Tucked discreetly into a quiet street in Porto’s Boavista district, Palacete Severo is a five-star boutique hotel that blends Portuguese heritage with contemporary luxury.
Originally designed in 1904 by Ricardo Severo – an architect, archaeologist, and writer, the palacete was conceived as a “Portuguese house” and showcases a rich tapestry of national styles. After decades of abandonment, it has been meticulously restored by a French art-collecting couple, transforming it into a refined retreat for discerning travellers.
The hotel’s façade, painted a soft ochre, hints at the elegance within. Inside, the décor is a curated dialogue between past and present: original stained-glass windows, gilded ceilings, and stuccoed cornices are offset by modern Portuguese and Spanish artworks from the owners’ Parisian gallery. The result is a space that feels both intimate and inspiring—more like a private residence than a hotel.
Palacete Severo offers 20 rooms and suites – 11 in the original house and 9 in a newly built annex. Each room is individually designed, with layouts reflecting their former lives as music rooms, drawing rooms, or studies. The restoration has preserved the building’s architectural soul while introducing contemporary comforts: plush beds, marble bathrooms, and soundproofing that ensures a restful stay. The annex, home to the Severo Spa, offers a more modern aesthetic without compromising on charm.
Business travellers will appreciate the hotel’s thoughtful amenities. There’s a 24-hour gym, a heated saltwater pool nestled in the garden, and a library for quiet reading or informal meetings. The spa is the first in Portugal to feature Olivier Claire’s plant-based skincare line, and offers massages, a Turkish bath, and wellness treatments tailored for jet-lagged guests.
Dining is a highlight. Michelin-starred chef Tiago Bonito oversees two restaurants: Éon, a fine-dining venue with Mediterranean flair, and Bistrô Severo, a more relaxed space ideal for post-meeting meals. Breakfast is a generous affair, with continental, English, and vegan options served in a sunlit room overlooking the courtyard.
Located just a short walk from Casa da Música and the Serralves Museum, Palacete Severo is well-positioned for both business and leisure. It’s also easily accessible from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, making it a convenient base for short stays.
Why stay here? For business travellers seeking tranquillity, culture, and impeccable service in a setting that feels like a well-kept secret, Palacete Severo offers a rare blend of elegance and authenticity. It’s not just a place to stay – it’s a place to belong.