The Vibe: Retro-chic b&b.

The Area: Located in the up-and-coming downtown Porto neighbourhood Mercado do Bolhão, a 3-minute walk from the metro station. The city’s main shopping street (Rua de Santa Catarina) is just a stone’s throw away. The emblematic São Bento railway station and Clérigos Tower are within a 10-minute walk each, while the Ribeira is a 20-minute walk.

The DNA: Set in a converted early 20th century townhouse, Malmerendas Boutique Lodging is a chic b&b-style option blending immaculately restored architectural features and contemporary design. Breakfast service is available, at an extra fee. There is no restaurant, but meals can be rustled up in the in-room fully equipped kitchenette, using fresh produce from the local 19th-century market, Mercado do Bolhão (300m). The kitchenette comes equipped with a refrigerator and Nespresso coffee machine.

Suite-Me-Up: Each of the six suites is individually decorated combining traditional Portuguese textiles with sleek Scandinavian-style furnishings. All feature signature beds, quality linnens, a flat-screen TV and a (silent) air conditioner. Bathrooms have a shower or combined shower/bath, a hairdryer, bathrobes, and slippers. All but the Attic Loft have balconies facing the garden or street, while the Terrace Loft has a large deck.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 6 rooms & suites (24-48m2) (258-517 sq ft) • interior design: Joana Coelho, João Almeida • bathroom amenities: Castelbel • parking possible nearby (charged) • no pets allowed