Gay Life in Portugal:
“Gay Life in Portugal” is a struggle but it’s alive and well. Portugal is an example of a culture that is not afraid to lean into the future of humanity. Despite old cultural habits, legal challenges and archaic religious beliefs this small country with an enormous history of world dominion has grabbed the mantel of future humanism and said yes to the newest social phenomenon of gay marriage, an idea that revolts most of the world but entices Portugal to take on the challenge of change.
Although there are several cases of public prejudice against LGBTs, there is a dynamic gay scene in Lisboa, Porto and in the main touristic cities of Algarve, like Faro, Lagos, Albufeira and Tavira, with gay bars, pubs, nightclubs and beaches (in Algarve). Other smaller cities and regions such as Aveiro, Leiria, Coimbra, Braga and Madeira have much more discreet gay communities, nearly invisible to the public eye.
In Lisbon, most LGBT-oriented businesses are grouped around the bohemian Bairro Alto and the adjacent Príncipe Real and Chiado neighbourhoods. In both Lisbon and Porto there are also annual Gay Pride Parades that attract thousands of participants and spectators.
Lisbon is also host to one of the largest LGBT film festivals in Europe – Queer Lisboa – the Lisbon Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Some Portuguese beaches are popular among LGBT population, like 19 Beach, near Costa da Caparica, and Barril Naturist Beach (an official naturist beach) or Cacela Velha beach, both of them near Tavira.
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“Gay Life in Portugal” is a struggle but it’s alive and well. Portugal is an example of a culture that is not afraid to lean into the future of humanity. Despite old cultural habits, legal challenges and archaic religious beliefs this small country with an enormous history of world dominion has grabbed the mantel of future humanism and said yes to the newest social phenomenon of gay marriage, an idea that revolts most of the world but entices Portugal to take on the challenge of change.
Although there are several cases of public prejudice against LGBTs, there is a dynamic gay scene in Lisboa, Porto and in the main touristic cities of Algarve, like Faro, Lagos, Albufeira and Tavira, with gay bars, pubs, nightclubs and beaches (in Algarve). Other smaller cities and regions such as Aveiro, Leiria, Coimbra, Braga and Madeira have much more discreet gay communities, nearly invisible to the public eye.
In Lisbon, most LGBT-oriented businesses are grouped around the bohemian Bairro Alto and the adjacent Príncipe Real and Chiado neighbourhoods. In both Lisbon and Porto there are also annual Gay Pride Parades that attract thousands of participants and spectators.
Lisbon is also host to one of the largest LGBT film festivals in Europe – Queer Lisboa – the Lisbon Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Some Portuguese beaches are popular among LGBT population, like 19 Beach, near Costa da Caparica, and Barril Naturist Beach (an official naturist beach) or Cacela Velha beach, both of them near Tavira.
Gay Rights and Legal Changes in Portugal
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights in Portugal have improved substantially in the past decade and are now among the best in the world. After a long period of oppression during the Salazar dictatorship, Portuguese society has become increasingly accepting of homosexuality, which was decriminalized in 1982, eight years after the Carnation Revolution.
Portugal has wide-ranging anti-discrimination laws and is one of the few countries in the world to contain a ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation in its Constitution. Since 5 June 2010, the state became the eighth in the world to recognize same-sex marriage, even though any couple of the same sex are not able to jointly adopt – but they may adopt as individuals. On 1 March 2011 the President ratified the Law of Gender Identity, said to be the most advanced in the world, which simplifies the process of sex and name change for transsexual people.
Unfortunately, there are still vestiges of anti-gay feeling among more conservative elements in Spain, and the eight years of government by the Partido Popular were less than ideal. The consistently reactionary and disproportionately influential Catholic church, in particular, is light years from accepting homosexuality as normal. And local initiatives aside, issues like single-sex marriage and adoption by homosexual couples are yet to be resolved, as in most of the world. Even so, it can be said that Spanish legislation with regard to gays and lesbians is at least as liberal and in most cases more so than that in more modern Western nations.
