The DNA: Located in the upmarket and oceanside district of Foz, at the mouth of the river Douro, is the Vila Foz Hotel & Spa. Rooms are distributed between a 19th-century villa a new modern extension. Designer interiors mix original elements like Portuguese floor tiles, parquetry and ornate, gilded stucco ceilings with onyx, pistachio and jungle greens, and soft pinks. There is a spa, swimming pool, bar and Michelin starred restaurant. The beach is right across the road.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 68 rooms & suites (28-48m2) (301-517 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2019 • architecture: Miguel Cardoso • interior design: Nini Andrade Silva • bathroom amenities: Maison Codage • parking possible on-site (charged) • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible