Exploring the Surroundings of TiguTravels Guesthouse

Ílhavo

Vista Alegre Porcelain Museum: Located in the historic Vista Alegre district, this museum showcases over 200 years of exquisite porcelain craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the rich history of Vista Alegre porcelain and marvel at the delicate and intricate designs that have made this brand world-renowned. In addition to the museum, you can visit three shops where you can purchase both Vista Alegre porcelain and Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics.

Maritime Museum: The Ílhavo Maritime Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the sea and maritime heritage. The museum houses the famous Codfish Aquarium, where you can see live codfish in their natural habitat. Additionally, the museum features the Santo André, a traditional cod fishing vessel, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Portuguese fishermen.

Historical Centre: Take a stroll through the charming streets of Ílhavo’s historical centre, particularly Rua Serpa Pinto and Rua Arcebispo Pereira Bilhano. These streets are lined with beautifully decorated houses featuring traditional azulejos (Portuguese tiles) and stunning Art Nouveau architecture.

Dining and Cafés: For a memorable dining experience, visit O Navegante, considered the best restaurant in town. Here, you can savour the delicious local cuisine. The city centre also boasts several cosy cafés where you can enjoy a coffee and a pastry while soaking in the local atmosphere. Don’t miss the popular Gelataria Fontana di Trevi for a refreshing ice cream treat, and La Mozzarella, a pizza restaurant located in the basketball hall. For a more laid-back vibe, the Offside Sports Café on the central square is a favourite among locals, offering a great place for a drink and some pub food.

Junes Patisserie stands out with its unique offerings. Unlike traditional Portuguese pastry shops, Junes fills its display cases daily with cakes adapted to all dietary restrictions, savoury items and naturally fermented French baguettes. Junes also offers a special brunch menu on Saturdays. During the week, you can enjoy delicious lunch menus that highlight the creativity and quality of their French-inspired pastries.

Take-Away Restaurant O Farnel de Ílhavo: For those who prefer to enjoy traditional Portuguese food at home, O Farnel de Ílhavo offers a variety of take-away dishes. This restaurant specialises in authentic Portuguese cuisine, making it a convenient and delicious meal option.

Gafanhas of Ílhavo

Gafanha da Nazaré: This vibrant town is part of the Ílhavo municipality and serves as a significant port city. Gafanha da Nazaré is known for its maritime activities and strong fishing community. It’s a great place to explore the local seafood culture. One highly recommended restaurant here is Santa Brasa, where you can enjoy excellent grilled dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Gafanha da Encarnação: A charming village within the Ílhavo municipality, Gafanha da Encarnação is known for its fertile lands and traditional farming. This area offers a peaceful rural setting with beautiful landscapes. My personal favourite restaurant in the entire region, O Gafanhoto, is located here. This hidden gem offers delightful local dishes and an authentic Portuguese dining experience.

Gafanha do Carmo: Another lovely village in the Ílhavo municipality, Gafanha do Carmo is characterised by its serene environment and close-knit community. The village is perfect for those looking to experience traditional Portuguese rural life.

Costa Nova Beach

**Striped Palheiros**: Costa Nova is famous for its colourful striped beach houses known as “palheiros.” These charming houses, originally used as fishermen’s shelters, are now iconic symbols of the region and make for perfect photo opportunities.

Restaurant Dori: When visiting Costa Nova, be sure to dine at Restaurant Dori, recognised with a Michelin Bib Gourmand. This well-loved eatery offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes that showcase the best of Portuguese coastal cuisine.

Bronze Beach Lounge: For a relaxing beach day, head to Bronze, a popular beach lounge where you can unwind with a cocktail in hand, enjoy the sun, and listen to the sound of the waves. Bronze also boasts an excellent menu, making it a great spot for a delicious meal by the sea.

 Barra Beach

Barra Beach: Known for its wide, golden sands and strong waves, Barra Beach is a favourite destination for both locals and tourists. It is an excellent spot for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. The area is also home to the tallest lighthouse in Portugal, the Farol da Barra, which offers stunning views of the coastline.

Barra Beach is lined with numerous beach bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy a variety of delicious meals and refreshing drinks. Whether you are looking for a casual snack or a fine dining experience with ocean views, Barra has something to offer for every taste.

Vagueira Beach

This beach is famous for its beautiful natural scenery and the traditional fishing methods still used by local fishermen. The strong waves make it a popular spot for surfing and other water sports. Vagueira Beach offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience compared to other nearby beaches.

Casablanca Lounge: Located right by the water, Casablanca Lounge offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ocean views. With its prime location, it is the ideal place to have a drink, listen to the waves, and unwind. On many evenings, you can enjoy stunning sunsets accompanied by live DJ music, creating a magical atmosphere.

For seafood lovers, Marisqueira da Vagueira is a must-visit. This restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes, offering a true taste of the ocean.

Vagos Gourmet Days: Held in July, the Vagos Gourmet Days is a culinary festival that attracts food enthusiasts from all over. The event showcases gourmet dishes prepared by top chefs, local specialities, and a variety of food-related activities and workshops.

Local Fish Market: Vagueira’s local fish market is an excellent place to experience the region’s fishing heritage. Fresh catches are sold daily, providing visitors with the opportunity to purchase and taste the freshest seafood available.