Historically, the place with most “tradition” of homosexuality in Spain and Portugal is Andalusia – in fact, in Spanish, to say that someone “comes from Cadiz” is the same as saying they are gay. Like most minorities, homosexuals were singled out for persecution during the long decades of the Franco dictatorship. Though this was relaxed a little during the sixties, a law outlawing “homosexual acts” passed in 1970 led to the emergence of a kind of gay resistance movement in Spain and among Spaniards abroad, particularly in Paris. But by the end of the transition (the period between Franco’s death in 1975 and the formation of the first fully elected government in 1982), the situation had almost been turned on its head.
In terms of stature, the list of famous Spanish gays must necessarily begin with Federico García Lorca. Contemporary illustrious Spanish gays include Juan Goytisolo, Antonio Gala, Eloy de la Iglesia, the late Terenci Moix and, of course, the inimitable Pedro Almodovar.
Best Gay travel in Portugal
Lisbon is not necessarily the first city you think of visiting when planning a trip to Europe. It’s no London, Paris or Rome with world class monuments or famous museums. Lisbon has never claimed to be this type of European capital city but it doesn’t mean it has any less to offer. In fact, Lisbon has so much to offer, it’s surprising it hasn’t been popular for longer. Located on the western edge of southern Europe, this Portuguese capital sits just off the Atlantic Ocean and offers amazing landscapes, architecture, culture, beaches and more. The weather is mild year round and it’s easily the least expensive capital city in Western Europe. While the gay scene is smaller than other major cities, it’s still very developed and has a lot to offer for any LGBT traveler.
Porto has recently been named one of the Top 10 European Destinations by Lonely Planet, European Consumer’s Choice and TripAdvisor. Located on the Douro River in the north of Portugal, it’s a city with great cultural and historical importance and is well known for its Port wine. Porto boasts beautiful natural landscape, towering bridges, impressive architecture as well as great culture, gastronomy, and nightlife. It’s one of the up and coming cities to visit in Europe and the past few years has seen a huge upswing in gay and gay-friendly venues across the city. Portugal is probably one of the least expensive countries to visit in western Europe so your money will go far during a visit.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights in Portugal have improved substantially in the past decade and are now among the best in the world. After a long period of oppression during the Salazar dictatorship, Portuguese society has become increasingly accepting of homosexuality, which was decriminalized in 1982, eight years after the Carnation Revolution.
Portugal has wide-ranging anti-discrimination laws and is one of the few countries in the world to contain a ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation in its Constitution. Since 5 June 2010, the state became the eighth in the world to recognize same-sex marriage, even though any couple of the same sex are not able to jointly adopt – but they may adopt as individuals. On 1 March 2011 the President ratified the Law of Gender Identity, said to be the most advanced in the world, which simplifies the process of sex and name change for transsexual people.
Gay History in Portugal
Spain and Portugal have a long history of official repression and public tolerance of homosexuality. These days, the voices of repression can generally be ignored, and the two countries are as gay-friendly as practically anywhere you care to mention. Sitges, Ibiza, Torremolinos, the Algarve and the Chueca quarter of Madrid are the main gay centres, but except for the most rural backwaters, you will find some gay life everywhere.
Spain and Portugal have a long history of official repression and public tolerance of homosexuality. These days, the voices of repression can generally be ignored, and the two countries are as gay-friendly as practically anywhere you care to mention. Sitges, Ibiza, Torremolinos, the Algarve and the Chueca quarter of Madrid are the main gay centres, but except for the most rural backwaters, you will find some gay life everywhere.
Unfortunately, there are still vestiges of anti-gay feeling among more conservative elements in Spain, and the eight years of government by the Partido Popular were less than ideal. The consistently reactionary and disproportionately influential Catholic church, in particular, is light years from accepting homosexuality as normal. And local initiatives aside, issues like single-sex marriage and adoption by homosexual couples are yet to be resolved, as in most of the world. Even so, it can be said that Spanish legislation with regard to gays and lesbians is at least as liberal and in most cases more so than that in more modern Western nations.
