Palacete Severo, Porto, Portugal: Review

Having fallen in love with Porto a couple of summers ago, I was delighted to return, this time to see the city draped in autumn colours. Palacete Severo proved to be the most perfect base from which to explore in this cosy, golden season.

Location & Atmosphere

Set back from a quiet street in a calm residential neighbourhood, I felt all of my worries melt away the moment I arrived at the hotel. Despite the feeling of seclusion, it remains an easy walk from Porto’s cultural core, with its bustling streets, galleries, and lively waterfront. I loved being able to explore the city during the day, watch beautiful sunsets by the river in the evening, and then stroll back to this peaceful haven.

Rooms & Interiors

Originally built in the early 20th century, architect Ricardo Severo envisioned the mansion as a model of the quintessential Portuguese house, gathering architectural details from across the country. After falling into disrepair, the property was meticulously restored in 2024, with its original stained glass, painted ceilings, and intricate woodwork carefully preserved. A contemporary garden wing now complements the historic structure, adding comfort and space without detracting from the building’s character.

With just 20 rooms and suites split between the original palacete and the newer wing, the atmosphere is intimate without feeling confined. The heritage rooms retain the deep wood tones, original features, and stately proportions of the mansion, while the newer rooms are contemporary and elegant.

My room struck a thoughtful balance of classic and cosy, with warm furnishings, soft lighting, and subtle nods to the building’s history. Large windows filled the space with natural light, and the bed was exceptionally comfortable. Every detail, from locally crafted furniture to high-quality linens and excellent bathroom amenities, felt considered. The common areas are equally inviting - I especially enjoyed the cosy reading room on a rainy day with the ornate original fireplace, while the terrace was a lovely spot to unwind on a warmer day.

Dining

Breakfast was a highlight each morning, with freshly baked breads and pastries, fruit, juices, and excellent coffee. This was followed by a perfectly prepared hot menu - the kind where you wanted to stay for longer just to make sure you could try everything.

I also enjoyed lunch in Bistro Severo - a relaxed meal that was presented beautifully, showcasing seasonal, local ingredients. The room itself is bright and welcoming, service is warm and unfussy, and the staff’s wine recommendations were spot on. It was no surprise to see the Bistro vibrant and buzzing on each day of my stay, testament to the excellent food and hospitality.

Dinner at Éon Restaurant was the culinary standout of the stay. After a perfectly made cocktail enjoyed in the ambient bar, I was lucky enough to try the much anticipated tasting menu which I’d read so much about. Each course was intricate, balanced, and full of personality, often surprising in a way that genuinely made me smile. It was nostalgic and playful whilst being incredibly refined - a rare and clever feat in fine dining that made this s truly memorable meal. The sommelier’s pairings were excellent, and the experience is well worth seeking out whether or not you are staying at the hotel.

Wellness & Leisure

It was a real treat to have an onsite spa, and similarly to the restaurant, a feature that would be worth a visit in its own right. Located in the newer wing, Spa Severo is serene and elegantly designed. The facilities offer everything you could want for a relaxing break, with a Turkish bath, Himalayan salt room, treatment rooms, a heated saltwater pool and even a small gym. I had an absolutely wonderful massage by a brilliant therapist, an experience I couldn’t recommend highly enough, followed by tea and macarons by the pool - bliss! 

Service & Hospitality

As always, it’s the people who elevate a stay. The staff at Palacete Severo were consistently warm, attentive and genuinely kind. Their personalised touches, from morning greetings to remembering dining preferences, made the stay feel effortless and welcoming. I truly felt at home for my whole stay.

Palacete Severo is a standout in Porto - refined, relaxed, and deeply connected to the city’s character. Its blend of thoughtful restoration, elegant design, excellent dining, and exceptional hospitality makes it an easy recommendation for anyone seeking a romantic retreat or a culturally rich escape. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already hoping to return!