PortoBay Teatro, Porto, Portugal

This is a great location in the city's Old Town, across from the picturesque São Bento train station. Plenty of food options are close by, from restaurants such as Costume Bistrô to kebab shops. Take a 20-minute walk to Porto Cathedral, which has amazing views over the city and the Douro.

Several parks are within walking distance, and you're near the Bolhao City Market.

By plane: flights to Porto take around 2 hours 25 mins from London. The drive to the hotel takes 30 minutes. Book flights to Porto

Natural materials and lots of light wood make this a modern and stylish property. Rooms are minimalistic (ours had no art on the walls), although there was a large mirror behind the bed. The taupe colour scheme with copper-coloured accessories is pleasing.

Service is great - staff were polite and helpful. Check-in was easy and employees were ready with recommendations of places to visit, bars and places to eat.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Room service
• Free Wi-Fi

The understated style in the public areas also translates to the rooms - there are plenty of curved surfaces such as the built-in bedside areas and even some ceilings. Our rainshower was excellent; suites have freestanding tubs.

Room types: Gallery Room, Tribune Room, Audience Room, Junior Suite, Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, Rituals toiletries, slippers, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

Il Basilico Restaurant has a separate entrance and is geared towards passing customers. The Italian menu is varied, although we appreciated the basics such as bruschetta and pizza (there is a pizza oven). The bar has serves up cocktail and they do a great Aperol Spritz.

Il Basilico: Italian comfort food. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Il Basilico Bar: drinks, cocktails and snacks. Open daily 11am-11pm.