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Porto, in Portugal, is one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Its natural charm, its location on the edge of the Atlantic, its vibrant cultural life, its generous cuisine… it offers everything you need for an unforgettable trip whether you are on a solo trip, travelling with family, or on a romantic getaway as a couple. But to preserve the magic throughout the night, you need accommodation to match. An establishment to amaze you. For just that, here are seven hotels in Porto with a splendid view of the Douro, the city’s great river.
🥮 For the gourmands. If you go to Porto, you must try the famous Pasteis de Nata, so it’s a good thing we’ve made a list of the best establishments that serve them.
Torel Avantgarde
Let’s start our selection of hotels with a view of the Douro with the Torel Avantgarde. Here is an establishment that is sure to amaze you. Located in the centre of Porto , a ten-minute walk from the river, this three-time award-winning five-star hotel also has a gym, an outdoor swimming pool with a stunning view, and a garden . The rooms have all the necessary comforts, including air conditioning which is very useful in the heat of summer. Some even have their own terrace.
For those who do not wish to eat out for every meal, the hotel restaurant serves a continental breakfast each morning, as well as Portuguese and local dishes in the evening. Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Crystal Palace Gardens and the Lello Bookstore.
The Yeatman
Would you like to sample good wine while admiring the view of the Douro? Then The Yeatman is the place for you. Specializing in wine, the hotel has a beautiful swimming pool overlooking the river on its southern bank, as well as a luxury spa with a large indoor swimming pool and a jacuzzi, from which you can admire Porto. All the rooms at this five-star hotel overlook a spacious private terrace with sun loungers. The interior isn’t bad either: they have chic furnishings, including dark wood headboards and sleek ottoman seating.
Finally, when it comes to meals, you won’t be disappointed: the Yeatman restaurant, with two stars in the Michelin guide, will serve you Portuguese cuisine prepared with fresh local produce and world-renowned wines.
Portobay Flores
Find a small haven of peace at the PortoBay Flores. Because not content with offering you a beautiful view of the Douro, this hotel will provide you with air-conditioned rooms, a gym, a wellness centre with spa and hammam, as well as an indoor swimming pool. If you are hungry or thirsty, the establishment also has a bar and a buffet breakfast is served each morning. The hotel is conveniently located near places of interest including the Stock Exchange Palace, Ribeira Square and the Ferreira Borges Market.
Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel & World Heritage Site
A beautiful view with a stunning story is the perfect description of the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel and World Heritage Site, a five-star establishment located on the banks of the Douro River, in the historic square of Ribeira. And the story? The establishment is nestled in a building dating from the 16th century. All rooms have a large bathroom and some have a breath-taking view of the water and the opposite shore (see photo). Every morning, the RIB restaurant will welcome you for your breakfast, always with a beautiful view of the Douro on the menu. The Heritage Bar offers cocktails and refreshing drinks.
1872 River House
Our next hotel awaits you with its feet in the water. Located just in front of the Douro, the 1872 River House offers panoramic views of the riverbanks and the Louis I Bridge. It is also very well located, with the historic Ribeira district just 100 meters away. Choose your room carefully when booking: some overlook the city and others directly overlook the Douro. Breakfast is included in the rate and served each morning in the hotel’s bright dining area. However, you could also enjoy it in your room, at an additional cost.
Eurostars Porto Douro
If you are hoping for a unique view of the Louis I bridge, the work of engineer Théophile Seyrig, disciple of Gustave Eiffel, then head for the Eurostars Porto Douro. This four-star establishment has a large terrace, on the banks of the Douro. Rooms have all the necessary comforts, including air conditioning, and are tastefully decorated. Within walking distance of the hotel, you can find a variety of restaurants serving traditional local cuisine. It is therefore the ideal place to alternate between relaxation and exploration.
Pestana Palácio do Freixo, Pousada & National Monument
We end with what is, without a doubt, the most luxurious establishment on this list. You won’t find it in the centre of Porto, but further down the river towards the estuary. All the better for appreciating the imposing Palácio Do Freixo. This Baroque palace, built in the 18th century, has been converted into a five-star hotel with all the high-end comfort that one expects from this kind of place.
Rooms at the Pestana Palácio do Freixo are spacious, air-conditioned and boast a separate seating area. Some also offer views of the Douro River. You can also relax on a deck chair next to the infinity pool which overlooks the river or take advantage of the spa which includes a Turkish bath, a heated indoor pool, and a sauna. If, despite all this luxury, you still want to go out for some fresh air, the beach is only a 10-minute walk away. What more could you want?
That’s our selection of hotels in Porto with a view of the Douro River. If you have other recommendations, do not hesitate to share them in comments. We would be delighted to try them out one day. (Photos: editing Destination(s) Europe / Photos of the various hotels)
