Novotel Porto Gaia — Hotel in Vila Nova de Gaia

I wanted to share my recent experience at Novotel Porto Gaia - it had its positives, but some aspects could definitely be improved.

First Impressions: The check-in process left something to be desired. As a loyal ALL member, I politely inquired about a potential upgrade (a benefit I've received at other Accor properties), but was met with a rather curt refusal. While I understand policies exist, a more welcoming approach would have made all the difference.

Room Conditions: The room itself was disappointing in several ways. The air conditioning unit was quite noisy, the bed frame creaked noticeably, and I was surprised to find the desk chair visibly stained. These maintenance issues really shouldn't exist in a hotel of this standard. That said, I can't deny the beautiful view of the pool area from my room.

Breakfast Experience: This was certainly the highlight of my stay. The breakfast spread was excellent, with particularly fresh and varied fruit options. While I did miss having fried eggs available, the overall quality made up for it.

Final Thoughts: Given the price point and inconsistent experience, I think I'll return to Mercure Porto Gaia for my next visit (where I've always had good stays) or perhaps try the Ibis across the street. Both are part of the same group but seem to offer more consistent quality.

I hope this feedback is helpful - Novotel has great potential, but attention to guest service and room maintenance would significantly improve...

3-star hotel only suitable for car travellers. As a frequent business traveller you expect much more from Novotel chain. Biggest cons of this particular hotel is of course its location, which you only realise when at the destination. It is only accessible by car and once you find it, there will be no option for the breakfast outside the hotel. And breakfast is really the biggest disappointment here. For the €12 rate (if you pay in advance) you receive very poor Swedish table with no hot dishes except always non-working pancake machine and always neglected marmite with supposed to be fried eggs. Personnel there really ignores the fact of empty food tables and kind hints to refill. It is also very obvious that Novotel saved tons of money on renovation whenever they acquired this building, since it is very old, outdated and rooms are tiny. The only positive of this hotel was a car parking, but even that was full towards the evening, so we were not risking to come back late. Definitely would not recommend this hotel and would advise to look to other options with better location and opportunities to go out for breakfast and dinner, considering really cheap offerings of local...

Stayed here with a group of friends for a long weekend break in Porto. |Hotel staff were pleasant and accommodating.|The pool area was really well maintained and provided a excellent spot to relax after spending a long day exploring the magnificent city that is Porto.|The rooms and general atheistic of the hotel could definitely do with a modern spruce but were clean and tidy.|Breakfast was expensive for the quality of food on offer (this is comparing with Portuguese hotels stayed in previously)|The price of food/drinks were in my opinion extortionate €2.50 for a banana is crazy!|The location is slightly out of the city but is only a cheap taxi ride away, approximately the price of 1 and a half bananas.|Overall a good stay although maybe a little bit expensive given the quality of rooms.|I would potentially...