Grande Hotel do Porto

The Grande Hotel do Porto opened in 1880 on Rua de Santa Catarina and is the longest-running hotel in the city. It was not Porto's first hotel, but no other has operated for as long, and it combines a classic 19th-century style with renovated facilities. For travellers who like a sense of history without luxury prices, it is one of the best-value choices in the Baixa.

There are 94 rooms, all non-smoking, with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a minibar, a hairdryer, an in-room safe and a coffee machine. The public areas keep a traditional atmosphere, with period details that recall the hotel's long history. Rooms vary in size and outlook, so mention any preference, such as a quieter room, when booking.

The hotel has a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner, with a half-board option and dinner from 19:00 to 22:00, and the Windsor Bar for drinks. Facilities include a gym, a massage room, a terrace and parking, which is unusual for a hotel on a pedestrian street and useful for anyone arriving by car. Staff speak Portuguese, English, Spanish and French, and the hotel also offers meeting rooms and laundry.

Its position on Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto's main shopping street, puts the Majestic Café, the Capela das Almas and countless shops on the doorstep. The Mercado do Bolhão is around the corner, and São Bento station, Avenida dos Aliados and the Clérigos Tower are all within 10 to 15 minutes' walk. The Ribeira is a downhill walk of about 15 minutes, and Bolhão metro station is close by for trips further afield, including direct metro connections to the airport.

The Grande Hotel suits couples, older travellers who appreciate a traditional hotel, and anyone who wants to shop and sightsee on foot. Its long history also makes it a pleasant alternative to newer chain hotels, and prices are moderate for such a central address, especially outside the summer peak. The street is pedestrianised, which keeps traffic noise down but means vehicles may need to approach from side streets, so ask the hotel for directions if you are driving or arriving by taxi with heavy bags.