A stroll through Beira Mar, the historical heart of Aveiro, is an absolute must on any tour through Aveiro. This district and its surroundings are home to many of the city’s most iconic sights. Sometimes it’s a church, a museum, or a bridge, but in this case, it’s a square. Welcome to Praça do Peixe. Set along the Canal dos Botirões, this square has deep roots in Aveiro’s fishing tradition. Starting in the early 20th century, it became the city’s main point for unloading fish and salt. Once brought ashore, the goods were sold here at the bustling fish market, held under the large iron-framed structure in front of you, built in 1904 and inspired by the Eiffel Tower. In 2022, the fish market was relocated to the Mercado Manuel Firmino, near the Forum Aveiro shopping center. But this square hasn’t been left behind. To preserve its architectural charm and historic value, the city transformed it into a lively space filled with restaurants, bars, and a rotating calendar of events. Today, Praça do Peixe is a little bit of everything, a heritage site, a showcase for local cuisine, and a vibrant cultural venue.