Top Things to Do in Porto, Aveiro, and Leiria in Portugal

Top Things to Do in Porto, Aveiro, and Leiria

Portugal is a country of captivating charm, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Emmett and I recently explored three darling cities in Northern Portugal — Porto, Aveiro, and Leiria, and I can't wait to share our favorites with you. From Porto's vibrant riverside and world-famous beaches to Aveiro's picturesque canals and colorful moliceiro boats, and Leiria's medieval castle perched high above the town, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences for every traveler. 

Read on to uncover the magic of these Portuguese gems, each with its own unique allure waiting to be discovered.

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Ribeira, Porto

Porto

Porto is a large city of roughly 232,000 people. With steep hills rising on either side of the Douro River, and a date of birth over 900 years ago, Porto is full of interesting topography, rich history, and vibrant culture.

When we arrived in Porto, we were both admittedly entirely too tired to do a whole lot of walking, so we opted to take the hop-on, hop-off site-seeing bus tour. Though it's not something we normally do, we liked it so much the first time that, after a nice lunch and a rest in the room, we went back out and made the loop again. It was peaceful and relaxing. We learned a few things about the sites of the city. We enjoyed beautiful views of the beaches and river and historical buildings. And when we weren't hearing about the history of the various sites, we listened to relaxing local Portuguese music. All in all, it was a great choice for our weary bodies.

Emmett at the Porto Cathedral

1. Porto Cathedral

Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) is one of the city’s most significant landmarks, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. Perched on a hill in the heart of Porto’s historic center (I promise the hike up the hill is worth it!), it offers breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning rose window, the intricate tilework, and the serene cloisters adorned with traditional blue azulejos. A visit to this 12th-century cathedral is a journey through history and a testament to Porto's rich cultural heritage.

Porto Trolley

2. Trolley Ride

Porto’s charming trolley system, or eléctricos, offers a nostalgic way to explore the city. These vintage trams have been gliding through Porto's streets since the early 20th century and remain a beloved symbol of the city. The most popular routes, like Line 1, take passengers along the scenic Douro River, while others wind through historic neighborhoods. Riding one of these classic trolleys is not just a convenient and inexpensive way to get around but a delightful experience that transports you back in time. After seeing them running along their tracks, riding the trolley was the one thing Emmett insisted on doing before leaving Porto.

3. Boat Ride

​Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Douro River. Opt for a traditional rabelo boat or a modern vessel and take in the views of Porto’s skyline and its famous bridges.

Foz do Douro

4. Foz do Douro

It was a bit chilly for us to actually swim in the water (though there were many people doing just that!), but we still loved the opportunity to listen to the waves, wade into the cool, clear water, and dig in the damp sand. 

Sea Life Aquarium

5. Sea Life Aquarium

My four-year-old is a huge fan of animals, particularly aquatic ones. Sea Life Aquarium was really well-done, and we both thoroughly enjoyed seeing the sea turtles, sharks, penguins, tropical fishes, jellies, and all the other gorgeous sea creatures. If you eat at their cafe, you can sit outside on the balcony and enjoy beautiful views of the beach.

Church of St Francis, Ribeira Historical District

6. Ribeira

​Wander through the historic Ribeira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere by the Douro River. Enjoy alfresco dining with stunning views of the Luís I Bridge.

Pastel De Nata

7. Pastel de Nata

The Portuguese national pastry, Pastel de Nata, is a creamy custard tart, baked to perfection with a flaky, golden crust and a caramelized top, often dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. Originating from the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, Pastéis de Nata are a beloved treat enjoyed across Portugal and around the world. Yum!

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Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal

Aveiro

Aveiro is a small city, with a population of approximately 81,000. Often called the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro a rich history shaped by its maritime heritage and connection to the salt industry. Established as a fishing and trading hub, the city flourished during the Middle Ages due to its strategic location along Portugal's Atlantic coast. Over the centuries, Aveiro faced challenges like flooding but rebounded to become a vibrant cultural and economic center. Its iconic canals and colorful moliceiro boats stand as reminders of its deep ties to the sea.

