Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva Aveiro
An interactive science center in Aveiro where learning meets fun through hands-on exhibits and engaging workshops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva Aveiro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An interactive science center in Aveiro where learning meets fun through hands-on exhibits and engaging workshops.
"Fantastic place for both kids and adults who love science! The interactive exhibits make learning fun."
🎯 Book Workshops in Advance
Popular hands-on sessions, especially robotics, fill up quickly. Secure your spot to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
🗣️ English Support Available
While primarily in Portuguese, staff can offer English orientations and tours for international visitors. :globewithmeridians:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Robotics Workshop
Robotics Area
Kids can build and program their own small cars, bringing robots to life! A truly engaging and educational experience.

Interactive Science Exhibits
Main Exhibition Hall
Explore a variety of hands-on displays covering chemistry, math, and physics. Perfect for sparking curiosity in visitors of all ages.

Chemistry Shows
Show Area
Witness exciting science demonstrations that make complex chemical reactions fun and understandable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hands-On Science Fun
Book Ahead for Workshops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Workshops in Advance
Popular hands-on sessions, especially robotics, fill up quickly. Secure your spot to avoid disappointment!
:ticket:🗣️ English Support Available
While primarily in Portuguese, staff can offer English orientations and tours for international visitors.
:globewithmeridians:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring exhibits and participating in activities. Wear comfy shoes!
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Fun
Bring your camera or phone to document the exciting experiments and discoveries.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Workshops in Advance
Popular hands-on sessions, especially robotics, fill up quickly. Secure your spot to avoid disappointment!
:ticket:🗣️ English Support Available
While primarily in Portuguese, staff can offer English orientations and tours for international visitors.
:globewithmeridians:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring exhibits and participating in activities. Wear comfy shoes!
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Fun
Bring your camera or phone to document the exciting experiments and discoveries.
:camerawithflash:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva Aveiro, calling it a fantastic place for all ages with highly interactive and engaging science exhibits. The hands-on workshops, especially robotics, are a major highlight, providing a fun and educational experience. While the space could be a bit larger, the friendly staff and the unique factory setting add to its charm, making it a recommended stop, particularly for families.
"Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva de Aveiro is a fantastic place for both kids and adults who love science! The interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make learning fun and engaging. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to explain and assist.
The highlight for the kids was the robotics area, where they got to build small cars that could drive on their own—an absolute favorite! There are also various workshops and experiments, making it a great educational experience. The space is well-organized, though it could be a bit bigger. A great option for a family visit, especially on a rainy day in Aveiro!"
Lilia Sunshine
"One of the very few science centers with active worshops during the summer. Braga and Guimarães didn't have... i checked!!! They also have a big selection of workshops and fun activities for the kids!"
YØH
"I first called the center to inform them that I was coming in an international program membership. The woman didn't seem to know that they participated. Consequently, I arrived to show all documentation as required and were had to wait another 20 minutes while the information was being photocopied and verified. But once in, it was wonderful that they provided a brief English orientation and tour. We were able to join two workshops of which both presenters spoke English ...and portuguese. The kids didn't want to go."
Pauline Ribau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva is located in Aveiro. It's accessible by public transport within the city, and parking might be available nearby, though it's best to check local parking options.
Yes, it's situated in Aveiro and is a well-known educational center. Using a GPS or map app on your phone will guide you directly to its location.
Aveiro has a main train station. From there, you can take local buses or a taxi to reach the Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to look for public parking lots in Aveiro or check if the center provides specific visitor parking information.
Yes, Aveiro is a popular day trip from Porto, and the Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva is a great addition to your itinerary. The train journey is about an hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, especially for workshops. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date ticket information.
For general entry, it might not always be necessary, but for specific workshops or during peak times, booking in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your spot.
Opening hours can change, especially around holidays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the latest hours.
Information on discounts for families or groups is usually available on their website. It's worth inquiring when booking.
Some international memberships might be accepted, but it's crucial to confirm with the center beforehand. One visitor had to wait for verification of their international membership.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
The center features interactive exhibits on chemistry, math, robotics, and more, designed to make science fun and engaging for all ages.
Yes, they offer a wide range of workshops, including popular ones like robotics, where children can build and program their own creations.
Absolutely! The interactive nature of the exhibits and specific workshops are great for sparking curiosity in younger visitors.
Definitely! The hands-on approach and fascinating science concepts appeal to adults as well, making it a great family outing.
The science center is housed in an old factory building, which adds an interesting historical and industrial element to the visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information about on-site dining facilities is not widely available. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly for details.
Policies on bringing outside food can vary. It's best to inquire with the center beforehand or look for designated picnic areas if available.
Aveiro offers a variety of dining options. You can find many restaurants and cafes in the city center, ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to seafood.
Travelers recommend places like Vinte & 4, Ricardo Wine bar, O Augusto, Mercantel, Cais do Pescado, and Salpoente for diverse culinary experiences.
Yes, Aveiro has many restaurants. You can easily plan to have lunch before or after your visit to the science center.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions, especially during workshops or shows.
The interactive exhibits themselves, the unique factory architecture, and the enthusiastic faces of visitors engaged in experiments make for great photo opportunities.
It's best to ask the workshop facilitator first. Some workshops might have specific rules about photography to ensure participant focus.
Professional photography or videography might require prior permission. Contact the center in advance if you plan to do so.
Photos and videos of kids actively participating in experiments, close-ups of robotic creations, and the overall vibrant atmosphere are popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a perfect spot for a rainy day in Aveiro or any day you want to spark your child's curiosity about science. The staff are friendly and helpful, ensuring a welcoming experience for everyone. Remember to check the schedule and book popular workshops in advance to make the most of your family visit.
🧑🎓 Students and Educators
For educators, it offers a glimpse into innovative teaching methods and provides opportunities for students to experience science outside the traditional classroom setting. The center's involvement with school science clubs and its hosting of science shows demonstrate its commitment to educational outreach.
🌍 International Visitors
It's advisable to contact the center in advance to confirm language support for specific exhibits or workshops you're interested in. This proactive step can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Interactive Learning Experience
The robotics area is a standout, allowing participants to engage in building and programming small robots, offering a tangible introduction to engineering and coding. Beyond the permanent exhibits, the center frequently hosts special workshops and science shows, making each visit potentially unique. These activities are often tailored to different age groups, ensuring that both younger children and teenagers can find something stimulating.
This approach to science education is highly effective in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for STEM fields. By making learning fun and accessible, the Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators. The positive feedback highlights how much visitors, particularly families, enjoy the interactive and educational nature of the center.
A Hub for Scientific Events and Education
These collaborations often result in engaging science shows, like the 'Química por Tabela 2.0' (Chemistry by Table 2.0), which aims to make chemistry accessible and entertaining for students. The center also participates in broader scientific initiatives, such as celebrating International Day of Mathematics with online escape rooms, demonstrating its commitment to diverse scientific outreach.
Furthermore, the center plays a role in professional development and exchange within the science communication network. Initiatives like 'Hoje Quem Manda Sou Eu' (Today I'm in Charge), where directors of science centers swap roles, highlight its active participation in the national science communication community. This ensures a continuous flow of fresh ideas and best practices in science education.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit