Where to stay in Porto?

[TwoBlondes]

Are there any particular areas you'd recommend or I should avoid? Travelling alone and not a big worrier!

I keep hearing it's lovely by the river but the river has two banks

I'll mainly be wandering around taking photos and eating with a bit of shopping thrown in.

Thanks !

Personally I like Ribeira area as it’s got the medieval harbour and riverfront and I think it has the most character with narrow cobbled alleyways and colourful buildings. It also has numerous restaurants and bars overlooking the river.

That sounds exactly what I'm looking for, thanks !

I stayed in this hotel when I was there.

It felt like a good location. Short walk down to the riverfront and the funicular was super convenient but also really close to the centre of town and the sights. I thought the hotel was good value.

www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g189180-d7389812-Reviews-NH_Collection_Porto_Batalha-Porto_Porto_District_Northern_Portugal.html

That looks beautiful but unfortunately it's way over my budget. £1450 for five nights, the joy of travelling solo

Ouch! We paid significantly less than that for five nights for two of us with flights when we went but it was about 5 years ago.

I agree with Ribeira, we stayed here
www.editoryhotels.com/house-ribeira-porto/

There were a few minor niggles, but overall it was a great location, good value for money & the most wonderful staff.