Porto: Paiva Walkways, 516 Bridge & Aveiro Day Trip

Summary

Cross the 516 Bridge then wander Paiva Walkways to Aveiro canals

You’ll start your day crossing Porto’s 516 Arouca suspension bridge before an easy walk along Paiva Walkways with a local guide. Enjoy a proper Portuguese lunch in a village tavern, then see Costa Nova’s colorful houses and end among Aveiro’s quiet canals. Expect moments of thrill—and surprising calm—that linger long after you’re back.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I thought I’d be nervous on that huge suspension bridge near Arouca—but somehow it was more surreal than scary. Our guide Rui made a joke about “testing our courage” right before we stepped onto the 516 meters of metal mesh hanging over the valley. The wind was cool but not sharp, and I could hear the river way below, just a faint rush. My hands gripped the rail tighter than I meant to. Someone behind me laughed and said in Portuguese, “Don’t look down!” (I did anyway.)

The Paiva Walkways felt easy after that—just wooden boards zig-zagging along the riverbank. We went mostly downhill for about five kilometers, so it wasn’t too tough. Rui pointed out wildflowers and some old stone ruins on the opposite side. The sun kept shifting through clouds; sometimes you’d catch this fresh pine smell or hear nothing but water and birds. There were a few steep bits where my legs complained, but honestly, it felt good to move after all that adrenaline from the bridge.

Lunch was at this small place in a village—I wish I remembered the name. We had grilled fish with potatoes (there were veggie options too), and I swear even the bread tasted different here—chewier? Maybe just hunger talking. After eating too much, everyone sort of slumped in the van for what Rui called our “power nap.” He played soft Fado music while we drove toward Costa Nova.

Costa Nova’s striped houses looked almost painted-on against that gray sky—red, blue, yellow lines everywhere. There was a salty breeze coming off the water and kids running around with ice creams. Later in Aveiro, we wandered along canals lined with little boats called moliceiros—some people took a ride but I just sat by the water for a bit and watched locals chatting on benches. It’s funny how quickly you can go from adrenaline to total calm in one day out from Porto.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Suspension Bridge, Walk, Lunch, and City Visits

• Cross the suspension bridge
• Walk the Paiva Walkways downstream
• Have lunch at a local restaurant
• Visit Costa Nova colorful houses
• Discover Aveiro on a short walk
• Enjoy free time and optional boat trip

Top questions

How difficult is the Paiva Walkways hike?

The walk is about 5km downhill on wooden boardwalks; difficulty is rated easy to medium.

Is lunch included on this Porto day trip?

Yes, a traditional Portuguese lunch with meat, fish or vegetarian options is included.

Can children cross the 516 Arouca Bridge?

Only children aged 6 or older can cross if accompanied by an adult.

Does this tour include transport from Porto?

Yes, air-conditioned minivan transport from Porto is included.

Are tickets for the bridge and walkways included?

Both Arouca 516 Footbridge entry and Paiva Walkways tickets are included.

Is there free time in Aveiro?

Yes, you get free time to explore Aveiro or take an optional boat ride through its canals.

What should I do if I get car sick?

The road before the walk is winding; bring motion sickness medication if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Porto by air-conditioned minivan, entry tickets for both the Arouca 516 suspension bridge (with exclusive time slot) and Paiva Walkways trail, a traditional Portuguese lunch with several options to choose from, visits to Costa Nova’s colorful fishing village and Aveiro city center—with free time for wandering or even taking a canal boat ride if you want—plus guidance from a local throughout.