São Tomé city - Hotels & Guest Houses
Sweet Guest House
A few guests commented on the simplicity of the accommodation, noting that while rooms and amenities were basic, they provided everything necessary for a comfortable stay. The establishment is praised for its organization, security, and quiet environment, even being located in proximity to the center.
The guesthouse also contains a chocolate workshop that garnered commendations, adding a unique and delightful experience for visitors. Some travelers noted how the guesthouse facilitated their exploration of the city and provided a place for serene repose at the end of their travels.
While some minor criticisms were occasionally mentioned, like the soundproofing and the prices for breakfast and airport transfers, these did not overshadow the overall positive feedback. The personal touches by the staff, clean and modern facilities, as well as the social vibe of the guesthouse, have led to numerous recommendations by past visitors.
São Pedro Guesthouse
Several reviews commend the manager, Vitor, for going above and beyond to assist guests, resolving flight bookings, and offering various amenities such as ordering meals in advance, and enjoying the excellent pool. Although there are comments about the guesthouse being on the pricier side, with some mentioning additional taxes, the general consensus is that the stay is worth it, due to the great location, facilities, and particularly the kindness and helpfulness of the management and staff.
The guestrooms are described as clean and comfortable, with air conditioning and Wi-Fi available. Despite being centrally located, which can contribute to some noise, the guesthouse is appreciated for its peaceful environment and accessible pool. Breakfasts are well-regarded, although some suggest they could offer more variety. On the whole, reviews reflect a satisfaction with the value for money, the attentiveness of the staff, the quality of the pool, and the overall coziness and cleanliness of the facilities. The guesthouse seems to be a recommended home base for exploring São Tomé, offering family-friendly hospitality and a convenient location for enjoying the city's offerings.
Hotel Kenito
Travelers have had very positive experiences at the hotel in São Tomé, often highlighting the comfortable and air-conditioned rooms, the luxury of an outdoor pool, and the peaceful ambiance. Even though the hotel doesn't have its own restaurant, guests seem pleased with the nearby dining options.
The quiet, budget-friendly environment and the excellent service from great and friendly staff are frequently mentioned positives. The rooms are tidy and meet guests' expectations, although some guests find the bathrooms a bit small.
Guests consistently praise the hotel's ideal location, which is perfect for exploring the surrounding city attractions. They note that it offers superb value for money. The pool and the quality of the breakfast are additional aspects that contribute to a fantastic vacation experience. The hotel's vicinity to the airport and many restaurants adds to its appeal.
Reviews indicate that the hotel is very clean, from the rooms to the garden area. The presence of a swimming pool is particularly appreciated due to the local climate. The staff is acknowledged for their punctuality and friendliness. Travellers endorse the hotel as excellent, mentioning the newness of the facilities, the cleanliness, and the comprehensive amenities including a mini-fridge and a pool.
The area is described as very safe, with stunning sea views unique to this location. Everything necessary for a comfortable stay seems to be readily available. After arriving from long flights, guests mention fast and efficient service from the hotel, which is characterized by cozy, well-conditioned rooms.
The hotel's convenience, cleanliness, quietness, and exceptional service are aspects that are continuously applauded. It is recommended for both family and couple stays. Many travellers indicate they are likely to return and suggest others enjoy the great experience at this lovely hotel, which some describe as a "really nice place."
Residencial DES
Travelers have reported wonderful experiences at this location, remarking on its stunning setting close to the sea and the exceptional hospitality of the owner who ensures that rooms are well-maintained. The accommodation comes highly recommended for its excellent value for money, being considered one of the best in Sao Tome.
Guests have found the rooms to be spacious, clean, and comfortable, with the added benefit of attentive service. The host's warm reception and readiness to assist with any inquiries have left many guests feeling at home, contributing to the accommodation's cozy and inviting atmosphere.
While a few visitors noted some minor areas for improvement, such as the acceptance of cards and the provision of bathroom amenities like gel or shampoo, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. The location is also highlighted for its convenience, situated close to key attractions and in a peaceful area.
