Northern Portugal

The Hotel Guru
Portugal
Northern Portugal

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Credit: Flickr user Francisco (PortoPo

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About Northern Portugal

Famed for its food, wine and beautiful landscapes, Northern Portugal is a charming destination for a romantic couples’ escape or an active family holiday. The area’s popularity has ensured that there is a considerable range of accommodation available — from pretty B&Bs to imposing luxury hotels. Our pick of the best places to stay in Northern Portugal features fabulous pink-painted manor houses, boutique boltholes in the heart of Porto or Braga, and rambling wineries with stacks of activities for the whole family.

Picturesque Porto is Northern Portugal’s most renowned city for good reason, with heaps of heritage buildings, museums and wonderful eateries. Set on the banks of the Douro River, Porto has been shaped both by its seafaring past as a key trading port, and by the vineyards which surround it. Amble along winding streets to striking cobbled plazas, step into some of the world’s most impressive bookshops — including Livraria Lello — and marvel at Baroque churches, before retreating to a lively street-side bar or eatery. The food in Porto is fantastic — and so, too, is the wine. Don’t miss the buzzing street markets or the colourfully tiled houses, best discovered on a walking tour of the city.

For a quieter city break, head north to historic Braga, where there are Roman ruins, Gothic churches and Baroque edifices to admire. Guimarães, too, is a cultural hub, with a well-preserved medieval centre and some beautiful hotels. Beyond the towns themselves is the glorious Minho region — the birthplace of the Portuguese kingdom. The area’s lush valley and craggy granite peaks will appeal to lovers of the great outdoors who can walk, hike and cycle across the landscape, or kayak along the Minho River, which flows from Spain in the north to Caminha. The verdant landscapes and rich agricultural soil are well-suited to the growing of grapes, and this is where Portugal’s ‘Vinho Verde’ originates.

Northern Portugal’s other natural wonder is the enchanting Douro Valley, its hillsides clad in vineyards. Visit the International Douro Natural Park, learn about the ageing of Port in Vila Nova de Gaia, and discover beautiful Lamego, at the foot of the 686 steps to the Shrine of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur eager to experience the oldest demarcated wine region in the world or a laid-back foodie in search of a romantic spot to relax, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Nab a room at a hip townhouse hotel in Porto for a stylish city break, hit the tennis court or the cycling trails with the whole family, or unwind in blissful surroundings at an elegant, family-owned quinta. Many of the best places to stay in Northern Portugal are tucked amidst lush vineyards, in historic houses or state-of-the-art extensions, promising gastronomic delights and spectacular views — a perfect escape.

The Best places to stay in Northern Portugal

For luxury

Six Senses Douro Valley promises gorgeous contemporary luxury with magnificent Douro Valley views. The nineteenth-century manor house has been thoughtfully restored to offer ultra-modern touches whilst retaining its timeless charm. Savour gourmet cuisine, unwind at the world-class spa, and taste the best of the region’s wines. Cool, chic and very grown-up.
Vila Foz promises a superb stay in a heritage property on the edge of Porto. Think opulent interiors including marble bathrooms, superb seafood and an indulgent spa. Book a suite for the glorious sea views. A sumptuous city base.
Pousada de Viana do Castelo is a stunning nineteenth-century property with panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean. Pick this place for heritage charm and a grand, luxurious feel, as well as excellent facilities, including tennis courts and a spa. The sweeping vistas are seriously impressive!

For a boutique city bolthole

Gran Cruz House is a hip riverside hotel in Porto’s Old Town. Tucked into a restored 16th century building, characterful rooms are individually designed, wonderfully romantic and all feature river views. The inviting restaurant serves delicious food, and you’re well-placed to explore.
Casa Carolina offers eight spacious boutique rooms in a historic Porto townhouse. Vintage pieces meet a slick, white-washed aesthetic, and balconies boast beautiful city views. The top-floor suite has a well-equipped kitchenette: great for families.
Malmerandas Boutique Lodging is an intimate city centre hotel in Porto. The elegant townhouse has a pretty terrace garden, and the six bright, airy rooms have high ceilings and smart bathrooms. A stylish small hotel, perfect for discovering Porto.
Casa dos Lóios is a lovely hideaway for couples or families — who can book a big deluxe room — looking for a heritage base in Porto. The most spacious rooms feature intricately painted ceilings, there are cracking city views and lots of period elements. Don't miss hiding away in the quiet courtyard.
Porta Nova Collection House promises nine slick, stylish rooms in Braga’s historic centre, as well as a wonderfully laid-back restaurant for drinks and dining. Interiors fuse the building’s original exposed stone with crisp modern lines and pops of colour. A cool, contemporary choice.
Emaj Boutique Hotel is a chic Guimarães base, with bright, unicolour rooms housed in the town’s old national bank building. Characterful and well-located for historic city explorations.

