Where is Porto, and what makes it worth visiting?
Porto is our hometown — a coastal city in northern Portugal set along the Douro River. We love its contrasts: old-world charm and creative new energy, wine cellars and cool design shops, the Atlantic breeze meeting cobbled streets. We share our favourite spots in our book The 500 Hidden Secrets of Porto.
Which boutique hotels in Porto have a spa?
We love the spa at Vila Foz Hotel & Spa — it offers an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room — while The Rebello Hotel & Spa features an Ancient Roman-style. Those are our two top recommendations for boutique spa hotels in Porto.
Which boutique hotels in Porto have a pool?
Tipografia do Conto features a striking 15-metre outdoor saltwater pool. The Rebello Hotel & Spa and Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offer elegant indoor pools.
Which neighbourhood in Porto is best to stay in?
Most visitors stay in Porto’s city centre — Ribeira, Baixa or Cedofeita — where you can walk almost everywhere. For sea views and a more relaxed vibe, we recommend Foz do Douro. For wine and some of the best views of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia sits just across the river. You can also explore our guide, Where to Stay in Porto by Neighbourhood.
Are there pet-friendly boutique hotels in Porto?
Yes! The Rebello Hotel & Spa and Rosa Et Al Townhouse are pet-friendly boutique hotels in Porto. Small dogs or cats are welcome — check for applicable fees or restrictions when booking.
What are the most luxurious boutique hotels in Porto?
We’re drawn to understated luxury — places that feel refined yet relaxed, rather than the more formal style of traditional five-star hotels. In Porto, our top picks for that kind of luxury are Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments, and The Rebello Hotel & Spa — all five-star stays we’ve personally visited as JO&SO.
Which boutique hotels in Porto have the best views?
For boutique hotels in Porto with the most beautiful views of the city, stay at The Rebello Hotel & Spa or Mo House for sweeping river scenes. Duas Portas sits where the Douro meets the Atlantic, while B28 Apartments and Exmo. Hotel overlooks the city’s rooftops and riverfront. For sea views, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offers an elegant stay right by the ocean.
What are the best boutique hotels in Porto near the beach?
If you want to stay by the sea, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offers Atlantic views and Michelin-star dining. Duas Portas blends beachside calm with minimalist design, while Flattered to be in Porto provides fully equipped serviced apartments right by the water.
What are the best boutique hotels in Porto for couples?
We think that all the boutique hotels in Porto we feature on JO&SO are great for couples. But if we have to pick, for a romantic Porto escape, we recommend booking a room with a river view at The Rebello Hotel & Spa or a room with a sea view at Vila Foz Hotel & Spa. Armazém Luxury Housing is perfect for design lovers who appreciate intimate spaces.
Which boutique hotels in Porto are best for families?
Serviced apartments are a great option for families. We recommend Village by BOA, Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments or B28 Apartments in central Porto, and Flattered in Porto overlooking the beach in Foz do Douro. Mo House is a guesthouse in the heart of Porto, offering suites with kitchenettes and a homely feel.
How many days do I need in Porto?
Two to three days let you see the main sights, wander the riverfront, and taste plenty of good food. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Douro Valley — Portugal’s scenic wine region, with terraced vineyards, spectacular views, and some of the most gorgeous boutique hotels we feature on JO&SO.
What is the best time to visit Porto?
The best time to visit Porto is spring to fall (March to November). Winter can be rainy and windy, but it gives Porto a moody, romantic beauty.
How do you choose the boutique hotels you feature in Porto?
We handpick every place ourselves — beautiful design, thoughtful service, and good energy come first. We’ve visited most of the boutique hotels in Porto that we feature on JO&SO; the rest are at the very top of our Watchlist. We’re JO&SO — Joana and Sofia, two Portuguese sisters on the hunt for the best places to stay in Portugal.
What should I try to eat in Porto?
Try Porto's iconic Francesinha, the salt cod dish Bacalhau à Brás, and the hearty tripe stew Tripas à Moda do Porto. For something sweet, go for Mousse de Chocolate, Pão de Ló, or the custardy Leite Creme. If you want to eat Portuguese food, check out our guide: 5 Places for Exceptional Portuguese Cooking in Porto.
What are the best boutique hotels in Porto?
Some of the best boutique hotels in Porto include The Rebello Hotel & Spa, Tipografia do Conto, Duas Portas, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, and Armazém Luxury Housing. All have been personally visited and handpicked by us, JO&SO – Joana and Sofia, Portuguese sisters.