Many agree that the establishment offers a restful retreat with a personal touch, and praise has been given to the owners for their exceptional service and kindness. The positive feedback emphasizes a sense of belonging, cleanliness, and a perfect home base for exploring the island.
Micaval Residential
Travellers have shared a multitude of positive experiences at this accommodation, praising the exceptionally friendly and helpful management, and highlighting the high level of cleanliness. The central location has been a notable advantage for many, providing easy access to various parts of the island. Guests have repeatedly mentioned the quality and variety of the breakfast offered, often describing it as one of the best they've had.
The rooms, while occasionally noted as small, have been appreciated for being cozy, well-kept, and for having comfortable beds. The warm and familial atmosphere created by the hosts has made guests feel at home, with many commenting on the excellent service and the staff's eagerness to share helpful tips and contacts for local activities.
While some visitors suggested room for improvement regarding amenities and noise from nearby areas, these matters seem to be outweighed by the benefits, such as the hospitality, breakfast, and overall value for money. The management's attentiveness to guest needs, including proactive offers of assistance even when guests were no longer staying at the property, has left a lasting positive impression.
In summary, many travellers have thoroughly enjoyed their stay, with some regretting not having booked for a longer duration, and have recommended the accommodation for its excellent service, prime location, and friendly environment.
Vila Marilyn
Travelers have expressed their contentment with their stays at this accommodation, highlighting the convenience of arranging activities, excursions, and car hires. The staff, including excellent guides, played a significant role in enriching guests' experiences and facilitating exploration of the area.
Guests have commended the amenities, noting the quality of the pool, the spaciousness of the place, and the comfort provided by the rooms with good bedding and walk-in showers. The location, being both serene and close to the city, was appreciated as a peaceful refuge amid the vibrance of São Tomé.
The service received from the staff was frequently cited as a high point. Their attentiveness, knowledge of the local area, and multilingual communication skills greatly contributed to the guests' stay. Several reviews spoke of the family-friendly nature of the accommodation, with special mention of its suitability for children due to spacious rooms and a pleasant pool.
Value for money was another plus, as guests found the cost reasonable for the level of service provided. Cleanliness and upkeep, particularly in the gardens and common areas, were also praised. While minor criticisms occasionally arose, the overall sentiment was extremely positive, with many travelers expressing a desire to return and recommending the accommodation to others.
PZERO Hotel
Travelers have described their stays as mostly positive, appreciating the strategic location of the accommodations, particularly its convenience when arriving late from the airport. Many have highlighted the excellent value for money, with the inclusion of breakfast and large, clean rooms enhancing their experience.
The quality of food served at the restaurant was frequently praised, with special mention to dishes like the braised tuna. The owners and staff received commendation for their welcoming nature and for making guests feel at home, often contributing to an inviting atmosphere.
Some guests stayed for extended periods, noting the comfort and amenities provided as well as the proximity to supermarkets and local points of interest, which added significant value to their stays. Besides the appealing accommodations, the friendliness and availability of both owners and staff were highlighted as key to their enjoyable visits.
While a few guests noted areas for improvement such as room comfort and privacy, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. With comments on delicious meals, well-kept pools, and cozy environments, many would recommend the location to others and expressed a desire to return in the future.
Hotel Central
Travelers have shared largely positive experiences at the centrally located hotel, highlighting its convenience for exploring local attractions and venues. The hotel boasts essential amenities such as clean rooms with electricity, air conditioning, running water, Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges, which guests found sufficient for their stays.
Many guests praised the hotel's cleanliness and friendly owner, with special mentions of the warm reception from the staff who were always ready to assist. The breakfast offerings were commended, particularly for their inclusion of exotic fruits or maintaining a Portuguese flavor, and the hotel's proximity to supermarkets, bars, and restaurants was appreciated. The cultural decor and the attention paid to hygiene standards, were other positives noted by guests.
