Where to stay in Porto, Portugal? – 7 best areas and hotels 🇵🇹

Deciding where to stay in Porto, Portugal can be overwhelming due to the many vibrant neighborhoods and diverse accommodation options.

Known for its decorative azulejos, famous port wine and its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, Porto has something to offer every traveler, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer.

In this guide, we explore Porto’s best neighborhoods and examine their unique characteristics and suitability for different types of travelers, budgets and preferences. We also recommend the best hotels and apartments in each neighborhood to simplify your accommodation search.

Best Areas to Stay in Porto, Portugal

• 👉 Centro Baixa: Ideal for first-time visitors due to its historical significance and proximity to the most important sights.
• 👉 Ribeira: Perfect for those who love nightlife, with a mix of history and a lively social scene.
• 👉 Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau und Vitória: These areas are ideal for families and older couples and offer a mix of tranquillity and accessibility to the city’s attractions.
• 👉 Miragaia: A good choice for a relaxing weekend, known for its picturesque streets and historic ambience.
• 👉 Vila Nova de Gaia: The first address for wine lovers who want to experience an intensive wine tasting.
• 👉 Avenida da Boavista: Famous for shopping and cultural experiences, with a range of luxury accommodation.
• 👉Paranhos: An affordable option that is particularly attractive to students and those looking for a lively atmosphere.

Detailed descriptions of these areas, including specific hotel and apartment recommendations, can be found here.

1. Centro Baixa, The Best Area in Porto for first-time visitors

Porto’s administrative center stretches from Avenida dos Aliados at one end to Praça da Liberdade at the other.

A place that, before 2004, told stories of dwindling stores and deserted streets. But the winds of change blew and brought with them the World Heritage designation, and soon the district shone in new splendor.

Historic buildings regained their charm and the area experienced a boom in the hotel and restaurant industry. Modern bars and clubs sprang up, and today the Centro Baixa is a vibrant center of activity.

Lovers of architecture? Don’t miss the São Bento train station with its tiled entrance, the Misericordia church with its baroque appearance and the Clérigos church. Its 75-meter-high tower offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city.

Those with a penchant for gold should stroll along the Rua das Flores and discover the shimmering creations of the local goldsmiths.

What else should you see? Hop on the redesigned streetcar network, marvel at the Dom Luis I Bridge, take a harbor house tour or a river cruise. Not forgetting the streets lined with designer boutiques, lively cafés, bars and restaurants.

For your stay in Porto, Centro-Baixa offers a wealth of accommodation to suit all tastes, budgets and moods.

There you have my first selection. But Porto has even more secrets to offer, so tie your shoelaces tight, it’s going to be a wonderful trip!

Best hotels in Centro Baixa

• 👉 ($$$) Pestana Porto
• 👉 ($$) Catalonia Porto
• 👉 ($) Legendary Porto Hotel

2. Ribeira, best area for nightlife in Porto

If there’s one place in Porto that gets my heart pumping every time, it’s this gem in the heart of the old quarter. Imagine that: a district that has been shining in UNESCO glory since ’96, and oh boy, does it live up to the honor!

As you stroll through the cobbled streets, you can get a front row view of the iconic Port Houses on the opposite bank of the river. But don’t let the view fool you just yet. These colorful townhouses, nestled boldly against the hillside next to a maze of alleyways, are the soul of Ribeira. They whisper old stories of sailors and merchants, if only you would listen to them.

Speaking of starting points: you will probably find yourself on the Praça da Ribeira. This square with its medieval charm is where the nights find their rhythm. On one side, the coat of arms of Portugal is emblazoned on a majestic granite wall, accompanied by a statue of John the Baptist. But if you ask me, the other side is the real treat. Here you can drink wine and feast in a variety of bars and restaurants.

Do you have a soft spot for religious architecture? Then brace your calves and venture up the steep alleyways. Your reward? A cathedral that rises almost like a fortress on the top of the hill.

However, if you prefer to take a detour, meander through the stormy Rua de São João towards the city center. From there, you can turn right into Rua da Fonte Taurina and Rua da Reboleira, which will greet you with new wonders.

A pit stop at Rua Alfandega is a must. Why, you ask? Because the Casa do Infante is waiting for you. This 14th century house is said to be the birthplace of Henry the Navigator. Once a customs house and later a mint, today it guards the city’s archives. When you enter, you will be greeted by Roman relics found during the excavations.

