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Porto is a coastal city located in the northwest of Portugal, on the banks of the Douro River. It is the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon and is situated approximately 313 kilometres (194 miles) north of Lisbon.
Porto is famous for its Port wine, old architecture, intricately tiled churches and rich history. The riverbank is adorned with colourful old buildings, creating a picturesque atmosphere that adds to Porto's unique charm. Some of the best hotels in Porto including boutique, five-star hotels, and designer options, many of which are perfectly positioned to help you explore the city's most iconic sights in style. One of Porto's most iconic landmarks is the double-deck iron Dom Luís I Bridge. Porto has several beaches, offering a blend of river and coastal landscapes.
We recommend spending around two to three days in Porto to experience all that this charming city has to offer. Most of the hotels we recommend in Porto are centrally located in the Porto City Centre (including Ribeira, Baixa, and Cedofeita), making it easy to explore the historic centre and its iconic sights. For a more relaxing experience consider staying in Foz do Douro, known for its seaside charm and tranquil vibe. Alternatively, Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river, offers spectacular views of Porto’s skyline and is the hub of the famous Port wine cellars.
The old town of Porto is located in the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Neighbourhoods in the old town include Ribeira, Sé, Miragaia, and Vitória. Ribeira is renowned for its waterfront and narrow streets, Sé offers medieval streets and panoramic views, Miragaia charms with its quaint alleys and traditional houses, and Vitória showcases historic buildings and a vibrant atmosphere.
The best time to visit Porto is spring to early summer (March to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. However, the summer months (July and August) are also a great time to visit. Winter in Porto can be rainy and windy. Our selection of the best hotels in Porto includes cosy retreats perfect for winter stays, as well as stylish options with ocean views and charming gardens for the warmer months.
We recommend spending around two to three days in Porto to experience all that this charming city offers. Much of our selection of the best hotels in Porto are centrally located, making it easy to walk around and discover the city. There's plenty keeps you busy, from exploring the historic centre to taking a day trip to the Douro Valley.
Porto Airport, officially known as Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), is located approximately 11 kilometres from the city centre. Ride-hailing apps (i.e. Uber, Bolt, etc.) and taxis are available for a quick and easy transfer. The metro service at Porto's Airport operates on Line E, also known as the Purple Line. It provides a 30-minute ride to the city centre. Many of the best hotels in Porto offer the option to arrange private airport transfers, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable journey to your accommodation. Be sure to check with your chosen hotel for availability and pricing.
Famous dishes in Porto include Francesinha, a meaty sandwich with spicy tomato sauce and cheese, Bacalhau à Brás, a traditional salt cod dish with matchstick-like fries and scrambled eggs, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, a signature tripe stew made from different types of meats and beans. Sweet treats include Mousse de Chocolate, sponge cake Pão de Ló or the custardy Leite Creme. The best hotels in Porto can provide excellent recommendations for local restaurants and cafés where you can try these dishes.
Porto has several beaches within easy reach of the city centre, including Praia do Ourigo in Foz do Douro and the surfy Praia de Matosinhos a bit further north. Our selection of the best hotels in Porto includes some options in the seaside neighbourhood of Foz do Douro, perfect for those looking to stay close to the ocean. Praia de São Pedro de Maceda is a half-an-hour drive from Porto's centre and a favourite for those seeking nature and good surf.
Yes, Porto is a very walkable city, with many of its best hotels and top attractions located within easy walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer not to walk, plenty of public transportation options are available, including buses, trams, ride-hailing apps and taxis. Porto is a bit hilly but not as much as Lisbon.
The weather in Porto varies throughout the year. The summers (June to August) are generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). The winters (December to February) are cool and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F).
In our opinion, the best hotels in Porto are about much more than just stars. When searching for the best hotels in Porto, we always aim to find special places – a fancy boutique hotel, a simple guesthouse, or even a secluded urban retreat. For us, the best hotels in Porto stand out for their beautiful design, thoughtful service, and positive energy. On JO&SO, you can browse the best hotels in Porto by neighbourhood, or you can categorise by type: best hotels in Porto with unique design pieces, best hotels in Porto with a swimming pool, best hotels in Porto in the historic centre, best five-star hotels in Porto, best spa hotels in Porto, and so on. We hope you find the perfect hotel in Porto for your stay.
“Sisters Joana and Sofia de Lacerda are the duo behind JO&SO, the most insider online guide to Portugal's coolest hotels.”