With its incredible architecture, beautiful tiled buildings, and delicious wine production, it’s no surprise that Porto is a favorite destination among travelers. If you’re looking for a fashion-forward retreat with a location near the city’s biggest sites, you’ll have to book yourself a stay at Vinha Boutique Hotel.
The 38-room property, which was hand-selected as a favorite by Mr. and Mrs. Smith, has a signature inspired by iconic fashion houses. Bold prints, bright velvet furnishings, and sweeping views of the Douro Valley are a few of the highlights of the rooms that take inspiration from designers like Kenzo, Etro, and Missoni.
The facilities at Vinha are just as incredible as the rooms and include an outdoor pool, indoor pool, and gorgeous outdoor spaces. Lush gardens surround the property, and even though it’s close to the city, it feels like you’re in another world. The on-site spa offers treatments with products from Sisley Paris, and any stay should include one of their signature facials to help combat post-plane skin problems. It also has a sauna, Turkish bath, hammam, and an ice fountain.
If you’re craving a fancy bite, fine-dining Vinha restaurant is helmed by two-star Michlin chef Henrique Sá Pessoa. It has dishes inspired by Portuguese cuisine, including options like roasted octopus with black garlic, leek, and harissa. However, the menu changes with seasonal ingredients, so there is always something new. Breakfast and lighter meal options are served up in Terroir, a Mediterranean-inspired spot. Before heading to bed, stop by the Reserva bar. This decadent spot is decked out with red velvet walls, black marble, and gold detailing and has a cocktail menu with signature options like the Douro Blend or Lady Eglantine, a drink made of gin, alvarinho wine spirit, eucalyptus, and honeysuckle.
One of the coolest things the hotel offers is the ability to book a boat tour. There is a private dock on site, and the excursion takes you on a short trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Ribeira neighborhood. In addition, Vila Nova de Gaia, a neighborhood where multiple port houses are located, is a great place to go do some wine tastings at spots like World of Wine or Taylor Port.
Top Takeaways
Location: Porto, Portugal
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: A stylish stay.
Food + Drink: Start and end the day in Terroir, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant serving up casual fare. For a fancier option, fine-dining Vinha restaurant is helmed by two-Michelin-starred chef Henrique Sa Pessoa and highlights modern takes on Portuguese cuisine alongside local, seasonal ingredients. For a nightcap, stop by Reserva Bar to sip on one of the property’s signature cocktails.
Amenities: Fitness center; Sisley spa; Indoor & Outdoor pool; Room service; Free WiFi, Expansive gardens
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: It’s close enough to the city yet far enough to feel like an escape.
What’s Nearby? Livraria Lello, Luis I Bridge, Porto São Bento, Clerigos Church and Tower, and Porto Cathedral.
Any personal neighborhood recs? WOW, the new Culture District, is a nearby neighborhood with cute restaurants, wine-tasting spots, and fantastic views of Porto.
Rooms: 38
Pricing: Rooms start at around $250/night
Closest Airport: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
