The day I left Porto at the end of my holiday, saying goodbye to Luis, the receptionist and concierge at Outsite Mouco, I told him, “Who knows when we’ll see each other again?” With his usual kindness, Luis replied, partly in Italian and partly in English, “I think we’ll see each other again soon.” And indeed, less than three weeks later, I found myself back in Porto, this time not for a holiday but for work reasons.

I’ve visited Portugal at least fifty times, but this was my first trip to Porto. It’s a slightly different city compared to the central Lisbon that attracted me in previous years. I initially expected a smaller city, a miniature version of Lisbon. However, I soon realised that Porto has its own unique authenticity and beauty, rooted in cultures quite different from Lisbon’s.

Walking through Porto for the first time, I felt like I was in a Norman or Central European city. I later discovered that the city’s influences can indeed be traced back to these origins. Porto initially felt rather cold; it almost seemed like I was experiencing the climate of the Alpine mountains during a hot Italian summer. However, on my second visit, Porto revealed itself to have a mild, pleasant, and welcoming climate. It also boasts unexpectedly beautiful sunsets, particularly enjoyed from the stunning Jardim do Morro. Here, while sipping a cold beer, you can enjoy daily concerts by passionate musicians who come here simply for the pleasure of playing for free.

This wonderful Portuguese journey was accompanied by an equally surprising experience at Outsite Mouco. While it’s not my first time staying in a business-oriented hotel, this time I found myself in a completely fresh and youthful atmosphere. Outsite Mouco is a place where you can work in peace, welcomed not by a typical cold and austere business environment, but by a relaxed holiday vibe.

Starting with the architecture, Outsite Mouco features a seemingly cold and modern architectural style and interior design. However, the integration of wood and concrete, typical of modern Japanese and Northern European architecture, immediately creates a warm and comfortable environment. Although not typically Portuguese, it’s still relaxing and welcoming. In addition to the hotel’s various amenities, such as the swimming pool, sauna, ping pong, and a large co-working area with comfortable desks, the living space has a musical and playful-musical orientation. Almost every room is equipped with a turntable, and vinyl records are scattered throughout the hotel for guests to borrow, listen to, and return upon departure. These small touches enhance the welcome and make both working stays and holidays enjoyable.

As I mentioned at the beginning, I first visited Mouco with my family in August 2024 and immediately loved it. Fate had another surprise in store for me when I had to return there just three weeks later with my entire C41 team for a work project in Porto. I noticed that the same relaxed and peaceful atmosphere that characterised my holiday with my family was still present, even during my business trip. It was like feeling at home, even while away on business.

Luis, who works at the reception of Outsite Mouco, made our stay unforgettable by offering us various tips on how to spend time in Porto, including cultural activities, aperitifs, and dinners. Some of his recommendations included the restaurant A Cozinha do Manel, the De Serralves museum, and the beautiful sunsets at Jardim do Morro.

This experience highlights the enduring beauty of Portugal, a country that is not only experiencing a renaissance from an economic and cultural perspective but has also managed to preserve its history and natural heritage.