Want to spice up your Instagram picture? The Ponte Dom Luis I overlooks the district and offers a breathtaking view of the city from its top.

As far as accommodation is concerned, Porto has everything to offer. Countless hotels, guesthouses and apartments are just a stone’s throw away from the waterfront and the lively Ribeira Square. Whether you’re here for the nightlife, the history or a mixture of both, Ribeira promises an unforgettable rendezvous.

Best Hotels in Ribeira

• 👉 ($$$) Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel
• 👉 ($$) Descobertas Boutique Hotel Porto
• 👉 ($) Pimms Home Ribeira

3. Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau and Vitória, best areas in Porto for families and older couples

Tucked away in the heart of Porto, the once separate districts of Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau and Vitória now merge into a harmonious tapestry that stretches for around 5.5 km² from the city center to the riverbanks. Rather than rename this charming amalgamation after 2013, the city council decided to honor the heritage of each neighborhood by retaining their individual names.

If you ask me, this unique mix of history and modernity is an ideal base for families with children and lovers in their prime. As you stroll through the cobbled streets, you’ll come across bustling fashion boutiques, inviting bars, cozy hostels, large hotels and apartments that will capture you on camera every few steps. And for the more adventurous? Well, the wonders of the city are mostly within walking distance or a short streetcar ride away.

In the city, the gardens and parks are in bloom and bring a breath of fresh air to your walks. The Jardim do Palácio de Cristal with its panoramic views and the Rotunda da Boavista are my personal green favorites. Don’t even get me started on the fascinating statues in the Jardim Teófilo Braga or the picturesque charm of the Jardim do Marquês de Pombal!

There is a delightful contrast around every corner: chic shopping centers next to traditional stores and markets where you can haggle over souvenirs and antiques. Art lovers should make a detour to Rua Miguel Bombarda – these galleries will inspire you!

When evening falls, the city’s culinary heart beats faster again. From traditional Portuguese home cooking to international delicacies, you are spoiled for choice. Fancy a big dinner? You’ll find it here. Looking for a cozy, romantic bistro for a special evening? Look no further. And for those who want to dance after dinner, there’s a live bar and some delicious restaurants on Rua da Galeria de Paris. Doesn’t that sound like a slice of Portuguese paradise?

Best hotels in the region

• 👉 ($$) Eurostars das Artes
• 👉 ($$) Exe Essenzia Porto
• 👉 ($) MyStay Porto Centro

4. Miragaia, Best place to stay in Porto for a weekend

If you’re longing for a relaxing weekend in Porto, this is undoubtedly my favorite corner. As you meander through the narrow streets, you’ll be greeted by the charm of cobbled alleyways and tall, slender houses reminiscent of the neighboring Ribeira. These streets whisper stories from the 14th century, when this neighborhood was created outside the city walls of Porto and offered solace to the Armenian and Jewish communities.

But here’s a tip: Porto, especially Miragaia, loves to play with the high ground. While a walk is the best way to really soak up the spirit of Miragaia (and get a sense of Porto as a whole), if like me you occasionally shy away from uphill walks, hop on a streetcar. It’s a great plan B for exploring the area.

And speaking of exploring, don’t even get me started on the obligatory sightseeing! The São Pedro church is an architectural gem, while the English Club is steeped in history. Visit Alfândega Nova (the Customs House converted into the Transport and Communications Museum), the enchanting Palácio das Sereias and the Soares dos Reis National Museum, which houses Porto’s artistic gem, the Carrancas Palace.

For shopaholics, vintage hunters and foodies, Miragaia is a dream. With its antique stores, souvenir stores, cozy cafés and countless restaurants, it’s a real treat. And if you’re a wine lover like me, you should definitely take a walk along the river or pop into a port house on the harbor to uncover the secrets of port wine. Let yourself be enchanted by a walk along the riverside from Miragaia to Ribeira.

When night falls, life pulsates in the district. Bars and pubs offer something for every taste. Enjoy a leisurely meal, find a taverna on the quay, take a seat on the terrace and enjoy the view with a cool beer or a glass of wine.

Looking for a place to sleep? The area offers a wealth of options – from budget accommodation to luxury hotels, guesthouses and even self-catering accommodation.

So when you’re in Porto, make Miragaia your haven. Trust me on this point!

