From Lisbon: Aveiro, Moliceiro Boat and Coimbra Tour

Nestled along Portugal’s coast, the charming cities of Aveiro and Coimbra beckon visitors to discover their captivating charms. From the ‘Portuguese Venice’ of Aveiro, where colorful Moliceiro boats glide through serene canals, to the historic university town of Coimbra, this comprehensive tour promises a well-rounded exploration of the country’s cultural gems. Whether you’re marveling at Aveiro’s architecture, indulging in the renowned Ovos Moles pastry, or delving into Coimbra’s rich history, this journey promises to leave a lasting impression. But there’s more to uncover as you venture beyond the typical tourist path.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Aveiro.

Key Points

• This tour allows visitors to explore the ‘Portuguese Venice’ of Aveiro, including a 1-hour Moliceiro boat trip and tasting of the famous Ovos Moles pastry.
• The tour also includes a visit to the historic city of Coimbra, where travelers can discover the impressive Sé Velha Cathedral and the tranquil Convent of Santa Clara.
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Lisbon by air-conditioned minivan is provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• The tour offers a comprehensive way to experience the highlights of Aveiro and Coimbra, two of Portugal’s most captivating destinations.
• With the inclusion of a delectable lunch, the tour provides a well-rounded and immersive exploration of the region’s culture, history, and culinary delights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the ‘Portuguese Venice’

Oftentimes, visitors begin their tour of Aveiro, known as the ‘Portuguese Venice,’ by taking a leisurely boat trip on the city’s iconic Moliceiro boats.

These traditional, colorful vessels navigate the city’s intricate network of canals, providing a unique perspective of Aveiro’s historic architecture and charming waterways.

As the boat glides along, passengers can admire the delicate filigree of the Convent of Santa Joana and the impressive Aveiro Cathedral. The tour also allows visitors to savor the famous Ovos Moles, a delectable local pastry.

After the boat ride, travelers can explore the colorful houses at Costa Nova Beach, completing their immersion in Aveiro’s distinct Portuguese Venice-like ambiance.

Moliceiro Boat Trip Experience

Climbing aboard the vibrant Moliceiro boats, visitors embark on a captivating journey through Aveiro’s intricate waterways, seeing the city’s rich maritime heritage. These traditional gondola-like vessels, adorned with colorful designs and intricate carvings, offer a unique perspective of the ‘Portuguese Venice.’

During the boat trip, passengers can:

1. Admire the picturesque canals and bridges that define Aveiro’s landscape.
2. Learn about the history and significance of the Moliceiro boats in the local culture.
3. Snap stunning photographs of the charming houses, buildings, and landmarks along the waterfront.
4. Savor the tranquility and serenity of gliding through the serene waters of Aveiro.

This enchanting Moliceiro boat experience allows visitors to truly enjoy the captivating essence of Aveiro.

Aveiro’s Historic Center Highlights

After the captivating Moliceiro boat tour, visitors can explore Aveiro’s historic center, which boasts an array of architectural gems and cultural highlights.

The Convent of Santa Joana, with its striking Renaissance-style façade, stands as a testament to the city’s rich religious heritage. Nearby, the Aveiro Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure, captivates visitors with its intricate details and serene atmosphere.

The historic center also offers the opportunity to sample the famous Ovos Moles pastry, a delightful local delicacy. As visitors stroll through the charming streets, they’ll be enchanted by the unique blend of Aveiro’s past and present, making this city a true delight to discover.

Sampling Aveiro’s Famous Pastry

While strolling through Aveiro’s historic center, visitors can’t resist the temptation to sample the city’s renowned Ovos Moles pastry, a delectable local delicacy. This traditional egg-based treat features a soft, creamy filling nestled within a delicate wafer shell.

The rich, buttery taste of the egg yolk-based filling is perfectly balanced by the crunch of the shell.

Ovos Moles are often molded into intricate shapes and designs, making them as visually appealing as they’re delicious.

