The moliceiro boats of Aveiro are an iconic part of the city’s identity, originally built to harvest moliço—seaweed used as fertilizer. These flat-bottomed, 15-meter-long vessels were designed for practicality but became admired for their distinctive, curved bows and colorful decorations. Each boat is hand-painted with unique scenes, from religious icons to humorous portrayals of local life, showcasing the creativity of Aveiro’s artisans.
While seaweed harvesting has declined, moliceiros remain alive as symbols of Aveiro’s history. Now used for scenic tours, these boats allow visitors to experience the city’s canals and heritage, blending the past with present-day charm.
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.
