Hotel Moliceiro – Boutique Hotel in the Center of Aveiro

Aveiro is a city comfortably juggling a desire to maintain its Portuguese heritage, while fulfilling its ambition to be a modern city. At the heart of this charming city is a river complete with gondolas (moliceiros) that evoke river travel of eras past, but provide entertainment for tourists in modern times. In the center of all this action is Hotel Moliceiro, a boutique hotel that takes its name from the traditional boats, yet offers a modern design hotel experience.

With only 49 rooms, the Moliceira is relaxed and cozy, with a special emphasis on service. At check-in, guests receive a welcome drink. In the late afternoon, tea and biscuits are served in the lounge or in the rooms. In the evening, live piano music entertains guests and locals relaxing with a cocktail in the lounge.

A great variety of rooms make this hotel unique. Standard rooms have river, market or interior garden views. Those on the first floor have step out balconies. Those on the second and third levels feature large windows.

Deluxe rooms are more fun, each with their own distinct theme. Room décor in themes Chanel (photo at top), Provence, Manhattan, Cosmopolitan and Marrakesh, are carefully, playfully and comfortably designed. The deluxe rooms all have a view of the main canal.

For something special, Hotel Moliceira has three luxury penthouse suites. These also are decorated in unique themes of Writer, Spa and Oriental.

All rooms are well-equipped with individually-controlled air conditioning, telephone, mini-bar, safe, cable TV with LCD screen, DSL, room service, laundry, bathtub, full range of bathroom amenities and hairdryer. In the morning, a breakfast buffet offers complimentary coffee, tea, juice, breads and fruit.

When it’s time to explore the city, the staff is helpful in making arrangements. Ask to reserve a moliceira boat to see the sites via the river. Many traditional and modern restaurants are situated within walking distance. The Art Nouveau Museum is a few steps down the street. And, just around the corner is are several areas offering a multitude of nightlife options.