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Lisbon gets a lot of attention for its rich culture and vibrant architecture—but if you’re looking for an alternative to the bustling capital, Porto offers a laid-back approach to Portuguese living. The country’s second-biggest city runs a permanent charm offensive, where cobblestoned streets overlap with technicolor buildings and signature blue-and-white azulejo tiles. For a design-lover, it’s a must; and if you prefer the homey charm of an apartment rental to a hotel stay, the best Airbnbs in Porto have plenty of decor inspiration of their own to extend.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in Porto:
- For Waterfront Views: Porto Premium River View II, from $275 a night
- For the Ultimate Calming Retreat: Porto Oasis River View, from $318 a night
- For Tons of Old-World Charm: Casa Astoria, from $285 a night
- For a Spacious Family Stay: Boavista Vintage House, from $309 a night
- For the Solo Traveler: Porto Downtown Studio, from $152 a night
From lime-washed walls and floor-to-ceiling windows offering near-panoramic views of the Douro river to ornate architectural features to lots (seriously, lots) of tiles, these 11 vacation rentals aim to delight. The beauty of a city like Porto is that it’s equally suited to short sojourns as it is long-term stays: In a time crunch, you can squeeze all the main sights into a long weekend before making your way to a different part of Portugal, but the relaxed pace makes it easy to adapt to local life should you choose to extend your trip.
Whichever route you choose, start by booking one of the city’s best Airbnbs. From quaint stone homes to sunny duplexes outfitted with balconies, here’s where we’d stay.
Fabulous Old World
This apartment is right in the historic center of Porto and definitely has the requisite accreditation: It’s in a protected 200-year-old building that’s actually the birthplace of Portuguese writer Joaquim Antunes Leitão. The Old World charm comes through in the limewash walls and antique wood furnishings. It’s also ideally located for any foodies: The famous Bolhão market, with its stalls of fresh seafood and local cheeses, is a 10-minute walk away.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Amenities: AC, indoor fireplace, crib available upon request, private airport transfer, breakfast delivery available upon request
Porto Premium River View
The colorful façades of the Ribeira neighborhood make it an easy choice for visitors—why not go all in with an Airbnb directly on the river, too? All the main attractions are within easy reach, so if you were searching for a conveniently located space you really can’t beat this apartment. (Though should you choose to eschew a night on the town, take advantage of the full kitchen for a homemade meal with unparalleled views.)
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bluetooth sound system, crib/high chair available upon request, balcony
Porto Oasis River View
A true oasis in the heart of the city, this multi-level home is great for the traveler who requires a calming space to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Organic shapes, a soft palette of neutrals, and natural materials provide the perfect backdrop for your stay—and with both a garden and a balcony with clear views of the Douro river available, you’ll have multiple outdoor areas to relax in during the evenings if you pick this family-friendly option.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer/dryer, balcony, outdoor terrace, Bluetooth sound system, crib/high chair available upon request, AC, free parking
Oporto Eclectic Duplex
A primary color-filled dream, this artistic property certainly stands out. It’s located in Bonfim, a largely local part of the city that’s within walking distance to the old town. (Which, if you didn’t know, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.) The 19th-century townhouse comes with a balcony and a shared garden where you can enjoy a crisp glass of vinho verde for apéro under the trees. You can even request extra services, like grocery delivery or airport transfer—for a fee, of course, but it’s helpful if you prefer a hands-off approach to vacationing.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer/dryer in building, travel crib/high chair/baby bath available upon request, shared garden, AC, outdoor dining furniture, free parking
Casa Astoria
There’s old world charm, and then there’s this apartment. Located in a historic building that dates back to 1830, this Airbnb is brimming with traditional touches—from the blue-and-white tiled kitchen to the old-fashioned gridded windows, it’s the perfect spot for someone who appreciates antiques. That’s not to say it’s outdated, though. Fast WiFi makes this a good option for the remote worker looking to make Porto their temporary base.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Bluetooth sound system, crib/pack ‘n play/high chair available upon request, garden, balcony
Boavista Vintage House
Traveling with your family? This spacious villa can host up to eight guests, with three separate bedrooms and a sofa bed in the living room to accommodate extras. It’s located on a quiet, residential street, and thanks to a nearby metro station, is easily accessible to the rest of the city too. The grassy exterior, which comes complete with a full patio dining set, is a real highlight—perfect for group dinners al fresco.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Garden, outdoor dining furniture, washer, crib/high chair/baby bath/babysitter available upon request
Wild Garden House
Hidden in a wild garden, you’d never guess that this tranquil oasis is actually conveniently situated directly in the city center. The loft is in an ancient stone house, full of cozy details and low lighting that offers a completely different experience from the typically light-filled spaces that dot the river. Instead, lean into its secluded feel by unplugging—the lush backyard makes for a picturesque reading nook.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer, outdoor dining furniture, garden, greenhouse, terrace, BBQ grill
Wonderful Porto Terrace
Steps away from the Douro river and the stunning view it affords, this light-filled penthouse in the heart of Porto is just the right size for a couple visiting for a week. You’ll have plenty of space both inside and out (the multiple balconies are a plus) as well as amenities like a fully stocked kitchen and laundry to get comfortable. While recently renovated, the 19th-century building has retained lots of its charm—for architectural eye candy, look up to the vaulted ceilings.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer/dryer, Bluetooth sound system, AC, two balconies, outdoor dining furniture, free parking
Urban Nest Porto Boutique Apartment
If you want to be right in the middle of all the restaurants and cafés, this downtown Porto apartment is extremely central and is even close to the train station for day trips. It’s well-sized for a couple; although thanks to the sofa bed in the living room, it can accommodate a small group. Beyond the blue-lined windows, a narrow balcony has just enough room to function as a morning coffee perch.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer, crib/high chair/baby bath available upon request, AC, balcony
Porto Downtown Studio
This suite is on the second floor of a building that dates back to 1896—so if you expect tons of interior charm, you won’t be disappointed. In the bedroom, French doors open up to a sun room that also functions as a workspace, while antique wood furniture and pretty decorative accents make the space feel homey. It’s a great option for the solo traveler (you’ll have access to a kitchenette for the basics and a shared garden for warm summer evenings).
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer/dryer in building, crib available upon request, AC, shared backyard, hammock
PortoSense Ribeira T1 Apart Duplex
Central, airy, and surprisingly spacious (in addition to the bedroom, you’ll find two sofas that fold out to double beds), this duplex has a lot going for it. First and foremost, there’s the balcony, which extends across most of the bottom floor and has riverfront views. There are also lots of little pockets for group travelers to carve out their own space, plus a dining room and waterfront-facing kitchen for everyone to come together for a meal in the evenings.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer, pack ‘n play, crib, high chair, balcony, elevator
