This Universal Studios Hotel is WAY BETTER Than Disney - - Portofino Bay Tour

Does Universal Studios secretly have the best hotel in Orlando?! Molly is headed to one of their fanciest resorts, Portofino Bay, for a full tour! Get ready to dine in style, explore the room (with a gorgeous view!), and be serenaded by Italian opera singers. This hotel surprised us with how luxurious and enjoyable it was - and you'll never guess how much we paid!
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[@TheGoofy1932]

Absolutely Gorgeous Hotel. We've stayed here many times- Both more luxurious and less expensive than what Disney is offering these days. Plus Free Express Pass during your full stay-Including your Check Out Day! Universal is giving that 90's Disney service.

[@amy_soucy]

That is how we felt, just returned 10 days ago from this resort. We also stayed at disney AKL and that was comparable, but the parks experience was 5 out of 5 at Universal with express pass. Disney genie was so dang awkward and constricting.

[@KayCeeTX21]

OMG you nailed it. A 90’s disney service. Yep. I mean even in 2006 it was possible to get some decent experiences at WDW. Hoping to get that magical feeling again. ❤️

[@sotofamily4318]

Yes! We love this hotel ! Everything is wonderful and the service is amazing 🤩

[@thesweetestbear]

can we all agree that molly has such a cool job??

[@pattykochenower4222]

The best !

[@sourcandy770]

Rip

[@rafven7594]

As an italian allears fan I can say that it's the most authentic Italian recreation I've ever seen abroad.

[@kyogresfunchannel]

Universal Doing Better Italy than Disney You Love to See it

[@liamcollinson5695]

What about hotel Colosseo at Europa park it's not as big a portofino bay but looks as good or maybe even better to me. Portofino bay does look lovely thoughbi just find the inside a bit bland even though they is marble every where

[@gamberlane]

This is what the Riviera resort SHOULD be.

[@aLy0op]

I will shout it from the rooftops but universal's texting option for the hotels is my favorite feature. They are real front desk people and they can help you with anything. It's amazing.

[@christine3507]

Agreed! FYI - Swan & Dolphin over at Disney have a similar texting feature.

[@Coasterkingg]

It’s the best thing ever

[@benrothman2055]

I love Portofino! Pro tip: the Starbucks at the resort is much, much more expensive than the Citywalk or even in-park Starbucks location.

[@nettesmith9278]

This makes me legit consider Universal, which is something I NEVER thought I’d say. Side note…your fresh face is absolutely stunning!!

[@gmkarliah6528]

Not shocked Universal did something better. I love Disney but their prices definitely exceed the value.

[@NisaNJames]

Universal is sounding better and better!

[@CritterKeeper01]

When we stayed at Sapphire Falls in 2019, my sister and I agreed that our favorite ride of the whole trip was the water taxi to and from the hotel! It was so nice to be able to just board a boat and cruise to the parks in the morning, and especially back in the evening. Relaxing boat ride plus less walking, fresh air instead of bus fumes, it was a great way to end the day!

[@audrees.properties]

I love that the balcony is walled off on each side. I’ve only stayed at two disney resorts to compare this but they both had bathroom stall walls on the side of the balcony lol it felt funny when both us and our neighbors were out there. You can hear EVERYTHING 😂

[@lindajmaglionico]

When Molly reviewed Royal Pacific & mentioned the complimentary express pass, I was sold. I booked 2 nights at Royal Pacific during my trip this past January and it was GREAT. Lovely hotel, easy walk to the park, wonderful boat ride back ... and that express pass is the bomb. Really awesome and you don't need to watch a million training videos on how to use it. (Unlike Genie+)

[@eileendaub3643]

Stayed here on my first and only trip to Universal in May thanks to the generosity of a friend's employee discount and OMG it was amazing! So special (even if I did get lost a couple times trying to find my room in the east wing). I never even had time to see a lot of it. I enjoyed the boat and the walk....maybe went 50/50 on each of them.

[@merkerb]

Universal has dramatically stepped up their food game in all areas! I had my first stay at universal Orlando in probably 15 years in late 2020, and the only things that impressed me more than the quality of the food now was how great the parks were being run and how absolutely AMAZING the customer service was!!!

[@andromedaspark2241]

Universal sadly isn't great for those of us with food allergies. In a lot of ways I like staying at Universal much better but at Disney, for once can eat almost anywhere just like anyone else. If Universal could improve that, it'd just be heaven.

[@TheGoofy1932]

Absolutely agree. I quit going to Universal at All for about 15 years too. I am a DVC member (about 12 years) as well as an AP ( over 30 years), and I was very pleasantly surprised when we stayed at Portofino and spent 2 days at their parks. It was like being back in old school Disney, but with good food- even their quick service options were good 👍. Whereas, we typically steer clear of Disney Park quick service with very few exceptions (Satuli, Casey's, Andy's L.B.and Columbia Harbor House- although the last time we went to CHH it was Not their best showing). But Universal has done a complete 180, especially in respect to their guest service. That was honestly the biggest reason for our extended hiatus from them. Now though I'm starting to feel that way whenever we go to Disney. So I guess Universal wants my 💰.

[@merkerb]

@@TheGoofy1932 plus it sure is nice to just go the the park you want in universal when you have your ticket and not have to make a reservation to get in 😂

[@lynnedavenport3298]

Hats off to the editor. That Giada meme was just too funny!

[@greatone33j]

We had dinner at Mama Dela's and there was a group of three singers going table to table singing requested songs. There was one guy who sang with such passion that he made my wife cry. She had no clue what he was saying, but his voice was so powerful that he made her cry. Incredible experience.

[@hanC21317]

This resort looks absolutely incredible. The pirate pool area is sooo cool!!! The whole theme is just so immersive and beautiful. 10/10 on the bucket list. Thanks Molly for the great review!

[@katierowen3166]

That resort looks absolutely amazing!!! Your view was like a painting. And it’s actually a pretty good deal with all of the perks especially the express pass.

[@1978rga]

I’m with Ross Gellar and Molly- got to take all the luxurious hotel toiletries! Thanks for the Friends reference and amazing tour!!

[@ktpaladino]

My husband always says he will forever regret not being prepared to propose on the “bay” here. It really is so pretty

[@rsw552]

Let's be real, Molly's hair is the star of this review.

[@BenicioW2011]

And her makeup! 💋 💄

[@rsw552]

@@BenicioW2011 She's a rock star. 🤘

[@blane6592]

OMG…it’s soooooo GOOD!!!

[@pattykochenower4222]

Yes, very pretty ! Love ya Molly !

[@SunderAT]

We stayed at Portofino in December of 2021 and loved it. The included Express Pass and proximity to the parks made for a very stress free theme park vacation when compared to our previous Disney trips. Much better value for the money at Portofino.

[@MelissaH1977]

Stayed there for my honeymoon in 2013, we were granted an upgrade to the governors suite and it was totally amazing.

[@jackshea4470]

We stayed there in December and didn't even think about the pool. My kids 💞💕💞 this Hotel. My daughter's Italian teacher, who grew up in Italy, liked her instagram pics. The Christmas decor was 🤌🏼. The express pass perk 🤩. I chose Universal this time, even though we own DVC because WDW is just sooooo extra right now. Extra complications with park reservations, LL, Genie]+ and extra 💰. Universal Orlando was easy breezy

[@LUCY.PARK.06]

I absolutely LOVE portofino Bay ❤❤ I love the atmosphere and the amazing perks definitely better than disney resorts of the same price point imo 👌 the first time I watched luca all I could think about was this resort 😆 funny story I took an Instagram picture at piazza and someone commented 'where in Italy was this picture taken because I would love to vist' and I had to tell them it was a theme park hotel not Italy 😅😅

[@danasandoval624]

There is a Portofino Bay in Italy the only difference if you look at photos is the real one has mountains in the background. Universal out did themselves.

[@danasandoval624]

This is where we stay when we go to Universal and we love it. Express pass included, water taxi, beautiful setting and friendly helpful staff.

[@alisachamoy225]

Molly - you helped me prepare for my Disney trip and now you are doing that for my Universal trip - thanks so much for being so thorough, helpful and funny :)

[@Travelinman777]

Thank you very much, Molly! I stayed there 10 years ago for the first time at a Harry Potter conference for the HPEF. Apparently it was their last year of doing a conference. There were so many great Wizard Wrockers there like Lena Gabriel of The Butterbeer Experience, Lauren Fairweather of The Moaning Myrtles, Matt Magacimo of The Whomping Willows, and more. Chris Rankin (Percy Weasley) and Afshan Azad (Padma Patil) were also there at the conference. This event was my first time traveling by myself. That experience with Portofino was so great, I made it a point to stay there any time I had the opportunity to go to the parks. It did t happen again until several years later. When I took my girlfriend there September 1st, 2017, when I proposed to her in front of Hogwarts by the stage where the Beau Batons girls, Durmstrang guys, and frog choir perform. She said yes. Now we’ll know to enjoy the Bice atmosphere and end the night with a nice gelato! Thank you again, Molly. I’ll show my best girl this video toot sweet.

[@cdpa4d]

This is my favorite resort in all of Orlando. Very underrated in my opinion.

[@katherinedeliberatefare]

Molly! Thank you for covering gluten-friendly snacks at Portofino. This resort looks great - what a spectacular view! As always, I enjoy your fun take. And, it makes me feel normal to hear you get lost in these giant hotels, too! :)

[@rachelgood765]

This looks like an amazing resort!!! This might be the one my hubby and I stay in! Thanks molly for another great video!!! 🥰

[@Tommy-B.]

I stayed 2 years ago. I loved the Italian joint downstairs. Nice comfy place. Semi-walkable. And I love the included front of line pass for the day before and after your stay. If I do Universal again, I will do Portofino. Update: Which Italian joint? Mama Della’s. Should have realized there were many.

[@lucillegass4715]

10*10*10 this is probably the best video I've seen this year! I literally had my jaw on the ground! The food! The resort! The music! Unbelievable you would swear your in italy!! Thank you for taking us there!!!! Never knew about it before!😇

[@carriew7921]

Lol Molly you know all the important Italian words lol

[@meganrenaeart]

It makes me legit giggle at how much I also enjoy the little bath soaps, shampoos, q-tips....... It's like oh hey, I spent a ton of money for a hotel but OMG the little bath amenities. I'm glad I'm not alone!

[@cozy.kendall]

Portofino is the best hotel I've ever stayed at, it's so beautiful and immersive. And you get the Express Pass for free!

[@theJakobsFromEverywhere]

You aren't alone In the love for Fast and the furious ride. It's amazingly cheesy and the Vin Diesel size helicopter is my family's favorite. Loving universal a lot lately.

[@ladyjane8855]

My favorite resort! Stayed there many times and the Express passes are a game changer. Sometimes get the boat to Portofino for lunch during park days. Great food and no lines. Love the place - I'd live there if I could 😂

[@andromedaspark2241]

Universal has great hotels. Hard Rock is a short walk from this one. They both are beautiful and Portofino is so beautiful lit up at night. The boat ride to Universal is lovely.

[@giabarletta5929]

Molly I am OBSESSED with those earrings you wore to dinner. Please link!

[@larryweigand4454]

We had the Easter brunch there, could have been the best meal I’ve ever had. Left me speechless!

[@susandaquila-babuschak3077]

We love Portofino, but usually don’t take advantage of all the amazing food and things to do when we stay there. That definitely will be changing now that I’ve seen this video! Also Molly my husband and I are the exact same way, we love 2 queen rooms to use the other bed for our suitcases and absolutely never unpack, so I’m glad to know I’m not alone in that 🤣

[@AmberAHue82]

This looks amazing! I really appreciate the full resort tour, including the rooms. I have been thinking of doing 1 luxury night on my vacation at the Polynesian, but this is a new contender.

[@TheGoofy1932]

Plus, you could generally stay 2 nights here for what 1 night at the Poly will cost you. Don't get me wrong it's nice having a monorail just steps away, but dollar for dollar Universal is just a much better value presently.

[@AmberAHue82]

@@TheGoofy1932 if I do a luxury day, it's going to be a resort day anyway, so the monorail isn't a factor. I was thinking more of access to Trader Sam's and the Luau show (whenever it comes back). That villa might sway me the other way, though!

[@mkweave8597]

Would love a tour of the endless summer resorts!

[@Morsy933]

Mooolly!!! Come to Italy!!! You have fans here! (It's me, I'm the Italian fan)

[@shiningstarsoup]

Thank you for this video, we are coming down from Canada in February and will be staying here - super excited to be staying in this hotel! ❤

[@cherylw.2918]

Molly… all of your videos just make my day! You are AWSOME!

[@courtneyceasar7878]

Excellent video! Thank you Molly! This was much needed information for my future stay!!

[@annadavis5585]

I stayed there with my husband for his company convention. I absolutely loved it!

[@Buckeye.belle330]

Completely off topic from the video-- can we talk about how pretty Molly looks with no make up on!? What great skin! I wasn't expecting that at all.

[@tbmi1]

That pizza looks incredible. It looks like what we refer to as Roma pizza. It usually has really thin crust, which I really like (although not a deal breaker).

[@lukeniles9339]

We stayed there in September and were blown away. Great food and the access to the parks were awesome

[@HandicappedMind]

we stayed at the portofino years ago on our last family trip to universal... nothing but good memories

[@808dazzlegal]

This is the resort we are staying at later this year. First half of our vacation will be at Disney & then we'll be here the 2nd half of our trip. Super excited. This resort is so beautiful.

[@justjoni87]

Stayed here years ago, as a Lowes Hotel, it’s fur baby 🐕🐕‍🦺🐩friendly! They really treat your pups well! 🐾🐾🐾

[@disneynutd1609]

Thanks Molly. I think I need to add this hotel to my universal trip. Lol the editing was great on this. 🤣

[@MicheleKlinger]

Portofino Bay is absolutely gorgeous. I’m much more of a stay on Disney property girl and taking a day for Universal, but I may have to consider this hotel for a Universal trip one day. After a very trying work week, I’ve been having a treat myself day, and a video of Molly treating herself at this resort is perfect entertainment to go along with this day.

[@BenicioW2011]

Many many years ago (around year 2001) I spent two nights at this resort and wow, what a trip it was. I was single and in my 20’s and had a memorable night at thirsty fish with a group of friends and a lot of drinks then spent the next morning hung over at the pool. Felt like a rockstar. Thanks for the walk down memory lane. 🇮🇹 🕶 🍸

[@susanchalmers7063]

Loved the Portofino!! Can’t wait to go back!!

[@maldo007]

Molly doing Quincy's bed science. Yes!

[@nicoleolmsted2327]

Same! I also love taking home hotel toiletries!

[@anthonylagano2371]

I love Portofino. Booked for late September. Price was $475 a night even with Florida resident rate but worth it . Great tour 😎😎😎

[@camrynbell5060]

Molly Resort stays are my fav videos! This place looks incredible 🤩! The 🍕 👌🏻

[@natale0813]

I'm so jealous right now.we were there last year loved it my favorite resort .Have fun.

[@monykalynf3604]

Wow-Sapphire Falls is my home but this may convince me try out portofino! Molly makes the BEST videos!

[@pandorat4574]

It looks amazing!! Reminds me a lot of Tokyo Disney Sea and MiraCosta Hotel tho😂

[@texasburbs4380]

This is fabulous, thank you. We are going to try to go early January 2023.

[@MikeWeida]

Love Portofino! Second bed hotel bed in my travels. It is huge great pool great food and beverage variety. Bice is amazing!

[@largol33t1]

My room key at Cabana Bay had the Simpsons on it. If they gave me Molly's room card, I'd sneak it home because of the hilarious picture of Vin Diesel hanging off that verrry tiny helicopter. 😂

[@zakenannie]

You do an amazingly thorough review on the hotels!!!

[@MrKelvin2230]

I saw you on friday, I think you were leaving Epcot, I was fan struck , didn't say hi becase you where vlogging, but still it was very excited for me :)

[@pattykochenower4222]

That is really beautiful there, I definitely want to stay there soon! The express pass option is really a great deal!!! Thanks for a great review!!

[@gothgammy666]

Also Perfect timing I just booked for Halloween Horror nights staying here!!! Now I am more excited!

[@lisasecula4274]

You DEFINITELY got a NICE. upgrade. We've gotten the standard queen room twice, and we never had a separate shower. It's always the bathtub and useless dead space in the bathroom. We did get connected king rooms both times, so still tons of space. Not sure which hotel we're booking for this summer, yet. Part of me wants Portofino for the gorgeous pool and part of me wants Hard Rock or Royal Pacific for the cloesness to the park - the shorter walk is nice in the summer heat.

[@Parkhopper1985]

In 2021 we stayed at Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific & Hard Rock - WAY better deal than deluxe hotels at Disney. Express Pass and 1/2 the crowds than Disney

[@brooklynkey449]

Does everyone in your room get the express pass?

[@Parkhopper1985]

@@brooklynkey449 Yes, I believe it's up to 4 people get Express (they just need to be registered guests for that room) but they need to have park tickets or annual passes too

[@hollyschlortt6826]

GREAT VIDEO! This was done at the perfect time; as we will be staying there three days next week for Spring Break! I am lucky that I made a reservation for Bice 60 days in advance. I can't wait to stay here!

[@katierowen3166]

OMG we have the same mind!! When you were talking about your second appetizer, Giada Colagrande came to mind and then you mentioned her. However, you make it sound adorable instead of obnoxious.

