Azulejo Bedecked

Azulejo Bedecked: Porto

Fling open the charming French doors of this oh-so-Porto townhouse apartment, and you'll soon realise you've bagged one of the best spots in town. Set downtown along the iconic Rua de Santa Catarina, the location is unbeatable. Step out onto the street below and head for the striped stone footpaths, smart boutiques, and Porto's most ornate tearoom, Café Majestic, at the heart of the avenue. And when it's time to uncover more of the city's must-sees, Bolhão, Avenida dos Aliados, Paris Gallery, and São Bento are all within walking distance from the apartment. Or hop on the Bolhão Metro station, just 700 meters from the apartment, and blaze a trail to another corner of this beautiful city.

Back home, the Azulejo-bedecked exteriors of this historic townhouse are as pretty-as-a-picture, with ornate wrought-iron Juliet balconies just like you'd imagined. Step inside, and the newly-renovated apartment keeps on giving, with a sharp design focus that you'll love. And while this home may be compact, we think it's perfectly formed with all the creature comforts you could need. Rustle up breakfast in the smart kitchen area, then get together for a tête-à-tête at the bistro table or spill out onto the sofa with that second coffee to hatch plans for the day ahead. With the Juliet balcony doors open wide, it's a fine way to start another day in Porto.

Home truths:
*The entrance to this home is shared with the building's other residents
*As typical with historic Porto townhouses, there is no lift access in this building
*There is air-conditioning in the living room, but not in the bedroom area
*Bathroom essentials are provided to help settle you in
*There's a laptop-friendly space for remote working