Historically, the place with most “tradition” of homosexuality in Spain and Portugal is Andalusia – in fact, in Spanish, to say that someone “comes from Cadiz” is the same as saying they are gay. Like most minorities, homosexuals were singled out for persecution during the long decades of the Franco dictatorship. Though this was relaxed a little during the sixties, a law outlawing “homosexual acts” passed in 1970 led to the emergence of a kind of gay resistance movement in Spain and among Spaniards abroad, particularly in Paris. But by the end of the transition (the period between Franco’s death in 1975 and the formation of the first fully elected government in 1982), the situation had almost been turned on its head.
In terms of stature, the list of famous Spanish gays must necessarily begin with Federico García Lorca. Contemporary illustrious Spanish gays include Juan Goytisolo, Antonio Gala, Eloy de la Iglesia, the late Terenci Moix and, of course, the inimitable Pedro Almodovar.
Best Gay travel in Portugal
GAY LISBON:
Lisbon is not necessarily the first city you think of visiting when planning a trip to Europe. It’s no London, Paris or Rome with world class monuments or famous museums. Lisbon has never claimed to be this type of European capital city but it doesn’t mean it has any less to offer. In fact, Lisbon has so much to offer, it’s surprising it hasn’t been popular for longer. Located on the western edge of southern Europe, this Portuguese capital sits just off the Atlantic Ocean and offers amazing landscapes, architecture, culture, beaches and more. The weather is mild year round and it’s easily the least expensive capital city in Western Europe. While the gay scene is smaller than other major cities, it’s still very developed and has a lot to offer for any LGBT traveler.
* GENERAL TIPS
The best area to stay in Lisbon is in one of the central neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, Principe Real, Bairro Alto or the Alfama. Bairro Alto is where most of the nightlife is located including the popular gay street Rua Barroca. You’ll also find many other gay owned businesses in Principle Real, just to the north. The Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon with great views and entertainment options including fado, but it’s a 10 minute trolley ride, or a 20 minute walk down and back up the hill to Barrio Alto area.
Lisbon is a fantastic destination and has enough attractions in and around the city to keep you busy for days. You should probably spend at least 3 days in Lisbon and perhaps more if you plan to make any day trips outside of the city, which is definitely recommended! Peak travel season is March through November but even winters are mild with average temps between 10-15C – much warmer than most European destinations this time of year.
* TRANSPORTATION & AIRPORT TRANSFER
Lisbon and its surrounding areas are very easy to get around. The public transport system consists of a metro, trains, trolleys, buses and funiculars. If you’re staying in Lisbon for at least three days it’s definitely worth buying the Lisboa Card, which gives you unlimited access on all public transport routes. The card also gives you free entry to many of the popular museums, monuments and attractions throughout the city and costs just 39€ for 72 hours. A single trip on the metro only costs 1.40€ but riding the popular trolleys throughout the city are rather expensive at 2.85€ for each ride.
The airport is located 7 kilometers (8 miles) from the city center and takes about 45 minutes via public transport. The most economical route is to take the metro red line and then transfer to the green line at stop Alameda. A one way ticket costs just 1.40€. Taxis are extremely cheap in Lisbon and should only cost you about 15€ from the airport to the city center.
The best area to stay in Lisbon is in one of the central neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, Principe Real, Bairro Alto or the Alfama. Bairro Alto is where most of the nightlife is located including the popular gay street Rua Barroca. You’ll also find many other gay owned businesses in Principle Real, just to the north. The Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon with great views and entertainment options including fado, but it’s a 10 minute trolley ride, or a 20 minute walk down and back up the hill to Barrio Alto area.
Lisbon is a fantastic destination and has enough attractions in and around the city to keep you busy for days. You should probably spend at least 3 days in Lisbon and perhaps more if you plan to make any day trips outside of the city, which is definitely recommended! Peak travel season is March through November but even winters are mild with average temps between 10-15C – much warmer than most European destinations this time of year.