Despite the many favourable comments, some guests experienced issues. One common concern was the quality of the Wi-Fi, which was reported to be unreliable, with internet access primarily available in common areas rather than individual rooms. The hotel's location was repeatedly praised for being in the heart of the city, offering easy access to markets, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
Hotel Praia
Travellers have provided a variety of experiences at this accommodation, with many expressing satisfaction with the beautiful rooms, delicious food, and the kindness of the staff. They have commended the good-size swimming pool, the pleasant gardens, and the overall cleanliness.
The quiet and uncrowded environment was appreciated, along with good internet service in some areas. Guests valued the air-conditioned rooms, noting them as essential in the climate, and the convenience of the location near the airport, complemented by shuttle services.
However, there were some criticisms too. A few travellers mentioned that there are very few staff members who speak English, which could be a barrier for non-Portuguese or French speakers. Others reported issues with the Wi-Fi being sporadic and weak throughout the property, including in rooms and pool areas. Some found the service at reception to be lacking at times, with no one being available to assist them with their needs such as airport transfers or laundry services.
Despite these issues, many guests appreciated the helpfulness of the staff and the hotel's amenities, such as the spacious rooms with terraces, efficient staff, and a variety of breakfast options
Albergaria Porcelana
Traveler experiences at this accommodation indicate a generally positive impression with friendly and attentive staff, clean facilities, and a good location being commonly praised attributes. The rooms are described as comfortable, air-conditioned, and often spacious, and some accommodations even include useful amenities like fridges. The breakfast service is liked, but noted for being slow at times.
Despite these advantages, guests have identified some challenges, including noise from the street due to windows without isolation and small-sized rooms. English-speaking staff are appreciated, yet seem to be a minority, which could be a barrier for those not speaking the local languages. Some guests have had issues with airport transfers not being as reliable as expected, and the facility's Wi-Fi, cleanliness, and maintenance were occasional points of concern.
Overall, many guests have recommended the accommodation for its value for money, pleasant gardens, and clean premises
Residencial Avenida Geovany
The accommodation is praised for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and attractive design. Features such as efficient air conditioning, reliable generators for power outages, and fridges in the room contribute to guest comfort. Mosquito nets are meticulously installed, ensuring a restful environment free from pests.
Some guests report issues, such as complications with room keys, suggesting that travelers should verify the functionality of keys upon receipt. The neighborhood is noted to be noisy, dark, and somewhat chaotic, which might not be to everyone's liking. Additionally, the signage for the property might be less visible, being located on a balcony instead of at the entrance.
Despite these concerns, the property's staff receive commendations for their helpfulness and the personal touch they add to the stay. English-speaking staff assists with a warm welcome and attend to various needs, including transfers and local activities, creating a homely and friendly atmosphere. Some guests have even remarked on the excellent service and the personal investment of the manager in ensuring a fantastic stay for vacationers.
The central São Tomé location is highlighted as ideal for those wanting to have everything within walking distance. The property is suited for those who prefer quieter spots, as it is situated in a busy commercial district. This could be a perfect fit for some but might not appeal to those seeking seclusion.
The breakfast at the establishment is highly recommended, with a wide variety of options, especially fruit, and guest rooms are cleaned daily. There were some issues reported with water drainage in the showers, which is an area where the accommodation could improve.
Emoyeni Gardens Hotel
Travelers have shared their heartfelt recommendations for this hotel, celebrating its simplicity, cleanliness, and friendly atmosphere. They appreciate the hotel's ability to provide a comfortable experience while still allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture. A refreshing small pool and immediate beach access are among the highlights, with guests also valuing the enlightening conversations with the knowledgeable owners. The personal reception, exceptional cleanliness of the rooms with air conditioning, and the overall feeling of safety within the property are recurrent points of praise. The accessibility of the city center and key attractions on foot from the hotel underline its favorable location.
The breakfast receives mixed reviews, with some guests expecting a more comprehensive offering or timely service on certain days. There have been a few suggestions for minor improvements, such as better hangers and the option to air-dry clothes on the balcony.
