Portugal captivates visitors with its remarkable diversity, from azulejo-tiled city streets and terraced vineyards to dramatic Atlantic cliffs and sun-baked olive plains. This enchanting country has long been a favourite holiday destination for foodies and culture aficionados; it also has a lively music scene, as well a plethora of opportunities for outdoorsy adventurers on both land and water. From boutique boltholes and grand palatial hotels to restored rural quintas, the best places to stay in Portugal promise a warm welcome and a real sense of the country’s rich character.
Lisbon beckons culture enthusiasts with its world-class museums, fascinating architectural fusion, gourmet cuisine and buzzing late-night fado venues. Laid-back Porto is enchanting in itself, surrounded by vineyards and promises beautiful riverside hotels and restaurants. Keen wine aficionados can immerse themselves in the magic of the Douro Valley, where tours and tastings at family-owned wineries abound, and there’s ample opportunity to hike and cycle in a striking natural setting.
Southern Portugal, on the other hand, is known for its golden beaches and pretty whitewashed towns. The Algarve is popular with good reason, and home to some of the best places to stay in Portugal. Expect sensational surfing, lovely seaside hotels and secluded eco-lodges hidden in the region’s picturesque interior. Adventurers will adore Madeira, with its craggy cliffs, hiking trails and colourful markets, or the dramatic Serra da Estrela, where glorious views reward eager explorers. There's a reason that travellers return to Portugal again and again!
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Porto (União de Freguesias do Centro)
This boutique hotel is housed in a beautiful renovated 16th-century residence nestled in Porto's historic centre. The interior design pairs period touches and modern furnishings; the best rooms boast original features like magnificent painted ceilings. A charming heritage hotel in a great location.
Vila Real (R. da Capela)
This family run country home is a short walk away from the picturesque town centre. Surrounded by gardens and an outdoor pool, the main house and cottages have red-tiled roofs, stone walls, hand painted tiles and antique furniture. A home made breakfast is served at the terrace everyday.
Lisbon
A stylish Art Deco hostel in the vibrant Bairro Alto district, with sweeping views of São Pedro de Alcântara and the Tagus River. There's a mix of classical Portuguese architecture and modern design, plus a breezy beer garden, and a chic restaurant. A great choice for a reasonably-priced city stay.
Lisbon
A charming, low-cost loft hotel near Lisbon's city centre. The rooms are comfortable and spacious with simple furnishings and original loft roofs. The surrounding area is home to trendy art galleries and lively bars and restaurants. A great cost-effective option for Lisbon.
Olhao (Algarve)
Renovated 1950s mansion in the heart of Olhao turned B&B/exclusive use villa. Nine charming en-suite rooms boast luxury linens and rain showers, plus there's a living/dining room, courtyard with plunge pool and spacious terraces. Ideal for couples or an extended family holiday in the Algarve.
Portimão (Algarve )
A four-star luxury guesthouse on Portimão's seafront. The best of the colour-themed rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows, plush, four-poster beds and views over the port. Warm soft furnishings add a homely feel. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace before a dip in the pool. A pretty, relaxed guesthouse.
Reguengos de Monsaraz
A rustic inn perched on a mountain ledge with stunning valley views. Charming rooms and suites have stone floors, wooden furnishings, and private balconies. Lovely terraces, swimming pool, gardens, and restaurant. Great for families or couples on a budget.
Alentejo (Cerro da Fontinha)
A charming country house B&B with a communal kitchen, gardens, pool, and children's playground. Farmhouse chic bedrooms are excellent value and extra beds can be included. Within striking distance of beaches. A great choice for a budget family beach holiday.
Peniche (Peniche 2520-204 )
A smart coastal base set in the pretty fishing town of Peniche. Style is understated and chic, with the four bedrooms featuring contemporary fittings, pale wooden floors and whitewashed walls - an unfussy yet sophisticated ambience. A real home away from home and great value too!
Torres Vedras (1, Casal das Pedrosas )
A modern whitewashed villa set in simple, pretty gardens with a lovely indulgent pool. Inside, terracotta tiling and traditional wooden furniture create a friendly atmosphere while smart rooms are airy with polished concrete floors and unfussy modern furniture. A charming coastal bolthole.
Porto (União de Freguesias do Centro)
This boutique hotel is housed in a beautiful renovated 16th-century residence nestled in Porto's historic centre. The interior design pairs period touches and modern furnishings; the best rooms boast original features like magnificent painted ceilings. A charming heritage hotel in a great location.
Porto (4050-567 Porto)
A 19th-century townhouse turned into a chic guesthouse. Rooms feature exposed stonewalls, earthy tones and azulejo tiles, yet the feel is fresh and contemporary. Although the hotel is located in the heart of Porto's old town, the ambience is quiet. Perfect for urban exploration.
Ponta do Sol
Minimalist beach chic on a cliff top with fabulous views, excellent spa and restaurant. All white rooms with private balconies, trendy open-air bar and infinity pool. Ideal for an active summer holiday with all the luxury indulgence to go with it.
Funchal (Madeira)
A stunning five star hotel set in beautiful gardens overlooking the sea. Restaurants, bars, billiards, a swimming pool, and seamless rooms with private balconies. Unrivalled views that match the splendour of its interiors: a hilltop countryside mansion for those wanting lofty luxury.
