Not just a hotel, Mouco is a music-focused property with a 180-seat concert hall, and a music library featuring 600 vinyls for guest use. But while there’s a focus on music, the final result feels cool rather than gimmicky—think 1970s-inspired decor courtesy of exposed walls and vintage wooden furniture, with leather and rattan accents (and the odd plant). A record player awaits in most of the 60 rooms, and guitars and keyboards can be rented from reception. There is also a large coworking space downstairs, should you need to mix art and commerce.
Facilities at the hotel include a small pool, which becomes particularly busy in the warmer months—during high season, you’ll struggle to secure a lounger. The same goes for a small gym and yoga studio nearby. A busy restaurant and bar serves breakfast as well as lunch, drinks, and dinner (cocktails are particularly good; the blueberry mojito comes highly recommended). Guests are varied, with couples, families, and, of course, musicians taking advantage of the affordable room rates.
The motto here: Stay. Listen. Play. But should you wish to explore, there’s plenty on your doorstep. Found in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Bonfim, this property isn’t as central as many Porto hotels, but it’s worth bearing in mind that the city is small (it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to São Bento station, for example), so it’s actually a great way to see a new side of Porto, particularly if it’s not your first time in the city.
Address: Rua de Frei Heitor Pinto 65, 4300-252 Porto