The Heart of Porto: Located just 200 meters from the apartments, the iconic Mercado do Bolhão is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the authentic soul of the city. Recently renovated, this historic market is the best place to find fresh, high-quality local products, from seasonal fruits and vegetables to fresh fish, flowers, and regional cheeses. Beyond shopping, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the various stalls and small restaurants inside, where you can taste authentic "petiscos" (tapas) and local wines. It’s the perfect spot to buy fresh ingredients for a meal at the apartment or simply to soak in the local culture.

This is one of the most photographed churches in Porto due to its stunning facade, which is entirely covered in approximately 16,000 blue and white hand-painted tiles (azulejos). The tiles depict scenes from the lives of Saint Francis of Assis and Saint Catherine, making it a mandatory stop for anyone who appreciates traditional Portuguese art.

Location: At the corner of Rua de Santa Catarina and Rua Fernandes Tomás (just a few steps away!).

Often cited as one of the most stunning bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. Famous for its iconic red spiral staircase and intricate wood-carved interiors, it is a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike. It is famously rumored to have inspired the world of Harry Potter.

Location: Located at Rua das Carmelitas, about a 15-minute walk from the apartments.

Pro Tip: To enter, you must purchase a ticket-voucher (available online or at the ticket office nearby), which can be deducted from the price of a book purchase!

Discovering the Douro River and the Rabelo Boats. 
For a truly iconic experience, a walk down to the Ribeira district to admire the Douro River is a must. Here, you will find the traditional Rabelo boats, the historic wooden vessels that for centuries transported Port wine barrels from the vineyards of the Douro Valley to the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Today, these boats offer the famous "Six Bridges Cruise," a relaxing journey that provides a unique perspective of the city’s stunning bridges and the colorful hillsides classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the perfect way to soak in the beauty and history that connect the two riverbanks.