The 9 best things to do in Foz do Douro

Start your journey through this part of the city on one of its most iconic modes of transport, the No. 1 tram, which takes you from Ribeira to Foz do Douro in about 20 minutes. Catch it at the Infante stop, right in front of São Francisco’s Church, then head in the direction of the Jardim do Passeio Alegre, a leafy spot which hosts the Alegria Market from 9am-6pm every Sunday. Here you can get a little bit of everything, from vegetables, smoked meats and preserves to handicrafts. Nearby, you'll also find the curious Marégrafo da Foz do Douro, a late 19th-century water level indicator that records tidal variations over time and determined the average sea level. On the other side is Foz Velha, with its cobbled streets and low houses that once housed fishermen. 

Foz would not be the same without this iconic pastry shop, founded in 1935 and purchased by Rui Paiva. With a menu full of eggs, crepes, salads and a lavish brunch at weekends, Tavi is popular with locals and tourists (and the occasional footballer, apparently), who come for the buttery homemade pastries and savoury treats, like the Pastéis de Chaves and samosas. Oh, and there's a magical sea view. 

Another non-negotiable? A stroll (or cycle) along the waterfront. One of the city’s most popular cycle paths runs between the Jardim do Cálem and the Parque da Cidade in Matosinhos, stretching for about 5km and passing several beaches, including the Praia dos Ingleses, Praia da Luzm Praia de Gondarém and Pérgula da Foz. Definitely bring your camera. 

Almost 80 years old, the Foz Market truly is a city icon. It opened in January 1944 as a place for local farmers to sell their produce, and as soon as you enter you'll notice the large fruit and vegetable stand. But you can also get your hands on fresh fish, meat and flowers, all from local small-scale producers. You'll also find cobblers’ shops and others selling haberdashery and crafts, some ready-to-eat meals and plenty of snacks. At Rua de Diu, Mon 7am-5pm and Tue-Sat 7am-11pm. 

Is there a better way to get to know Porto than through its cuisine? Be sure to get a table at this restaurant if you're interested in a taste of tradition. A little spot off the beaten track for tourists, A Capoeira is very popular with locals for its attentive service, wine list and classic Portuguese dishes; think grilled cod, grilled squid, octopus fillets with rice and beef tenderloin. Definitely get the croquettes to start.

Foz has a little bit of everything when it comes to shopping. Start at swimwear store Latitid, then check out Rhino Home Store for vases, bowls, candles and blankets. If you've got the kids in tow, make sure to check out Piupiuchick, a lovely space with good-quality kids’ clothes, accessories, art and more. 

Chef Vasco Mourão’s most acclaimed restaurant is right here in Foz, and it's got an impressive 25-year history. Found in a restored early 20th-century house in one of the most prestigious parts of Foz, its menu is full of French and Italian-inspired classic dishes, such as beef tartare and beef Wellington.

Feel like dancing? Foz is home to one of the city’s most iconic nightclubs, which plays a lot of electronic and sometimes classic tunes. The atmosphere is intimate, the sound quality is good and the drinks are great. Check Industria's socials for its upcoming schedule. 

What if we told you that after a day of sightseeing in Foz you can sleep in a luxurious five-star hotel? Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offers exquisitely decorated rooms and a complete spa service, right on the Praia Homem do Leme, with beautiful views of the sea. But its restaurant, the Michelin-starred Vila Foz, is also a must-try if you're looking to splurge. Its first tasting menu, the Maresia (€170) is dedicated to the sea, and its second Novo Mundo (€120) is entirely vegetarian. There's also a Kitchen Seat Experience for two people, where you can watch the chef in action (€400 per person).