Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Porto and wondering where to stay? You’re in the right place.

Portugal’s second-largest city is packed with charm, but choosing the right area can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the city’s layout. Fortunately, we’ve been there a ton of times and stayed all over the city, so now we’re here to deliver the lowdown on the best areas to stay in.

Whether you want to wake up by the Douro River, sip port in a wine cellar, or stay somewhere a little more local and laid-back, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up the five best areas to stay in Porto, complete with hotel picks for every budget. Let’s go!

Where To Stay In Porto Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Porto

Porto is a vibrant, historic city with a laid-back vibe and plenty of personality. Most of the main sights are concentrated in the city center, making it very walkable, although do be prepared for lots of hills and cobblestone streets. But if walking gets tiring, Porto has a pretty extensive public transport network consisting of metros, buses, and charming old trams.

What we love about Porto is that each neighborhood has its own unique character. So, here’s a quick overview of our favorite areas to stay in:

• Baixa – We think Porto’s bustling downtown is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to major sights, restaurants, and nightlife. PortoBay Teatro is a stylish hotel that puts you right at the heart of it all without breaking the bank.

• Ribeira – Porto’s most charming district sits on the edge of the river and is full of history, colorful buildings, and postcard-perfect views. Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira is a lovely 4-star hotel that puts you at the heart of it all.

• Vila Nova de Gaia – This area sits on the other side of the river and it’s famous for its port wine cellars and panoramic views of Porto. Boeira Garden Hotel Porto Gaia offers a scenic stay for wine lovers! 

• Bonfim – A more local and budget-friendly neighborhood that’s relaxed but close enough to the main areas. Acta The Avenue is a sleek hotel that’s ideal for exploring this up-and-coming area.

• Miragaia – We love Porto’s creative corner, which is known for its art galleries and indie shops. Gharb is a stylish and reasonably priced hotel that fits right in the spirit of this hipster neighborhood.

Where to Stay in Porto

Baixa 

There is a lot to love about staying in Baixa, aka downtown Porto! It’s the lively core of the city and it’s home to many of Porto’s most iconic landmarks, including the Clerigos Tower, São Bento Station, and the Town Hall.

The area is centered around the grand Avenida dos Aliados and spans two different hills, one of which is crowned by the Porto Cathedral, while the other is filled with shops, restaurants, and an amazing nightlife.

We love Baixa’s unique blend of old and new. Its cobbled streets and neoclassical architecture are an ever-present reminder of the city’s rich history, but among them, you’ll find trendy cafés, cool boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Many of Porto’s best restaurants can be found here, too! Most attractions are walkable from Baixa, and there’s great access to public transport if you want to explore further.

Of course, central downtown areas like this are usually pricey places to stay, but that’s not the case with Baixa! There are tons of great accommodation options here, and they’re often significantly more affordable than in areas like Ribeira or Vila Nova de Gaia. So you can stay central and save money—what’s not to love?

Pros 

• Buzzing downtown area with lots to do 
• Beautiful architecture 
• Lots of budget-friendly accommodation options

Cons 

• Can be noisy at night 
• Busy area 

Luxury – $$$

Wine & Books Porto Hotel is a stunning hotel with gorgeous rooms and a super central location right in the heart of Porto! It’s just a short walk from Clerigos Tower and Ribeira Square, so it’s perfectly situated for exploring the city’s top sights.

The plush rooms are also soundproofed, so despite the central location, you won’t be bothered by noise late at night. That’s what I call the best of both worlds! Meanwhile, there’s a beautiful indoor pool, a spa, and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy panoramic city views.

Really, the only problem with staying here is that you might not want to leave the hotel! Rooms here range between €335 and €550 per night during peak season, with cheaper prices available during the winter.

Browse available options and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

PortoBay Teatro is a chic 4-star hotel in Porto’s most vibrant district. It was fully renovated in 2021, now featuring a fresh, contemporary design with warm, neutral tones, natural fabrics, and Nordic-inspired details.

Meanwhile, it’s just steps from major attractions like São Bento Station, Clérigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop, so the location is ideal for sightseeing.

