Whenever I am in Porto, and I go often, I stay at the Residencial Rex. Jose is an excellent host, always willing to assist with any need. The entire staff goes above and beyond. The Central district is a straight shot - I've walked it in 15 minutes - with plenty of good restaraunts in evey price range nearby. The accommodations are not elegant and there is no internet access, but it is quaint, clean, comfortable, and affordable.

The best thing about this hotel was really the friendly staff. You just feel bad about doing many comments, it's like comenting a visit to grandma. The truth is: rooms are a very spacious but old fashioned, despite recent remodeling. The room I stayed in was very noisy, do avoid staying in the rooms to the main façade, the square is a central place, people stroll by all night, lots of trafic and impossible to sleep. Breakfast was OK, nothing sumptuous, normal buffet: croissant, bread, choice of chease and ham, jam, cereals, regular breakfast. But again, served with a smile and with care. Good parking spaces (free), fare price considering central location and the homely feel (that sometimes really makes a difference). We payed about 45 euros for a double room.