Hotel Infante de Sagres

The luxurious Hotel Infante de Sagres is a haven in the heart of Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. Although the hotel has a rich, old-world ambiance, it is actually rather new-having been built in 1951 and is a showcase for some of the antiques and exquisite tapestries collected over the years. The style is grandiose, with large, plush public rooms, a gracefully carved staircase overseen by stained glass, wide hallways, and high, sculpted ceilings. The dining room, which is especially sumptuous with a massive crystal chandelier and ornate wall sconces, is renowned for fine food and unparalleled service. The attention to detail throughout is remarkable, as can be noted in the gleaming woodwork, rich fabric walls, the velvet settee in the elevator, and the charming small bar with its curious original ceiling depicting the towns of Portugal. The bedrooms are generously proportioned, with high, scalloped ceilings, and each features a television and mini-bar. All are furnished with handsome wood pieces. You may choose to overlook the rooftops of Porto (request a top floor away from street noise) or the colorful courtyard solarium.