You're in an ideal location in Porto's Old Town, just across from the picturesque 1904 São Bento train station constructed on the site of a 16th-century monastery. The hotel is also within walking distance of several nice urban parks. Good restaurants such as Costume Bistrô and Churrasqueira A Brasa are just around the corner, and there are fast food options and kebab shops nearby. It is close to bus stops, and there are loads of shops in the vicinity. The Bolhao City Market is the best nearby attraction, though the Porto Cathedral which is just a 20-minute walk has absolutely stunning views over the city and the Douro River.
By plane: flights to Porto take around 2 hours 25 mins from London. The drive to the hotel takes 30 minutes. Book flights to Porto.
This is a stylish and modern property but, rather than steel and glass, natural materials and light wood, plus subdued lighting, give the public areas a fresh appearance. The rooms are certainly minimalistic in many ways, for instance, ours had no paintings or posters, although there was a large mirror behind the bed. We liked the taupe colour scheme with minimal copper-coloured accessories.
We had no complaints about the service, which was thoughtful and punctual. The staff were always polite and helpful. Check-in was a breeze and employees were eager to point out locations to visit and recommend bars and places to eat.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Room service
- Free Wi-Fi
This hotel has a certain flair for understated style which also translates to the rooms. There is a great deal of curvature, such as the built-in bedside areas and some of the ceilings. There was no bathtub in our room (though suites have a freestanding one) but the rain shower was excellent.
Room types: Gallery Room, Tribune Room, Audience Room, Junior Suite, Suite
Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, Rituals toiletries, slippers, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi
The Il Basilico Restaurant does not share an entrance with the hotel and is set up for passing customs. Post-continental breakfast, the Italian menu is loaded with variety, though we particularly liked simple offerings such as bruschetta and pizza (there is an old-fashioned pizza oven at the back). The bar has numerous cocktail options and they serve a great Aperol Spritz.
Il Basilico: Italian comfort food. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Mains from €17.50.
Il Basilico Bar: drinks, cocktails and snacks. Open daily 11am-11pm.
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