For a family escape

Quinta de Freixiero is a beautiful, pink-painted manor house in a striking setting south-west of Guimarães. Stay in quirky, colourful rooms (including a fun family suite) unwind by the pool, hit the cycling and walking trails or take a yoga class at the hotel. A stylish B&B bolthole with lots of charm for couples or families.
Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park features futuristic, self-catering eco-houses with plenty of space for families, and swish, couples-focused treehouses within the National Park. The architecture is slick and understated, in harmony with the natural landscape. Adults will adore the thermal spa, whilst kids can hang out in the outdoor pool, climb trees, cycle, or get their adrenaline pumping at Pena Aventura Park. An active eco escape.
Quinta de Bouça d’Arques is a gorgeous, 300 year-old manor in the Minho region, with a bold offering of iron-and-glass structures housing further rooms in the picturesque gardens. The accommodation is perfect for families, and kids will love the outdoor pool, bikes and exploring the nearby Neiva River.

For Food & Wine

The Yeatman is a grand Porto landmark, with beautiful rooms, an impressive infinity pool and a fantastic spa. Family Suites are great for travellers with kids, whilst this is also a lovely base for a romantic city break. Food and wine are at the heart of the hotel — from the corridors named for wine regions to the 25,000 bottle cellar and the two Michelin-starred restaurant, headed by Chef Riccardo Costa. A gastronomic delight!
Design and Wine Hotel promises ultra-modern, minimalist rooms overlooking the Minho Estuary in Caminha. Pick this place for its eco credentials, in-house art gallery and distinctive selection of regional wines. Don’t miss the regular tastings! One for art & wine lovers.
Hotel Moon & Sun is a cool, contemporary bolthole overlooking São Francisco Church in Braga. Rooms are chic and modern, the restaurant serves Portuguese classics and the wine bar is a top spot to unwind after a day of exploring. A romantic foodie choice.
Casa Do Rio is a modernist Douro Valley gem, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the landscape, and chic, contemporary rooms. Feast on Portuguese codfish paired with local wines and unwind in the gorgeous infinity pool. A rural hideaway for foodie couples.
Torre de Gomariz is a superb spa hotel with beautiful rooms and suites in soothing, earthy tones, housed both in the main heritage building and a swish, contemporary extension. The rural Cervães setting is beautifully restful, and the swimming pool overlooks the hotel’s vineyards. Tastings of the hotel’s own wine with an expert sommelier are a real highlight! Chic, secluded and romantic.
Casa das Pipas offers charming rooms with exposed stone walls and stunning views of the surrounding Sabrosa wineries. The big hit is the hotel restaurant, headed by Chef Milton Ferreira. Pair delectable dishes with fine wines and you’re golden!
Lamego Hotel is set on a working farm and vineyard, offering guests a special insight into Portuguese winemaking. Minimalist rooms and suites are done in soft creams and earthy browns, the alfresco restaurant serves fab farm-to-table food and there’s wine aplenty. The tennis and squash courts, outdoor pool and children’s crafts area make this a great family foodie pick.
Quinta do Vallado was built in 1716, and remains one of the Douro Valley’s most famous wine-growing estates. Come for the top-notch vineyard experience, and stay for the 13 gorgeous rooms and suites, set between the old estate house and a swish new building. Chill out by the pool before heading out cycling, kayaking, fishing or hiking. Fantastic for couples or active families.

For a B&B

Casa do Rio Vez is a lovely B&B with four contemporary bedrooms in a converted mill near Arcos de Valdevez. An excellent-value base for fishing, hiking and strolling along the river. One for nature lovers in search of seclusion.
Casa da Levada is a friendly, family-run B&B, ideal for exploring the Vila Real area. Expect cosy bedrooms, lots of space for families, and generous organic fare at breakfast. The outdoor pool and garden will be a sure-fire hit with the kids! A relaxed family stay with knowledgeable owners full of local tips.

For an apartment or cottage

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TRAVEL INFORMATION

Fly to Porto International Airport, and hop aboard the metro, or take a bus into the city if staying in Porto. Most hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up.
Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Plymouth to Santander and drive through Spain to Portugal — it’s a gorgeous road trip!
If you are venturing beyond Porto, Northern Portugal is fantastic to explore by car. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
Northern Portugal is a great year-round destination. Travel in July and August for the hottest weather (averaging around 30°C), but do expect crowds! Time your visit for the spring or autumn for cooler weather and fewer visitors. This is a hugely popular region so book well in advance to avoid missing out.

STILL NOT SURE?

Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Porto.
Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Portugal.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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The best hotels in Northern Portugal

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Casa da Levada

Vila Real (R. da Capela)

This family run country home is a short walk away from the picturesque town centre. Surrounded by gardens and an outdoor pool, the main house and cottages have red-tiled roofs, stone walls, hand painted tiles and antique furniture. A home made breakfast is served at the terrace everyday.

Families - Two bedroom apartments are great for families
Value chic - Providing excellent value for money
Sights nearby - Must visit Casa de Mateus for its baroque architecture and the International Music Festival from June - Sep annually
Great walks - Lovely hikes can be enjoyed in nature parks surrounding the hotel

from AU$94 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees