The Intercontinental Porto – Palacio Das Cardosas couldn’t be in a more convenient location. It is literally across the street from the the Sao Bento train station, and right in the city center. Just about anything is 15-20 away by foot.
Rates were about $400/night during our stay, but thanks to IHG’s great promotion last year we were able to book the rooms for free. IHG ran a promotion last year in which new IHG members got one free night after booking two stays, with a maximum of two free nights.
I signed my wife up for the promotion before our trip to Europe last year. We spent less than $300 for the four qualifying stays in order to get the two free nights. Those stays included the Holiday Inn Express Warsaw Airport, two stays at the Intercontinental Warsaw, and a stay at the Holidy Inn Brno.
The hotel has a very Old World look to it, with very detailed balconies. The entrance and signage are very understated and could easily be missed.
Upon entering the hotel, the concierge desk is straight in front of you. The front desk is located to the right up a few stairs, then over to the left. There is no actual front desk, but instead you are checked in at a sit down desk.
There is a stunning chandelier and spiral staircase located next to the check-in desks.
Check-in took a little longer than expected, as we had the two free nights, plus I had booked an additional night under my name so combining the reservations so we wouldn’t have to check-out, then check back in took a while.
The hallways leading to the room are elegantly decorated.
We were in room 324, which featured two queen beds.
Upon entering the room, there is a small L-shaped hallway with the bathroom on the left. There is a single sink with plentiful counter space.
The toilet and bidet are separated by a frosted glass door that wasn’t properly mounted as it would not stay in the closed position.
There is a shower and tub were located behind a glass door, which comprised a “suite” of sorts.
Upon exiting the bathroom, there is a small glass shaped desk with a TV above it. A complimentary bottle of water was provided.
There is a chair and a small table located in the corner.
Next to the far bed is the coffee maker, mini-bar and closet. The closet featured a safe, luggage rack, ironing board and iron and plenty of hangers. There is not a lot of space between the bed and closet though.
The beds were plush and comfortable. An ample amount of pillows for each bed was provided.
The view from the room showed the main road to get into the city center.
The guys working at the concierge desk are very friendly and helpful. They helped arrange to get us into the tour at Graham’s Winery, at no charge which included wine tasting.
The Intercontinental Porto is a lovely property, that is luxurious while maintaining its character. I can’t recommend this property more highly when staying in Porto.
