
Best Seafood restaurant we've been to in Praia da Barra and Costa Nova. Service is amazing. Food absolutely delicious. The cataplana is to die for and their marisqueira just as good. Their stripped bass was so tender and moist. Don't forget the house white wine... spectacular!
We had an amazing experience!
Great service and the food, wine, dessert was just absolutely delicious.
We were there for lunch and we did not regret it. Service are very friendly and helpful. We did spend a lot of time there because the restaurant was full We need to wait a bit for our food but we did enjoy every moment. For the people who are there for some quick food, it is definitely not a place and for the people who wants to enjoy the authentic and affordable local food...this is definitely a must try.
Everything was good there, mostly their dessert. Thank you again for the great food and service.
Lgo do Farol 11, 3830-753 Gafanha da Nazaré, Portugal•
Visual Restaurante - Bar
4.2
(319)
4.4
(57)
Restaurant
Bar
Visual Restaurante - Bar offers a serene dining experience with its indoor seating providing picturesque views of the beach and sea. The atmosphere is peaceful and not overly crowded, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal. The menu features a variety of options including vegan, vegetarian, seafood, and poultry dishes along with an array of drinks and desserts. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive.
Very delicious though simple food. We took chicken wrap and poke bowl, which were great.
Andrii L — Google review
Burger would benefit from a little effort like melting the chease and putting some sauce or dressing in it. The fries didn't come with a dipping sauce either. Rather bland, nothing homemade. One burger, one soda, one Magnum icecream 15.10 euro.
Great cocktails and very friendly service. We had Porto Tônico with orange slices, very tasty. Right across the street from the beach with inside and outside seating.
Best thing: bathrooms were very clean!
Enjoy seaview while you eat, their indoor seating has scenic view towards the beach and sea, quiet atmosphere, not crowded (but probably due to low season), simple lunch with different selections including vegan, vegetarian, seafood, poultry...and quite some choices of drinks and desserts, friendly staff too!
A quiet spot by the beach. You can choose it for having a meal or enjoying coffee and dessert. On a hot day, you might need to sit indoors because the outdoor tables don’t have umbrellas.
Very nice and cosy place directly by the beach. I had the risotto with gambas and veggies, an iced tea and a hot chocolate. The risotto was really delicious and the service was great and attentive. I spent the whole afternoon there, the environment was really nice.
Lovely location right next to the beach, good chill out music, friendly staff and cold beer. All we needed to have a few relaxing hours on our holiday. Oh, and the toilets were spotless. Thumbs up 👍😊
A very comfortable place in front of the beach, delicious food and lovely bartenders! You must taste their fresh sandwiches and quiches and, for sure, their amazing cakes!
R. Eça de Queiroz 8 R/c Esq, 3830-466 Gafanha da Encarnação, Portugal•
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Best-of categories in Ilhavo
Restaurants
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It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ilhavo for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Ilhavo in January
- Weather in Ilhavo in February
- Weather in Ilhavo in March
- Weather in Ilhavo in April
- Weather in Ilhavo in May
- Weather in Ilhavo in June
- Weather in Ilhavo in July
- Weather in Ilhavo in August
- Weather in Ilhavo in September
- Weather in Ilhavo in October
- Weather in Ilhavo in November
- Weather in Ilhavo in December
Explore nearby places
All related maps of Ilhavo
- Map of Ilhavo
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Ilhavo throughout the year
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Ilhavo?
Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:
Day itineraries for nearby cities
- 2-Day Porto Itinerary
- 2-Day Coimbra Itinerary
- 2-Day Braga Itinerary
- 2-Day Vila Nova de Gaia Itinerary
- 2-Day Aveiro Itinerary
- 2-Day Guimaraes Itinerary
- 2-Day Matosinhos Itinerary
- 2-Day Viseu Itinerary
- 2-Day Leiria Itinerary
- 2-Day Fatima Itinerary
- 2-Day Figueira da Foz Itinerary
- 2-Day Amarante Itinerary
- 2-Day Vila do Conde Itinerary
- 2-Day Maia Itinerary
- 2-Day Peso Da Regua Itinerary
- 2-Day Covilha Itinerary
- 2-Day Espinho Itinerary
- 2-Day Santa Maria da Feira Itinerary
- 2-Day Barcelos Itinerary
- 2-Day Lamego Itinerary
- 2-Day Povoa de Varzim Itinerary
- 2-Day Arouca Itinerary
- 2-Day Batalha Itinerary
- 2-Day Penafiel Itinerary
- 2-Day Ourem Itinerary
- 2-Day Lousa Itinerary
- 2-Day Tabuaco Itinerary
- 2-Day Serra da Estrela Itinerary
- 2-Day Condeixa-a-Nova Itinerary
- 2-Day Luso Itinerary
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