Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal - a Complete Guide
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Here’s everything you need to know about finding a place to stay in Porto - Portugal’s second largest city.
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Located in the north-west of Portugal, Porto sits alongside the Douro River and has a history as an important trading site. Originally named Portus Cale by the Romans who first established the settlement (Portus being the Latin word for port), this was later shortened to Porto, as we know it today.
With its charming cobblestone streets, terracotta coloured rooftops and decorative azulejo tiles, Porto is a beautiful city with plenty for visitors to see and do. It even shares its name with a type of wine, port, that is famously produced and tasted here.
As with any large city, certain areas have more to offer tourists than others. First time visitors to Porto may want to base themselves in Ribeira - the city’s historic district that includes the riverbanks of the Douro. Restaurants and bars line this area, where you’ll also find the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge and cable car, Funicular dos Guindais.
Nearby Baxia is Porto’s busy central district, which is packed with landmarks as well as a range of hotels and hostels. Another ideal base for tourists, this area has excellent transport links and plenty of shopping and nightlife opportunities. Here you’ll find the stunning São Bento train station, Livraria Lello bookshop and cathedral Sé de Porto.
For the purpose of this article, I will be focusing mainly on the Ribera and Baxia districts.
At a Glance
Best Budget Hotel/Hostel: Passenger Hostel
Best Mid-Range Hotel: Rubens Hotels & SPA
Best Luxury Hotel: GA Palace Hotel & Spa
Best Holiday Home/Apartment: 7 Gaia Roaster Apartments
Why not try one of these options…
Overview of Porto
I know it can sometimes be difficult to visualise a city you’ve never been to. Use this map to explore the accommodation options in different parts of Porto.
Budget Hotels and Hostels
You don’t need to spend lots of money to have a good time, and Porto has plenty of fantastic low cost accommodation options.
Just 500 metres from the Douro River, the one star Hotel Ibis Budget Porto Gaia provides basic rooms for a low cost. This is a great option for travellers who prefer a private room to a shared dormitory, and are happy to Uber into town. Breakfast is available for an additional fee, and a snack bar and vending machines are available 24 hours a day.
Alternatively, the two star Ibis Porto Centro São Bento is located right in the centre of the city’s historic district, just a short walk from the Church of Saint Ildefonso and São Bento train station. The hotel offers free wifi and serves a continental breakfast each day.
If you’re hoping to stay near the riverside Ribeira district, then why not try The House of Sandeman, which offers a variety of private rooms and dormitories. Based out of a beautiful historic building, the property also has a lively riverside bar that hosts live music on selected nights.
Potentially the coolest hostel in the city, the Passenger Hostel is based in the São Bento train station itself! Guests in the shared dormitories have a curtain for privacy, a bedside plug socket and individual light. There’s a shared kitchen for preparing meals, as well as a washing machine and tumble dryer. Stylishly decorated, this is a hostel that you need to consider for your stay.
Finally, why not try the Nice Way Porto Hostel. Just minutes walk from the São Bento train station, you’ll find yourself right in the centre of the action. Private and dormitory rooms are available, and all guests have access to a shared living area and kitchen.
Mid-Range Hotels
For a slightly higher but still modest budget, Porto has a range of accommodation that is slightly more comfortable than the budget options.
The Mercure Porto Centro Aliados is a four star property that’s right in the centre of the historic town. The rooms themselves are nicely decorated and come with great amenities, including a shared outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and sun terrace. An onsite restaurant is also available serving a variety of Mediterranean, Portuguese, and European dishes.
If you’re looking for a quieter neighbourhood, then try the Rubens Hotels & SPA which has fantastic amenities and beautiful indoor and outdoor pools. The river and old town are within walking distance.
The stylish Pur Oporto Boutique Hotel by actahotels makes a great mid-range option. Located in the middle of town, guests can enjoy a variety of communal spaces including a lounge, sun terrace, coffee shop and bar.
The riverside Ribeira hotels tend to be slightly more expensive, but are absolutely worth it for the picturesque location. The four star Porto River Soul Hotel, is just moments away from the riverside, and offers a rooftop pool, sun terrace, bar and restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
Located on the opposite side of the river you will find the Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira. Although there’s no swimming pool at this hotel, you’ll have access to a sun terrace and meals in the Nomadik Lounge Bar and Forno Velho Restaurant.
Luxury Hotels
There’s no shortage of beautiful luxury hotels in Porto.
The GA Palace Hotel & Spa, a XIXth-Century Villa is a stunning five star hotel with an outdoor pool that’s available to use all year round. Everything about this hotel screams luxury - from its grand exterior, to the elegant furnishings, large rooms and excellent Italian restaurant. If you have the budget, this is one hotel that you won’t want to miss.
Located to the north of the river, the Torel Avantgarde is another fantastic five star option. With two swimming pools and plenty of ourdoor space, this property is stylishly decorated and just minutes walk away from the city’s main attractions.
Alternatively, try the Torel Palace Porto which is located further to the east and run by the same brand. Here you will be treated to an outdoor pool and swish restaurant serving Portuguese and international food.
For a classy, modern feel, why not try the five star Eurostars Aliados, which is located just a few minutes walk from the São Bento train station. Offering balcony rooms with city views, residents also have access to a fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, bar and swimming pool.
Run by Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the Hospes Infante Sagres Porto underwent extensive renovations in 2024. Now looking absolutely stunning, each of the 85 rooms is individually decorated. Amenities include a bar, restaurant and outdoor swimming pool, making it a great choice for your holiday.
Holiday Homes and Apartments
If you prefer to do your own thing, Porto has no shortage of holiday homes and apartments to choose from.
The modern 7 Gaia Roaster Apartments offer a number of self contained options, just moments away from the Douro River. With a variety of options available, this complex is ideal for large groups or families who want separate apartments near to each other.
Similarly, Porto View by Patio 25 offers a range of modern apartments, located right by the riverbanks of the Ribeira. Options range from studio to two bedroom apartments.
If you’re after just the one self contained unit, the two bedroom Gaia Retreat could be the apartment for you. Other possibilities include the 296 Heritage Apartments, which offers up to three bedrooms per apartment, and the VC Heritage Ribeira Porto, which offers two studio apartments to rent.
Whichever you choose, I hope that you have an amazing time exploring Porto!
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