Hotels in Porto

If you're looking for hotels in Porto you are likely to be spoilt for choice...

There are so many options to choose from, covering all kinds of budgets. For large, contemporary hotels it is best to look at the modern areas of the city. However, if you prefer something more intimate, such as a B&B or family-run guesthouse, you can find some interesting accommodation in the more historic areas.

Choose hotels in the Old Town and you will be close to an array of cute shops and independent stores, as well as having the stunning Porto Cathedral on your doorstep. The cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city and has a Romanesque façade, Baroque-inspired internal features and dramatic Gothic cloisters. The building was thought to have been initially constructed back in 1110 but has been added to over the years, making it an amazing piece of Portuguese architecture, not least for the beautiful views over the rest of the city from its roof terraces.

Whichever Porto hotels or area of the city you decide to look at, remember that Porto is a bustling city and parking is at a premium so always check with your hotel if you are planning to arrive by car. And if you don't fancy bringing your vehicle, don't worry - the city has an excellent bus, tram and metro system which allow you to get just about anywhere you want throughout the day.

Things move fast in this vibrant city, so slow down and make sure you take in the sights...

There's an awful lot to see and do, but here are our top five to help you make the most of your stay in Porto...

Top five attractions

Serralves Museum

The stunning architecture of this world famous museum is as much a work of art as the pieces it displays inside; it is a stunning sight to behold. Don't miss the huge grounds, which also hold a wealth of artistic treasures.

Ribeira

This wonderful old part of the city, with its intimate alleyways and medieval architecture, looks as though it has seen better days, but the crumbling facades and peeling paintwork make up the character of this remarkably colourful place, which is often hailed as 'the soul of Porto'.

Porto Cathedral

More like a giant fortification, this imposing building was where King John I married Princess Philippa of Lancaster and ascended to the English throne. Some parts of this magnificent structure, which is well worth a private tour, originate from the 12th century.

Dom Luis Bridge

This showpiece bridge opened to a fanfare in 1886. It was the longest iron arch in the world and, opening a year before work started on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, became a huge tourist attraction. Make sure you take the pedestrian walkway for unrivalled views of Porto.

Mercado do Bolhao

Head for Rua Sa da Bandeira in the city centre where you'll find Porto's lively market. It sells everything imaginable, from fresh produce to housewares, but the real experience lies in sitting back and listening to the flamboyant fishwives frantically selling the catch of the day; it's unforgettable.

Let the loveliness of Portugal wash over you as you take in Porto's highlights...

There's almost too much to do in Porto, so let us help you with three great events...

Carnaval; February/March: Fun fairs, costume parades, street parties, music, dance, eating and drinking all take to the streets just before Lent. Although not the biggest Carnaval event in Portugal, the people of Porto give it their all in the name of sheer celebration.

Balloon Racing; March/April: The skies above Porto fill with colour during this leg of a series of spectacular balloon races. The balloons begin their ascent at dawn and float over the city to deliver one of the most surreal yet beautiful sights you're likely to see in Porto.

Noites Ritual Rock; August: Rock music fans make the annual pilgrimage to the Crystal Palace Gardens for a festival featuring the finest rock talent that Portugal has to offer. Nearly every big Portuguese rock band got noticed here at this remarkable gathering of musical talent.