This hotel is located in one of Europe’s oldest printing and stationary shops, Araujo & Sobrinho (hence the A.S.), which opened in 1829 (hence the 1829) and the store still operates in the hotel foyer as a fifth-generation business.
To honour the building’s history, a print shop theme has been used throughout the hotel, with points of interest including old typewriters, store photos and wooden printer cabinets. Red carpet running down the wooden staircases adds an elegant touch and some rooms exude romance with retro freestanding bathtubs (so we recommend bringing your lover not your business partner). The interior fit-out also draws in elements of traditional Portuguese design, such as chequered tiles and wooden floorboards. The 41 rooms have slightly different styles and sizes but are comfortable and spacious.
The hotel is located in one of the most vibrant areas of Porto at the end of Rua das Flores, where restaurants and cafés abound. The hotel’s own restaurant Galeria do Largo is found on the ground floor and includes a pleasant footpath terrace from where you can suss out the passing crowds. The food is traditional and tasty and you can try Porto’s famous tripe stew (Tripas à Moda do Porto) if you’re feeling adventurous.
Despite being an old building, double-glazed windows and block out shutters were added during the renovation process to mute the light and noise of the busy street below.