Rosarinho Cruz invites to her Atelier by the River

Right in the heart of Ribeira, this studio looks out over the Douro River, a view that never fails to inspire me. I love walking these streets, hearing the city’s heartbeat in its cafés, tiled façades and river breeze. You’re just steps from some of Porto’s most iconic spots, yet the apartment feels like a little world of its own.

This studio is a layered space of textures, light, and collected memories. The soft pink sofa, the dressmaker’s mannequin, the carved wooden chest, the bird-shaped faucet - each piece was chosen or created with intention. Welcome to my little world!

I’ve always loved open, flowing spaces. They let me breathe, think, create. That’s why this studio has no rigid divisions. The bed sits in soft light, surrounded by gentle, neutral tones that calm me after long days. I often curl up on the velvet sofa with a book or sketchpad, it’s where ideas come quietly, in the stillness.

The dining table is one of my favorite corners. Those vintage chairs carry a little history. Many slow mornings have started here with coffee… and many evenings ended with wine and music playing softly in the background.

The kitchenette is compact, but just right for the way I live. I’ve cooked countless simple meals here. Nothing fancy, just food made slowly, with care. I love the contrast between the black cabinetry and the warmth of the rest of the space; it gives structure without breaking the softness.

I wanted the bathroom to feel like part of the studio - minimal, serene. Polished cement floors, clean lines, a walk-in shower where the water disappears into the floor. I find it grounding, almost meditative.

There’s also a separate washbasin I use to get ready, framed by warm orange walls. It rests on an antique wooden cabinet, imperfect and alive with character. And yes, there’s another mannequin here. Maybe unusual, but for me, it keeps the creative energy flowing through every corner.

A Few Notes from Me

• The studio is on the second floor. There is an elevator, but you’ll still need to climb two flights of stairs.
• Ribeira is full of life. Expect some street sounds. I find them charming, but light sleepers might prefer earplugs.
• The street has limited car access, but the nearest accessible road is just a few steps away.
• This is an open-plan space. The charm is in the flow, but it may not suit guests looking for enclosed rooms.

While I’m away, this space is yours. Not just to stay in, but to feel, live and enjoy. I hope it brings you the same joy, calm, and inspiration it brings to me.

– Rosarinho

After 22:00, a €25 late check-in fee applies (paid in cash upon arrival).

When you arrive, my wonderful partners at BnBird Homes - who take care of my place and guests while I’m away - will be there to welcome you warmly. To make sure everything goes smoothly and you can settle in without delay, could you please send me your flight number and your estimated arrival time at least 48 hours before? This little detail helps them prepare and give you the best welcome possible. Without it, they might not be able to greet you right away, so your help with this means a lot.

While you’re here, they’re also just a message away if you have any questions or want some local tips to make your stay even more special. I hope you feel at home and enjoy every moment!

The narrow cobblestone streets of Ribeira are dotted with small bars and restaurants serving classic Portuguese cuisine, such as grilled sardines. By the Douro River, Ribeira Square is flanked by colorful 18th-century buildings, and the Palácio da Bolsa, a neoclassical landmark, is known for its ornate interiors. As there is plenty of public transportation nearby (buses, metro and trains), it is easy to reach all the sights of the city.

If you are traveling by plane from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, there are a few options to go to the property.

￫ Metro
It's a 30 minute journey, and the nearest metro station is São Bento.

￫ Cars
Taxi or Uber is also a possibility, but for a faster and easier arrival, please contact us so we can arrange a Transfer Service that awaits you at the airport (subject to extra cost).

I want to share a few things to help you feel comfortable and know what to expect during your stay at my place:

•The apartment is self-catered, and I’ll have some basic essentials waiting for you when you arrive - like toiletries for the first day and toilet paper. These are just a welcome gift, so please note we don’t provide refills during your stay.

•Bed and bath linens are provided for the number of guests on your reservation. If you stay longer than 7 nights, fresh linens will be ready for you at check-in, at no extra cost.

•The cleaning fee covers only the final clean after you leave. If you’d like extra cleaning or fresh linens during your stay, just let us know at least 24 hours ahead (there’s a small additional charge for that).

•Check-in is between 16:00 and 22:00. If you arrive later than 22:00, there’s a €25 fee. You’ll receive one set of keys.

•Portuguese law requires us to collect your passport details when you check in.

•Check-out is by 11:00. Before you leave, please leave the keys on the main table.
• Please take care of the keys during your stay. Don’t leave them in the lock or mailbox. If you lose them or if they get damaged, or if a technician is needed to open the door, any costs will be your responsibility.

•If you’re traveling with little ones, I have a crib and baby chair available upon request (there’s a small extra fee).

•For stays of 28 days or more, if monthly utility bills go over €150, the extra amount will be charged separately.
If you have any questions or want to know more, just reach out. We’re here to help!