Things To Do
in Ovar

Ovar is a charming coastal town located in Portugal, known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. The town features stunning traditional architecture, with vibrant azulejos (ceramic tiles) adorning many buildings. Ovar is also famous for its local gastronomy, particularly its sweet treats and seafood dishes.

With a lively atmosphere and friendly locals, Ovar offers a delightful escape for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ovar's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Igreja Matriz de Ovar, a stunning 18th-century church known for its intricate baroque interior.

afternoon
:

Explore the Ovar Municipal Museum, which showcases local history and art, followed by a leisurely walk through the town's quaint streets, dotted with shops and cafes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Portuguese cuisine, followed by a stroll along the beach at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Beach and Nature
morning
:

Spend the morning at Praia de Furadouro, one of Ovar's popular beaches, where you can relax or take part in water sports.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Ria de Aveiro, a beautiful lagoon known for its diverse wildlife, perfect for birdwatching and nature walks.

evening
:

Dine at a seafood restaurant in Furadouro, sampling fresh catches of the day while enjoying ocean views.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚍Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel per night$60
🍰Pastry$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming coastal atmosphere with beautiful beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Ovar

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Ovar

The striking facade and intricate details of this church offer great photo opportunities.

Praia de Furadouro

Capture beautiful sunset photos over the ocean at this picturesque beach.

Ria de Aveiro

The lagoon's vibrant wildlife and serene landscapes make for stunning nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ovar

Ovar offers a delectable array of culinary delights, where seafood reigns supreme and pastries are a must-try. From traditional dishes to street food, the town caters to every palate.

Ovar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ovar Pastry

A sweet pastry filled with egg cream, unique to Ovar.

Must-Try!

Caldeirada

A traditional fish stew made with a variety of fresh seafood.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ovar Market

A vibrant market where local vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, and traditional pastries.

Street Food Stalls

Look out for stalls selling grilled sardines and other local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ovar experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is more frequent in the winter months, while summers remain mostly dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is a common greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you dig in, and keep your hands on the table.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ovar is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Ovar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% is customary.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling, ideal for beach days and local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler weather and colorful foliage, making it a great time for walks.

Winter

Winter is cooler and quieter, with fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

Nightlife Guide

Ovar at Night

Ovar's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities. You can find a mix of bars and small clubs offering live music, especially on weekends. Many locals enjoy a relaxed night out at cafes, sipping coffee or enjoying local wines.

Hiking in Ovar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Caminho do Cais

A scenic coastal trail that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Rota da Luz

This hiking route takes you through lush landscapes and offers opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Ovar by plane.

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)

Located approximately 60 km from Ovar, this is the nearest major airport, offering international flights and good transport links to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ovar is a walkable town, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the local atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Ovar's population consists of locals who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

During peak season, Ovar attracts tourists from Portugal and abroad, particularly for its beaches.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is hugely popular in Ovar, with local clubs drawing enthusiastic support.

Surfing

The nearby beaches, especially Praia de Furadouro, are great for surfing, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ovar is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect Ovar to nearby cities, though schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ovar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check beforehand.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire at restaurants for suitable meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ovar is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available. In case of emergencies, the hospital provides general medical services, and pharmacies are also readily available for minor health concerns.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide