Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando is a theme park hotel that truly transports you to another world. As soon as you step onto the cobblestone grounds, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an Italian seaside village. The hotel is designed to look and feel like a lively piazza, complete with shops, eateries, and a harbor filled with boats gently bobbing in the water.
One of the best aspects of Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is its location. It’s within walking distance of Universal Orlando, but it’s secluded enough that you won’t see or hear any roller coasters from the property. This makes it the perfect place to retreat to after a long day at the theme park. Even if you love theme parks, there’s something to be said for having a peaceful and relaxing environment to come back to.
The hotel itself is one of the most upscale options at Universal Orlando Resort. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, with amenities like multiple pool areas, table-service restaurants, and immersive theming. It’s definitely a step up from the budget-friendly hotels in the area, but if you’re looking for a truly indulgent vacation, it’s worth the price.
There are a few different ways to book a room at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. You can book directly through the hotel’s website, through Capital One Travel, or through the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts program. Prices are typically the same regardless of how you book, but if you’re an eligible Amex cardholder, you can take advantage of additional benefits by booking through Amex FHR. This includes things like room upgrades, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a daily breakfast buffet for two.
One of the biggest perks of staying at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is the generous theme park benefits. All guests receive Early Park Admission, which allows you to enter one of Universal’s parks up to an hour before the official opening time. This can be a huge advantage, as it allows you to beat the crowds and experience popular attractions with shorter wait times. Guests also receive complimentary Universal Express Unlimited, which allows you to skip the regular lines at most attractions. This can save you hours of waiting in line and is a great value.
In terms of getting to and from the theme parks, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offers several options. You can take a bus, a water taxi, or walk along a garden pathway. The walking path is a beautiful and relaxing way to start your day, and it also includes a separate security screening area, so you don’t have to wait in line with the crowds at the main entrance.
The rooms at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel are spacious and have a European flair. The custom furnishings, patterned drapes, and marble counters add to the upscale feel of the rooms. The beds are comfortable, and the bathrooms are well-appointed with separate tubs and showers. The hotel also provides amenities like Julien Farel products and plush towels.
Overall, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is a theme park hotel that goes above and beyond. It offers a luxurious and immersive experience that truly makes you forget you’re at a theme park. From the lively piazza to the peaceful harbor, every aspect of the hotel is designed to transport you to an Italian seaside village. If you’re looking for a truly indulgent vacation at Universal Orlando, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is the place to stay.