How to Travel from Lisbon or Porto to Aveiro

Portugal’s coastal gem, Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal,” is a dream destination for travelers seeking vibrant canals, colorful Moliceiro boats, and the soft golden hues of Portuguese architecture. Located about 250 kilometers north of Lisbon and just 70 kilometers south of Porto, Aveiro is accessible, charming, and perfect for a day trip or an extended stay. But how exactly do you get there from Lisbon or Porto?

This guide will take you through all the details you need, from flight options to alternative travel methods, and include tips for snagging the best deals. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find a route to Aveiro that fits your budget and style.

Why Visit Aveiro?

Before diving into the logistics, let’s paint a picture of what awaits you in Aveiro. Picture a city where canals shimmer like liquid silver under the sun, where candy-colored boats glide with the elegance of ballroom dancers, and where the aroma of sea-salted air mixes with the sweetness of ovos moles. Aveiro is a city that feels like it was sketched by an artist and brought to life for explorers to enjoy.

Travelers to Aveiro often find themselves enchanted not just by its beauty but by its pace—a city that moves to the rhythm of the tides, where you can slow down and savor every moment.

Flying from Lisbon to Aveiro

If you’re starting in Lisbon, flying to Porto and then traveling onward to Aveiro is the fastest and most efficient route. While Aveiro itself doesn’t have an airport, Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is a quick connection point, leaving you only an hour away from Aveiro by train or car.

Top Flights from Lisbon to Porto

1. TAP Air Portugal

• Flight Details: Daily flights from Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) to Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO). The journey takes approximately 55 minutes.
• Advantages:
  TAP Air Portugal is the national carrier, known for its reliable service and frequent departures. With multiple flights daily, you can find a schedule that fits seamlessly into your plans. TAP also offers a generous baggage policy, making it a great choice if you’re traveling with family or carrying souvenirs.
• Booking Platform: For the best deals, check Expedia.com for competitive prices and exclusive discounts.
• Approximate Cost: $50–$90, depending on the booking date.

1. Ryanair

• Flight Details: Low-cost carrier Ryanair operates several daily flights between Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO), with a flight time of just under an hour.
• Advantages:
  Ryanair is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Despite its no-frills service, it often has unbeatable prices, especially if you book well in advance.
• Booking Platform: Visit Ryanair.com for direct deals and flash sales.
• Approximate Cost: As low as $20 if booked early.

Arriving in Porto and Reaching Aveiro

Once you land in Porto, Aveiro is easily accessible by train. The Comboios de Portugal (CP) trains run frequently between Porto’s Campanhã Station and Aveiro, with travel times of just 45–60 minutes. Tickets cost around $6–$10, and you can purchase them online or at the station.

Flying from Porto to Aveiro

If you’re flying into Porto directly, you’re already halfway to Aveiro! Porto’s airport is conveniently connected to the city center by metro, and from there, you can continue to Aveiro via train or car.

Top Flights from the U.S. to Porto

1. United Airlines

• Flight Details: Nonstop flights from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), taking about 7 hours.
• Advantages:
  United Airlines offers comfortable transatlantic flights with excellent in-flight entertainment and meal options. Nonstop service means less hassle and more time to enjoy your trip.
• Booking Platform: Check United.com for exclusive offers and MileagePlus rewards.
• Approximate Cost: $600–$900 round trip, depending on the season.

1. Delta Airlines

• Flight Details: Seasonal nonstop flights from New York’s JFK International Airport to Porto (OPO), with a flight time of approximately 7 hours.
• Advantages:
  Delta is known for its impeccable service and comfortable seating. Their nonstop flights to Porto during peak travel seasons are ideal for American travelers.
• Booking Platform: Visit Delta.com for flight details and SkyMiles promotions.
• Approximate Cost: $650–$1,000 round trip, depending on booking timing.

Reaching Aveiro from Porto

From Porto’s city center, Aveiro is a breeze to reach. Trains are the most convenient option, but renting a car is another possibility if you want to explore the Portuguese countryside at your own pace.

Alternative Travel Options: Train and Bus

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, trains and buses are excellent alternatives to flying.

From Lisbon to Aveiro by Train

The Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains operated by Comboios de Portugal connect Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia Station with Aveiro. The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and tickets cost approximately $25–$40.

From Porto to Aveiro by Train

As mentioned earlier, the train ride from Porto to Aveiro is quick and affordable, making it the most popular choice among travelers.

Bus Options

Buses operated by Rede Expressos also connect Lisbon and Porto to Aveiro. Although slower than trains, they offer a more budget-friendly option for travelers with flexible schedules.

How to Snag the Best Deals on Flights and Trains

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure you get the best deals:

1. Book Early: The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing a low price, especially for flights and trains.
2. Use Price Alerts: Platforms like Skyscanner and Google Flights allow you to set alerts for specific routes, notifying you of price drops.
3. Travel During Off-Peak Times: Flights and trains are often cheaper during midweek or outside peak travel seasons.
4. Opt for Budget Airlines: Don’t overlook carriers like Ryanair and easyJet for short-haul flights; they often have incredible discounts.
5. Check Combo Packages: Sites like Expedia frequently bundle flights, hotels, and car rentals for significant savings.

The Journey to Aveiro: More Than a Destination

Traveling to Aveiro isn’t just about reaching your destination; it’s about embracing the adventure along the way. Whether you’re soaring through the skies from Lisbon to Porto, winding through picturesque countryside by train, or enjoying a leisurely bus ride, the journey to Aveiro is a story waiting to be told.

So pack your bags, choose your route, and let the charm of Aveiro guide you. The canals, the boats, and the beauty of this Portuguese gem are waiting to welcome you with open arms.