There’s a cafe on every corner in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, so slowing down to enjoy an espresso or a fino is a must for travelers, and while you really can’t go wrong with a seat outside in the sunshine, some cafes go the extra mile in offering something unique in the world of coffee and cakes.
The cafes with the best views
1. Sancutarium Café
Located behind Santa Luzia this café offers hilltop views of the Atlantic Ocean. The offerings are what you’ll find at any typical Portuguese café (ice cream, alcohol, espresso, a few cakes), but the views alone are worth taking the elevator or a taxi up.
2. Café Girassol
In the Jardim Marina, this café is a Viana do Castelo institution. It’s smack dab in the middle of the tree-lined promenade providing a shaded place to enjoy espresso on a hot day with excellent people watching and views of the river.
3./4. Galette or Shiro
Speaking of river views, these two cafes are located side-by-side across from the Gil Eannes boat with views of the river. Go to Galette for traditional Portuguese snacks and baked goods. Go to Shiro if you want bagels or sandwiches.
5. Praia Norte Bar
There are quite a few restaurants and cafes around Praia Norte. Praia Norte Bar is one of the best for reasonable prices. Sit down outside under the large umbrellas and breathe in the sea air while you sip your espresso.
6. Bar da Praia
Located on the boardwalk of Cabedelo beach, the views here are hard to beat.
The cafes with the best baked goods
7. Confeitaria, A Brasileira
The desserts at this pastry shop are unmatched and it’s an excellent place to order birthday cakes as well. Everything is freshly baked and delicious.
8. Adam Fine Pastry
Located on the corner of Rua Manuel Espregueira (a popular pedestrian street in the heart of Viana do Castelo), this small cafe serves delicious gelato, croissants, cookies, and macaroons all for very reasonable prices for the quality of the food.
9. Verdi Bakehouse
Just off the Praça da República the croissants here are an absolute must try, particularly the chocolate croissant which is pure decadence. They also offer yummy sandwiches and a variety of coffee drinks (like lattes) not often found in typical Portuguese cafés.
10. Coqueta Padaria Artesanal
Popular for their sourdough and homemade bread, this little spot is popular with locals and tourists alike.
11. Manuel Natário
The famous bol de berlin is sold here and generates lines around the block in the summer time. The Berliners are only sold at 11am and 4:30pm, and a fresh-baked, still warm, cinnamon and sugar covered pastry stuffed with nata is truly worth waiting for. But note that if you don’t want to wait, try sitting inside (which often avoids the line all together) or coming here off-season or during weekdays (if that’s an option for you). The rest of the cakes here are also all very good.
The cafes with the best coffee
12./13. Calmaria and/or Peloton
If you’re picky about your coffee, then these two cafes are the place to be. Both are located in beautiful old buildings with well-designed interiors. And both sell beans you can bring home with you.
The cafes in the most unique locations
14. Cocoon
Cocoon is located inside Parque Ecológico Urbano, a sprawling park behind Viana do Castelo’s river beach. The park contains a wetland, children’s playground, and running trails. The café sells vegetarian food, coffees, and other drinks for reasonable prices from a beautiful glass building surrounded by nature.
15. Brejuinha
Located outside Viana do Castelo near Darque, this cafe is only accessible by car. It’s another cafe surrounded by nature. There’s a children’s park and spaces to barbecue located within a large fenced in area. It’s a great place to bring children while the parents enjoy a burger or a coffee.
The best brunch spots
16. Luma
Located in the heart of Viana do Castelo, Luma offers such delights as poke bowls and eggs benedict. They also sell delicious lattes. It’s a great place to treat yourself or a friend on a weekend.
17. Estrelinha Jardim
A fancier and slightly pricier option, Estrelinha Jardim is a good place to go if you want to impress someone. They have unique pastries on offer like pistachio croissants in addition to their brunch options.
The best traditional cafes
18. Petinga Doce
Viana do Castelo is full of traditional Portuguese cafes, all of which offer delicious pastries and lively atmospheres. One particular stand out is Petinga Doce, on the main strip down from the train station, their fresh baked bread can’t be beat and their location offers excellent people watching.
18. Pasteleria Dantas
Another excellent traditional café is Dantes, founded in 1915 and housed in a beautiful old building. This cafe has delicious coffee and pastries but also doubles as a cheap and delicious lunch spot. Their fried fish is particularly well-priced and satisfying.
