The Yeatman

The Yeatman is the hotel most people have in mind when they talk about staying in Porto in style, even though it is technically across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. It sits on the slope above the port wine lodges on Rua do Choupelo, and its terraces look straight across the Douro to the Ribeira, the cathedral and the Dom Luís I Bridge. The hotel celebrated its first decade in 2020, having opened in 2010, and wine runs through every part of it.

The building steps down the hillside, and many rooms face the river and the old town, so ask for a river view when booking. The theme of wine runs through the hotel's identity, from the spa to the cellars. The outdoor infinity pool, which seems to spill towards the view of Porto, is the hotel's best-known feature, and there is also an indoor infinity pool for cooler months. The Yeatman Wine Spa takes wine as the theme for its treatments, and the hotel's wine cellars are part of its identity.

Food is a major draw. The hotel's gastronomic restaurant has two Michelin stars and is a destination in its own right, with tasting menus and a wine list built from the cellar. Non-residents book well ahead, so guests should reserve a table when they confirm their room.

The Yeatman suits couples on a special trip, wine lovers and anyone who values calm and space over being in the thick of the old town. The outdoor pool is a big advantage in summer. The location means a short walk downhill to the Gaia riverfront and a crossing of the lower deck of the bridge to reach the Ribeira, or a taxi to the Baixa; the walk back up is steep, so many guests use taxis in the evening.

Taylor's Port Cellars are next door on the same street, and the WOW cultural district is a few minutes away, so port tastings and museum visits are easy to fit in. Contact the reception for transfers from the airport and for advice on Douro valley excursions. Summer weekends and the São João festival in June are the busiest times, so book early if your dates are fixed.