Aveiro Lagoon

Aveiro Lagoon (Ria de Aveiro) is a broad lagoon on Portugal's Atlantic coast, lying south of the municipality of Espinho and north of Mira. It covers roughly 75 square kilometres on average and takes its name from the city of Aveiro, the main urban centre nearby. It is a great base for a trip that mixes water, beaches and small seaside towns.

Where is Aveiro Lagoon?

The lagoon stretches along the coast of north-central Portugal, in the region between Porto and Coimbra. A narrow strip of land separates it from the open ocean, which is why the water here forms a calm, shallow landscape of channels and small islands. Its coordinates are around 40.68° N, 8.66° W. The easiest starting point is the city of Aveiro itself.

Which towns sit around the lagoon?

Besides Aveiro, nearby centres include Ílhavo, Gafanha da Nazaré, Estarreja, Ovar and Esmoriz. Each shows a different side of local life tied to the water, from harbour districts to farmland on the shore.

Which beaches are nearby?

On the ocean side you will find wide Atlantic sand beaches. Among the best known are Barra, Costa Nova, Torreira, Vagueira, Furadouro, Cortegaça and Praia de Mira. There are also beaches on the São Jacinto peninsula. Costa Nova is famous for its colourful striped houses, known as palheiros, once used by fishermen.

What can you see and do?

• A moliceiro boat ride. Traditional, brightly painted boats glide along the canals of central Aveiro; trips usually last a few dozen minutes. Cruises on the wider lagoon also leave from Murtosa.
• Salt pans. The area is known for salt production. At the Ecomuseu Marinha da Troncalhada you can walk the ridges between the pans and learn about older methods. The salt flats also attract birds, including flamingos.
• Local flavours. Bring home ovos moles, an egg-yolk sweet traditionally served in thin wafer shapes.

When to go

The lagoon can be visited year-round, but warm months are the most pleasant for boat trips and beach time. Birdwatching works best in the morning or late afternoon. Schedules and prices vary by operator, so check current listings before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Aveiro Lagoon? Its average area is about 75 square kilometres.

How do I get there? Easiest from the city of Aveiro, which sits right beside it. Many tours also start in Porto, and the salt pans and Costa Nova are close to central Aveiro, so you can visit on your own.

Are there beaches by the lagoon? Yes, including Barra, Costa Nova, Torreira, Vagueira, Furadouro, Cortegaça, Praia de Mira and beaches on the São Jacinto peninsula.

What should I eat nearby? Try ovos moles, the regional egg-yolk dessert that has become a symbol of Aveiro.

Can I see birds? Yes, the salt pan areas are a birdwatching spot, and flamingos are sometimes seen there.