Things To Do
in Ovar
Ovar is a charming coastal town in Portugal's Aveiro District, rooted in salt harvesting and fishing with a welcoming, seaside vibe. Its long promenade, harbor, and pastel-hued streets offer a relaxed pace and a strong sense of local culture. The surrounding marshes and salt flats host migratory birds and easy nature walks, while the nearby Furadouro Beach adds sun-kissed shores and seafood tavernas.
In short, Ovar combines maritime heritage with approachable beaches, delicious seafood, and friendly locals perfect for a laid-back escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Igreja de São Miguel, where you can admire its intricate tile work and Baroque architecture. Wander through the picturesque streets of Ovar, stopping by local shops to pick up traditional Portuguese pastries, such as ovos moles. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a charming café, sipping on a bica while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch, delve into the rich history of Ovar at the Museu de Ovar, where you can explore exhibitions dedicated to local art and culture. Stroll through the charming Praça da República, where you can appreciate the beautiful fountains and lively market stalls. As the sun begins to set, take a scenic walk along the canals and enjoy the serene views.
For dinner, indulge in local seafood delicacies at a waterfront restaurant, savoring the flavors of the Atlantic. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the calming sound of water lapping against the shore. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local bar, where you can enjoy live Fado music while sipping on a glass of port wine.
Head to Praia de Furadouro, a beautiful beach known for its golden sands and rolling waves, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Start your morning with a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean, followed by a stroll along the shore collecting seashells. Grab a light breakfast from one of the beachside kiosks, enjoying fresh fruit and a cold drink.
Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from the water, taking in the scenic views of the cliffs and the vibrant beach scene. Afterward, unwind at a beach bar, feasting on fresh grilled sardines and sipping on a chilled vinho verde. Take a moment to relax under an umbrella, enjoying the sea breeze and watching the world pass by.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside barbecue experience, where local chefs grill fresh seafood to perfection. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing against the shore. Conclude your day with a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $30-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and accessible beaches
- Fresh seafood and straightforward, hearty cuisine
- Calm, walkable town center with friendly locals
- Proximity to nature reserves and salt flats for birdwatching
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Seasonal crowds can affect parking and beaches
- Public transport options are good but not as extensive as in big cities
- Some attractions require short drives to nearby Aveiro or São Jacinto
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não entendo" - I don't understand
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Estou perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Ovar
Visit one of these nice places.
The quay area with fishing boats, nets, and drying lines offers vivid colors and atmospheric nautical light, especially at dawn or dusk.
Gentle waves and a long shoreline create timeless seascapes, perfect for long-exposure water and sky shots.
Waterways and marshlands with shallow waters, reed beds, and a palette of greens and blues; ideal for landscape and bird photography.
White salt flats, distant horizons, and reflective surfaces create striking minimalist photos, especially during golden hour.
Food in Ovar
Ovar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled sardines served with potatoes, salad, and crusty bread; a quintessential coast-and-yarden meal best enjoyed at a waterfront tavern.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew featuring multiple local fish varieties, tomatoes, and herbs, traditionally shared with crusty bread.
A vibrant seafood rice with prawns, clams, and sometimes mussels, cooked in a tomato- and herb-infused broth.
Crispy codfish croquettes, often enjoyed as a starter or snack with a squeeze of lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh fish, produce, cheeses, and ready-to-eat regional snacks; a great place to taste daily life.
Seasonal seaside stalls with grilled sardines, bifanas, and other quick bites along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone; in casual settings, a friendly nod or brief kiss on the cheek may occur among friends.
Portuguese is the local language; making an effort with basic phrases in Portuguese is appreciated.
Meals are typically a relaxed affair; wait to be seated in larger venues and keep conversations polite and easygoing.
Respect coastal workers and marshland sites; take care near working areas and follow signage.
Safety
Tipping in Ovar
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; tipping is voluntary and typically 5-10% for good service. Rounding up is common in casual eateries.
Cash and cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and cafes. ATMs are plentiful in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming plants along the coast; excellent for cycling and outdoor markets. Light showers are possible, so carry a compact layer.
Warmest and busiest season; beach life, waterfront events, and long days. Expect crowds at Furadouro; swim and water-safety awareness are important.
Pleasant temperatures and quieter streets; migrating birds return to marshes, making it great for nature walks and photography.
Milder winters by European standards, with cooler mornings and occasional rain. Coastal winds can be strong; layer up and enjoy cozy cafés.
Ovar at Night
Hiking in Ovar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A flat, scenic route through dunes and marshland with birdlife, ideal for easy hikes and wildlife photography.
Gentle pathways along the estuary with lookout points over tidal flats and water channels.
Rural countryside hike with olive groves and far-reaching views over the valley and coast.
Airports
How to reach Ovar by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 50–70 km north, with rail and road connections to Aveiro and Ovar.
Greater distance (approximately 260–300 km) but serves as an alternative gateway for longer trips or international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families who enjoy a coastal lifestyle and local markets.
A traditional community tied to the harbor and salt flats, contributing to the town’s culture and economy.
Summer crowds and surf enthusiasts add energy to the coast and beaches.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Favored at Furadouro Beach with beginner to intermediate conditions and seasonal rental shops.
Popular among locals; matches and casual play occur in local parks and school fields.
Common on busier summer beaches; often organized as casual pick-up games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ovar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options appear in many menus as vegetable stews, soups, salads, and grilled vegetables; communicate clearly about no fish stock or meat, and ask for vegetable-based dishes when in doubt.