Discover the stunning coastal beauty of Portugal’s Costa Nova and Barra Beach on this captivating 75-minute tour. Explore the vibrant, colorful houses of Costa Nova, then visit the tallest lighthouse in the country at Barra Beach. Along the way, you’ll savor local delicacies, learn about the area’s rich culture, and enjoy a complimentary tasting of the traditional sweet, Ovos Moles. With an expert guide leading the way, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- This 75-minute tour takes visitors to the colorful houses of Costa Nova beach and the tallest lighthouse in Portugal at Barra Beach.
- The tour includes a 20-minute van journey, 15 minutes of beach exploration, and 20 minutes of sightseeing at Costa Nova.
- Participants can enjoy a free tasting of the traditional Aveiro sweet, Ovos Moles, and learn about the local delicacy, bacalhau.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, with a refund policy for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- While the tour is generally well-received, some customers have noted limited stop times and mixed opinions on the perceived value for money.
Tour Overview
The Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour offers a 75-minute experience, with prices starting from $21.76 per person.
The tour accommodates up to 8 participants and is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. It’s wheelchair accessible, and travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Visitors can reserve now and pay later. The tour begins at R. Domingos Carrancho 2 and includes stops at Barra Beach and Costa Nova Beach, allowing guests to explore the colorful houses, the tallest lighthouse in Portugal, and sample local sweets.
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Itinerary
Starting from the tour’s meeting point at R. Domingos Carrancho 2, the group embarks on a 20-minute van journey to Praia da Barra.
Here, they spend 15 minutes exploring the beach and taking photos.
Guests spend 15 minutes exploring the beach and capturing memorable photographs.
Next, they travel 10 minutes to Costa Nova Beach, where they spend 20 minutes sightseeing and enjoying the local attractions.
Finally, the tour concludes with a 15-minute return trip back to the starting location.
Throughout the journey, the tour guide provides insights and information about the destinations, ensuring an engaging and informative experience for the participants.
Highlights
As visitors explore the Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour, they get to witness the famous colorful houses that dot the coastline of Costa Nova beach.
At the Barra beach, they can admire the tallest lighthouse in Portugal.
Throughout the tour, they’ll learn about the history of bacalhau, the cured codfish that’s a local delicacy.
The tour also includes a free tasting of the traditional Aveiro sweet, Ovos Moles.
With a mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and local treats, the Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour provides a well-rounded experience in a short amount of time.
Inclusions
The Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour includes several key elements to provide a comprehensive experience for visitors.
The tour features:
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Private van transportation with air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable journey.
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An expert tour guide on board, ready to share their knowledge and insights about the attractions.
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A free tasting of the local sweet treat, Ovos Moles, allowing travelers to savor a delightful local delicacy.
These inclusions are designed to enhance the tour, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for participants.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
How have customers rated the Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour?
The tour boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 11 reviews. Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guide, who provides a wealth of information in a short time.
However, some found the limited stop times a bit stressful, as they wished for more time to explore.
Opinions on value for money vary, with some considering it excellent and others feeling it could be improved.
Getting to the Starting Point
Travelers can reach the starting point of the Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour at R. Domingos Carrancho 2.
The Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour starts at R. Domingos Carrancho 2, conveniently accessible by metro, bus, and car.
The starting point is conveniently located and accessible via several modes of transportation:
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By metro: The nearest metro station is Barra, just a 5-minute walk from the starting point.
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By bus: Several bus routes serve the area, with the closest stop less than a 2-minute walk away.
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By car: Ample street parking is available near the starting point, making it easy for those driving to the tour.
Exploring Costa Nova Beach
After the short van ride from Barra Beach, visitors arrive at the colorful and charming Costa Nova Beach. Here, they’re immediately struck by the iconic rows of vibrant, striped houses lining the shore.
The guide provides historical context, explaining the fishermen’s homes were originally painted in bright hues to aid in spotting them from the sea. Visitors have 20 minutes to explore the area, snapping photos and admiring the unique architecture.
Some wander down the boardwalk, browsing local shops and restaurants. The guide points out the town’s salt production, a key industry in this coastal region.
Soon, it’s time to re-board the van for the return trip.
Discovering Barra Beach
As the van departs Costa Nova Beach, travelers soon arrive at Barra Beach, known for its towering landmark – the tallest lighthouse in Portugal.
This iconic structure stands as a beacon, guiding ships and captivating visitors.
At the beach, travelers can:
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Admire the lighthouse and take in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
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Explore the nearby sand dunes and witness the production of Aveiro salt.
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Learn about the history and cultural significance of bacalhau, the cured codfish, a staple in local cuisine.
The quick stop at Barra Beach offers a glimpse into the diverse natural and cultural wonders of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code mentioned for the tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear for walking and spending time outdoors are recommended to fully enjoy the sights and activities during the tour.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Lunch?
The tour does not include time for lunch. The itinerary focuses on sightseeing at Barra Beach and Costa Nova Beach, with stops ranging from 15 to 20 minutes at each location for exploration and photo opportunities.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on this tour. The tour does not include any meal or refreshment stops, so bringing personal provisions is allowed and encouraged to sustain yourself during the sightseeing excursion.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While the standard tour duration is 75 minutes, travelers can inquire about extending the tour to explore the beaches and attractions at their own pace. However, this may incur an additional fee.
Can I Make Special Requests for the Tour?
Yes, travelers can make special requests for the tour. The tour operator is generally accommodating and may be able to customize the itinerary or include additional stops upon request, depending on availability and feasibility.
The Sum Up
The Costa Nova and Barra Beach Tour offers a captivating exploration of Portugal’s stunning coastline. Visitors will experience the vibrant culture, admire the colorful houses, and visit the tallest lighthouse in Portugal. A beach exploration, local delicacy tasting, and a traditional sweet sample provide a well-rounded experience. With an expert guide leading the way, this 75-minute journey is a must-try for those seeking to discover the beauty of Portugal’s coastal gems.
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