Emmett "Steering" the Boat

1. Moliceiro Boat Ride

Glide through Aveiro’s picturesque canals on a traditional moliceiro boat. These colorful vessels, once used for seaweed harvesting, now offer relaxing tours showcasing the city's unique waterways and Art Nouveau architecture. Emmett enjoyed the boat tour so much on our first day in the city that on our last day in the city, he asked to do the tour one more time. Both tour guides were engaging and amusing and both allowed him to "steer" the boat, which he thought was the best thing ever!

Aveiro Museum, Dedicated to Princess Santa Joana, Patron Saint of Aveiro

2. Aveiro Museum

Located in a former convent, the Aveiro Museum (Santa Joana Museum) highlights religious art, historical artifacts, and the story of Princess Santa Joana, the patron saint of Aveiro. The ornate cloisters and chapels are particularly captivating, and the quiet grounds with plentiful benches offer a bit of respite for road-weary feet.

Ovos Moles

3. Ovos Moles

Savor Aveiro’s iconic sweet treat, ovos moles, made from egg yolks and sugar, often shaped like nautical motifs. These delicacies are available at bakeries throughout the city.

4. Salt Pans

Visit the salt flats to learn about the traditional salt-harvesting process, which has been a part of Aveiro’s culture for centuries. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers, with flamingos often making an appearance.

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Leiria, Portugal

Leiria

A medium-sized city with a population of 128,000, Leiria boasts an imposing castle on a hill, built in the 12th century, beautiful green spaces, and unique museums. Leiria’s history dates back to Roman times but gained prominence during the Middle Ages when it became a strategic stronghold for Portugal’s early monarchs. Over the centuries, Leiria evolved into a cultural and economic hub, with its charming old town reflecting layers of its rich historical heritage.

Emmett looking out the window of the castle

1. Leiria Castle

Explore the iconic medieval Leiria Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Its well-preserved walls, towers, and gardens offer stunning views and a glimpse into Portugal's history. This was, by far, the highlight of our time in Leiria.

2. Rodrigues Lobo Square

Rodrigues Lobo Square (Praça Rodrigues Lobo) in the heart of Leiria’s old town is a charming square surrounded by cafes and historic buildings. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the city’s atmosphere. Grab a pastry and espresso from Praça Caffée and enjoy a delicious hamburger at Hamburgueria da Baixa.

3. Museum of the Moving Image (MIMO)

Dive into the history of cinema and photography at MIMO, a unique museum featuring vintage equipment, interactive exhibits, and insights into the evolution of visual storytelling.

Paper Mill Museum

4. Paper Mill Museum (Museu do Moinho de Papel)

Learn about traditional papermaking at this fascinating museum housed in a restored paper mill. The interactive displays provide a hands-on experience of this ancient craft. Though I didn't get a chance to really dive into the displays and read the extensive information provided, Emmett really enjoyed watching the wheels and gears and rushing water.

Leiria Museum

5. lEIRIA MUSEUM (Museu de Leiria)

Located in the restored Convent of Santo Agostinho, the Leiria Museum showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Leiria region. Its diverse collection includes archaeological artifacts, religious art, and exhibits on the city’s medieval history and local industries. The museum's blend of modern design and historical architecture offers an immersive experience for visitors, making it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

Waterfalls along the Lis River

6. Lis River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Via Polis Leiria, which runs alongside both banks of the scenic Lis River. The well-maintained paths, green spaces, and serene views make it an ideal spot for relaxation and connecting with nature. Along the way, you'll find the Leiria Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, an adorable little playground for the kiddos, numerous murals and small waterfalls, and a fabulous view of the castle.

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By no means did we see everything that Northern Portugal has to offer. There were numerous cities and towns that we would have loved to have visited had we had more time. But in the brief time we had, I gained an appreciation for the cultural and historical heartbeat of Portugal, and I relished the opportunity to explore with my favorite little boy and see the world through his eyes.

Northern Portugal offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity and charm. The welcoming locals, delectable cuisine, and unique traditions provide a genuine glimpse into Portuguese life. Portugal promises an unforgettable experience, leaving visitors with cherished memories and a desire to return.

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