Vila Foz

If you’re looking for an elegant seaside retreat away from the tourist crowds of vibrant Porto, 15 mins away, stay at Vila Foz overlooking the Atlantic in the upmarket residential district of Foz.

Stepping into this beautiful 19th-century mansion, with its intricate Portuguese floor tiles and ornate gilded ceilings, it’s easy to imagine why it once belonged to the city’s Mayor. Soak up the opulence in one of its seven guest rooms or book one of the top floor rooms in the modern extension next door to watch the sun set over the sea from your balcony. The lovely light-filled spa is on the ground floor of this extension; a must-visit after a busy day sightseeing.

Michelin-starred Vila Foz Restaurant offers a mouthwatering seafood tasting menu which is perfectly paired with their Portuguese fine wines (including the region’s famous Port, of course!). The setting feels fit for royalty with its magical gold stuccoed ceilings and pistachio green and baby pink walls – plus the knowledgeable, efficient staff make for a VIP experience. Or for informal all-day dining, there’s the Flor De Lis restaurant where breakfast is served (make it a lavish one with oysters and champagne from the buffet!).

Although Porto’s centre is only a 15-minute taxi away, try to find time to explore the pretty little beaches dotted along the coast or take one of the hotel bikes for a ride along the promenade.

 

Written by Stephanie Reed

• Restaurant
• Elegant Vila Foz restaurant specialises in seafood while the Flor de Lis Restaurant serves more traditional Portuguese dishes
• Spa
• A small but well-equipped spa offers three treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool, Turkish bath, and sauna
• Parking
• Private parking is possible on site (reservation is needed) and costs EUR 25 per day
• Swimming Pool
• Indoor pool
• Safe
• Rooms with balcony/terrace
• Bar
• Shops
• Bath robes
• Views
• Business Centre
• Satellite / Cable TV
• Airport transfer

• Sauna/Steam
• Massage
• No pets
• Garden
• Gym
• Child friendly
• Room service
• Disabled access
• Suites
• Concierge
• Air conditioning
• Wifi

• Great walks
• Explore Porto's historic centre on foot with a long walk from the hotel through the parishes of Vitória and São Nicolau
• Wine tasting
• Explore the wine cellars of Porto and book a wine tasting to sample local wines, including the city's namesake, port

• Sailing
• Take a tour of the Douro River, sailing past vineyards and mountains by boat or steam locomotive

Why do people love staying in your hotel? – People love staying at Vila Foz Hotel because it offers a unique blend of luxury, history, and modern comfort. Located in a 19th-century mansion by the sea, the hotel provides stunning ocean views, Michelin-starred dining, and an exceptional spa experience. Guests appreciate the personalized service, spacious and elegant accommodations, and the range of exclusive experiences, from wine tastings to guided tours of Porto. This combination of sophistication and relaxation makes every stay unforgettable.

What is there to do in the area? – Visitors to the Vila Foz Hotel can enjoy a variety of activities in the surrounding Foz do Douro area. Explore the scenic beaches, including Praia da Luz and Praia dos Ingleses, perfect for relaxing or a coastal walk. Visit historical landmarks like the Farol de São Miguel-o-Anjo and Forte de São João Baptista. The nearby Mercado da Foz offers a glimpse into local life, while the Jardim do Passeio Alegre and Parque da Cidade provide serene green spaces for picnics or strolls.

What kind of breakfast do you offer? – Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast with a selection of hot à la carte dishes, served in the elegant Flor de Lis Restaurant. For a more private experience, a Continental breakfast is available to be served in the comfort of your room. Both options focus on quality, freshness, and a carefully curated selection of local and international favorites to start the day on a delightful note. Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? – Yes, we offer a variety of dining options. At Vila Foz, you can experience refined cuisine at the Michelin-starred Vila Foz Restaurant, where innovative dishes by Chef Arnaldo Azevedo take center stage. For a more casual yet sophisticated experience, Flor de Lis Restaurant serves seasonal menus with fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, the Vila Foz Bar offers a perfect spot to unwind with drinks and light bites. Lastly, for seafood lovers, Bistrô by Vila Foz is a go-to spot. Located inside the Matosinhos Market, a renowned fish and seafood market located near the coast, where visitors can find an array of fresh catches daily, Bistrô by Vila Foz serves fresh seafood dishes in a unique and authentic setting. The market is just a 10-minute drive from Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, making it a convenient destination for guests to enjoy a taste of the local seafood culture.

Which are your most popular room types, and why? – The unique rooms and suites of the 19th-century palace, for their charm, and the Onice Sea Views, for their stunning sea views.

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms? – We do not have extra beds available, however, we offer connecting rooms in both buildings, which are perfect for families. Additionally, there are plenty of activities nearby that children will enjoy, such as Sea Life, activities at Matosinhos Beach, Serralves, and parks located in front of the hotel.

What message would you like to give The Hotel Guru readers? – At Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, we invite you to experience the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Set on Porto’s stunning coastline, our historic mansion offers elegant rooms and suites with breathtaking sea views. Enjoy our exceptional spa, and fine dining, and explore Porto’s cultural and natural attractions. Every detail is crafted for a memorable stay. We look forward to welcoming you.