The pastry has been a beloved part of Aveiro’s culinary heritage for centuries, with recipes passed down through generations.

Ovos Moles can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger dessert platter, making them the perfect sweet treat to indulge in.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Costa Nova Beach

Having sampled the renowned Ovos Moles pastry in Aveiro’s historic center, visitors can now turn their attention to the colorful houses and scenic coastline of Costa Nova Beach. This charming fishing village is known for its brightly painted wooden houses, standing in stark contrast to the vast, sandy beach and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

Feature	Description
Colorful Houses	Adorned with vibrant stripes and patterns, the iconic houses of Costa Nova are a photographer’s delight.
Sand Dunes	The beach is framed by towering sand dunes, creating a unique and picturesque landscape.
Seaside Atmosphere	Strolling along the promenade, visitors can soak in the laidback, seaside atmosphere of this charming destination.

After exploring the quaint streets and taking in the stunning coastal views, the tour continues to the historic city of Coimbra.

Coimbra’s University and Old Cathedral

The tour continues to Coimbra, home to Portugal’s oldest university, where visitors can wander through the narrow streets and discover the historic Sé Velha (Old Cathedral). This magnificent cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is known for its Romanesque architecture and impressive facade. Visitors can explore the interior, admiring the intricate details and the sense of history that permeates the space.

A stroll along the riverside area, offering picturesque views of the city.

A visit to the Convent of Santa Clara, a historic religious site with beautiful gardens.

An opportunity to learn about the rich academic heritage of Coimbra University.

Time to explore the charming streets and soak up the lively atmosphere of this historic city.

Exploring Coimbra’s Riverside Convent

After exploring the historic Sé Velha Cathedral, the tour moves on to the Convent of Santa Clara, a picturesque religious site nestled along the riverside in Coimbra.

This 13th-century convent boasts beautifully landscaped gardens that offer a serene respite from the bustling city streets. Visitors can wander through the tranquil courtyards, admiring the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere.

The convent’s museum provides insights into the religious life of the nuns who once resided here, showcasing artifacts and historical documents.

With its peaceful ambiance and stunning riverside setting, the Convent of Santa Clara is a highlight of the Coimbra portion of the tour, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Convenient Transportation and Inclusions

To ensure a hassle-free travel experience, the tour includes return transportation by air-conditioned minivan. Plus, the package comprises a 1-hour Moliceiro boat trip, a traditional pastry tasting, and a delectable lunch, providing a well-rounded exploration of the region.

The tour’s inclusions are designed to enhance your enjoyment and make the most of your time:

1. Relax in the comfort of a climate-controlled minivan for the duration of the journey.

2. Glide along the canals of Aveiro on a traditional Moliceiro boat, soaking in the sights.

3. Indulge in the famous Ovos Moles, a beloved Portuguese pastry.

4. Savor a delicious lunch, fueling you for the adventures ahead.

These thoughtful inclusions ensure a seamless and memorable day exploring Aveiro and Coimbra.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

Yes, children are allowed on the tour. The tour description does not mention any age restrictions, so families with children can participate in the full-day excursion to Aveiro and Coimbra.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, as the Moliceiro boats and transportation options can accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. However, some historic sites may have limited accessibility due to their age and design.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes a traditional pastry and lunch, so it’s recommended to enjoy the provided refreshments as part of the experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This provides flexibility for travelers to change their plans without penalty if necessary.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

Customers can’t extend the tour duration. The tour package has a fixed duration of 9 hours and can’t be customized. However, travelers can discuss any special requests with the tour provider to see if they can accommodate them.

Recap

This tour provides a well-rounded experience of Portugal’s unique cultural and architectural gems.

Visitors can enjoy the captivating ‘Portuguese Venice’ of Aveiro, enjoy a leisurely Moliceiro boat ride, and explore the historic city of Coimbra, home to a renowned university and stunning cathedrals.

With convenient transportation and inclusions, this comprehensive tour offers an insightful exploration of Portugal’s distinct heritage and charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: