Catalonia Porto, Porto

Catalonia Porto offers a comfortable and modern stay in the local neighborhood of Batalha, just next to Ribeira, Porto's historic center. Wander through the hilly, cobblestoned streets filled with narrow tenement houses painted in bright colors or covered with blue-and-white azulejo tiles until you reach the 12th-century Sé Cathedral, 10 minutes away. Luís I Bridge, designed by Théophile Seyrig, partner of Gustave Eiffel, is also a 10-minute walk. Cross the bridge by foot to see Eiffel's influences in this 19th-century monument, or stroll along the Douro River to take in Porto's sights, shops, and restaurants.

The hotel has around 85 rooms with a bright and contemporary style of white, yellow, and blue color schemes that evoke the hues of Old Town. Family rooms can sleep up to six with a mix of bunk beds and a queen, while options with terraces, balconies, or patios may appeal to couples looking for a touch of romance. Bathrooms have large rainfall showers, an extra perk after spending the day exploring Porto. 

Relax by the pool in the peaceful garden, or head to the spa, which has a sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi. The on-site restaurant, Douro, is open for lunch and dinner and offers a menu of traditional Portuguese dishes made with local products, while the Gastrobar has a cocktail menu and an array of more casual Mediterranean food like pizza, burgers, and salads.