Hotel Universal | City stay in Porto | Book Now

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Key details

About the Hotel

Avenida Dos Aliados, 38, Porto, Portugal, 4000-064

Steps from Aliados Square

Very good

7.9

8.3

/10

3.5

Loved by Hotel Universal guests

Convenient location
Friendly service
Clean rooms
Great value
Kind staff

"The hotel buffet breakfast was basic but was ample to start the day with fresh bread rolls, meats and cheeses, cereals, juices and hot coffee."

Mark from United Kingdom

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"The location is FANTASTIC in the middle of all attractions so you can almost visit everything with a few minutes walk."

Reem Harb from Portugal

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"The hotel is in an area where they are building a new metro line so be aware - if you sleep with windows open the noise goes all night."

Anca from United States

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Location

Hotel Universal is located in the heart of Porto, offering guests easy access to iconic sites such as the historic Ribeira district and the Dom Luís I Bridge. The hotel is conveniently situated within a short walk from the São Bento Train Station, making transportation simple for exploring the city. Additionally, the picturesque Douro River is just steps away, inviting leisurely strolls along its scenic waterfront.

Dining

The hotel features a buffet breakfast served daily, providing a wide selection of fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes. Guests can unwind at the on-site bar, which offers a range of beverages and light snacks throughout the day. For lunch and dinner, a variety of restaurants are within walking distance, ensuring diverse dining options.

Amenities

Hotel Universal offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Porto, perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also provides a 24-hour front desk service, ensuring guests receive assistance whenever needed. Additionally, guided city tours can be arranged, allowing guests to discover Porto's history and culture with ease.

Rooms

The hotel accommodates guests in spacious rooms, each equipped with air conditioning and a private bathroom. Various room types cater to different needs, including family rooms for larger groups. All rooms include amenities such as televisions and complimentary toiletries.

Business Facilities

For business travelers, Hotel Universal provides meeting rooms that can be tailored for various events and functions. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, ensuring connectivity for all guests. Printing and copying services are also offered to support any work-related needs during the stay.

Highlights

Location: Heart of Porto, steps from Douro River

Dining: Buffet breakfast service with local dishes

Amenities: Rooftop terrace with city views

Business: Meeting rooms with modern technologies

Must-do experiences

Stroll through the historic Ribeira District for vibrant river views.
Taste the iconic Francesinha sandwich at Café Santiago nearby.
Visit the stunning Livraria Lello, a bookshop like no other.
Explore the hidden Casa da Música for stunning architecture and concerts.
Wander through Mercado do Bolhão for fresh local produce and crafts.

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

See hotel location on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Away at HomeCozy like home

“Although the hotel is a bit outdated, we felt much better here than in the previous accommodation (which was a fully equipped apartment) due to the cozy space.”

Roxana from Luxembourg

Explorers, Not TouristsExplore like local

“One of the free walking tours started right outside the hotel.”

Mark from United Kingdom

Strange & UniqueMcDonald's next door

“The hotel location is beside the Imperial McDonald.”

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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Standard Double Room City View

2 persons

110 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Heating

Air conditioning

room details

Small Single Room

2 persons

100 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Heating

Air conditioning

room details

Family Room

2 persons

220 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Heating

Air conditioning

room details

Superior Twin Room

2 persons

155 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Heating

Air conditioning

room details

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Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Very good

7.6/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Luggage storage
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Billiard tables

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Housekeeping
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Hotel Universal Location

Avenida Dos Aliados, 38, Porto, Portugal, 4000-064

Map view

Avenida Dos Aliados, 38, Porto, Portugal, 4000-064

City landmarks

Bridge

Ponte de Dom Luis I

2900 ft

Church

Porto Cathedral

2900 ft

Harbour

Cais da Ribeira

2900 ft

Landmark

Ribeira Square

2900 ft

Museum

Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

1.3 mi

Landmark

Fernandine Wall

2900 ft

Church

Monument Church Of St Francis

2900 ft

Palace

Bolsa Palace

1.4 mi

Museum

House of the Prince Casa do Infante

2900 ft

Museum

Soares dos Reis National Museum

3300 ft

Museum

Portuguese Centre of Photography

1.4 mi

Monastery

Monastery of Serra do Pilar

2900 ft

Church

Carmelitas Church

3300 ft

Football Stadium

Estadio do Dragao

1.7 mi

Park

Cordoaria's Garden

3300 ft

Event hall

Alfandega Congress Centre

1.4 mi

Museum

World of Discoveries

1.4 mi

Nearby

Rua Carmelitas 144 Vitória

Livraria Lello

1700 ft

Market

Mercado do Bolhao

1700 ft

Square

Avenida dos Aliados

1700 ft

Palace

Episcopal Palace of Oporto

2000 ft

Church

Clerigos Tower

1700 ft

Church

Church of Saint Ildefonso

1700 ft

Fountain

Chafariz da Rua Escura

1800 ft

Museum

Misericordia do Porto Museum and Church

1700 ft

Church

Capela dos Alfaiates

1800 ft

Art object

Monument of Pedro IV of Portugal

400 ft

Church

Church of Santa Clara

1900 ft

Terreiro Se 3

Pelourinho Se Catedral Porto

1800 ft

Mall

Rua Santa Catarina

1700 ft

Restaurants

Novo Paris

500 ft

Travessa Congregados 19

DeGema Hamburgueria Artesanal

900 ft

Rua de Passos Manuel 245

Estambul Donar Kebap & Pizza

300 ft

Rua de Samoaio Bruno 2

Bella Roma

400 ft

Rua Sampaio Bruno 19

Madureira's Acepipe

400 ft

Rua Sampaio Bruno 10

Munchie The Burger Kitchen

800 ft

Praca Dona Filipa de Lencastre 183

O Almadinha

600 ft

Rua do Almada 131

Explore Porto

Local Highlights

Livraria Lello

7 minutes' walk

A historic bookstore known for its stunning architecture and intricate staircase; a must-visit for literature lovers.