The on-site restaurant, Il Basilico, is absolutely fantastic and honestly worth a visit even if you don’t end up staying here. It serves hearty Italian dishes al fresco, while the hotel’s on-site bar is well stocked with some of Portugal’s best wines. Gallery rooms here cost between €175 and €350 per night.

Check out all room categories and book your stay here!

Budget – $ 

Moov Hotel Porto Centro offers excellent value for money, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience. It’s housed in a refurbished Art Deco Cinema, and it’s just a 3-minute walk from a train and metro station, which is handy if you don’t feel like a ton of walking. 

The rooms here are sleek and contemporary, with cinematic photos on the wall to remind you that this place was once a movie theatre! There’s an inner courtyard terrace where you can enjoy a peaceful morning coffee, and you can indulge in a big breakfast buffet every morning for just €12.50.

Meanwhile, the hotel’s location is ideal, with the art gallery district and São João National Theater just a 10-minute walk away. Rooms here typically cost between €100 and €160 during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: If you’re planning a trip to Porto, don’t miss our 3-day Porto itinerary. It’s a deep dive into Porto’s best sights, bites, and experiences—perfectly planned to maximize your time.

Ribeira 

Ribeira is one of Porto’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods. It’s situated along the riverfront, and its medieval harbor and 18th-century townhouses really evoke a bygone era. It’s super charming and romantic. We love it!

We love exploring Ribeira’s cobbled alleyways and watching the historic fishing boats bob along the river. The area also offers gorgeous views of the Dom Luís I Bridge, and we love catching the sunset at one of the lively, riverside bars. Speaking of which, Ribeira is always bustling, but it truly comes alive in the evening. 

However, its popularity does mean that it’s pricey, and the restaurants here are often pretty average. Still, walking a little bit further away from the river has helped us find some more authentic restaurants around here! 

Hotels here tend to be a bit pricier, but on the plus side, there’s a ton of choice. And just like Baixa, Ribeira is super central. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, like the Lello Library and Porto’s main cathedral. Meanwhile, the iconic port cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia are a 30-minute walk away, across the Ponte do Infante, or you can even hop on a quick ferry ride across the river.

All in all, Riberia is perfect for first-timers, couples, and anyone who wants to stay in Porto’s most Insta-worthy neighborhood. After all, it’s popular for a reason!

Pros

• Fantastic central location
• Great views and a bustling atmosphere
• Lots of historic charm 

Cons

• Touristy and crowded
• Higher prices for hotels, bars, and restaurants 
• Hilly terrain (bring comfortable shoes!)

Luxury – $$$

Oporto Home – River Front offers a charming and authentic Porto experience right in the heart of the historic Ribeira district. Set in a beautifully renovated 18th-century building, these self-catering apartments combine old-world charm with modern comforts like air conditioning and smart TVs. 

Each apartment includes a cozy living room, a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchenette with everything you need to cook your own meals, including a dishwasher. Some even have balconies that open up to stunning views of the Douro River or the Vila Nova de Gaia waterfront!

Plus, the location is unbeatable as you’re just a short walk from iconic spots like the Dom Luís I Bridge, Clérigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop, with countless cafes, bars, and restaurants right outside your door. One-bedroom apartments typically cost between €200 and €370 per night.

Check availability and book your luxury stay in Porto here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira is, hands down, my favorite place to stay in Porto. Nestled in the heart of the Ribeira district, this 4-star gem sits in a beautifully restored historic building with sweeping views of the Douro River.

The rooms are sleek and stylish, with a cozy modern design, wooden floors, and all the comforts you need, like air conditioning and free WiFi. As for the location, well, it’s unbeatable! São Bento Station is a short walk away, and there are bus and taxi stops right out front, so it’s super easy to get around.

But what really makes this place special is the vibe. We love relaxing with a glass of wine at the Nomadik Lounge Bar or enjoying a delicious Portuguese dinner at Forno Velho. Rooms here cost between €180 and €250 per night.

Check availability and prices at Booking.com!

Budget – $

Onefam Ribeira is a lively and welcoming hostel located right in the heart of Porto’s historic center. Just a 3-minute walk from São Bento Metro Station and only 8 minutes from Ribeira Square, its central location makes it ideal for exploring the city on foot, and staying here won’t break the bank, either! 

