MileHacker Logo
Green Travel Ethos

Green Travel Ethos

Portugal

Protecting Natural Spaces

The Ria de Aveiro and Dunas de São Jacinto Natural Reserve are protected.

Responsible Exploration

  • Respect all signage and stay on marked paths.
  • Avoid disturbing wildlife or natural habitats.
  • These actions preserve delicate ecosystems.

Waste & Water Management

Portugal has a developed waste management and recycling system.

Resource Mindfulness

  • Utilize color-coded ecopontos for sorting plastic, metal, paper, cardboard, and glass.
  • Water conservation is important; be mindful of water usage.
  • Take shorter showers, turn off taps, and reuse towels.

Sustainable Transportation

Consider your travel choices to and within Aveiro.

Lowering Your Footprint

  • Consider carbon offset options for your flights: Terrapass
  • Prioritize walking, cycling, and public transport within Aveiro.
  • Bicycle rentals offer a green way to explore the city.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Choose accommodations and tour operators that prioritize sustainability.

Conscious Travel Choices

  • Look for properties promoting water and energy conservation: Ecobnb
  • Seek out accommodation with waste reduction initiatives.
  • Inquire about local produce sourcing.

Sustainable Resources

Sustainable Gear & Services

Travel Perks

Hydration Strategy

Carry a reusable water bottle. Aveiro's tap water is safe for drinking, which lets you refill your bottle throughout the day and avoid buying single-use plastic bottles.

Cultural Appreciation

Interacting respectfully with local culture enriches your journey. Aveiro’s rich heritage deserves thoughtful consideration.

Preserve Local Crafts

Support cultural preservation by purchasing from local artisans and businesses that maintain traditional crafts. This includes places making authentic "ovos moles" or regional ceramics. Your patronage sustains these practices.

Respectful Interactions

Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases makes a difference in showing respect. Be polite, patient, and open to cultural differences. Simple greetings like "Olá" and "Obrigado/Obrigada" improve interactions.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, specifically children. Be discreet when photographing in religious sites; avoid photos during services. Respect privacy.

Religious Site Conduct

When visiting churches or the Museum of Aveiro (a former convent), dress modestly. Shoulders and knees must be covered.

Sacred Spaces

  • Maintain silence, especially during services or if others are praying.
  • Avoid visiting during mass or other services unless you participate respectfully.
  • Actions demonstrate respect for local beliefs and customs.

Economic Contribution

Responsible travel means your visit benefits the local community.

Supporting Local Economy

  • Seek out community-based initiatives, like family-run guesthouses.
  • Choose small independent restaurants and neighborhood shops over international chains.
  • Your money circulates directly within the local economy, benefiting local workers.

Ethical Practices

Conscious Purchases

  • Prioritize fair trade and ethical shopping options.
  • Look for artisan shops to purchase locally made products directly.
  • Authentic local products convey genuine craftsmanship.

Avoiding Harmful Activities

  • Avoid activities involving exploitation.
  • Do not support tours or attractions that exploit animals.
  • Stick to reputable tour operators with clear ethical guidelines.

Dining Local

Choose restaurants displaying "Prato do Dia" (dish of the day) or "Menu do Dia" signs. These local, family-run establishments offer authentic cuisine at good value, directly supporting local businesses.

Itinerary Ideas

Aveiro welcomes visits of various durations, from quick stops to in-depth explorations.

A 24-Hour Visit

Make the most of a brief visit to Aveiro.

Layover Highlights

  • Take a moliceiro boat tour for a city overview.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood or "Prato do Dia" in Beira Mar district.
  • Walk through the city center, admire Art Nouveau buildings.

Weekend Escape 2-3 Days

This duration allows for exploration beyond the city center.

Extended Exploration

  • Visit Costa Nova for striped houses and the beach.
  • See Farol de Aveiro (lighthouse) at Barra beach.
  • Consider Ílhavo Maritime Museum or Dunas de São Jacinto Natural Reserve.

One Week in Aveiro

Combine city exploration with enriching day trips.

Comprehensive Discovery

  • Dedicate initial days to Aveiro city and coastal areas.
  • Take a full-day trip to Porto.
  • Plan a full-day trip to Coimbra.

Longer Stays

For a month or more, consider renting an apartment.

Extended Immersion

  • Greater comfort and self-catering facilities.
  • Explore local markets for fresh produce.
  • Consider taking a Portuguese language class.

Niche Interests

Art & Architecture Focus

  • Art Nouveau walking tour and the Art Nouveau Museum.
  • Seek other architectural styles, including Art Deco and azulejos.
  • Visit the Aveiro Cathedral to appreciate its mixed styles.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

  • Visit Aveiro's churches and chapels for quiet reflection.
  • Tranquil walks in natural areas like Dunas de São Jacinto Reserve.
  • Relax on the expansive beaches of Costa Nova or Barra.

Day Trip Opportunities

For comprehensive experiences, consider day trips to Porto, Coimbra, or the Bairrada wine region. GetYourGuide has bookable experience components for these and other destinations.