Cais da Ribeira

11 minutes' walk

A picturesque riverside district with vibrant cafes, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the Douro River.

Porto Cathedral

11 minutes' walk

An iconic Romanesque cathedral featuring beautiful rose windows and stunning views of the city from its terrace.

Clerigos Tower

7 minutes' walk

A baroque tower offering panoramic views of Porto after a climb up its 240 steps; an architectural gem.

Porto River Cruise

11 minutes' walk

Scenic river cruises on the Douro, offering breathtaking views of the city and its bridges; operates year-round.

Yoga at the Park

25 minutes' walk

Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions in Jardins do Palacio de Cristal amidst lush gardens; suitable for all levels.

Novo Paris

2 minutes' walk

A casual eatery serving delicious local dishes, with an inviting atmosphere; try the traditional Francesinha.

DeGema Hamburgueria Artesanal

4 minutes' walk

Gourmet burgers and artisan wraps in a vibrant setting; known for fresh ingredients and vegetarian options.

Bella Roma

2 minutes' walk

Charming Italian restaurant renowned for its homemade pastas and cozy ambiance; perfect for families.

Casa da Música

30 minutes' walk

A modern concert hall hosting diverse musical performances, from classical to contemporary; family-friendly shows available.

Plano B

20 minutes' walk

A trendy bar and club known for live music and vibrant nightlife; ideal for those seeking a fun night out.

Getting around

City Centre

Porto5 min · 1400 ft

Airports

Francisco Sa Carneiro (OPO)24 min · 9.6 mi

Vila Real (VRL)140 min · 58.0 mi

Train

São Bento train station4 min · 1000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:30

Check-out

from 01:00-11:00

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs EUR 10 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese

Year renovated:

2012

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Hotel Universal enjoys a central location, making it ideal for exploring Porto, with attractions like Porto Cathedral, Torre dos Clerigos, and Sao Bento Railway Station within walking distance. Guests appreciate the clean rooms, equipped with air conditioning and sometimes a fridge, and find the beds comfortable. Some guests have mentioned the slight inconvenience of leaving keys at the reception. it's considered a budget-friendly option with easy access to the Metro at Trindade for airport connections and proximity to shops and restaurants.

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Review score

Based on 887 verified reviews

7.7/10

Very good

77%

Recommend

Location

9.5/10

Staff

9.0/10

Breakfast

6.9/10

Facilities

7.6/10

Pros

Friendly staff

Perfect location

Cozy space

Great value

Clean rooms

Cons

Loud locks

Barking dog

based on 402 reviews

3.5/5

pierre from france

Single

twin standard

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:February 10, 2026

9.5/10

excellent central location

angel statuecomfortable bedsinclusion bathconvenient location

the area featured a beautiful angel statue opposite the building staff members were genuinely kind. beds offered true comfort. the inclusion of a bath in the room provided added value. i found the location to be convenient to main attractions.

i noticed there were quite a few stairs to climb from the street to the reception area which could be challenging with heavy luggage

Dining

9/10

many shops surround the premises i noticed multiple restaurants in close proximity. i also noted one of the busiest mcdonald's i've ever seen just a few doors down with quick and easy meals.

Location

10/10

the hotel benefits from a central position. the são bento railway station is a short walk. the metro station at trindade facilitates airport access within seven minutes i found the cathedral to be easily accessible.

0 Helpful

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Greg from United Kingdom

Single

Twin Standard

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 21, 2026

9/10

central locationfresh breadhelpful staff

the location was central allowing easy access to many spots I appreciated being close to restaurants I found the breakfast sufficient it had fresh bread rolls meats and cheeses the staff were helpful assisting with directions

the building work happening just outside was a slight disturbance during the day

0 Helpful

Anthony from United Kingdom

Single

Twin Standard

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 06, 2025

6/10

location good but issues exist

stairs problemlimited light

the stairs to reception were a pain with luggage. also, i had to leave my key at reception every time i left the building. the room seemed dark and humid before i turned on the air conditioning. it faced other buildings, so natural light was limited. the lack of light was a real problem.

0 Helpful

Pamela from United Kingdom

Single

Twin Standard

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 25, 2025

9.0/10

central stay that impressed

friendly staffgenerous buffetgreat location

i found staff friendly upon arrival. the breakfast buffet cost 10 euro, this had many options. the location suited me well, especially for a short city visit. i checked in and out with no problems at all.

Location

9/10

this location had very easy access to many attractions. i also noticed several nice coffee shops nearby and the mcdonalds was close. the hotel is very central, so exploring the city was easy to do.

Facilities

8/10

i observed that the hotel offers tv and aircon in each room. my room was super clean and the shower worked well. the hotel provided convenient services like luggage storage after checkout which i used.

Dining

9/10

a breakfast buffet is available. it cost 10 euro per person, per night. there are multiple cafes nearby. i think it is very worth it.

Service

10/10

the reception staff were kind and helpful. they quickly processed my check in. they also stored my luggage after checkout. i appreciate the smooth service provided.

0 Helpful