* TRANSPORTATION & AIRPORT TRANSFER
Lisbon and its surrounding areas are very easy to get around. The public transport system consists of a metro, trains, trolleys, buses and funiculars. If you’re staying in Lisbon for at least three days it’s definitely worth buying the Lisboa Card, which gives you unlimited access on all public transport routes. The card also gives you free entry to many of the popular museums, monuments and attractions throughout the city and costs just 39€ for 72 hours. A single trip on the metro only costs 1.40€ but riding the popular trolleys throughout the city are rather expensive at 2.85€ for each ride.
The airport is located 7 kilometers (8 miles) from the city center and takes about 45 minutes via public transport. The most economical route is to take the metro red line and then transfer to the green line at stop Alameda. A one way ticket costs just 1.40€. Taxis are extremely cheap in Lisbon and should only cost you about 15€ from the airport to the city center.
* GAY HOTELS AND GAY FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION IN LISBON
Luxury
Altis Avenida Hotel – A boutique hotel in Lisbon perfectly located in the city centre on the Praça dos Restauradores. The architecture and decoration is inspired by the Portuguese ’40s and revolves around the concept of retro urban chic, where past and future meld in a unique atmosphere of charm and glamour. The property includes 70 rooms, with two suites and the panoramic Restaurant Rossio. Rooms start at 138€ per night. Address: Rua 1º de Dezembro 120, 1200-360
Bairro Alto Hotel – A 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of the historic downtown just between the bohemian Bairro Alto and the chic and cultural Chiado neighborhoods. The property is cosmopolitan and trendy with a blend of old and new. The hotel is within walking distance to major shops, theaters, museums, restaurants and bars. Rooms start at 215€ per night. Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243
Hotel Do Chiado – Located in Chiado, one of Lisbon’s historic districts and near Bairro Alto. Chiado is the trendiest, elegant and chic meeting point of Lisbon. The property offers rooms with private terraces and panoramic views of the Castle and the Tagus River. The onsite bar Entretanto, located on the 7th floor is well-known for having the best view of Lisbon and it’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner or having drinks with friends. Rooms start at 146€ per night. Address: R. Nova do Almada 114, 1200-290
Mid Range
H10 Duque de Loule – this property just opened in March 2015 and is an exclusive and charming hotel, located in one of central Lisbon’s historical buildings. It’s been renovated maintaining the 18th-century architecture but its interior design blends traditional Portuguese features with modern and functional facilities. The hotel offers 89 rooms, free wi-fi, business center, Equestre library bar, 10thfloor Limão Chill-Out Terrace and a gym. Room rates start at 80€ per night. Address: Av. Duque de Loulé 81, 1050-088
Inspira Santa Marta Hotel –a 4-star boutique hotel and an oasis in the center of Lisbon. All services and rooms are designed based on the principles of feng shui. The onsite restaurant, Open Brasserie Mediterrânica, offers Mediterranean cuisine and has gluten-free options on a daily basis. Sustainability is part of the Inspira identity and the hotel prides itself on its policy of focusing on the environment. Room rates start at 122€ per night. Address: R. de Santa Marta 48, 1150-297
Internacional Design Hotel – this superior 4-star boutique hotel is located on one of Lisbon’s main squares, the plaza D. Pedro IV. It’s unique, trendy and cosmopolitan. It’s a very comfortable hotel with personalized service. Just a few minutes away from the traditional districts of Bairro Alto, Chiado and St. George’s Castle. Room rates start at 130€ per night. Address: Rua da Betesga 3 1100-202
Lx Boutique Hotel – a 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of historical Lisbon. The property is a renovated century-old hotel overlooking the Tagus River with elegant and contemporary style. Room rates start at 150€ per night. Address: R. Alecrim 12, 1200-017
Guest Houses
The Late Birds Lisbon – this is easily our favorite place in Lisbon and one of the only gay hotels in the city. It’s a relatively new property that just opened in the spring of 2015. This old building was recently gutted and converted into a small, 12-room hotel with an awesome staff and incredibly intimate feeling. The outdoor backyard is a social area and has a nice pool, grassy area for laying out and a lounging area where you can order snacks and cocktails. The breakfast buffet is delicious and slightly different each morning. The rooms are simple, clean and modern. It’s located in the Bairro Alto in one of the best locations in the city. Room rates start at 150€ per night. Address: Tv. André Valente 21, 1200-024