Whether you’re in Porto to take in the riverside views, visit iconic sights like Clérigos Tower, or hop between cafes and bars, everything is nearby. The hostel offers a comfortable and social vibe, with a shared lounge, terrace, and a fully equipped communal kitchen.

It’s an adults-only property, so we think it’s perfect for solo travelers or backpackers looking to meet others. Dorm beds here cost between €45 and €65 per night, while standard twin and double rooms average between €85 and €200.

See current prices and availability for Onefam Ribeira here!

Vila Nova de Gaia 

Vila Nova de Gaia is technically a separate city from Porto, located on the other side of the Douro River. However, it’s so close that it’s generally treated like another neighborhood! I  mean, it only takes a few minutes to cross the river on the ferry, or you can even walk if you have a little more time.

Gaia is world-renowned as the heart of the port wine industry, so if that’s what you’ve come to Porto for, it’s a fantastic place to stay. The area is home to centuries-old cellars and warehouses where you can dive deep into the story of Portugal’s famous fortified wine.

We love the riverside area because you can explore the port lodges, enjoy port tastings with a gorgeous view, and enjoy a more laid-back vibe away from Porto’s main tourist crowds.

Many hotels and restaurants in Gaia sit on hills and offer panoramic views of the Douro River and Porto’s beautiful skyline. It is a bit removed from the city’s top attractions, but the peaceful atmosphere and wine-focused charm make it a lovely place to stay, especially if you’re a huge port fan or have been to Porto before!

Pros

• Great access to historic port wine lodges and tasting rooms
• Stunning panoramic views over the Douro River and Porto’s old town 

Cons

• Accommodation here is typically more expensive and geared towards luxury travelers
• A bit removed from most of Porto’s main tourist attractions and city buzz

Luxury – $$$ 

The Yeatman is a luxurious wine hotel that offers world-class hospitality and breathtaking views of Porto. Each room features elegant furnishings, plush beds, and a private terrace with sun loungers, which are perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine while taking in the scenery. 

The real standout, though, is the spa! It has an expansive indoor pool and hot tub, which overlooks the river and the city. Meanwhile, the on-site Yeatman Restaurant holds two Michelin stars. The hotel also hosts weekly tasting sessions and a cellar full of regional labels.

This is the ultimate stay for wine enthusiasts! Rooms here start at €470 per night.

Book your luxury stay at The Yeatman here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Boeira Garden Hotel Porto Gaia, Curio Collection by Hilton is a luxurious retreat surrounded by lush gardens and a serene outdoor swimming pool. Just a mile from the famous port wine cellars, this hotel features a rooftop terrace perfect for watching the sunset and a luxurious spa complete with a sauna, steam room, indoor pool, and five serene treatment rooms.

It’s both family- and pet-friendly and just a short drive from the beach! Meanwhile, the hustle and bustle of Porto lies just across the river. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape, this is an ideal place to stay. King rooms here cost between €175 and €225 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Budget – $ 

Park Hotel Porto Gaia offers comfortable, affordable accommodation just outside the hustle of Porto’s historic center. Rooms are simple but clean and modern, with neutral decor and wooden furnishings. There’s also a relaxed hotel bar on site that serves port, wine, and cocktails, and Coimbrões Station is a short walk away, so it’s great for transport links and day trips. 

All in all, this place is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want clean, practical lodging with friendly service. It’s a little further out, as it’s about a 30-minute walk from the port wine lodges, but it’s one of the most affordable places to stay in the area. Double and twin rooms here cost between €100 and €150 during peak season.

Check prices and availability over at Booking.com!

Bonfim

If you’re hoping to experience a more authentic side of Porto, Bonfim is a fantastic choice. Just east of the city center, this residential neighborhood has a cool, creative vibe, with fewer tourists and more of a local feel. It’s become a hotspot for artisan coffee shops, craft beer breweries, quirky bars, and independent boutiques, all tucked into charming streets with a laid-back atmosphere.

While Bonfim doesn’t have many famous landmarks of its own, you’re only a 20- to 30-minute walk from Porto’s main attractions, including São Bento Station, Avenida dos Aliados, and the Ribeira waterfront. Its quiet streets offer a nice break from the busier parts of the city, and the accommodation here is typically much more budget-friendly than in the central zones.

Bonfim is perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring off the beaten path, want to mingle with locals, or are visiting Porto on a budget. It’s also a flat area, so it’s handy if you’re worried about Porto’s infamously hilly terrain. Meanwhile, it’s well connected to the rest of the city by bus and metro, so if you don’t mind a little more travel time, Bonfirm is a great place to stay.

Pros

• More affordable accommodation than central Porto
• Local, authentic vibe with fewer tourists

Cons

• Farther from some major sights and the port wine lodges
  
• Fewer hotel options compared to downtown areas

Luxury – $$$ 

FindMe InPorto Bonfim is a collection of cozy and well-equipped studio apartments in Bonfim. They match the area’s laid-back vibe and have private balconies with charming garden views, which is perfect for sipping your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine.

The location is also a big plus. It’s a 16-minute walk from Campanha Train Station and less than a mile from Oporto Coliseum. The apartments also include kitchenettes, air conditioning, and modern bathrooms—ideal for longer stays or travelers who appreciate extra comfort and independence.

With authentic local restaurants nearby and easy access to public transport, it’s a great base for exploring the city! Stays here usually cost €315 per night.

Browse all room options and prices here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Acta The Avenue is my favorite place to stay in Bonfim! It’s super stylish and modern with gorgeous rooms. It offers incredible value for money because you basically get luxury digs on a very modest budget.

The best part about this place is the sun terrace, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the city with a nice bottle of wine. There’s also a coffee shop and bar for light bites and drinks, and a restaurant serving delicious Portuguese food.

The staff here are super nice, and the hotel has the Campo 24 Agosto Metro Station just a 5-minute walk away, which is perfect for traveling into central Porto. Standard rooms here cost between €100 and €215 per night during the summer months.

Snag a great price by booking in advance!

Budget – $ 

Poveira Hotel is a charming, family-run guest house in Porto, offering a warm and welcoming stay in a convenient location. It’s just steps away from Campanhã Train and Metro Station, so it provides easy access to the city center, the Douro riverfront, and even the beach! 

Housed in a historic building, the hotel features simply furnished, air-conditioned rooms with double-glazed windows, work desks, and cable TV. Some rooms even include private balconies, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere.

For those driving, underground parking is available nearby. With its affordable rates, excellent transport connections, and friendly vibe, Poveira Hotel is an ideal base for budget-conscious travelers visiting Porto. Double rooms here cost €80 to €90 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here! 

Related Read: Looking for some fun and exciting things to do during your stay? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Porto here to help you plan an unforgettable trip!

Miragaia 

Miragaia is one of Porto’s most picturesque and historic neighborhoods. It’s nestled between the Douro River and the hillside, and it’s known for its colorful facades, narrow houses, and charming, cobbled streets that slope steeply down to the water. The area’s name is thought to come from its position “looking at Gaia” across the river.

Though it shares the riverfront with the more touristy Ribeira, Miragaia has a quieter, more local feel, which is precisely why we like it! Its 17th-century stone arches, built to protect against flooding, still support the tall riverside homes, giving the neighborhood a very distinctive character. 

This area is ideal for travelers who want to explore on foot, stumble across family-run taverns, and soak in the timeless atmosphere. If you’ve stayed somewhere like Riberia or Baixa before, I would definitely recommend giving Miragaia a go!

Miragaia has a few attractions of its own, such as the Crystal Palace Gardens and the National Museum of Soares dos Reis, the country’s first public art museum. You can walk to Ribeira and Baixa in just 20–30 minutes. Of course, you can also use the bus and metro to get there faster!

If you’re into views, history, and hidden corners, Miragaia is a wonderful place to stay. 

