Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is an enchanting destination known for its historic architecture, stunning riverfront, and world-famous port wine. While the city has much to offer, you don’t need to splurge to enjoy it fully. Porto is home to several affordable hotels that provide comfort, style, and convenience without breaking the bank. Here, I’ll share my personal experience staying at one such hotel, followed by recommendations for other budget-friendly accommodations.
My Stay at Moov Hotel Porto Centro
Location and Booking
During my trip to Porto, I stayed at Moov Hotel Porto Centro, located at Praça da Batalha 32. The hotel is situated in the heart of Porto, right next to the historic Batalha Square and within walking distance of several key attractions. This location was a dream for me, as it allowed easy access to Porto’s lively city center, with popular spots like Rua de Santa Catarina (the main shopping street), the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore, and the beautiful São Bento Train Station just a few minutes away on foot.
Booking the hotel was straightforward. I used a popular booking platform, Booking.com, which offered competitive rates and several room options to choose from. However, the hotel also allows direct bookings through their website, and sometimes they provide special promotions for longer stays or early bookings, which I recommend checking.
How to Get There
Getting to Moov Hotel from the airport was simple. Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is about 20 km from the city center, and the Metro Line E (purple line) takes you directly to Trindade Station, a central hub. From there, it’s only a 15-minute walk to the hotel. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi or ride-hailing service, which will get you to the hotel in about 25 minutes. I opted for the metro to save costs, and I was pleased with how smooth the journey was.
Environment and Facilities
Upon arriving at Moov Hotel, I was immediately impressed by the building’s history. The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored cinema from the 1930s, blending historic charm with modern amenities. The lobby was sleek, minimalist, and welcoming, with plenty of natural light pouring in through the large windows. The staff at the reception were warm and professional, making check-in a breeze. They also provided me with helpful information about the area, including local dining spots and nearby attractions.
The hotel’s simplicity is one of its main strengths. While not overly luxurious, it focuses on comfort and functionality. My room was clean and tastefully designed with neutral tones, offering a peaceful environment after a day of exploring Porto. The bed was particularly comfortable, with crisp linens and firm pillows. The room also came equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and free high-speed Wi-Fi.
Experience and Rating
What I appreciated most about Moov Hotel Porto Centro was the balance it struck between affordability and quality. The room, although modest in size, was meticulously clean, and I found it to be a relaxing space to unwind in. The hotel also offers a buffet breakfast for an additional fee, which was simple but included a good variety of pastries, fruit, cereals, and fresh coffee. While it wasn’t a lavish spread, it provided a convenient and budget-friendly start to the day.
One thing to note is that the hotel doesn’t offer many additional amenities, such as a gym or swimming pool. However, for someone like me who spent most of the day out exploring, this wasn’t a drawback. Given its fantastic location, friendly service, and affordable rates, I would rate Moov Hotel Porto Centro a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and budget-friendly stay right in the heart of Porto.
Other Affordable Hotels in Porto
Now that I’ve shared my experience at Moov Hotel, here are a few other affordable hotels in Porto that are highly recommended for budget-conscious travelers. These hotels have been praised for their comfort, location, and value for money.
The House Ribeira Porto Hotel
Location: Rua do Infante D. Henrique 26, 4050-296 Porto
Located in the Ribeira district, one of Porto’s most iconic areas, The House Ribeira Porto Hotel offers a fantastic combination of modern design and traditional charm. Nestled along the Douro River, this hotel provides guests with stunning views of Porto’s famous bridges and waterfront. It’s within walking distance to many of Porto’s must-see attractions, including the Dom Luís I Bridge, Palácio da Bolsa, and the bustling Cais da Ribeira with its riverside cafes and restaurants.
The hotel features contemporary rooms, each equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and soundproofing for a peaceful night’s sleep. While rooms are compact, they are well-designed and offer a cozy, comfortable stay. The staff is known for their hospitality, and the hotel provides a daily breakfast buffet with fresh local ingredients. For travelers seeking an affordable stay in Porto’s most vibrant district, The House Ribeira Porto Hotel is an excellent option.
Star Inn Porto
Location: Rua Senhora do Porto 930, 4250-453 Porto
For travelers looking for affordability without sacrificing comfort, Star Inn Porto is a popular choice. Although it’s slightly removed from the city center, this modern, budget-friendly hotel offers exceptional value for those who don’t mind a short commute. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from the historic center, but it’s well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions.
Star Inn Porto is known for its sleek, minimalist design, offering a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. Rooms are simple but well-furnished, featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast for a small additional charge, as well as a 24-hour bar serving drinks and snacks. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize comfort and modern amenities, especially for those traveling with a rental car, as the hotel offers free parking.
Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel
Location: Largo de São Domingos 50, 4050-545 Porto
Set in one of the oldest buildings in Porto, Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel combines historic charm with contemporary comfort. The hotel is located in the heart of Porto’s historical center, a short walk from the Dom Luís I Bridge and the famous Livraria Lello. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who want to experience the city’s rich history and culture firsthand.
The hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms with modern touches, featuring wooden floors, large windows, and elegant furnishings. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable bedding. The hotel also offers a daily breakfast, served in a stylish dining area. Porto A.S. 1829 is a bit pricier than some other budget options, but its unique character and unbeatable location make it well worth the stay for travelers who appreciate a blend of history and modernity.
Hotel Spot Family Suites
Location: Rua do Bolhão 85, 4000-112 Porto
For families or larger groups traveling on a budget, Hotel Spot Family Suites is an excellent choice. Located near the popular Bolhão Market and just a short walk from Porto’s central attractions, this hotel offers spacious suites that can accommodate multiple guests comfortably. Each suite is designed with families in mind, offering a living area, kitchenette, and separate bedrooms.
Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary breakfast served daily. The hotel’s prime location, friendly staff, and spacious rooms make it a great option for those traveling with children or in larger groups, as it offers more flexibility and convenience compared to standard hotel rooms.
Porto is a city that’s easy to fall in love with, and you don’t have to break the bank to experience all it has to offer. From the charming, centrally located Moov Hotel Porto Centro to the family-friendly Hotel Spot Family Suites, there’s no shortage of affordable accommodations that provide both comfort and convenience. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Ribeira, enjoying a peaceful hike in the city’s parks, or savoring the local cuisine, Porto’s budget-friendly hotels ensure you can explore and relax without overspending.
Tags: Porto on a Budget, Top Affordable Hotels in Porto