Despite the noted absence of food service beyond breakfast and some disappointment with the pool area, the overall sentiment is highly positive. The guests commend the helpfulness of the staff, particularly the management, which is always willing to assist with guest inquiries and logistical arrangements like lost luggage. The hotel is acknowledged as an excellent value with amenities like a generator to mitigate frequent power outages, efficient internet for business travelers, and most appreciably, a sense of hospitability that many guests find memorable.
However, some limitations have been mentioned, such as a lack of in-room coffee/tea making facilities, certain amenities, and unmet expectations regarding views from specific rooms. Nevertheless, the prevailing opinion is one of satisfaction, with guests looking forward to returning and enjoying the tranquil, well-run, and strategically situated establishment.
Paradise Agua Leve Residential
Overall, the hotel provides a satisfactory experience for its price range, with clean rooms, effective air conditioning, and comfortable beds being significant advantages. Guests particularly appreciate the property's quiet atmosphere and the hospitable and attentive staff, who are willing to assist wherever possible. The breakfast, while inconsistent in service, is generally praised when available. Proximity to the beach and central locations is a valued convenience, providing easy access to local attractions.
However, some guests encountered issues, such as a broken bathroom door handle, a cracked toilet seat that went unrepaired, and noise disturbances from a terrace with a pool table and television directly outside their window. Communication barriers exist due to the staff's limited English proficiency, and some logistical aspects like included breakfast or airport transfer clarity could be improved. Some guests expressed a desire for in-house dining options beyond breakfast to avoid going out after a long day, as well as better room amenities.
Despite these drawbacks, the hotel's strategic location, familial ambience, environmental consciousness with solar energy usage, and cleanliness make it a compelling choice for many travelers. Some consider it to be a good value for the money, with a nice balance between quality and pricing. Some guests recommend the hotel for both vacation and business travelers, noting the good internet connectivity and tranquil setting conducive to work.
Criteria for Selecting the Top Guest Houses in São Tomé
1. Online Booking Availability:
- The guest house must offer the ability to book a room online. This provides convenience and accessibility for potential guests and ensures that these listings are current and actively looking to attract visitors.
2. Sufficient Number of Reviews
- Listings should have a decent number of reviews. A greater volume of feedback indicates a reliable sample size to assess the quality of the guest house and ensures that the reviews reflect a range of guest experiences.
3. Overall Positive Experiences by Travellers:
- A primary consideration is that travellers have reported mostly positive experiences. This is judged by high average ratings and the content of traveller reviews that highlight the guest house's strengths such as cleanliness, service quality, location, amenities, and the value for money.
It's important to note that while this list is based on thorough criteria, there may be other exceptional guest houses in São Tomé that haven't been included in our list. We value your feedback, and invite you to provide recommendations.
Casa Luis
Travelers consistently praised their experiences at the accommodation, often describing it as peaceful and like a home away from home. The hospitality was highlighted as natural and special, with the hosts receiving guests warmly and making them feel welcomed. For those who needed to extend their stay unexpectedly, the kindness and support provided by the hosts were particularly appreciated.
The rooms were described as clean and tranquil, and the common areas, including a pool, were enjoyed by many. A rich and varied breakfast seems to be a highlight, with several guests mentioning it as the best they had during their stay, including options like fresh juice, cheese, local meats, and pastries.
The location of the accommodation generally received positive remarks, being close to the city center and within walking distance of the beach and other amenities. However, some guests indicated that the place can be difficult to find due to a lack of signage and recommended arriving by all-terrain vehicle due to the condition of the access roads.
The human quality of the owners was frequently cited as a significant factor in the positive experience. From helping guests rent a car to providing clothes in case of lost luggage, the personal touch was evident.
Despite many positive reviews, there were a few concerns noted. Some visitors pointed out the simplicity of the rooms and basic amenities like air conditioning, which may not be to everyone's taste. . Another noted that while the rooms and property were very clean, the walls or doors were thin, potentially leading to noise issues when the property is more occupied.
The guests seemed eager to return and recommend the place to others, valuing the serene environment, warm pool, and generous breakfasts as well as the cordiality and service of the staff.