The best time to visit Avanca is during the summer months. During this time, the weather is warm and there are fewer tourists.
There are a variety of things to do in Avanca Portugal, from exploring the village’s historical landmarks to enjoying its delicious local cuisine. But the most popular activity is visiting the Avanca Salt Flats.
1. Visit the Avanca Castle
The Avanca Castle is a beautiful medieval castle that features gorgeous architecture and is a popular destination for history buffs. The castle is located in Avanca, Portugal and is a must-see for visitors to the village.
It is also home to several other historic landmarks, including the Church of Saint Mary and the Avanca International Film Festival. The village also has a variety of delicious local cuisine.
Avanca is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing getaway. With its beautiful countryside, historic landmarks, and delicious local cuisine, Avanca is sure to please.
2. Explore the Village’s Historical Landmarks
One of the most fascinating historic landmarks in Avanca is a 17th-century Discalced Carmelite convent that now houses a hotel. The soaring church and stunning monastery give you a glimpse into religious life in ancient Portugal, especially with the staircases worn by years of pilgrims’ footsteps and the chapels depicting the Via Crucis.
Another must-see attraction is the Palacio da Ajuda, a grand Neo-Classical palace that served as a royal residence from 1860 to 1910. You can tour the state rooms and marvel at gilded furnishings, elaborate tapestries, and exquisite artworks.
3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Portugal’s Atlantic coastline and long history of cod fishing means seafood is a key feature of the national cuisine. Other local dishes include grilled sardines, the famed vinegary dogfish soup, and codfish stew (bourrido a feira).
Aside from seafood, Portugal offers plenty of other hearty dishes. Try ovos muscas, which are like risotto-shaped egg custards topped with butter, or duck rice, which features succulent boiled and shredded duck on a bed of Carolino rice.
The best time to visit Avanca is during the spring and fall. These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
4. Take a Hike in the Ria de Aveiro Natural Reserve
During your Avanca vacation, be sure to take advantage of the region’s unique natural landscape. The reserve features shifting and fixed dunes covered by a wood of mainly Pinus pinaster trees as well as fresh water ponds, the largest of which is a wintering site for various migratory bird species.
One of the most unique ways to explore this enchanting lagoon is by taking a tour with Sterna, a local company that offers environmentally conscious boating experiences. Using solar energy, they offer tours of the Ria de Aveiro without affecting its rich and diverse ecosystem.
5. Go Horseback Riding
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, horseback riding is a unique way to explore the beautiful scenery of Avanca. Experience a sunset or sunrise beach ride, and feel the strength and vitality of your horse as you gallop along the shore.
Portugal has long had a strong equestrian tradition, and the country is home to numerous world-class schools of dressage. Take a lesson on a Lusitano schoolmaster, and you can learn to master classical techniques—even if you’ve never studied before.
Moovit makes it easy to find the best bus and train rides to Avanca, wherever you are in Estarreja. Download the app for free to see all the options available.
6. Visit the Avanca International Film Festival
The best time to visit Avanca is during the summer, when the weather is warm and there are fewer tourists. However, the village’s attractions are open year-round.
AVANCA | CINEMA is a meeting space for cinema, television and video that seeks to trace the perspective of contemporary features through a competition, workshops, conferences, exhibitions and bibliographic presentations. It is the largest audiovisual workshop space in Europe.
Moovit makes it easy to navigate to Avanca using public transit. Download our all-in-one app to get the latest bus and train times for Avanca.
7. Visit the Avanca Salt Flats
Avanca Salt Flats are a beautiful and one-of-a-kind sight. However, visitors should remember that the salt is very corrosive to cars and that the flats are fragile, so it’s important to leave no trace and respect the environment.
For the best experience, visit in spring or fall when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are less dense. Also, be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection when visiting the salt flats.
Moovit makes it easy to navigate to Avanca. Use the app to get live train and bus times, as well as prices and route information.
