FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions (Aveiro com Paixão)

Tickets, Bookings and Prices:

Where can I buy my ticket online?

You can buy your ticket HERE through our regular online booking system.

Can I buy the ticket at the pier?

Yes, of course. However, to avoid queues and even enjoy some last-minute discounts, we always recommend buying in advance.

How much does it cost?

The Moliceiro Tour costs €15.00 per person over the age of 12. For children aged 5 to 12, the cost is reduced to €7.00, and children up to the age of 4 are free, provided they are accompanied by an adult (with the exception of school groups).

We are a group. Are we entitled to a discount?

Yes. We have special conditions for groups.

If you are an organized group, please contact us so we can assess the number of people, desired date, and boat availability. Depending on the size of the group and the time of year, we may apply a discount or offer special conditions. For group requests, simply send an email through our website or call us directly. We will be happy to help you organize the best experience on the canals of Aveiro.

Do children pay for tickets?

Yes, but we have special conditions:

Babies up to 4 years old: Travel free (they need a ticket for insurance and capacity reasons).

Children aged 5 to 12: Benefit from a reduced price.

How do I get my ticket? Do I have to print it?

No printing is necessary. After booking online, you will receive a voucher by email. Simply show it on your cell phone to our team at the pier, about 15 minutes before the scheduled time.

What is your cancellation policy?

We know that unforeseen circumstances can arise. You can cancel or reschedule your reservation free of charge up to 48 hours before the activity. For changes, please contact us by email or phone.

Do you organize private events or events for large groups?

Yes! We organize corporate events, school visits, and private groups. Just fill out this specific form HERE. Alternatively, you can send us an email or contact us through our website with the details, and we will prepare a customized quote.

Location, Hours, and Parking:

Where is the meeting point?

We have two boarding piers, both located in the center of Aveiro. You can go to either one.

CAIS ROSSIO | https://maps.app.goo.gl/McjNT3qxLTknXnhr5

CAIS ROYAL | https://maps.app.goo.gl/E27DdCgNgL6SPikU9

Are moliceiro boat trips available every day?

Yes. We sail every day, with the sole exception of December 25.

What are the tour times?

The tours run from 9:15 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last departure). During the summer months, we sail until 7:15 p.m., with the last departure at 6:30 p.m.

Where can I park my car?

Aveiro is an ideal city to explore on foot. We recommend parking upon arrival and enjoying the city at your leisure.

Paid parking (downtown): There are secure underground parking lots very close to the pier, ideal for rainy days or quick visits.

We Recommend:

- Localization do Parque Rossio

- Localization do Parque Mercado Manuel Firmino

- Localization do Parque do Fórum Aveiro

Free Parking: About a 10–15 minute walk away, you can find parking spaces at Parque do Cais da Fonte Nova or Parque da Estação de Aveiro.

On the Street: In the city center, parking is paid (blue zones) on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, street parking is usually free in most areas (always check the signs).

About the Tour and the Moliceiros:

How long does the tour last?

The tour through the urban canals of Ria de Aveiro lasts approximately 45 minutes. It is the perfect amount of time to learn about the city's history, admire the Art Nouveau buildings, and observe the traditional salt pans.

Are these boats gondolas?

No! Although Aveiro is known as the “Venice of Portugal,” our boats are Moliceiros, unique in the world. Unlike gondolas (transport), the Moliceiro was originally created for harvesting moliço (aquatic plants used as fertilizer). In addition, they are distinguished by their vibrant colors and humorous paintings, while gondolas are traditionally black.

Are the paintings on the boats done by hand?

Yes, absolutely! Each Moliceiro is a unique piece of art. The panels on the bow and stern are hand-painted by local masters, depicting satirical or religious scenes from popular culture. No two boats are alike!

Is the moliceiro boat covered?

Our moliceiros do not have a fixed cover in order to preserve tradition and allow a 360º view. We recommend bringing a jacket, hat, or sunscreen, depending on the weather.

Are all moliceiro boats the same?

Moliceiro boats are all different, as they are built and painted by hand. Learn more about their construction HERE, now a World Heritage Site.

What happens if it rains?

Safety and comfort come first. If conditions do not allow for navigation, we will reschedule the tour or issue a full refund. Light drizzle does not prevent the tour from taking place, and the Ria remains beautiful!

What is the boat's capacity?

Our moliceiros have different capacities, between 18 and 36 passengers, always ensuring comfort and safety. The tours are shared. For larger groups, we organize several boats to sail simultaneously.

Can I bring my pet?

Yes! At Aveiro com Paixão we are pet friendly. Your dog can accompany you, as long as it is always on a leash.

Do you have tours in other languages?

Of course! Explanations can be given in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French.

Travel Tips: Eating and Visiting:

Where do you recommend eating in Aveiro?

Aveiro has a rich gastronomy! Here are our favorite suggestions:

For Traditional Meals:

- Salpoente: Signature cuisine with a focus on cod.

- Cais do Pescado: Specialists in seafood and fresh fish.

- Maré cheia: Excellent with grilled fish and traditional dishes.

- Vinte & 4: A modern option with varied dishes in the heart of the city.

- O Bairro: Contemporary cuisine with local ingredients.

Para Tapas e Petiscos:

- Boteco Aveiro: Great atmosphere for snacks and drinks.

- Borda d'Água: Prime location for a snack with a view.

- Café Petisqueira Radar and Café amizade: The classics for those who want to “eat like a local.”

Typical sweet treat:

Don't leave without trying a Tripa de Aveiro at one of the street stalls.

What other activities do you recommend in the city?

Parks: Infante D. Pedro Park is ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or taking a family stroll. Ribeirinho do Carregal Park, a modern space next to the Ria, is perfect for enjoying the scenery and watching the sunset. Buçaquinho Environmental Park is ideal for nature lovers, with wooden walkways and green areas.

Hiking: The Aveiro Walkways offer direct contact with nature. The São Jacinto Dunes Nature Reserve is a protected area with trails between the dunes and the beach. Pateira de Fermentelos, the largest natural lagoon, is perfect for walking or cycling.

Museums: We recommend the Aveiro Museum, the Art Nouveau Museum, and the Ílhavo Maritime Museum, ideal for learning about the history, art, and strong connection between Aveiro and the sea.

Are museums and attractions free?

Museum prices

Most are paid, but affordable.

Tip: There is a Single Ticket that includes several museums for around €10.

Free: Admission to municipal museums is free on the first Sunday morning of each month.

Are the beaches nearby?

Yes, they are about a 10-15 minute drive away.

- Costa Nova: Famous for its striped houses.

- Praia da Barra: Home to Portugal's tallest lighthouse and an extensive sandy beach.

👉 Plan your visit to Aveiro now and come and experience days of joy, tradition, and natural beauty in one of Portugal's most enchanting destinations.

RESERVATIONS HERE

A unique experience, now more accessible

Navigate the canals of Aveiro aboard a traditional moliceiro boat, discover the history of the city, the Art Nouveau buildings, and the most charming corners, on a relaxing and unforgettable tour.

Advantages of booking online:

• Guaranteed place at the desired time

• Immediate application of the discount

• Fast, simple, and secure process

• Avoid queues and waiting on site

👉 Don't miss this winter opportunity.

Book your moliceiro boat trip now, use the coupon code acpwinter, and enjoy Aveiro for only €13.00.

Promotion limited to the winter season. Subject to availability.

ANY QUESTIONS?

+351 910 951 364

reservas@aveirocompaixao.pt.