We are lucky enough to live in Porto, and it’s in the beautiful Rua das Flores that we are lucky to do something we love - welcome guests at Ribeira Flores 59 Dowtown Apartments, right in the heart of the historic center. Every day we see visitors discovering the city’s charm, and we love to share our own recommendations — not just the main attractions, but also the cafés, restaurants, and views that make Porto truly special.
Here is our three-day itinerary, designed to give you a real feel of the city.
Start your morning with breakfast at Floresta Café by Hungry Biker, just around the corner from our apartments. Afterward, head to the famous São Bento Station, where the tile murals tell the story of Portugal. A short walk away, you’ll find the Church of Santo Ildefonso and the striking Chapel of Souls, both adorned with beautiful blue-and-white façades.
For lunch, explore the renewed Mercado do Bolhão, where you can taste regional products and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this traditional market. Don’t miss a pastel de nata at Manteigaria, known for serving some of the best in the city.
In the afternoon, climb the Clérigos Tower for one of the most impressive panoramic views of Porto, then continue to the Igreja do Carmo, famous for its tiled side façade. As the day ends, make your way to Jardim das Virtudes, a local favorite spot to watch the sunset over the Douro.
For dinner, book a table at Taberna Santo António, a small and traditional restaurant where Portuguese comfort food is served with warmth.
Begin your day with breakfast at one of the cafés nearby, such as Mercador Café or Nata Lisboa or So Coffee Roasters. Then visit the Porto Cathedral (Sé), one of the city’s oldest monuments, before walking to the Palácio de Cristal Gardens, where you’ll find peaceful paths and breathtaking views over the river.
At lunchtime, try the city’s most famous dish: the Francesinha at Café Santiago. From there, walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia.
Spend your afternoon along Cais de Gaia, with its views back across to Porto. This is the time to visit one of the city’s Port Wine Cellars — we recommend Calém, which offers the option of combining the tour with live Fado music for a full cultural experience.
Stay on the Gaia side for sunset at Jardim do Morro, one of the best viewpoints in Porto. In the evening, return to Ribeira and enjoy dinner at one of our favorite riverside restaurants, such as Bacalhau, Muro do Bacalhau, Adega São Nicolau, or Taberna dos Mercadores. Each one offers a different take on Portuguese classics.
On your final day, enjoy breakfast on one of the other cafes nearby. Begin with a visit to the Palácio da Bolsa, a 19th-century palace with spectacular interiors — take your time here, it’s worth it.
From Ribeira, make your way to Jardim do Passeio Alegre in Foz do Douro, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic. You can go by walking along the river (a long but beautiful journey), by taking the scenic 500 bus, or by Uber.
For lunch, stop at Casa de Pasto da Palmeira for a relaxed meal or at Tavi – Confeitaria da Foz for a light brunch with sea views. Continue your walk along the coast, stopping at Praia dos Ingleses if the weather allows, and don’t miss the elegant Pérgola da Foz.
As the afternoon turns to evening, enjoy a drink at iBar Praia do Aquário, one of the best seaside spots for sunset. For dinner, you can stay in Foz at Lapa Lapa, or if you’re in the mood for traditional fresh fish, head to Lage Senhor do Padrão in Matosinhos.
Back in the center, end your trip with a final cocktail at BOSCO, one of our favorite bars in Porto.
Want to experience Porto like a local?
We’d love to host you at Ribeira Flores 59, right in the historic center.
Stay with us, and wake up to the sounds of the city — with everything just outside your door.
We’ll be here. 💙
