The Hilton Porto Gaia is the best place to visit Porto, despite not being there. (Review)
Another new 2021 Hilton opening in Portugal is the Hilton Porto Gaia. Again, we had the opportunity to experience the hotel just a few months after it opened.
LOCATION
The hotel is located in the Port Wine City of Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from the city of Porto. The two cities are separated only by the Douro river. The building is just a few steps from the riverside, making it ideally located to enjoy the view of Porto and the sun's rays in one of the many waterfront restaurants. Those who want to experience Porto also do not have far to go and can cross the bridge on foot to reach the city center. Apart from the steep incline in Porto, you are really very close. But the hotel is also an ideal starting point for visiting numerous port wine cellars, which can be found in the hills in Vila Nova de Gaia. To sum it up, we find the location ideal. The airport can be reached in about 20 minutes by cab, from the train station in Gaia it is about 10 minutes drive.
ARRIVAL & LOBBY & CHECK-IN
We arrived by cab right at the door of the hotel. Upon entering the building, you immediately land in the spacious lobby. The special architecture of the former wine warehouse catches your eye right away, generally the hotel is painted in darker tones. Comfortable modern seating invites you to relax.
Check-in went as expected, our rooms were ready a bit before the usual check-in time. Our status was mentioned and we were told about the benefits. Unfortunately there were no upgrades, the hotel was understandably fully booked. However, the staff apologized for this and promised to look again for the other nights to see if a move would be possible.
We had booked two rooms, unfortunately one of the two rooms turned out to be a twin room when we entered, although a king bed was promised. When we reported this to the front desk confusion arose because in the system this was actually marked as a king room. Well, such mistakes can happen shortly after the opening. We were immediately given another room.
ROOM
We had booked and received the lowest category, but the room was noticeably spacious and large. The smallest room is already 36 sqm/387 sqft, which is well above standard. The room starts with a darker interior and gets rather brighter towards the window. Essentially, the room is furnished in a modern design. There is comfortable bed, a desk, a big TV and coffee machine/mini-bar. The bathroom was equipped with a very spacious walk-in shower.
See our reviews of other Hilton hotels in the Porto area:
BREAKFAST
Breakfast was in the main restaurant on the first floor and had a gigantic buffet. In addition to a large selection, there was also a live cooking station for various fresh dishes. In addition to the usual egg dishes (including Eggs Benedict), there were also rather rare dishes, for example, you could have pasta made with various sauces. Hot drinks were served at the table. At the buffet, there was a wide selection of juices and different kinds of bottled water. Sparkling wine was also available daily. Unfortunately, there was no outdoor area where breakfast was allowed, the small courtyard was reserved for smokers. We were very satisfied with the quality and due to the size of the premises it was also possible to find a quiet and cozy place on the side. The large selection invited you to linger until you had tried everything.
LOUNGE
The Executive Lounge is located on a higher floor of the hotel and offers a great view. Soft drinks and hot beverages are available in self-service all day, and a few snacks such as nuts are also available. There is a happy hour set up between 5 and 7 pm, this was held in a room next to the downstairs bar during our visit due to lack of staff, but this was not supposed to be permanent. There was a nice little buffet and a large selection of alcoholic beverages. In addition to beer and wine, there was also self-serve cider. When asked, we were told that any long drink could also be ordered at the bar and was included. Unfortunately, while the snacks were very good, the selection hardly changed over the next few days, so the selection was a bit boring after three days.
See our Reviews of all other Hilton Hotels in Portugal:
GYM & POOL
The gym was very large and equipped with the latest equipment. Really everyone can find something they like here.
Additionally there was a large spa area, due to Covid restrictions you had to reserve a time slot. There were also times when the area was not open to children, so those who wanted to enjoy the spa pools in peace could do so. Various pools were available, including whirlpools. Basically, they are intended more for relaxing, there is not really much room to swim a few laps as well. Those who enter the spa get their own locker, where slippers and towels are ready and where their own things can be safely stored.
OVERALL SERVICE
We met a young team that was very eager to manage this large building. In some places it was still noticeable that the hotel had only opened a few weeks ago. Every now and then a question could not be answered immediately or two employees gave different statements. This is certainly no longer the case. Basically, we felt very welcome.
STAY DETAILS
We stayed for three nights in mid April 2022. Rates for a standard room start at roughly 150 € per night, depending on the season.
STATUS RECOGNITION
Our Diamond status with Hilton was recognized and the usual benefits (breakfast, lounge access) were granted without a problem. We also found a small welcome gift (chocolate) in the room later.
Unfortunately, we did not get an upgrade this time, also a move after the first or second night was not possible this time. However, the staff was very eager to fulfill our wish, but the booking situation did not allow it. However, we were satisfied, because a fully booked hotel can not magically get more rooms.
SUMMARY
If you are visiting Porto and its surroundings to relax, this is the perfect place. The location is ideal for all explorations in the area. The modern hotel has a special and very luxurious interior that makes it exciting. The gigantic breakfast and the good lounge offer complete the package.
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