Where to stay
Porto is compact, but its neighbourhoods feel very different. Choose between the riverside, the centre, creative Cedofeita, modern Boavista, seaside Foz or Gaia across the river.
The areas
AtmosphereOn the river, in the old town
Riverside apartments and boutique hotels in the heart of the historic centre. Wonderful views and evenings, but steep streets, crowds and some late-night noise.
Best for: Short stays and first-time visitors who want the classic view
Most centralClose to everything
The grand central avenue and the streets around São Bento and Clérigos, with the widest choice of hotels and excellent metro links.
Best for: First-time visitors and travellers using public transport
CreativeGalleries, cafés and local life
A quieter neighbourhood west of the centre, around Rua de Cedofeita and the galleries of Rua Miguel Bombarda, with good-value guesthouses and apartments.
Best for: Return visitors and longer stays
ModernBusiness hotels and Casa da Música
A modern district along Avenida da Boavista with larger hotels, shopping and good metro links, a little away from the historic centre.
Best for: Business travellers and families who want space
SeasideOcean air and promenades
Elegant residential streets, beaches and seafood restaurants where the river meets the Atlantic, a tram or bus ride from the centre.
Best for: Slower stays and beach lovers
ViewsAcross the river from Ribeira
Hotels and apartments near the port lodges, with the best views back across the river to Porto. The climb up from the riverside is steep.
Best for: Port wine lovers and views of the old town
Porto has everything from historic boutique hotels in converted townhouses to large modern hotels in Boavista. Many central hotels are in old buildings, so rooms can be small.
Guesthouses and holiday apartments are very common in the historic centre. They are good value for families and longer stays, and give you a kitchen for a market breakfast.
Prices are highest from June to September and during big events, especially the Festa de São João on the night of 23 June. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather and price. Winter is the cheapest time to visit.
Good to know
Baixa, around Avenida dos Aliados and São Bento, is the most convenient base, with excellent transport. Ribeira is the most atmospheric, but hillier and noisier.
Yes, especially if you love port wine and views. The riverside is a short walk from Ribeira across the Dom Luís I Bridge, but the streets climbing away from the river are steep.
No. Parking in the centre is difficult and the metro, buses and trams cover the city well. A car is only useful for exploring the Douro Valley independently.
Yes. Porto charges a municipal tourist tax per person per night, usually paid at your accommodation. The amount and exemptions are set by the city.
Plan your Porto trip
Once you have a base, compare tours with pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point.