Cenica Porto Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

I've been to Porto several times, and this is easily the best hotel I've stayed in there. The rooms were spotless, the value was hard to beat, and major attractions were within a 10-minute walk from a perfect location. The staff were always friendly and gave us a welcome drink at no charge. I'd happily stay here again next time.

The room was nicely presented, though quite small. The bathroom was the highlight, with great lighting, a rainfall shower, and separate areas for the shower, sink, and toilet and bidet. There was very little wardrobe space, probably too little for two people. We managed for three nights, but a longer stay could be an issue. I loved the atmosphere, and the lobby had a pleasant scent. It also felt secure, since you needed a keycard for the lift or the stairs. The hotel is well placed for walking into central Porto and exploring on foot. Check-in was incredible, probably the best hotel check-in I've ever had. Diogo in particular made us feel special. I'd definitely recommend the hotel and would consider staying again if I return to Porto.

I know Porto well and have stayed in plenty of good places here. On my first visit to the new Cénica Porto Hotel, it impressed me enough to put it in my top five. A few days before I arrived, I was unexpectedly upgraded to a very nice Jr. Suite. The team greeted me warmly, even by Porto standards, where I've often had a friendly welcome, especially at places I've visited before. They offered me a drink at the bar, which I didn't take, and later a small bottle of port was delivered to my room. A lovely touch. Everything in the suite was pristine, as you'd expect in a recently opened hotel, and the design felt current and well thought through. It took me a few attempts to figure out the lights, but once I got them, the controls were simple, even from the bedside. There were outlets on both sides of the bed, which made charging easy. I slept very well in the quiet room, with its comfortable bed and plump pillows. The bedroom also had an armchair with an ottoman and a full-length freestanding mirror. In the living room there was a sofa and a large dining table with four chairs. The bathroom was spacious, with a shower stall and a bidet separate from the toilet. Water pressure was powerful and hot water stayed consistent. There were double sinks on a wide vanity with lots of room for personal things, plus slippers and bathrobes. The suite had plenty of closet space and a nook for the luggage rack. In the vestibule I found a mini fridge, Nespresso machine, kettle, clothes steamer, hairdryer, and safe. I ate at Dramatics twice, trying the francesinha sandwich, pumpkin soup, foie gras, beef tornedó Rossini, apple tart, and strawberry cheesecake. There wasn't a dud among them. The foie gras was especially tasty and surprisingly light. The dishes looked attractive, and the portions were in keeping with fine dining. Breakfast, though, wasn't at the same level as dinner. The hot buffet items were woefully cold, especially the potato hash browns, which I found unappetizing. I couldn't finish a patty either time I tried one. Fresh home-fried potatoes might hold up better on a hot plate. The scrambled eggs were dry and overcooked, while the little weiner sausages and bacon were cool to lukewarm. The egg station was a better bet. I tried the single-egg Egg Benedict and preferred it. The commercial Nespresso machines used discs with enough ground coffee for an espresso, but not an Americano. Adding more water made it weak. I worked around that by combining an Americano and an espresso, using two discs in one mug. Everything else was pretty much spot on, so I suspect the breakfast problems are growing pains. The location was great, just a few minutes' walk from Trindade metro station and the Rua de Santa Catarina shopping district. If they get breakfast sorted, this could be a very strong choice in the city centre. I'll find out next time I visit.

Fabrizio’s tips helped me find parts of Porto I’d never have come across by myself, and Helena was always kind and ready to help. The whole front desk and concierge team were just as warm and professional, going out of their way day after day to make the stay memorable. I had an outstanding time at the Cenica Porto Hotel, and would happily recommend it for the service and local advice.