Gran Cruz House
Location: Praça da Ribeira, Viela do Buraco, 19, Porto, pt
Star Rating: 9.6 Stars
Property Type: Guest houses
About this Property
Luxurious River Views
Exquisite Dining and Convenience
Indulge in a culinary journey at our restaurant, enjoy the convenience of a lift, and take advantage of our luggage storage facilities. Stay connected with complimentary WiFi throughout the property.
Comfortable and Well-Equipped Rooms
Relax in air-conditioned rooms featuring modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with a shower. Enjoy a personalized touch with wine or champagne delivery to your room.
Prime Location and Nearby Attractions
Located just steps away from Ribeira Square and the city centre, our guest house offers easy access to popular landmarks including Sao Bento Metro Station and Clerigos Tower.
Experience luxury and convenience at Gran Cruz House - book your stay now for an unforgettable Porto getaway.
Policies
Check-in: 04:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Amenities & Facilities
- Non-smoking rooms
- Air conditioning
- Restaurant
- Lift / Elevator
- Luggage storage
- Safety deposit box
- Fax/photocopying
- Soundproof rooms
- Non-smoking throughout
- Coffee Shop on site
- Fire extinguishers
- Invoice provided
- Smoke alarms
- Security alarm
- Key card access
- Television in common areas
- Free wired internet
- Internet access
- Housekeeping on request
- Wine release events
- Vegetarian menu options available
- Accessible train station shuttle
- No accessible train station shuttle
Rooms Available
-
Deluxe Double or Twin Room with River View and Balcony
The spacious twin/double room offers air conditioning, soundproof walls, a balcony with river views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Hardwood or parquet floors
- Wardrobe or closet
- Bidet
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Wine or champagne
- Bottle of water
- Trash cans
- Wine glasses
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Feather pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Key card access
-
Deluxe Double or Twin Room with River View
Featuring free toiletries and bathrobes, this twin/double room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The air-conditioned twin/double room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as river views.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Hardwood or parquet floors
- Wardrobe or closet
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Wine or champagne
- Bottle of water
- Trash cans
- Wine glasses
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Feather pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Key card access
-
Deluxe Double Room with City View
Featuring free toiletries and bathrobes, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The air-conditioned double room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as city views. The unit has 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- TV
- Telephone
- Air conditioning
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- Desk
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Heating
- Slippers
- Satellite channels
- Hardwood or parquet floors
- Wardrobe or closet
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Wine or champagne
- Bottle of water
- Trash cans
- Wine glasses
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body soap
- Shower cap
- Socket near the bed
- Feather pillow
- Accessible by lift
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Key card access
Guest Reviews
- Jennifer (6/5): Would not choose here again. - I didn’t enjoy this stay but my husband did. He enjoyed the modern style of the hotel We placed the sign on door that we didn’t want our room clean and they came in anyway. I didn’t like that we didn’t have options to grab water to go or snacks later in the day. It was right by the river which was loud outside . It was expensive. The staff was not as friendly .
- Kelly (10/5): -
- Michaela (9/5): Sehr gut leider zu kurz. - Ein tolles Hotel mit einer hochwertigen und ansprechenden Ausstattung mit einem sehr gutem Frühstück. Tolle Lage direkt am Douro. Wir hatten für 2 Tage gebucht und konnten nur eine Nacht bleiben, da das Hotel überbucht war.
Das Hotel buchte uns in ein anders um.
Das Personal war super freundlich und zuvorkommend .
- Cara (10/5): we will recommend this to our friends! - Bruno at the front desk was exceptional. Naomi (sp?) the server for breakfast and the guy that covered for her on weekend. All of the staff were awesome! Food was great. Housekeepers were fantastic!!! More breakfast choices would be nice. We were there along time so we went through the whole menu.
- jostewn (10/5): Stay here, it's great! - Lovely stay - had a breakfast box as off on an excursion - no problem. Didn't finish the port so asked if it could go in the fridge - no problem. Got back late and needed to move our dinner reservation on the last night by half an hour - no problem. As other reviews have commented there is a little noise but it's not really intrusive and the buskers are enjoyable. Loved it and would stay again. Amazing meal - great service.
- John (10/5): I highly recommend the Gran Cruz House for location and value! - The location was excellent, and the staff was very pleasant and professional. We had a very nice river view! It was just alittle noisy after 11:00pm one night but other than that it was wonderful!
- Emilio Raul Ordenana (10/5): - Excelente
- Michelle (10/5): Great Porto experience. - The hotel is situated at a prime location. Very well decorated and clean rooms. The breakfast was a la cart, with a great variety of selection. The staff is friendly and extremely helpful. I want to mention Antonio in front desk and Noemi in the restaurant. We are so grateful for their attention with us. Noemi always made us feel at home, always cheerful, and Antonio gave us great tips on restaurants and gave us directions into two. Didn't get a change to interact with the other two gentlemen in reception and breakfast but were very courteous with us. That we had to leave.
- Valdemar (8/5): -
- H8972KGjoanneb (10/5): Wonderful 4 night stay at Gran Cruz hotel - I did a lot of research about to where to stay in Porto before I booked here. The only adverse comment that I found was the outside noise, which to be honest is true. The street artists go on until after 10pm, probably longer in the warmer months, and the restaurants start to put their tables out very early in the morning.
However, the hotel is fabulous. We were welcomed with a glass of port upon arrival which was a lovely gesture. The location, the service from the staff, the cleanliness, the breakfasts could not be faulted. The bottle of port in the room is a lovely touch. I would not hesitate to stay here again.
- Keely (10/5): -
- AETL2003 (10/5): Value for money. - Excellent location with stunning views over the Douro river. Very friendly and helpful staff. Provide a very good breakfast as well.
- Nancy Beatriz (10/5): Geweldig - Locatie, kamer, uitzicht en personeel
- Sanches (1/5): -
- cynthia (9/5): -
- kennethbR7964GV (10/5): Terrific Boutique Hotel Right On The River Front - Nicely renovated hotel in prime location. Walk to everywhere. Fantastic views over the Douro River and Bridge. Restaurant quality first class. Staff very friendly and helpful - nothing was a problem. Only down side is noise from wharf area and musicians - but that is part of being in the centre of the action. Wish we could have stayed longer.
- Ken (9/5): Highly recommended. Fantastic Staff. Free bottle of Port included. - EVERYTHING! Riverfront location comes with noise from buskers along waterfront. Room was double glazed to reduce noise.
Part of the price to pay for premier location.
- alessio (8/5): -
- Valerie (10/5): Added magic to our stay in Porto. - LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION on the river front! Plus it was charming, boutique hotel with only 7 rooms. All 3 of our rooms differed in decoration and each room had a different bottle of port to welcome us. The beds were super comfy and the bathrooms so nice! The restaurant on the property was outstanding! Highly recommend! We liked everything!
- Alta54 (10/5): Three days at a beautiful hotel in the first class city of Porto - Stayed three memorable nights at this beautiful boutique hotel located in a prime location right on the Douro River and in the heart of the port. The hotel rooms were nicely designed and very functional for a multi day stay. The rooms also were impeccably clean as well as the entire hotel.
We were treated first class from all at the hotel personnel. A special shout out to Mario who provided outstanding service for us everyday at breakfast. He is a real professional in knowing how to treat guest in the hospitality business.
I can’t say enough how nice our three day stay was in this hotel while exploring the beautiful city of Porto. I hope to return someday to the Gran Cruz.
- John (10/5): - Beautiful boutique hotel. Excellent location. Fantastic breakfast served on outside terrace overlooking the river. The hotel was extremely prompt at replying to messages in advance of our stay.
- Linda (10/5): -
- Daniela (10/5): Wonderful location by the Douro River - Excellent location, great comfort and friendliness of staff Could a bit noise being in the middle of “action”😊
- kylie (5/5): The location pushes up the price out of the value for money range. Staff were lovely and helpful rooms were clean. The - You pay for the location. Great old building. The noisy busker outside the windows every night until late.
- William (10/5): - Rooms overlook the river with a vibrant river walk below. Lots of dining options and shopping near the room. Views out the windows are incredible.
- Ardeshir (10/5): - Awesome staff, clean room. Magnificent view
- Ardeshir (10/5): - Amazing staff. Detail oriented. Awesome view.
- James (10/5): - Great stay overlooking the Douro!
- Brubaker (10/5): - Location, charming decor, breakfast.
- Zerlinda Von (10/5): - Conveniently located in the heart of everything. The room was clean, updated, and beautiful with a great view. The best part is the staff, by far. The front desk was especially helpful in arranging for an early morning taxi to take us to the airport, in providing extra towels and toiletries, and recommending points of interest. The breakfast was exceptional; not to be missed.
- jaydW2253ZH (8/5): Good Hotel but could be better - We loved the room, king size bed with great views of the Douro River. Water pressure in the shower was great that featured a rain shower and shower wand. Could have used more vanity space, we did not have enough room for our toiletries.
To go anywhere you have to navigate going up a few hills and of course, returning to the hotel. To get an Uber or Taxi you will need to go up the hill to the first street as cabs and Uber cannot come down the hill to the hotel.
Right outside of the hotel are a variety of restaurants and an easy walk to the city across the Douro River; Gaia.
The hotel is within walking distance to all of the sites Porto has to offer as well as restaurants, bars, etc., although staying in city centre would be a more convenient option which we would select if we came back.
One restaurant we highly recommend is TAPABENTO, located in the São Bento Train Station.
A couple of areas where we felt the hotel could have done better. Due to the proximity of the restaurants directly outside of the hotel, if you leave your windows open at night you would hear a good amount of noise. The air conditioning does not get the room as cold as you may like but each room does have a fan to help but may not be sufficient for everyone. That is the reason to open your windows but you have the noise issue. The WiFi is not as fast as the other hotels we have stayed in when traveling internationally. The staff is nice, and
for the most part accommodating. One major complaint we had was on our last day. The elevator was not available after breakfast for about an hour. We were told the elevator was out of order and needed to be repaired but when we asked the Front Desk they said the elevator is working but staff members are using the elevator to deliver supplies to the floors. We actually ran into two of the staff members and asked
If we can use the elevator as there
was enough room, they said no so we had to
Take the stairs.
- Man Yin (10/5): Perfectly located boutique hotel with charming rooms. - Very stylish boutique hotel with lovely rooms. Staff were friendly and helpful.
- Cathy (10/5): Great Stay in Porto - It was an excellent location for us in terms of seeing and doing what we wished to do. The staff was very accommodating and even provided a boxed breakfast for us on a morning that we joined an early tour group. Breakfast was delicious at the hotel.If you like a small hotel with great views of the river and a welcoming staff then this is the place ! A word of advice...pack lightly unless you accept a transfer because some Ubers and taxi's cannot pull up to the door.
- Katrina (5/5): Great except for breakfast and not providing us with the belongings we left behind - Beautiful Terrible breakfast. Poor service at breakfast. Belongings left in room which they said were not left
- Grant (10/5): - Great location on the water
- Mark (9/5): Central and lively location, fab boutique hotel - Great location if you want to be in the middle of the action. Right on the waterfront and close to the bridge. We stayed in the White room (the hotel only has 7 rooms) on the top floor and the views over the river a quay were great. The room was very smart, with an extra large double bed and all mod cons. AC was very good too. Bathroom smaller, but very nice. However this is a noisy location and you can't get away from the music being played by buskers outside, so if you want somewhere quiet, this is NOT the place. The hotel does not have a bar, but there are plenty just outside. The hotel restaurant is tapas/small plate style and very good (book to avoid disappointment). I was surprised how good. Staff were exceptionally friendly. Breakfast on the terrace was lovely. This is a small boutique style hotel. We read the reviews so knew it would be noisy and it was, but being on the top floor and with good window insulation, it was ok. The location is probably in the busiest tourist spot in the city, so if you want quiet old charm this is not the location for you. Parking is challenging, you can't park near the hotel (there are car parks within 500 meteres, but they are busy). Best take a taxi (not Uber) and they should be able to drop you off outside - this is a restricted pedestrian zone so only Taxi's can enter. Dragging your suitcase up the hill from the hotel to where the car park was is hard work. Not for the frail! I also expected the hotel to be larger and have a bar etc, it didn't, this was a shame. I would however stay here again. Most of these comments are a consequence of its central location and the hills are part of Porto life.
- sbU659CD (10/5): Gran Cruz House-The best Ribiera has to offer! - Grand Cruz Hotel
We booked the Reserva room at Grand Cruz which has a beautiful view of the Douro river and Luiz bridge. The room was clean and aesthetic. The staff was attentive to our needs. Even though the Ribeira square can be loud at night, our room was quiet. The breakfast (included w the room) on the terrace was a great start to each day we were there!
- lisa (10/5): -
- Eugenia (10/5): Excellent. - Very clean hotel . Staff was accommodating and pleasant and went out of their way to help with any requests that we may have had. Rooms facing the river and noise level does diminish after 11pm and doors/windows soundproof also. Views of the river and bridge were magnificent and the restaurant was fabulous!! Would stay here again if I ever return to Portugal Nothing we did not like.
- Thomas (10/5): Exceptional -
- Randall (10/5): A Grand Stay at the Gran Cruz House - The Gran Cruz House is a fairly new hotel in an historic 16th century building with all the modern comforts you need. It has a lift and air conditioning. We were in the Vintage Room (#5) which had fantastic views from 4 windows, including one in the bathroom. The breakfast was made to order and you ate on the terrace with equally wonderful views. (The hotel has a wonderful restaurant Casario in the same place as the breakfast). The location is simply the best with easy walking distance to countless restaurants & shops. Porto is a crowded and loud city that goes until late in the evening and you can definitely hear music and sounds on the promenade below. However that is to be expected when you chose the best location right in the heart of all the action and it didn't bother us.
- Jorge (10/5): - Had a great time with my wife.
- Darlene (8/5): - Great location, expect night life noise from afternoon until 11pm. Also late night noise at times.
- Clare (8/5): Apart from the hotel Porto was disappointing. . - The location was superb. The bedroom was small but very clean and had excellent double glazing which was essential being where the hotel is. The food was really good and the service. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. There was nowhere to sit and have a drink or enjoy the view. No space in our attic bedroom either so if you have a room on the 6th floor which must be half the size of the others there is nowhere to go and relax. We were not treated with any priority being guests at the hotel to all the non residents who fill up the restaurant in the evening before we had chance to reserve a table. No coffee machine or kettle in the room and no room service. We would not take accept an attic bedroom again.
- Jorge (10/5): - Everything
- Tara (9/5): If you love Porto and being in the mix, this is your place! - We stayed in the White Room on the top level. The natural light and people watching was amazing. Overall, we like an off the beaten path location, this was "in the heart of town" so it's perfect for those that like it. No parking on site but public parking was only about a 3 block walk.
- Patricia (8/5): Very good - Great location, rooms nicely decorated Small rooms, breakfast very slow
- Joy (10/5): - The Gran Cruz House is in the perfect location, right by the river and walkable to all local attractions and restaurants. We stayed in the White Room for one night and the Pink Room for four. Both rooms were lovely but we really loved the Pink Room due to its small balcony and beautiful views.
The rooms were nice and clean and the shower pressure was great. The area has a lovely vibe with street entertainers and market stalls and the view from the room was amazing.
Some reviews mention noise but once we closed the windows and shutters we couldn’t hear anything at night.
The breakfast was lovely and a la carte.
All staff provided a friendly and professional service especially Bruno. He’s a true ambasssor for your hotel. Very funny and personable. He provided great restaurant and attractions recommendations.
I got an Uber to and from the hotel which meets you just at the top of the road (uphill). I would definitely stay there again and recommend it.
- DonW_10 (10/5): One of the most charming hotels we've ever found - This is one of the most charming hotels we've ever stayed in. The rooms are large and comfortable, and they are each designed to be beautiful in a very comfortable way. The views out over the Douro River are spectacular, but the views inside the room are competitive.
The delicious made to order breakfast on the terrace overlooking the river in the quiet of the morning was one of the best parts of the day. The staff was very friendly and helpful, including making us up a breakfast box for our early departure the last day. My only complaint, no fault of the hotel, was the over-amplified buskers, often more loud than talented, along the river in the evening. The hotel's double pane windows were no match for the loudest, but they do quit promptly at 10:00.
- Amy (10/5): Beautiful hotel with delicious breakfast! - We had a wonderful stay at the Gran Cruz. It is right down on the water with tons of delicious restaurants right outside the hotel. The bed and bedding was luxurious and the breakfast was delicious!
- Pirtle (1/5): Bad - Restaurant server rude pushy told us if we did not like it to leave
As guest there can not believe they would tolerate that behavior as we order led appetizers and told him to bring out while we decide on main
He told us he had other people after and had to turn table
- Parveen (7/5): Lovely staff but terrible location and unsatisfactory value. - The staff were very kind and helpful. The accommodations weee clean and tasteful albeit the rooms are small. The hotel is located alongside the river and there is constant music and noise from the boardwalk. It was incredibly disruptive especially since much of the music was poorly sung American tunes.
- 167keelyf (10/5): Amazing stay - Beautiful boutique hotel, lovely staff, extremely comfortable rooms. Decor is inviting, reminds me of a beach cottage. Little touches such as a bottle of port. In our room. Gorgeous reviews of the river and bridge. Lively river promenade with live music….however when you close the windows it’s totally quiet.
- Relax02278682019 (10/5): Location, service ,cleanliness ,warm friendly staff . Couldn't be happier to have stayed here . - Fantastic hotel in a fantastic location . Right on the riverfront but quiet inside . Lovely staff who welcome you warmly . Delicious complimentary breakfast served inside of on the terrace every morning by a lovely young lady .
Front desk staff were very helpful . There are only 7 rooms in those hotel . We stayed in the beautiful blue room which was immaculately clean . We would return to Porto and stay here again and highly recommend it to others .
- Linda (10/5): - Great location right in the centre of the action. Easy to walk to all the main sights.
- Mary (10/5): - Great location and very nice staff. Hotel was clean, small, and quiet. Excellent breakfast. Room was small but bathroom was nice size. Loved listening to the street performers from our room
- Loretto (9/5): Nice hotel with friendly staff. - Very nice hotel and staff were friendly. Right in the main tourist area on the water.
- Alex (10/5): Faultless - Beautiful property , lovely location with fantastic views. Despite being in the busiest district the shutters offered complete sound proofing . Breakfast to order was excellent. I would come back in a heartbeat
💗
. Amazing Nothing . The staff are welcoming and exceptional
- Mark a (10/5): Perfect Small Boutique Hotel - The Grand Cruz Hotel is simply a delight in the most desirous location, right along the river front. We were so pleased with our spacious and well-lit room with all the windows and, such incredible views. This is a perfect boutique hotel. The staff is so professional and willing to assist you in any way. For example, the desk manager offered to help lug our luggage up a hill. Thankfully, it was not necessary. But they go the extra mile. The breakfasts with Andre were perfect and you can sit and watch the river scenes. We loved every moment of our stay here.
- D301EMstevem (8/5): Disappointing reception - Whilst we had a lovely room in a great location, the reception desk was dreadful. We arrived in a Saturday night and received no welcome at all. This continued through the weekend with reception staff not even acknowledging us. For a boutique facility you would expect significantly more.
- 754katherinee (10/5): A gem - What a jewel of a place as long as you can handle the loud music during the day which is more than worth it imho. The staff were all fantastic and helpful, the view dazzling, the rooms clean and comfy, the view incomparable. Say hi to Fernanda, the lovely server.
- Charles (9/5): Most enjoyable stay. - Location and staff Accommodation was perfect
- 995simonc (10/5): Lovely hotel for a city break - Thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Gran Cruz house. It’s right at the heart of the oldest part of the city with lots of activity on the waterfront. All the staff at the hotel were super friendly and helpful. Rooms are great, breakfast was lovely (sitting outside watching the world go by) and the location is great for walking (up) to explore Porto or across the bridge to chill out in Gaia. Will definitely try and stay here when we visit Porto again.
- Edward (10/5): Great way to end or Euro vacation. - Protect location near Dom Luis Bridge. Great room. Awesome food. SUPERB STAFF. Nothing.
- Ty (9/5): Superb -
- Jacqueline (10/5): - la estadia fue super mejor localizacion frente al rio Duero y al puente Luis el recibimiento increible Bruno es muy cordial y todos en el restaurante super servicial esta propiedad lleva un 10
- Marcela (10/5): - This property is gorgeous! Wonderful location. The hotel is so beautiful and the service excellent!
The rooms with a wonderful view to the river. The only thing I should request is to tell you that a taxi can leave you right in front of the hotel. So if you bring your own car with your luggage, a taxi can take you to the hotel from the parking lot.
- Paul (10/5): - The Gran Cruz House is in the perfect location, and the team there is amazing. We loved our stay and would definitely stay there again. It is simple to take the water taxi across the river to visit the port houses, and the area around the hotel is very walkable and lively, with lots of restaurants and bars. I would have liked to have had a coffee pot or tea kettle in the room, but it was pretty simple to go outside and find coffee, so that is a pretty minor quibble.
It was nice being greeted with port, and the breakfast was excellent.
- Robert (10/5): - We loved our stay at the Gran Cruz House. The hotel is right on the busy riverside, so it is a bit noisy until midnight, but other than that this tiny boutique hotel is a gem. Staff was very helpful. Rooms are comfy. Do try the Casario Restaurant in the hotel. The tasting menu was our best Porto restaurant experience.
- Virginia A (10/5): - Excellent location; amazing river views; easy walking to riverfront and up to downtown Porto. Elegant facility and stellar staff. Wonderful ports available in the lobby upon checkin; onsite restaurant is excellent. Highly recommend this property. Cruz wines and port are top notch.
- arial696 (10/5): Perfect weekend getaway! - I stayed at the Gran Cruz for a long weekend at the end of March. The hotel is absolutely charming and my room (Vintage on the 5th floor) was beautiful. It was a River room so I had excellent views of the river and the riverwalk below. The room was immaculately clean, beautifully furnished with lovely bed linens and bath towels. The room itself was a nice size (especially for Europe!). In the bathroom are bathrobes and slippers, as well as shampoo and liquid soap in the shower and bar soap, lotion, shower cap, shoe mitt, and vanity kit on the counter (and hair dryer). There is a safe in the closet. My room had a complimentary bottle of tawny port. The hotel only has seven rooms, each with a different theme. The hotel itself is actually owned by Gran Cruz Port (the drink, not the wharf), which has a port cellar just across the river. Apparently if you want to do a tasting at the port cellar and you let the front desk know, they will make arrangements with the port cellar, which includes a discount on port sales.
The staff is wonderful. Everyone at the front desk and in the restaurant were delightful. I particularly loved all the people who staffed the reception desk; they were so helpful and willing to share suggestions on everything from where to eat egg tarts to what to see and do. Housekeeping staff is super discreet. The rooms are meticulously serviced every day.
Highly recommend the restaurant for dinner. I reserved a week in advance. The day of, the restaurant was completely booked. It's not that large. The value for money, especially for the five course tasting menu plus wine pairing, can't be beat. For the included breakfast, it is served a la carte so it's not quick but it makes for a marvellous leisurely experience. If you need to leave early, request the breakfast bag the day before. I did so one morning and it included fresh squeezed orange juice, yogurt, two little tubs of jam, an apple, an orange, and a little roll with some ham.
I also went through the hotel for my Duoro Valley day trip and it was fantastic. A small group tour with a total of eight guests plus the guide/driver. Highly recommend this smaller group experience, particularly because the itinerary is preferable to what some of the larger group tours do.
The location is excellent. You can pretty much walk everywhere from the hotel, including across the bridge to the port cellars in Gaia. The area along the riverfront, where the hotel is located, is very lively with music and restaurants but when I closed the shutters, the noise sounded quite distant (and happy). In any case, the noise died down at 11 pm (Saturday and Sunday night) so it was hardly disruptive at all. And I slept incredibly well in the very comfortable bed.
I took a taxi from the airport, which cost about 35 euros but 10 euros was traffic trying to get closer to the hotel since the river road was completely backed up. The driver finally suggested that I get out and walk since I didn't have much luggage and it would be much faster, and I am glad for that suggestion. The trip was 30 minutes but 10 of that was being stuck in traffic. On the way to the airport, I took an Uber, which cost about 13 euros and 20 minutes. Cars cannot get to the hotel because there is a huge pedestrian plaza; however, they can pick up about a block away (which is up a hill). The hotel offers airport transfer for 40 euros and this option will take you to the hotel itself.
I had an incredible trip to Porto, which is just absolutely lovely. But staying at the Gran Cruz with the lovely rooms, fantastic location, and warm and welcoming staff was a major contributing factor also. I can't wait to return to Porto and when I do, I'll be headed back to the Gran Cruz.
- Diane (10/5): Perfect perfect location - Arrived on overnight flight and checked into the best location possible for a stay in Porto. Wonderful helpful staff. Clean environment & the most comfortable beds! Breakfast was amazing. The background city sounds didn’t bother me but you will hear music & chatter. It was the perfect splurge before I began my Camino
- Susan (8/5): Delicious and Hospitable but... be ready for NOISE - Terrific hospitality. The only downside was it is LOUD LOUD LOUD nearly all waking hours. I wish I knew this. I came for the restaurant -- which I LOVED -- but wish I had stayed somewhere quieter.
- V1553KKnicolab (10/5): WOW - SUPERB - Excellent! FIVE STARS From us.
Location superb on the Ribeiro.
Room LBV 6 Small but extremely comfortable, decor lovely. Immaculately clean. Robes and slippers provided. Even a bottle of Port!
Would like to of had a coffee maker in the room.
FOOD. Casario restaurant. Lunch Absolutely Fantastic! Small plated dishes beautifully prepared. We (2 persons) were Recommended two cold and two hot dishes followed by desert.
STAFF. Again Absolutely Fantastic! Knowledgable, kind, friendly. Very attentive (without hovering around you) and observing. Speak several languages.
- Andrew (9/5): Lovely location, stylish hotel, lovely food. - Style, friendly, location Can be noisy at night, but a minor point.
- S7955MValisonj (10/5): Fabulous small hotel - ideal location - Lovely central hotel beautifully renovated with excellent friendly staff. The in house restaurant (Casario) is superb - lovely imaginative food and excellent wine choices. Recommend you book in advance as we couldn’t dine on evening we wanted as fully booked.
- Gwynna (10/5): - Beautifully appointed rooms in a location that is in the center of the action. Stunning views from “river view” rooms. Breakfast was a moment to be treasured with incredible service, views, and food. The staff were delightful, knowledgeable, and engaging.
Coffee was superb.
Can’t wait to come back and stay here again!
- A (10/5): - Gorgeous, intimate hotel with beautiful appointments. Location is great but, because its in the heart of the tourist section at the river, expect noise at night. Highly recommend having dinner at the hotel.
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Such a lovely comfortable hotel! All the staff were very friendly and attentive, especially Arthur at breakfast service who excelled at learning each guest’s preferences and offered great recommendations in town.
- ben (10/5): Couples trip - From check in to check out, very friendly and helpful staff.
Great location and view from both the room and restaurant over the waterfront.
The room itself was clean and spacious with a nice powerful shower
Would happily stay here again. Great vibe with all the musicians on the waterside
- Janna (5/5): Passable -
- David (10/5): - We loved everything about the hotel, most of all the service (special shout out to Bruno). The hotel restaurant's host was wonderful. The chef bakes fresh bread, including gluten free options.
- Hadeel (10/5): - Very quaint boutique hotel in a great location. The room was beautiful, with a wonderful view over the Duoro river and Dom Luís I Bridge. In easy walking distance of everything (although being Porto, there are lots of hills).
The included breakfast was absolutely delicious. All cooked fresh to order rather than a typical buffet. All staff were very friendly and helpful and we appreciated the complimentary bottle of Port in the room.
We enjoyed listening to the music outside in the evening, but keep this in mind, as this continues late into the night so may not suit everyone.
Surrounding bars/restaurants are okay for a drink to take in the atmosphere but are very touristy. However, there are plenty of choices all within walking distance.
- Duncan John (10/5): - Excellent
- Telma (10/5): - Amazing, right on the river. Outstanding service and staff!!
- Keyla (10/5): Exceptional -
- Mallesh (7/5): Great location, Service, but... - I am so torn about this place. We loved the service, the room, the view, the restaurant, the breakfast and dinner. Antonio at the front desk was amazing and super helpful. He was just a kind soul. Our breakfasts were so fresh and amazing. The staff is super friendly. The only issue I had with this place (not their fault) is the music outside. They can be loud and starts around noon and goes on until 11 pm. So if you are going to be out all day, this is a good place. If you are going to be in the room, it will be difficult as the music is very loud and feels like they are in your room. Please be aware of that when you are booking this place.
- Franck (6/5): - Great view , friendly staff but area around hotel entrance not clean , very touristy.
Bathroom very small , hole in the carpet ….
- Sarah (9/5): Fabulous - Beautifully decorated and very comfortable. Good and wine delicious location ideal all in all a great venue Nothing
- Anne (10/5): - Great location on the river, nice and comfortable room, bed and shower. The staff gets 6 stars for their service! Only thing to consider was that the music playing outside below along the river was pretty loud until 10 or 1030 pm, which didn't really bother us, in fact the singer was pretty good, but our friends in another room tried to sleep early that night and said it was hard. We would still come back and stay there again.
- Robert Hon Kwong (10/5): - Fantastic stay. Great view of the river and delicious made to order breakfast. Friendly staff.
- Hilal (10/5): - We loved our experience at Gran Cruz House and your excellent team. Thanks for making our stay and experience so memorable and exceptional.
- Lorna (9/5): Loved it, perfect place to stay - Great room, overlooking the Douro. Staff really attentive and friendly. Gran Cruz is a really gentle place to stay, has a homely feel not at all corporate. Everything was lovely. Even the busking going on outside, finished at 10pm so in good time to sleep.
- gregsK3166ML (10/5): Five-star experience - We had a fantastic short stay in the White Room. It was very comfortable with sensational views of the river. The restaurant meal was delicious and our breakfast on the terrace - in November! - was excellent. BUT - most importantly, the staff were exceptionally helpful and friendly and, crucially, returned the glasses I'd foolishly left behind. Can't speak too highly of the hotel and its staff!
- Joboski13 (10/5): Fantastic hotel with an incredible view - We stayed for 2 nights at Gran Cruz House and only wish we could have stayed longer. What a wonderful hotel!
We had the White Room, right at the top of the building and it was perfect. Amazing views across the Douro and the perfect spot for watching all the boat activity on the water. Yes, there are buskers outside, but unless you like to go to bed early, they are no bother whatsoever and simply add to the charm of the area.
The staff at the hotel were incredibly helpful and made everything as easy as possible for us, booking taxis to the airport etc.
Would highly recommend eating at Casario, the restaurant on the 2nd floor. We had an incredible meal there - fantastic food and wine. The hotel breakfast is similarly fabulous. The fresh orange juice and rolls were just perfect.
Great location…we didn’t use any public transport; walked everywhere.
100% recommend this wonderful hotel.
- Debbie (10/5): Exceptional - Bruno on reception made you feel so welcome as soon as we walked in. No negatives at all.
- Verified traveler (10/5): Perfectly Charming - The Gran Cruz House went beyond my expectations. The staff was helpful and friendly. The room decor was attractive and authentic, overlooking the river. The breakfast was elegant and delicious. It was a lovely two days in the heart of Porto.
- Ashish (9/5): Great location and good room - Location location location Other than the location and room, there is nothing more to it. The breakfast was good quality but the same repetitive menu and very slow.
- Gerald (10/5): - Great location. Loud until 10 pm
Creaky stairs at night.
Great breakfast and lovely staff
- lisas0816 (10/5): Wish I was still there! - Lovely hotel in a perfect location! I felt I was the envy of all the tourists to have the hotspot in town where buskers played all day, food and drink available right outside my door and the best view! The room was comfortable and inviting. A bottle of port based on your room color is a nice touch. Bathroom spacious and the bathrobe and slippers made me feel luxurious! Made to order breakfast was good. And I reserved dinner in the hotel simply because it was convenient and was later asked how I managed to book the best restaurant in town -- and indeed it was!
The only negative is the front door is hard to open -- I scraped my knuckles every time!
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