Budget
Hotel Anjo Azul – a small gay hotel right at the center of Bairro Alto. The location is quite good and the staff are very friendly, however the rooms are a bit old and dated. Room rates start at 40€ per night. Address: Rua Luz Soriano, 75, Bairro Alto, 1200-246
5 Sins Chiado Hostel – If you’re on a budget but still want to visit Lisbon, you can stay for less than 20€ per night in a dorm room in one of the nicest hostels in town. Ideally located in the Chiado neighborhood, it’s walking distance to the nightlife area in Bairro Alto and many of the sites around town. The property is new and is actually owned by a gay couple. The hostel is not necessarily gay in any way, but it is gay friendly like most of the properties in town. Address: Rua do Carmo 76 1andar, 1200-094
Apartments
If a hotel isn’t your style and you prefer having more cozy accommodations, try renting an apartment. We’ve recently starting using the LGBT-oriented booking site misterbnb with gay owners who list their apartments in Lisbon. Understanding Lisbon’s gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and apartment sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows the best insider advice. In fact, misterbnb is the #1 gay hotelier in the world with 25,000 hosts in over 130 countries.
GAY PORTO:
Luxury
Altis Avenida Hotel – A boutique hotel in Lisbon perfectly located in the city centre on the Praça dos Restauradores. The architecture and decoration is inspired by the Portuguese ’40s and revolves around the concept of retro urban chic, where past and future meld in a unique atmosphere of charm and glamour. The property includes 70 rooms, with two suites and the panoramic Restaurant Rossio. Rooms start at 138€ per night. Address: Rua 1º de Dezembro 120, 1200-360
Bairro Alto Hotel – A 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of the historic downtown just between the bohemian Bairro Alto and the chic and cultural Chiado neighborhoods. The property is cosmopolitan and trendy with a blend of old and new. The hotel is within walking distance to major shops, theaters, museums, restaurants and bars. Rooms start at 215€ per night. Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243
Hotel Do Chiado – Located in Chiado, one of Lisbon’s historic districts and near Bairro Alto. Chiado is the trendiest, elegant and chic meeting point of Lisbon. The property offers rooms with private terraces and panoramic views of the Castle and the Tagus River. The onsite bar Entretanto, located on the 7th floor is well-known for having the best view of Lisbon and it’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner or having drinks with friends. Rooms start at 146€ per night. Address: R. Nova do Almada 114, 1200-290
Mid Range
H10 Duque de Loule – this property just opened in March 2015 and is an exclusive and charming hotel, located in one of central Lisbon’s historical buildings. It’s been renovated maintaining the 18th-century architecture but its interior design blends traditional Portuguese features with modern and functional facilities. The hotel offers 89 rooms, free wi-fi, business center, Equestre library bar, 10thfloor Limão Chill-Out Terrace and a gym. Room rates start at 80€ per night. Address: Av. Duque de Loulé 81, 1050-088
Inspira Santa Marta Hotel –a 4-star boutique hotel and an oasis in the center of Lisbon. All services and rooms are designed based on the principles of feng shui. The onsite restaurant, Open Brasserie Mediterrânica, offers Mediterranean cuisine and has gluten-free options on a daily basis. Sustainability is part of the Inspira identity and the hotel prides itself on its policy of focusing on the environment. Room rates start at 122€ per night. Address: R. de Santa Marta 48, 1150-297
Internacional Design Hotel – this superior 4-star boutique hotel is located on one of Lisbon’s main squares, the plaza D. Pedro IV. It’s unique, trendy and cosmopolitan. It’s a very comfortable hotel with personalized service. Just a few minutes away from the traditional districts of Bairro Alto, Chiado and St. George’s Castle. Room rates start at 130€ per night. Address: Rua da Betesga 3 1100-202
Lx Boutique Hotel – a 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of historical Lisbon. The property is a renovated century-old hotel overlooking the Tagus River with elegant and contemporary style. Room rates start at 150€ per night. Address: R. Alecrim 12, 1200-017
Guest Houses
The Late Birds Lisbon – this is easily our favorite place in Lisbon and one of the only gay hotels in the city. It’s a relatively new property that just opened in the spring of 2015. This old building was recently gutted and converted into a small, 12-room hotel with an awesome staff and incredibly intimate feeling. The outdoor backyard is a social area and has a nice pool, grassy area for laying out and a lounging area where you can order snacks and cocktails. The breakfast buffet is delicious and slightly different each morning. The rooms are simple, clean and modern. It’s located in the Bairro Alto in one of the best locations in the city. Room rates start at 150€ per night. Address: Tv. André Valente 21, 1200-024
Budget
Hotel Anjo Azul – a small gay hotel right at the center of Bairro Alto. The location is quite good and the staff are very friendly, however the rooms are a bit old and dated. Room rates start at 40€ per night. Address: Rua Luz Soriano, 75, Bairro Alto, 1200-246
5 Sins Chiado Hostel – If you’re on a budget but still want to visit Lisbon, you can stay for less than 20€ per night in a dorm room in one of the nicest hostels in town. Ideally located in the Chiado neighborhood, it’s walking distance to the nightlife area in Bairro Alto and many of the sites around town. The property is new and is actually owned by a gay couple. The hostel is not necessarily gay in any way, but it is gay friendly like most of the properties in town. Address: Rua do Carmo 76 1andar, 1200-094
Apartments
If a hotel isn’t your style and you prefer having more cozy accommodations, try renting an apartment. We’ve recently starting using the LGBT-oriented booking site misterbnb with gay owners who list their apartments in Lisbon. Understanding Lisbon’s gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and apartment sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows the best insider advice. In fact, misterbnb is the #1 gay hotelier in the world with 25,000 hosts in over 130 countries.
GAY PORTO:
Porto has recently been named one of the Top 10 European Destinations by Lonely Planet, European Consumer’s Choice and TripAdvisor. Located on the Douro River in the north of Portugal, it’s a city with great cultural and historical importance and is well known for its Port wine. Porto boasts beautiful natural landscape, towering bridges, impressive architecture as well as great culture, gastronomy, and nightlife. It’s one of the up and coming cities to visit in Europe and the past few years has seen a huge upswing in gay and gay-friendly venues across the city. Portugal is probably one of the least expensive countries to visit in western Europe so your money will go far during a visit.
* TRANSPORTATION & AIRPORT TRANSFER
Getting around Porto is pretty easy with both tram and buses available. If you stay in the city center you can probably walk to most places you want to visit, including Gaia, technically a separate city on the other side of the river where all the Port wine cellars are located. The tram system is relevantly new and is quick and clean. Though it goes underground in the city center, it’s really more of a tram system than a proper subway. Tickets worked based on zones so you pay for the distance travel. You buy you tickets from the automated machine and you must choose your zone based on your starting and ending stations. Tram line E (violet) connects the city center to the airport for 2€ and a 45 min ride.
* ACCOMMODATION IN PORTO
Luxury
Yeatman Hotel – referred to as a Luxury Wine Spa Hotel (which pretty much says it all), these accommodations score a well deserved 4.6 out of 5 stars. Each and every one of the 82 rooms offer some of the finest views of the surrounding area. A wine lover’s haven. Even if you don’t stay at this property, it’s well worth visiting the outdoor bar and terrace as it gives you some of the best views of Porto. Drinks at the bar are expensive for Porto standards but still reasonable for European standards.
Mid-Range
Hotel Teatro – perfectly located in the city center and a quick connection to the airport. It’s a good option and is walking distance to just about everything you want to see. It’s a relatively new design hotel located in a building that was formerly a theater. As you walk the walk halls and lobby, you can’t help but feel that you’re backstage of a performance with the walls lined with curtain and spotlight-style overhead lighting.
