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For those who want to spend days wandering through historic streets, sampling outstanding Portuguese cuisine, and sipping on the local delicacy (Port) — Porto is an idyllic city break option. Alongside the thriving food scene, there are also some exceptional hotels. Some of the best hotels across the city are small independent stays (mostly located in the city's historic centre). While these independent hotels are not always easy to find, our hotel experts have eased the search by compiling a collection of the best small hotels in Porto selected on their design, amenities, and location. From family-friendly stays to romantic hideaways, there is something to suit most trips here. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next break?
For luxury
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- Torel 1884 is an elegant palace situated in the heart of Porto. Interiors have been painstakingly renovated keeping all the building's original grandeur yet with a chic contemporary feel. Rooms of epic proportions boast large works of art, antiques, and seriously indulgent bathrooms. A very fine stay.
- M Maison Particuliere is a 16th-century Portuguese townhouse turned 5-star boutique hotel. The hotel's ten suites are luxuriously designed, some with Picasso hangings, some with private patios. All come with a private butler. This is intimate luxury defined.
For a boutique
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- Casa Dos Loios is a boutique hotel housed in a beautifully renovated 16th-century residence nestled in Porto's historic centre. The interior design pairs period touches and modern furnishings. A charming heritage hotel in a great location.
- Gran Cruz House is a beautifully restored heritage hotel is in Porto's old town. Sitting on a UNESCO World Heritage site, the warm, individually styled rooms feature unique artworks and boast views over either the Douro River or Ribeira Square. Complete with an extensive wine cellar, this is a charming stay.
- If France and Portugal had a lovechild it would be Cocorico Luxury Guesthouse. Rooms are named after famous unions made between the nations and offer cosy, romantic beds and period accents. With a fusion restaurant and a central location — this is a chic boutique stay.
For the location
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- Inpatio Guesthouse is a 19th-century townhouse turned into a chic guesthouse. Rooms feature exposed stone walls, earthy tones and azulejo tiles, yet the feel is fresh and contemporary. Although the hotel is located in the heart of Porto's old town, the ambience is quiet. Perfect for urban exploration.
- 1872 River House is a cosy blue-tinted utopia with gorgeous views over the Douro river. Wonderfully designed and decorated following extensive renovations and accessed via a dazzling stained-glass hallway. Conveniently placed and very chic.
For city style
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- Rosa et Al Townhouse beautifully converted townhouse in Porto's arty quarter. Light and airy rooms have period features, sleek mid-century furniture, and simple whitewashed walls. With an innovative restaurant and a rotating collection of modern art, this is a hip choice.
- Armazem Luxury Housing occupies a converted 19th-century warehouse in downtown Porto. The bold interior design nods to the building's history with exposed stone walls and iron and wood accents. Self-contained apartments offer a stylish living space, great for groups. A unique, avant-garde hotel.
For couples
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- Charm Palace Porto is a small but opulent heritage hotel set in a restored 1900s bourgeois residence in the heart of Porto's historic centre. Intricate tiles line the hallway leading to the bright, expansive suites. With luxurious beds and free-standing bathtubs — this is a romantic base for couples.
For families
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- Casa Carolina, Porto is a Portuguese townhouse turned into an owner-managed eight-roomed boutique hotel. Elegant rooms have a fresh take on traditional style. The top-floor suite is very spacious and has a fully-equipped kitchenette — perfect for families seeking an affordable yet stylish base.
- Malmerendas Boutique Lodging is a modern boutique hotel housed in a restored, late 19th-century building in Porto's city centre. The best of the bright suites overlook the charming terrace garden. The garden studio is perfect for families, with self-catering facilities and a lounge area.
For a design hotel
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- Casa do Conto is a unique concept hotel in Cedofeita, central Porto. The unique architecture of the six individually designed rooms has won the hotel a number of awards; bold, exposed stone engravings adorn the ceilings of the suites, exploring the concept of a 'house'. A stand-out city hotel for design lovers.
Still not sure where to book?