Highlights of Aveiro: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take this self-guided audio tour and find out why Aveiro is often nicknamed the "Venice of Portugal". On this walking tour, you'll discover how salt ponds, elaborately painted Moliceiro boats, secret-recipe sweets, and world-famous porcelain give the city its unique flavor. Starting at the famous "I Love Aveiro" steps, you'll wander through streets lined with ceramic-decorated buildings and lively squares while learning about Aveiro's evolution from a salt-producing town to the creative university city it is today. Cross the Ponte dos Laços de Amizade adorned with colorful ribbons, sample the city's famous Ovos Moles sweets created by nuns, visit the Art Nouveau Museum with its intricate stonework. You'll also see the baroque Sé Cathedral, the unique Capela de São Gonçalinho where locals throw sweet bread rolls during festivities, and Portugal's biggest porcelain factory. The tour concludes at the serene Infante Dom Pedro City Park where you can relax by the duck lake.
Available options
Highlights of Aveiro: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
You'll start at the famous colorful steps featuring the iconic "I Love Aveiro" lettering, a perfect photo spot overlooking the canal. This is where you'll begin your journey through the Venice of Portugal.
2
You'll cross this charming bridge adorned with thousands of colorful ribbons tied by visitors from around the world. Walk across and marvel at how this simple footbridge has become a symbol of friendship and connection.
3
You'll pass through this lively central square surrounded by elegant buildings and outdoor cafés. Stroll around and soak up the local atmosphere where residents gather and street performers entertain.
4
You'll admire the baroque façade of Aveiro's main cathedral with its impressive bell tower. Step inside to explore the ornate interior and learn about Princess Joana, the city's beloved patron saint.
5
You'll see this former convent that houses religious art and artifacts from the region. Explore the beautiful cloisters and discover the story of Princess Joana who once lived here.
6
You'll visit this charming chapel famous for its unique January festival tradition. Marvel at the baroque architecture and hear about the celebration where locals throw sweet bread rolls from the roof.
7
You'll discover this traditional salt production site that showcases Aveiro's "white gold" heritage. Walk through the historic salt ponds and learn how this industry shaped the city's identity.
8
You'll explore this beautiful Art Nouveau house featuring intricate stonework with delicate flower and animal motifs. Enjoy the elegant interiors that showcase this distinctive early 20th-century style.
9
You'll pass through this bustling square lined with colorful ceramic-decorated buildings. Stroll past the traditional Moliceiro boats and enjoy watching them glide through the canals.
10
You'll visit Aveiro's historic covered market filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Explore the stalls and sample specialties like Ovos Moles, the city's famous egg-yolk sweets.
11
You'll walk across this modern curved bridge offering panoramic views of the canals and colorful buildings. Marvel at how contemporary design blends with Aveiro's historic waterfront.
12
You'll conclude your tour at this peaceful green oasis with a serene duck lake and shaded walking paths. Relax on the grass and enjoy a picnic while reflecting on your Aveiro adventure.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The tour starts at the steps "I Love Aveiro", R. Gustavo Silva, 3810-164 Aveiro. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Porto
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque Ribeira district, historic bridges, and world-famous port wine cellars, Porto offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.
Top Attractions
Ribeira District
The Ribeira district is the historic heart of Porto, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone coming to Porto.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is one of the most famous bookstores in the world, known for its stunning neo-Gothic interior and as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Cultural
1 hour
€6 (includes a book voucher)
Clérigos Tower
The Clérigos Tower is a iconic Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of Porto. Climbing the 240 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.
Architecture
1 hour
€5
Dom Luís I Bridge
This double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck offers stunning views of the river and the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Port Wine Cellars
Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many of Porto's famous port wine cellars, where you can learn about the history of port wine and enjoy tastings.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€10-€30
Must-Try Local Dishes
Francesinha
A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and a special sauce, served with fries.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Bacalhau à Brás
A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and eggs
Tripas à Moda do Porto
A traditional Porto dish made with tripe, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Pastéis de Nata
Delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust, often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Serra do Pilar
Kayaking on the Douro River
Sunbathing at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Enjoying a port wine tasting
Visiting the Livraria Lello
Exploring the Ribeira district
Swimming at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Boat tours on the Douro River
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Porto is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before starting your journey
- • Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center
By train
Porto Campanhã, Porto São Bento
By bus
Porto Bus Terminal (Terminal de Camionagem de Porto)
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with six lines connecting major points of interest.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ribeira
Bolhão
Foz do Douro
Miguel Bombarda
Day trips
Braga
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Braga is a historic city known for its beautiful churches, monasteries, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.
Guimarães
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Guimarães is a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. It's home to a well-preserved medieval center and the stunning Guimarães Castle.
Douro Valley
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
The Douro Valley is a stunning wine region known for its terraced vineyards, port wine cellars, and scenic boat tours.
Festivals
São João Festival • June 23-24
Festa de São João • June 24
Porto Wine Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and long queues
- Take a port wine tasting tour to learn about the history of port wine and sample a variety of wines from different cellars
- Explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as many of its narrow streets and charming squares are best discovered by walking
- Try the local cuisine, such as Francesinha, Bacalhau à Brás, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, at traditional restaurants and cafes
- Take a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the stunning vineyards, visit port wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Douro River
$10
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
