About Vila do Conde

Vila do Conde, a charming coastal town in Northern Portugal, is a wonderful destination for a seaside break. The town's well-preserved medieval centre is striking — and evidence of its rich maritime heritage. With accommodation options ranging from cool contemporary boltholes to gorgeous restored monasteries, the best places to stay in Vila do Conde will delight romantics and design-fans alike.

Amble around Vila do Conde’s historic heart to admire the stunning Igreja Matriz Church, or to watch the world go by from bustling cafés. Fill your bags with fresh produce at the weekly market, savour fresh seafood at the lively restaurants of the seafront, or delve into the town’s shipbuilding heritage at the Alfândega Régia — Museu de Construção Naval. The ruins of the Santa Clara Monastery are gorgeous — as are the views from the Nossa Senhora da Guia Chapel.

Venture further afield to walk alongside the 18th-century aqueduct, which stretches for multiple kilometres. Praia do Turismo and Praia Azul both offer brilliant surfing and sunbathing opportunities. Enjoy the magic of Portugal’s Atlantic coast, before returning to kick back at one of the best places to stay in Vila do Conde.

The Best Places to Stay in Vila do Conde

For contemporary cool

  • Villa C Boutique Hotel is a chic, four-star spot with crisp white-and-grey interiors and pale wooden furnishings. A design-led bolthole on the banks of the Ave River, this is a top spot for fans of modern style. The restaurant is excellent and the indoor pool is a nice touch. 

For absolute luxury 

  • The Lince Santa Clara, a restored 14th century monastery, boasts gorgeous vaulted ceilings, stone archways and beautifully landscaped gardens. Sophisticated interiors pair soft neutrals with luxurious art deco accents. A soothing spa, two elegant restaurants and both indoor and outdoor pools add to the appeal at this indulgent hotel. 

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Porto International Airport, and travel 25 minutes north to Vila do Conde by road, or 40 minutes by rail. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. Porto also has two large train stations, São Bento and Campanhã. Arrive in the city from hubs across Portugal or neighbouring Spain, and journey onwards from there. 
  • Northern Portugal is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit during the summer months, with temperatures hovering around 25-28°C between June and early September. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays, or in spring and autumn, when the cooler weather is ideal for hiking and cycling in the surrounding countryside. 

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The best hotels in Vila do Conde

Villa C Boutique Hotel

Vila do Conde (Estrada Nacional 13)

Set on the banks of the River Ave, Villa C Boutique Hotel is located just a short distance from the coast in Azurara. This 4* spot boasts chic, crisp, contemporary interiors with plenty of wooden furnishings. Wonderful cuisine served up at the restaurant. Great for outdoor adventurers.

  • Short break - The hotel's located 15 minutes away from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport
  • Great walks - Go for lovely walks through the Quinta da Conceicao Garden
  • Spa
  • Restaurant
from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Lince Santa Clara

Vila do Conde (Northern Portugal)

An elegant retreat set in a beautifully restored 14th-century monastery near Porto. Think vaulted ceilings, stone archways, and soft neutrals paired with Art Deco accents. Two refined restaurants, a serene spa, and indoor and outdoor pools offer pure indulgence.

  • Birdwatching - For a peaceful escape, head to Praia de Mindelo, a quiet beach bordering wetlands rich with diverse birdlife and scenic views
  • Total relaxation - Relax in serene spa pools, sip cocktails by the infinity pool, and savour gourmet delights in tranquil, historic surroundings
  • Hotel Entertainment - Unwind with a signature cocktail at Abadessa Concept Bar, where historic cloisters now house a stylish, bottle-lined retreat
  • Sights nearby - Explore centuries of history with a visit to the 14th-century Santa Clara Convento, still standing within the hotel grounds
from $265 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees