Porto River Aparthotel

Tucked away in a small tunnel-like alley off popular Ribeira Square, the Porto River Aparthotel is a great option for travelers seeking the comforts of residential living plus the conveniences of a hotel, including daily housekeeping and free breakfast. The property is housed in two buildings overlooking the Douro River, one of which dates back to the 17th century. Walking through the main entrance (look for a small black sign in the small alley off the square), the hotel feels immediately charming, with a beautiful, stylish mix of original 17th-century architectural features and modern elements. Plush gray and caramel-colored seating, minimalist coffee tables, and industrial-inspired lamps stand in stark contrast with the centuries-old exposed stone walls, wooden ceilings, and rustic-looking wooden floors, lending common spaces a welcoming, cozy feel. Quirks of older buildings are to be expected -- including creaky floors in some areas -- but few guests seem to care and most find them charming rather than annoying.

Although there are no on-site amenities aside from a lovely breakfast room and a business corner with one computer, rates are competitive for location and accommodation quality. However, those seeking something cheaper in this area may want to consider the Carris Porto Ribeira, featuring stylish rooms, two solid restaurants, and a fitness room. Hotel NH Collection Porto Batalha is a good option for those who need easy access to parking but still want to be within walking distance of the action in historic Porto. Travelers shopping around for something more upscale may want to compare rates at Hotel Infante Sagres, located in Baixa. 

The hotel is located on the corner of Ribeira Square and the riverfront Cais da Ribeira, two of the liveliest, most popular dining and drinking spots in historic Porto. This location is ideal for tourists wanting to explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as most of the city’s top attractions can be found within a 10-minute walk of the hotel, including the Porto Cathedral, Casa do Infante, Clerigos Church, Paco Episcopal, and the medieval fort Torre Medieval do Porto. The city’s iconic Dom Luis I Bridge is just around the corner, as is the Ribeira funicular. Sao Bento is the closest metro station -- also located about 10 minutes from the hotel -- and there are several bus and tram stops within a few blocks. Porto Airport is a 20-minute drive away.

There are 16 rooms available in a range of categories, from studios to two-bedroom apartments, and spanning two neighboring buildings. Like common spaces, rooms have incorporated original architectural features into the design, with exposed stone walls, and wooden beams, ceilings, and floors alongside contemporary touches such as stylish furniture with minimalist, Nordic-inspired lines, a soothing gray-and-white color scheme, and black-and-white photos in simple black frames. All rooms are outfitted with modern kitchenettes that feature mini-fridges, ovens, dishwashers, coffeemakers, toasters, and an array of pots and pans. Additionally, all studios and apartments have sofa beds, air-conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Housekeeping is available daily.

Views vary between room types: some offer wonderful Douro views (but may be subject to street noise into the evening), while others overlook a narrow alley and are quieter. Bathrooms are clean and modern in all units, with walk-in showers, wooden floors, stone-like tiles on walls, and rectangular sinks. Hairdryers and an array of toiletries are provided and replenished daily.  

Guests with mobility issues may want to know that rooms in the annex building lack elevator access.

Porto River Aparthotel is basic in terms of amenities, but offers a couple of freebies that, along with a great location and wonderful rooms, add value. A free tasty, varied breakfast is served every morning in a lovely, light-filled room on the first floor that has a veranda with a few tables, umbrellas, and expansive river views. Continental items such as pastries, ham, cheese, jams, and several types of bread are all available for guests to grab, while hot options, including freshly made pancakes and eggs can be ordered at no extra charge. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and there is a computer in a small nook off the lobby that guests can use free of charge. The hotel lacks parking facilities and a restaurant, but there are tons of dining and drinking options within a few blocks, and a few public parking lots can be found a short walk away.