Hotel Infante Sagres – still luxurious, this hotel is a tad on the smaller side of most luxury accommodations. The charming, boutique hotel, however, lacks absolutely nothing when it comes to comfort, allure, and spaciousness. Expect a glass of port upon arrival.
Budget
Gallery Hostel – this is a high end, design-focused hostel located in central Porto. You’ll be surrounded by a trendy and vibrant area with a never ending flow of activity. You can enjoy free city walking Tours and some of the best hostel facilities around. They even have their own art gallery with an exhibition of local artists that changes twice a month.
The White Box House – this is a typical house from the area dating back to the early 1900’s. The guest house has been refurbished and you’ll find a clean and model feel right in the center of town. Just down the street is Café Majestic, one of the most famous restaurants in town. This is a simple, yet modern and clean guesthouse that’s perfect for any traveler on a budget.
Apartments
There are many sites for apartment rentals in Porto, with AirBnB probably being one of the most popular. Prices are generally comparable to budget hotels, especially if you’re willing to get a room in a shared apartment.
There are even a few LGBT-oriented booking sites like misterbnb with listings from gay hosts for gay guests where you can either rent a whole apartment or a private room in a shared apartment. Understanding Porto’ gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and apartment sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows how things work, where and when are the best nights to go out, and what places to eat at and which to avoid.
Search best Gay hotel friendly in here:
Getting around Porto is pretty easy with both tram and buses available. If you stay in the city center you can probably walk to most places you want to visit, including Gaia, technically a separate city on the other side of the river where all the Port wine cellars are located. The tram system is relevantly new and is quick and clean. Though it goes underground in the city center, it’s really more of a tram system than a proper subway. Tickets worked based on zones so you pay for the distance travel. You buy you tickets from the automated machine and you must choose your zone based on your starting and ending stations. Tram line E (violet) connects the city center to the airport for 2€ and a 45 min ride.
* ACCOMMODATION IN PORTO
Luxury
Yeatman Hotel – referred to as a Luxury Wine Spa Hotel (which pretty much says it all), these accommodations score a well deserved 4.6 out of 5 stars. Each and every one of the 82 rooms offer some of the finest views of the surrounding area. A wine lover’s haven. Even if you don’t stay at this property, it’s well worth visiting the outdoor bar and terrace as it gives you some of the best views of Porto. Drinks at the bar are expensive for Porto standards but still reasonable for European standards.
Mid-Range
Hotel Teatro – perfectly located in the city center and a quick connection to the airport. It’s a good option and is walking distance to just about everything you want to see. It’s a relatively new design hotel located in a building that was formerly a theater. As you walk the walk halls and lobby, you can’t help but feel that you’re backstage of a performance with the walls lined with curtain and spotlight-style overhead lighting.
Hotel Infante Sagres – still luxurious, this hotel is a tad on the smaller side of most luxury accommodations. The charming, boutique hotel, however, lacks absolutely nothing when it comes to comfort, allure, and spaciousness. Expect a glass of port upon arrival.
Budget
Gallery Hostel – this is a high end, design-focused hostel located in central Porto. You’ll be surrounded by a trendy and vibrant area with a never ending flow of activity. You can enjoy free city walking Tours and some of the best hostel facilities around. They even have their own art gallery with an exhibition of local artists that changes twice a month.
The White Box House – this is a typical house from the area dating back to the early 1900’s. The guest house has been refurbished and you’ll find a clean and model feel right in the center of town. Just down the street is Café Majestic, one of the most famous restaurants in town. This is a simple, yet modern and clean guesthouse that’s perfect for any traveler on a budget.
Apartments
There are many sites for apartment rentals in Porto, with AirBnB probably being one of the most popular. Prices are generally comparable to budget hotels, especially if you’re willing to get a room in a shared apartment.
There are even a few LGBT-oriented booking sites like misterbnb with listings from gay hosts for gay guests where you can either rent a whole apartment or a private room in a shared apartment. Understanding Porto’ gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and apartment sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows how things work, where and when are the best nights to go out, and what places to eat at and which to avoid.
Search best Gay hotel friendly in here:
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