Pros

• Charming and authentic vibe 
• Close to the Douro River, Crystal Palace Gardens, and several museums 
• Easy to get to Ribeira and Baixa from here

Cons

• The hilly terrain can be challenging and is not well-suited to those with mobility issues
• Limited nightlife and fewer dining options compared to more central areas like Ribeira and Baixa 

Luxury – $$$ 

Timbre Virtudes is a luxurious 5-star hotel in Miragaia. It’s housed in a historic building and features exposed stone walls, original wooden beams, and beautiful arched windows, so it truly takes you back in time. It actually feels a bit like staying in a castle.

In addition to its beautiful interior, the hotel also boasts a sun terrace, a hot tub, and a very stylish bar. It’s just a 15-minute walk from the Lello Library and Ribeira Square, so it’s really well-located. Plus, car and bike rentals are available on site in case you need any extra help getting around!

Double rooms here usually cost between €250 and €300 per night.

See all prices and availability for this luxury stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Gharb is a bright, airy guest house in Miragaia. The property offers air-conditioned family rooms with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and charming city views, so it’s perfect for families and those looking for a more laid-back stay. 

We love the restaurant here, which serves up a mix of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Portuguese cuisine. The terrace also offers great views of this super scenic neighborhood, and the Clérigos Tower is just a 1-minute walk away.

Meanwhile, São Bento Station and Ribeira Square are close by, making this a great base to explore Porto! Studios typically range between €145 and €175 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Budget – $ 

A wine hostel? Sign me up! 

And Porto Wine Hostel certainly delivers a clean and comfortable stay, right near the charming Cordoaria Garden and Clérigos Tower. It’s a real dream for wine lovers and social travelers—you even get a complimentary glass of vino upon check-in! 

The Wine Hostel Bar is always pumping, and we love the port wine-based cocktails here. It’s also a great place to play board games or just relax and meet new people. I think this might just be the best hostel in Porto!

Dorm beds cost between €35 and €55 per night here, while a private double room will generally set you back around €140.

Check availability and book your budget-friendly stay in Porto here!

Other Activities to do While in Porto

Now that you’ve nailed down where to stay in Porto, it’s time to plan the fun! From wine-soaked days in the Douro Valley to electric bike rides through the city’s hills, we packed our itinerary with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re craving nature, history, or great food and drinks, these tours gave us a deeper look at Porto and beyond.

Here are the best things to do in and around Porto to experience its rich culture, stunning scenery, and unique charm!

• Escape to the Douro Valley – This full-day wine tour was packed with beauty and flavor. We visited two wineries, enjoyed a traditional lunch, cruised the river, and soaked in unforgettable vineyard views. It’s the ultimate way to experience Portugal’s wine country!

• Explore Porto by e-bike – We joined this electric bike tour and easily cruised up the city’s steep hills and through charming neighborhoods, hidden alleyways, and riverside paths! Our guide brought spots like Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello, and São Bento Station to life with fun stories and local insight.

• Adventure into Peneda-Gerês – Surrounded by rugged mountains and wild beauty, we explored Portugal’s only national park on this full-day 4×4 tour. From swimming in a crystal-clear lagoon to visiting a traditional village, every stop felt like a new discovery—especially over lunch!

• Step into Portugal’s origins – This day trip from Porto took us through the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, where cathedrals, castles, and cobbled lanes told the story of the nation’s birth. A local lunch and plenty of free time made it even better!

• Taste your way through Porto’s beer scene – From hidden brewpubs to buzzing local bars, this food and beer tour let us explore Porto’s craft beer scene while tasting seven unique Portuguese brews, each paired with delicious local bites. It was the perfect mix of flavor, fun, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We hope this guide helped you figure out exactly where to stay in Porto—whether you’re dreaming of riverfront views, tucked-away neighborhoods, or something sleek and central. After exploring the city ourselves (and staying in a ton of different areas!), we know how much the right hotel in the right neighborhood can level up your whole trip.

If you’re still planning your Portugal itinerary, be sure to check out our other Portugal blogs for more tips, tours, and destination inspiration—from epic Douro Valley day trips to the best things to do in Lisbon and beyond! You’ll find even more tips and inspiration in these related articles:

10 Best Things to do in Porto, Portugal

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Porto: 3-Day Itinerary

10 Exciting Things To Do In Lisbon, Portugal

10 Best Things to do in Albufeira, Portugal