Rua Doutor Emilio Peres 74, (off Avenida da Boavisat 2), Porto, Portugal | 351 224 055 846
Boavista location, walking distance to metro and Casa da Musica
Clean apartments with fully equipped kitchens and washing machines
All units have air-conditioning and balconies, some with nice city views
Bright fitness center with decent selection of modern equipment
Free Wi-Fi in all apartments
On-site parking for a fee
Removed from historic Ribeira Square and surrounding attractions
No daily housekeeping
Some units have unattractive views
The 70-unit Serviced Apartments Boavista Palace is a three-pearl apartment-style property in the Boavista district. The Carolina Michaelis Metro station is just three minutes away on foot, and there's a bus station nearby. Guests can walk to Casa da Musica in 10 minutes, but the trek to Ribeira Square takes 30 minutes by public transportation or 20 minutes by car. There are a number of restaurants and cafes closer at hand. Apartments are clean and modern, with full kitchens and air-conditioning. There's not much in the way of features here, but there a fitness center and parking are available. Travelers who'd like an option with more features could check out the HF Fenix Porto, which has similar rates but includes extras like a sushi bar. The tradeoff? No kitchens in rooms.
Scene
Modern apartment-style hotel for self-sufficient travelers
This simple, modern hotel is undoubtedly designed for travelers who are self-sufficient. Common features are almost nonexistent, and the lobby is mostly just a place for checking in and out. A black leather sofa across from the reception desk does provide a place to perch, if needed. Guests basically hang out in their apartments when they aren't out and about in the city. This property attracts business travelers, families, and couples who like the option of having more space and cooking their own meals.
Location
Boavista district, a three-minute walk from metro and 10 minutes from Casa da Musica on foot
This hotel is situated in the Boavista district, a three-minute walk from the Carolina Michaelis Metro station and 10 minutes on foot from the iconic Casa da Musica performance venue. There's also a bus station close by, plus a couple of supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. Guests using public transportation can get to Ribeira Square and its surrounding attractions in 30 minutes, or drive there in about 20 minutes. Plan on about 20 minutes to reach Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport by car, or 35 minutes by public transportation.
Rooms
Clean, contemporary apartments with fully equipped kitchens, washers, air-conditioning, and balconies
All units here are apartments with one bedroom plus a kitchen and dining area. Superior units have a double sofabed that can sleep two additional guests, plus a larger desk. Styling is contemporary, but simple, with wood floors, neutral color schemes of tan and gray, clean-lined furniture, and glass-topped dining tables. Large mirrors make the compact space appear a little larger. Sleek kitchens are equipped with sinks, cooktops, ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, coffeemakers, dishwashers, and items needed for cooking and dining. There's also a washing machine. Other amenities include air-conditioning, two TVs per unit, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are simple, but modern and clean, with bidets, toiletries, hairdryers, and walk-in showers. All apartments have unfurnished balconies, some with views of the street and some of the city.
Features
Fitness center, on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi
This hotel is designed for self-sufficient travelers, so there is little in the way of features. The bright fitness facility isn't huge, but it offers modern cardio and weight-training equipment, plus exercise balls. Covered on-site parking is available for a fee. Wi-Fi is free in all apartments.