As one of Portugal’s most visited cities and tons of hotel options, we know it can be difficult to decide where to stay in Porto, or the best things to do. With a stunning position at the mouth of the River Douro, it isn’t hard to become mesmerized by the vibrancy and atmosphere of Porto. It rises elegantly over the surrounding hillsides in a series of wide interconnecting avenues, steep narrow alleyways and relaxing plazas always just a stone’s throw from a magnificent city or river view. With so much to see, our tours in Porto offer you the chance to visit the highlights, and our city guide helps you discover its secrets. If our list below isn’t enough for you, you can see the rest of our hotels in Porto.
Where to Stay in Sé
Dominated by its towering cathedral, Sé is one of Porto’s oldest neighborhoods, promising a huge amount of atmosphere and intriguing architectural gems including São Bento railway station, which you can learn more about on our insider Porto tour. Base yourself here and you’re not only walking distance to the majority of the city’s top sights, but also some of its finest shopping around Avenida dos Aliados.
PortoBay Hotel Teatro
Just a block back from the main city thoroughfare of Avenida dos Aliados in Sé, PortoBay Hotel Teatro couldn’t be closer to the old world charms of Porto’s medieval center, while boasting a contemporary sophistication that has seen each of the 74 rooms individually finished. A hidden internal courtyard offers a place to unwind, while guests are able to both exercise and enjoy city views from the sixth story fitness center.
Rua Sá Da Bandeira 84, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Cocorico Luxury GuestHouse
The subtle French theme that unites each of the nine rooms and suites, individually decorated from start to finish to make the most of their architectural form and double-height windows, may leave some guests feeling literally out of place, but Cocorico Luxury GuestHouse has a lot to offer, including a central location a few minutes’ walk from the magnificent Sé do Porto Cathedral, balconies to each of the rooms, and a guest lounge that’s ideal for down time whatever the weather.
Rua Duque De Loulé 97, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Le Monumental Palace
Its name certainly fits the bill, with the grand neoclassical façade of this five-star hotel being monumental and its interior spaces palatial. Named after a famed cafe that once occupied the structure, today Le Monumental Palace continues to espouse luxury, be that from the impressive marble entranceway, cozy lounge, grand fixtures, spa facilities, or its rooms. These have been made modern enough to meet the needs of today without taking away any of the details that made this space so loved by the people of Porto during its original heyday.
151 Avenida dos Aliados, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Pestana Palácio do Freixo – Pousada & National Monument
Sleek mid-twentieth century design meets grand baroque architecture at Pestana Palácio do Freixo, which is not only a five-star hotel but also a Portuguese national monument and one of the leading hotels in the world. Located on a pleasant stretch of the Douro east of Sé around a kilometer from Campanhã railway station, eighteenth century public spaces awash with gilt framing and elegant artistry combine here with modern rooms. While only some of the rooms look out onto the river, every guest is able to enjoy the views from the outdoor infinity pool, swim in the heated indoor pool, or relax in the on-site Turkish bath.
Estrada Nacional 108, Campanhã, Porto
Where to Stay in Ribeira
Still maintaining the riverside ambiance of centuries past, Ribeira sits alongside the Douro with endless amounts of charm. Narrow medieval streets disappear behind gloriously painted buildings, while a gentle buzz builds throughout the day in the bars and restaurants looking out across the river to Luis I Bridge and beyond. A nighttime Fado tour helps you explore this area under a veil of romance.
1872 River House
Offering views of the famed Luis I Bridge from its riverside location and some of its rooms, 1872 River House isn’t short of atmosphere thanks to its exposed brickwork, colorful stained glass and well-matched décor. Immediately across the Douro from the port cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, room rates include breakfast alongside coffee, tea and beer throughout the day. To add to the romance of your stay here, why not take our Porto at night and fado tour?
Rua do Infante D Henrique 133, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Pestana Vintage Porto
One of Ribeira’s most iconic structures, the mustard yellow Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel and World Heritage Site stands on the Douro riverfront at Ribeira Square as it has done for the last 400 years. Fully remodeled inside, guests can expect bright modern rooms and exceptional Douro views while enjoying breakfast in the RIB restaurant.
Praça Da Ribeira 1, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments
Just five minutes’ walk to the Ribeira riverfront and even less to the fine-detailing of São Bento railway station, Torel 1884’s dozen suites and apartments span three floors, uniting around a grand central staircase bathed in natural light. Maintaining its original features wherever possible, modern interiors sit side-by-side the grandeur of the nineteenth-century palace this once was.
Rua de Mouzinho da Silveira 228, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Where to Stay in Baixa
A little more down to earth that Ribeira is the nearby Baixa, or Downtown, neighborhood. It’s home to sights including Clérigos Tower and the equally famous Lello Bookshop, and the historic university. Its vibrant student population ensures its both energetic and constantly evolving.
Rosa Et Al Townhouse
Less than 10 minutes’ walk from the view-laden Clérigos Tower is Rosa Et Al Townhouse. It’s an assortment of spacious, high-ceilinged suites with cool white interiors contrasting with original wooden beams and polished wood floors. A blend of vintage and modern furniture completes the look, which includes a private garden and guest library.
Rua do Rosario 233, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Where to Stay Further Afield
There are some incredible Porto neighborhoods that have yet to make it onto the tourist radar as places to stay. If you’re planning to spend time sunbathing or surfing then the beachside district of Foz, a short tram ride from the city, can’t be beaten. For insight into everyday Porto, try Massemelos. You can also explore the nearby Douro Valley on this wine tour.
Vila Foz Hotel & Spa
Vila Foz Hotel & Spa sits in a green fairy-tale mansion surrounded by tranquil gardens on the beachfront at Foz. It wows not only for its look but also for its amenities. Guests here can splash in the indoor pool, enjoy the fitness center’s and sauna, or borrow a bike to explore. You can then return to the stylish surroundings of your room to relax.
236 Avenida de Montevideu, Aldoar, Foz do Douro, Porto
Tipografia do Conto
Thoroughly contemporary throughout, the Tipografia do Conto puts art and design at the forefront of every guest’s stay. Boasting spaces combining polished concrete with crisp white plasterwork, large windows look out over the emerging district of Cedofeita. This location was chosen for its string of galleries along nearby Rua Miguel Bombarda. It’s still only a short distance to Luis I Bridge. It manages to be individual and quirky without impacting the guest experience negatively, with each room boasting a private balcony. Other guest facilities include a swimming pool and library.
Rua Álvares Cabral 28, União de Freguesias do Centro, Porto
Staying in Porto
This vibrant and gorgeous city has stood the test of time, and has a timeless appeal for all visitors. Explore its history or enjoy its modern attractions, stay in the city or discover the outskirts. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to leave with lasting memories.
