Blue Hues

Blue Hues: Porto

Delicate and soft, this baby blue apartment has plenty of surprises waiting for you. We're swooning over the features – the coffered ceilings wouldn't be amiss in a royal palace, while the iron on the arched window is intricate and charming. Add in the cushy orange sofa, parquet flooring and decadently tiled bathroom and it's love at first sight. The layout is also unique – technically, it's more of a studio, but a glass wall keeps the bedroom separate from the living space. The kitchen is a little basic, but we don't mind – if anything, it gives you an excuse to sample the many delicious eateries in Porto.

But the best part, by far, is the excellent location. Palácio da Bolsa is two minutes away, and there are cafes, bars and boutiques aplenty on your doorstep. Pretty much everything is within walking distance – be it markets or museums – so we think a couple or solo traveller will be happy to call this place home. Wander down the famous alleys of Ribeira do Porto (a four-minute walk), grab a cocktail at one of the riverside restaurants or just stroll along the Douro and soak up the magic of Porto.

Home truths:
*There's no oven in the kitchenette, so we think it's best suited to making lighter fare
*No parking is provided but a car isn't needed here, as everything is within walking distance
*If needed, the dining table can double as a laptop-friendly workspace
*This home is in an apartment building with a shared entrance