Porto city at sunrise. Lots of historical buildings and holiday apartments for rent

As we all know choosing the right place to stay can make or break a vacation. No one wants cramped, dingy lodgings in a dodgy part of the city. I’ve written this insider guide to the best apartments in Porto for short stays so that you can feel confident about the choice you make.

Like most major cities, Porto has seen an enormous growth in the number of holiday apartments on offer. I’ve used my extensive knowledge of the city, personal experience and a strict vetting process to create my guide to the best ones.

They’re all in great, safe locations, close to major attractions and restaurants, and offer a range of sizes, from studios to 2 and 3 bedroom accommodations.

RELATED: Check this article if you’re trying to decide on the Best Area To Stay in Porto. Alternatively, The Best Boutique Hotels in Porto will give you a great insight into some other wonderful stays.

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite apartments in Porto.

Wherever possible, I choose accommodations that follow sustainable practices, as indicated by the number of leaves (3 is the top score). No leaf simply means that I can’t verify their current efforts regarding sustainable travel but I love the property.

Stay at a luxury Porto apartment in a 13th century building

Condes de Azevedo Palace Apartments

Choose a wonderful 5-star apartment or studio and combine history with luxury. All units are fully equipped and include a private bathroom and kitchen. You can relax in the garden and there’s even private parking available onsite. Check for dates.

For a lovely Porto apartment for rent, try Pippadouro.

Terrace and pool at PippaDouro Apartments Porto
Terrace and pool at PippaDouro Apartments Porto
Green Sustainability leaf for hotels
Green Sustainability leaf for hotels

Here you’ll find beautiful spacious apartments and studios along with very friendly and welcoming staff. The central location provides wonderful views of the city and you can relax in the little garden with a rooftop pool. All self-catering units come well-equipped. Choose an apartment to suit you.

For your Porto city break try Thomaz Palace

You can choose from a wide range of modern apartments at this recently refurbished building in a less touristy part of Porto. Some apartments come with a balcony or terrace and all kitchens are well equipped. If you do have a car whilst in Porto the free onsite parking is very welcome as is the elevator after a hard day’s walking. Book the apartment to suit you.

Enjoy the views at these sister sites

Very close to all of the top attractions are two renovated buildings in Rua de Mouzinho da Silveira, with lovely views over the old city rooftops: Mouzinho 160 and Mouzinho Village River.

Mouzinho 160

Mouzinho 160 has a selection of beautiful apartments, bright and spacious, some with a terrace or balcony. The beds are big and comfortable. The kitchenettes have all you need but it’s very nice to have a Michelin Star restaurant on the ground floor! An elevator saves on the legs. Check photos.

Mouzinho Village River also have fabulous, newly remodeled apartments with tastefully modern decor. Although on a main street the soundproofing is good. The host is super helpful with recommendations. Select your apartment.

Stay in the palacial bnapartments Carregal

bnapartments Carregal

Yes, this really is a palace. A renovated 17th-century palace located in the heart of Porto with outdoor swimming pool and lovely gardens. You can choose from 16 studios, each with a fully equipped kitchenette. The location is great and there’s also a small gym available. The staff are very friendly and always on hand to help. A very quiet place considering where it is in the city, i.e. not from Clérigos Tower and Lello Bookstore. Check out more photos and details.

Enjoy ornate ceilings and views at Alves da Veiga

Green Sustainability leaf for hotels
Green Sustainability leaf for hotels

Close to Bolhão Market is this charming aparthotel offering studios and one, two and three bedroom apartments, all quite spacious and beautifully furnished. Some apartments have a private terrace or garden and there’s also an outdoor pool. You can take advantage of the concierge service and there’s space to park (for an extra fee). Check for dates.

For an Art Deco Porto holiday apartment try Your Opo Bolhao

Hallway leading to ornate staircase in Your Opo Bolhao Apartments Porto.
Hallway leading to staircase in Your Opo Bolhao Apartments in Porto.

Very close to the historic Bolhão market, you can choose from a range of beautifully furnished and very comfortable vacation apartments, some with balconies and city views. With public areas in the original Art Deco style, you get a real sense of history to go with all modern comforts.

There is an elevator (very useful for the 4th floor!) and the kitchens are modern and well-equipped. Staff are wonderful and extremely helpful. My photo doesn’t really do it justice so take a look at better pics.

Relax in the garden at InSitu Formosa 168

These stylish apartments, also near Bolhão Market, are large, modern and clean and come with a small kitchen, eating area, sitting area and a comfortable queen bed. There is no elevator so it’s best to ask for a lower floor apartment if you have heavy luggage or mobility issues. There’s a garden with a terrace for relaxing and staff are very helpful. Choose from a studio apartment with terrace to 1 or 2 bedroomed apartments

Feel at home at Oporto Serviced Apartments – 1858

If you’re looking for an apartment, studio or loft room, all nicely designed with lots of space, this could be for you. Some apartments have a balcony or terrace to enjoy. Kitchens are well stocked and there’s a mini-market close by although there’s a nice onsite restaurant as well. Located on the shopping street of Rua Cedofeita, it’s easy walking distance from key sights. Check availability.

Enjoy the views at RVA Sao Joao Nova Apartments

View of river from balcony, RVA Sao Joao Nova Apartments, Porto.
View from balcony, RVA Sao Joao Nova Apartments, Porto.

RVA – Sao Joao Novo Apartments

A selection of comfortable and spacious apartments and studios located a few streets away from the river in the historical centre of Porto. You get marvelous views, exposed beams, stone walls and, of course, a private bathroom. The beds are comfy, the showers are very good and the elevator is handy if you have a lot of luggage. Pick your apartment.

Not found the apartment for you? Search Booking.com for other options.

RELATED: If you crave luxury, or need a larger property, check out my Best luxury villas in Portugal post for some great ideas. Or search for an apartment or villa from Plum Guide. All homes have to meet meticulous standards and everything is vetted by an independent Home Critic.

If you’re considering a longer-stay in Porto, consider Flatio. They’re a rental housing platform, mostly deposit-free, that offers lawyer-verified, legally binding lease agreements that can be used as proof of address and for visa purposes.

If you’re looking for ideas for what to do during your stay in Porto, check these out:

Fabulous 3-Day Porto & Douro Valley Itinerary

40 Of The Most Amazing Things To Do In Porto

Best Day Trips From Porto

Discover Authentic Portugues Flavours on a Porto Food Tour

Over to you. Please share your thoughts in a comment.