Best hotels in Miragaia

• 👉 ($$$) Torel Avantgarde
• 👉 ($$) Oporto Serviced Apartments – Miragaia
• 👉 ($) Menina Colina Guesthouse

5. Vila Nova de Gaia, best neighborhood to stay in Porto for wine tasting

If you make your way to Vila Nova de Gaia, affectionately known as Gaia, you’re in for a treat, especially if you’re a sucker for wine like I am. It’s an unspoken rule in Porto: no meal is truly satisfying without sipping Portugal’s world-famous wine, ideally paired with local cheese.

Gaia is not only a paradise for wine lovers, but also a place steeped in tradition. The heart of the ageing, blending and bottling of Porto wines has been beating here since the 17th century. Just imagine: Until 1952, the barrels were brought from the vineyards of the upper Douro Valley to the port wine houses in Gaia. Nowadays, they are transported by land.

If you ask me, a stay in Gaia is not complete without visiting at least one of the 20 port wine houses. Immerse yourself in the winemaking process and reward yourself with a tasting at the end.

If you look across the river, you will see the enchanting round silhouette of the 17th century Serra de Pilar monastery. Century. And here’s a funny detail: In the turbulent 1800s, it was seized during the Peninsular War by none other than the British Duke of Wellington.

If you want a bird’s eye view, take a ride on the new cable car. Art lovers should make a detour to the Teixeira Lopes Museum. Born in 1866, Teixeira Lopes from Gaia has filled the whole city with his magic.

If, like me, you sometimes need a breather from the sights, you can relax in one of the picturesque gardens such as the Jardim do Morro. Or soak up the atmosphere in a pavement café and nibble on some light fare. Truth be told, simply following your nose often leads to the most memorable adventures.

Gaia is bursting with life – relaxed bars, delicious restaurants, a mix of local inns and international hotels as well as cozy guesthouses and apartments. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to pay a visit. I promise you won’t regret it!

Best hotels in Vila Nova de Gaia

• 👉 ($$) The Yeatman
• 👉 ($) Caléway Hotel
• 👉 ($) Park Hotel Porto Gaia

6. Avenida da Boavista: Porto’s most important shopping street

Have you ever strolled along a street and had the feeling that history was whispering in your ear? Then Avenida da Boavista is for you! This 5.5 km long marvel, which stretches elegantly between the military hospital and the charming Castelo do Queijo, is Porto’s most magnificent avenue.

Created as a chic residential area for wealthy merchants and aristocrats, it has become the city’s beating heart of culture and commerce. Today it is teeming with magnificent villas from the 1850s (many of which have been converted into chic stores), elegant office buildings, opulent hotels, tempting restaurants and trendy bars.

Do you have an appetite? Then head to Bull and Bear – it’s known for its divine marinated sea bass. But if you’re like me and can’t resist succulent red meat, you should try the traditional Portuguese cuisine at Capa Negra II.

And, believe me, the Casa da Música is not just a place, it’s an experience. This modern marvel has acoustics that will leave you spellbound, offering everything from soulful fado to electrifying rock. If you are considering Boavista for your stay, there is a variety of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

Best hotels in Avenida da Boavista

• 👉 ($$$) Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa
• 👉 ($$) ABC Hotel Porto – Boavista
• 👉 ($) Boavista Guest House

7. Paranhos: Budget-friendly stays in Porto

Think of Paranhos as Porto’s vibrant student district, bursting with youthful energy and enthusiasm. The neighborhood, which is mostly residential, is home to several faculties of the University of Porto, making it a playground for young people.

The streets are teeming with local stores, a shopping center, cozy cafés, lively bars, various restaurants and snack bars – especially near the university quarters.

The Hospital de São João is also located here. Although it lacks major attractions, it is only ten minutes from the center of Porto, making it a desirable location. And thanks to efficient public transportation, you’re never far from the city’s highlights.

Looking for a bargain? Paranhos offers a range of budget hotels and apartments, perfect for the savvy traveler.

Best hotels in Paranhos

• 👉 ($) Hotel ibis Porto Sao Joao
• 👉 ($) Hotel Porto Nobre
• 👉 ($) Lindo Vale Guest House

Don’t limit your Portuguese adventure to just one city! If you’re already enjoying the beauty of Porto, why not double the magic by extending your trip to Lisbon? Find the best places to stay in Lisbon now and discover the full essence of Portugal!

Frequently asked questions about Porto, Portugal

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