Porto is an incredible ancient Portuguese city and has such a unique charm—comprised of colorful buildings on the Douro river, world-class restaurants and designers—it is unlike anything else in Europe. This iconic northern Portuguese city has a romantic vibe about it, with an incredible history and culture.

With endless things to do, places to eat, and hotels to stay, Porto is an amazing city to visit. During my last visit to Porto, I stayed at the 296 Heritage Apartments and I cannot recommend it enough!

Here’s my experience with staying at the 296 Heritage Apartments in Porto!

296 Heritage Apartments

On the left bank of the Douro River, surrounded by some of the most iconic Port wine cellars, this set of luxury apartments combines the comfort of a home with the services of a hotel.

The 296 Heritage Apartments opened its doors a couple years ago. The space offers 15 well appointed apartments spread over three floors, but one of its most formidable assets is the rooftop floor terrace with an expansive panoramic view of the entire city of Porto. The 360 degree views stretch from the Dom Luis I bridge (a mere 5 minute walk and direct access to Porto) to the distant Ponte da Arrábida on the river’s mouth.

With beautiful modern architecture, while still keeping aspects of the old, the 296 Heritage Apartments is a gorgeous place to experience the city of Porto. It would be difficult to find a hotel with a better view of the city. Since it is situated directly across the Douro, on the Gaia side you get the classic view of Porto.

Overall it’s a cozy, peaceful, and relaxing kind of hotel.

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The Rooms at the 296 Heritage Apartments

Like mentioned previously, there are 15 different boutique suites total. You have quite a few options when choosing the room that best suits your needs. The choice of rooms ranges from studio apartments for two guests to apartments with three rooms that can comfortably accommodate up to eight people. The Scandinavian-inspired decoration relies on whites and natural woods, with some accents highlighting Portuguese blue tiles and some beautiful cork utilitarian decoration motifs. But what stands out in all its large rooms are the granite walls typical of this northern Portuguese region, elements that remain from the original building.

Each room include free wifi, air conditioning (not always common in Portugal), and a very comfy bed. If you want one of the best views, you’ll want to stay at Apartment 16.

I stayed in Apartment 16 and we absolutely loved it. It’s a very spacious apartment fully equipped with all the items I listed above as well as a kitchen with a coffee maker, sitting area to watch T.V., and an extra pull out mattress.

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Breakfast Included

At 296 Heritage Apartments, one of my favorite parts of our stay was enjoying a full breakfast right in bed that the hotel delivers at a time of your choice.

We enjoyed sipping our coffee and relaxing breakfast with an incredible view of Porto all without having to leave our bed. If only everyday could start that way!

The hotel staff provided a selection of cold cut meats, cheese, fruit, bread, and different pastries with fresh orange juice.

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Location

Like I stated up above, it would be difficult to find a better located hotel with a better view. Steps away from the hotel you are right on the Douro river. You can take a stroll down and find lots of vendors that pop up here during the day as well as tons of restaurants and shops right below the hotel.

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Address: Av. de Diogo Leite 296, 4430-999 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Overall

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We had such an incredible stay and would stay here again in a heartbeat the next time I visit Porto. Come for the views, stay for the cozy rooms and enjoy the breakfast!

Have you stayed at the 296 Heritage Apartments?