Águeda is not one of those well known towns that are visited by thousands of tourists every year. It sits quietly to the east of Aveiro, a quick drive or 30 minute train ride into the town where its narrow cobblestone streets and traditional architecture make it just as enchanting as other Portuguese towns.
But it has also recently burst onto the tourist scene, captivating visitors with its colorful streets and warm hospitality. We first heard of Águeda as the city of Umbrellas from a TikTok video and later as the town with the largest Santa Claus in Portugal. We put it on our travel list as a great road trip and since we were in Aveiro, we thought it would be a great idea to pop over and check it out.
We went on a cloudy afternoon and walked the few streets there are in the city center. We loved seeing all the art and the umbrellas added such a kaleidoscope of colour to a dreary day.
The Umbrella Sky Project and Águeda’s Artistic Renaissance
Back in 2011, Águeda launched The Umbrella Sky Project as part of the local AgitÁgueda Art Festival. Now, during the summer months, from July to September, the town’s main streets are adorned with a canopy of colorful, floating umbrellas, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere.
The festival that is usually held the first week of July is a celebration of art in all its forms. There are live music performances, street artists, and various artistic installations throughout the town. Walking through Águeda during this time is like stepping into a living art gallery, where every turn reveals a new surprise.
This years festival kicked off with a “silent party” where guests were given headphones and danced all night to the music of a DJ. The rest of the town did not hear the heavy thumps of music, but people were able to hang out, dance and enjoy themselves.
The festival also featured a Folklore Parade, living statues performance, and a city race. You could even take a boat ride down the Águeda river.
Get your camera ready…
Águeda offers instagram opportunities at every turn! We had such a fun time taking pictures of the art and ourselves.
As you can see, that is what we spent most of our time doing. We stopped into a local cafe for lunch and then headed back. It was great to spend a few hours in a beautiful little town with so much vibrancy.
Águeda – A Colorful Addition to Your Portuguese Adventure
Águeda may not be the first name that comes to mind when planning a trip to Portugal, but it undoubtedly deserves a spot on your itinerary. Whether you’re exploring the north from Porto, venturing into the central regions near Coimbra, or enjoying the coastal charms of Aveiro, Águeda offers a unique and memorable detour.
As you plan your Portuguese adventure, consider giving Águeda the time it deserves. Whether it’s a day trip or a longer stay, this charming town will add a burst of color and a touch of magic to your journey.
To learn more about visiting Águeda and other hidden gems in Portugal, be sure to check out our blog for detailed travel guides and insider tips. Don’t forget to tune into our podcast, where we share personal experiences, local insights, and expert advice to help you make the most of your Portuguese adventure.
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Shelley is a full time traveler, blogger and podcaster currently living in Portugal with her wife, 2 dogs and a cat. She is a former history teacher originally from Winston-Salem, NC but wanted to see what life was like abroad. Now she travels all over Portugal and Europe writing about what she sees and does and tells you all kinds of fun stories on the podcast at Wandering Works for Us.