[@mini_mew775]

It's definitely kicking Disney's butt with the benefits and even pricing! Love that they give you express AND early entry! While I would say it's worth the $$ I am a bit disappointed that the bathtub is so basic. For a luxury resort I would like a jacuzzi tub

[@Hirotoro4692]

Probably not a feature in a standard room

[@sheilaahumada6647]

Love love love your makeup and hair!! You look much younger!! So beautiful!! Lovely place‼️ I will definitely put this place on my bucket list!! Thank you for all you do and share with us !! Love your videos!! God Bless ‼️❤️🙏

[@geetanjalisingh2602]

They are called "Water Taxi's". not boats! They clog the channels during the busy portions of the day.

[@susanmeredith4957]

Lucky not only a bay upgrade but it’s a deluxe room upgrade too!

[@krzyktty101]

We stayed there last summer and absolutely loved the hotel. We will probably do the hard rock next time though because at the end of the day that was a long walk.

[@katielouise3924]

Just now watching this, but thank you, Molly & All Ears for this! I want to stay at Portofino Bay for my next vacation. That rate is what I pd. for a moderate at Disney. It is such a gorgeous property & glad the food is good!

[@krystinacarriglio9295]

Hi Molly! We met you and said hi at Bice. The food was delicious that night as well. We have stayed at portifino bay a few times and love it each time.

[@paulbrooks9546]

Gratzi por cumpliros de escenas de Italia en el Hotel area, los magnifico, magico y maravollioso tambien y ciao bella.👍🥂😎❤🙏👌❤🎹

[@desireepoe]

Your hair and makeup are flawless 😍

[@jts3263]

Love watching your vlogs and getting top tips. But any chance you could do a vlog in the parks on the best day to have with small children. Your top tips are great but with 3 very small children going back an too across magic kingdom and Hollywood studios doing all the rides isn't the easiest to do. I'd like to see a vlog on magic Kingdom and Hollywood studios doing 1 land at a time. Where's best to start?, how to use genie+ at its best doing land by land?, how to fit shows in when trying to complete each land?, best rest stops with kids?. It would be really really helpful if someone could do a vlog with some imaginary kids lol. First time going with 3 children and feeling pretty overwhelmed Xx

[@Lucyd525]

We’re staying here in September and I can’t wait!

[@catmcross1]

I loved the Noodle reference!

[@cindymitchell7125]

We stayed there a couple years ago. We were in the wing by the water taxis and kept getting lost going to the pool! We loved it. Portofino Bay is worth the price just for the express pass. We got such a deal that it was cheaper than Hard Rock or Royal Pacific.

[@dlfendel2844]

Looks superb Molly. Most of the other Universal Loews hotels seem to me to be very nice but very "generic business/airport hotel" in style re. rooms, etc. etc. This looks more fun, but a LONG way to walk around the property, of course. I think your prescription for a combo Disney/Universal stay is perfect--check in here as early as possible, relax/pool/spa/whatever after a late lunch, do a GREAT dinner, then check out leaving the bag and do Universal with the special access before coming back and then heading for Disney. Might try it soon! Thanks!

[@sha2596]

You’ve pretty much sold me on booking Universal next year and I’m either staying here or Sapphire Falls. I have the Amex Plat and it offers $200 off bookings at either hotel, plus late check out early check in, room upgrade and resort credit! The fact that both offer express pass with your stay. I’m super jazzed! Now just to figure out if I book for end of this year or beginning of next!

[@susandaquila-babuschak3077]

Sapphire Falls does not include the express pass, so that’s something to consider when you’re booking your trip. The only three Universal hotels that have express included are Portofino, Hard Rock, and Royal Pacific.

[@kirsenmcneil6125]

Love you and Quincy!! I genuinely laugh at least once a video. Do you know how far in advance can you book a cabana?

[@soccertl]

I have been wondering about that hotel. It seems you get much more for your money at Universal compared to Disney.

[@paulb9453]

The room includes Express Pass, that blitzes Disney Genie+, we walked straight into massive rides, very happy, more relaxing than a Disney Hotel.

[@davidasdave7274]

Staying at a Universal property is priceless to not have to deal with the long lines at the security hub.

[@EddieT-hq1le]

Thank you for this video. What time of the year did you go?

[@wallstherb]

Hello Molly!! I also liked your video where you tried all of the different foods on Main Street at Disney with Quincy. You started at Starbucks with the chicken sandwich...🙂😊

[@christinanewman1542]

Slightly bummed when molly does universal videos (bc that’s not where I’m going this year but I know we have to share her awesomeness)…I also know I’m going to love these when I am planning a trip to universal…but this year it’s Disney again! Oh but when I went to universal, this is where I stayed so glad we have similar taste!

[@briansieve]

I love your resport tours. And you have such similar taste to me. Thank you.