Porto is a charming city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and, of course, delicious food. Let’s dive into a delightful 2-day itinerary that accommodates your gluten-free dining preferences.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Porto

Morning:

• Breakfast at Manna: Start your day at this cozy café known for its gluten-free options. Try their smoothie bowls or a delicious omelet to fuel up for the day ahead.
• Ribeira District: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the Douro River in the Ribeira District. The colorful buildings and lively atmosphere are perfect for some morning photos!

Mid-Morning:

• Livraria Lello: Head to one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The stunning staircase and intricate woodwork are a must-see. Don’t forget to grab a ticket at the entrance, which can be redeemed for a discount on a book!

Lunch:

• Restaurante O Prego: This spot offers a gluten-free menu with delicious options. Try their famous prego (steak sandwich) made with gluten-free bread or a fresh salad.

Afternoon:

• Clérigos Tower: Climb the 240 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. It’s a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views are worth it!
• São Bento Railway Station: Stop by to admire the stunning azulejos (ceramic tiles) that depict historical scenes of Portugal. It’s a quick visit but a beautiful one!

Evening:

• Dinner at Cantinho do Avillez: This restaurant by renowned chef José Avillez offers a gluten-free menu with a modern twist on traditional Portuguese dishes. Be sure to try the seafood options!
• Fado Night: After dinner, immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Fado music. Head to a local Fado house in the Ribeira area for an authentic experience.

Day 2: Culture and Wine

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Majestic: This iconic café is a beautiful spot to start your day. They offer gluten-free options, so you can enjoy a coffee and a pastry in a stunning setting.
• Palácio da Bolsa: Take a guided tour of this historic stock exchange building. The Arabian Room is particularly breathtaking!

Mid-Morning:

• Mercado do Bolhão: Explore this traditional market filled with local produce, flowers, and crafts. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture and maybe pick up some gluten-free snacks.

Lunch:

• Taberna da Ribeira: This charming tavern offers a variety of gluten-free dishes. Try their grilled fish or a hearty stew for a taste of local flavors.

Afternoon:

• Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Gaia, where you can visit one of the many port wine cellars. Look for cellars that offer gluten-free options for tastings, like Sandeman or Graham’s.
• Cais de Gaia: After your tasting, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. The views of Porto from this side of the river are stunning!

Evening:

• Dinner at ODE Porto Wine House: This restaurant focuses on local ingredients and offers a gluten-free menu. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and try their traditional dishes with a modern twist.
• Sunset at Jardim do Morro: End your day by watching the sunset from this beautiful garden. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on your Porto adventure!

Tips:

• Always double-check with restaurants about gluten-free options, as menus can change.
• Porto is quite walkable, but be prepared for some hills!
• Don’t forget to try the local specialties like Francesinha (ask for a gluten-free version) and Bacalhau (codfish).

Enjoy your trip to Porto! It’s a city that will surely capture your heart. 🌍✨