Porto is a metropolis of charming hotels, vibrant hostels, quirky apartments, and cozy aparthotels. When it comes to deciding where to stay in Porto, Village by BOA is a strong contender just steps from the city’s infamous Mercado do Bolhão and buzzing streets.
As a solo traveler I often find myself booking hostels and hotels purely for the socialization aspect, and have never opted for an Airbnb alone for this very reason. Cue the aparthotel!
While aparthotels are still somewhat of a question mark amongst seasoned travelers, there’s something to be said about having the small luxuries of a hotel with the freedom of your own space. It’s the perfect mix of both. You get your own apartment building with people still around.
I had never stayed at an aparthotel before, but was surprised as I walked to the check-in desk through an upscale mini-market. With no restaurant/bar on-site, the small store had everything I could possibly need during a stay– from luxe toiletries to locally produced wine and snacks. The hotel-esque amenities didn’t stop there– with a small fitness center available for guests and breakfast delivery each morning in a small basket.
Once a 19th century project used to group working class houses as neighborhoods, the property was restored by Pablo Pita architecture firm to maintain its history and keep the soul alive. The community feel is still very much ever-present– the feeling of a private neighborhood in the heart of the city.
It’s a rarity to find accommodation with outdoor space in NYC, and the same seems to go for Porto. Given its central location, you’ll be amazed just how quiet it feels inside the walls of Village by BOA. Meandering walkways between properties and a communal patio/garden area feel like a world away from the city buzz just outside the property.
Interiors swim in neutral colours– constantly balancing natural light with shadow. Materials such as rope, copper, clay, wood, linen for the curtains, rattan and natural wood were chosen to create a textured environment. From a 300-year-old set of pots from Mafra to a 3-metre-tall tree-shaped metal sculpture by international artist Zadok Ben-David, every detail serves a purpose in creating the serenity that is Village by BOA.
The accommodation is split into three categories, so you can opt for a duplex, studio and apartment– which is convenient if you’re traveling with family or alone. Each unit is designed more like an apartment, with an ample living room and kitchen space stocked with all the must needs. One of my favorite moments at Village by BOA was making some popcorn in my apartment, and then enjoying an iced-cold local beer from the market in the garden!
If you’re traveling alone, you’re probably thinking about safety. Honestly, this is one of the top reasons I usually won’t stay at Airbnbs alone. Luckily at Village by BOA there is security through the evening and the concierge can be reached directly by live chat if needed- so no need to worry.
It’s safe to say that after trying my first Aparthotel in Porto, I’m sold. The comforts of a hotel with the freedom of having your own space, Village by BOA feels like an immersive getaway in the heart of the city. Learn more about the property here.
