Rua do Batalhão dos Caçadores in Aveiro exudes the charm of an old Portuguese boulevard. At its intersection with Rua Cemitério Central, tall rows of plane trees line the road, their branches forming a cool shade that seems to guard the life of the city. These trees, silent witnesses to history, not only enhance the street’s beauty but also create a sense of quiet intimacy, transporting passersby to another era.
Plane trees became popular in Portugal in the 19th century as urban greening practices began shifting under the influence of European traditions. Their popularity is due to their longevity, resistance to disease, and remarkable ability to provide dense shade—a relief during hot Portuguese summers. Inspired by examples from France and England, Portuguese urban planners started using plane trees as symbols of status and comfort, adorning main streets and squares with their grandeur.
Join us for a three-hour walking tour through Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal” for its picturesque canals and traditional moliceiro boats. We’ll begin in the Beira Mar district, exploring narrow streets with colorful tiled facades and Art Nouveau architecture, and hear tales of Aveiro’s history as a center for salt production and fishing.
As we stroll along the historic Rua de Coimbra, you’ll discover the story behind Aveiro’s famous ovos moles—creamy custard treats wrapped in rice paper—and other local pastries. We’ll make a stop at a popular shopping center for a modern taste of the city before crossing Aveiro’s iconic pedestrian bridges, like the colorful Ponte do Laço, which offer stunning canal views. The route will lead us to Praça do Peixe, a lively square where traditional and contemporary Aveiro meet, rounding off the journey with a true sense of this charming city’s history and flavors.
