The largest city in Maine, pretty Portland is a vibrant seaside community with beautiful views over Casco Bay and a busy working port surrounded by redbrick warehouses and Victorian shipbuilders' mansions. A lively hub of great galleries, museums and top-notch restaurants, the city boasts a wide range of accommodation options — including heritage B&Bs and swish contemporary hotels. Many of the best places to stay in Portland are nestled in the lively Old Port district, whilst some of our favourite out-of-town picks promise superb sea views.

Portland’s illustrious seafaring past is most visible in the Old Port neighbourhood and on the waterfront, where the hustle and bustle continues. Delve into this history at the Portland Head Light, Portland Breakwater Light and the Victoria Mansion, one of the finest pre-Civil War residences in the country. Longfellow House and the Portland Observatory are also fascinating. Kids will adore the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, whilst there’s wonderful work on display at the Portland Museum of Art.

Head out on the water for days of sailing, fishing and kayaking, hit the beach as a family or venture out to the many islands which frame Casco Bay for big days of adventure. Fort Williams Park, on the other hand, is a terrific place for a windswept stroll, and there are some excellent hiking, cycling and horse riding trails in the countryside beyond Portland.

Back in the city, treat yourself to Portland’s famous foodie delights — lobster and fish fry included — in little cafés, buzzing eateries and quirky late-night bars. Whether you pick a tiny inn or a slick city hotel, the best places to stay in Portland are within easy reach of hip restaurants, cultural attractions and the salty sea.

The Best Places to stay in Portland

For a Seaside Stay

• Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth — just south of Portland — is perfect for a coastal family escape. Offering everything from crabbing to yoga, sailing and spa treatments, this chic property promises something for everyone — gorgeous ocean views included!
• The Inn at Diamond Cove lies at the heart of the picturesque Casco Bay on Great Diamond Island. It's packed to the rafters with activities, including tennis, hiking, fishing and swimming. Ideal for experiencing island life in Maine.
• Blackpoint Inn is a classic New England hotel set on a promontory jutting out into the sea. A favourite for its excellent seafood, country club feel and striking sea views in almost every direction.
• Higgins Beach Inn promises a relaxed coastal holiday, 20 minutes from Portland. Think cosy rooms and family suites with blue-painted wooden walls and pops of coral decor, a great seafood restaurant and lots of beach and sea-focused activities. A fun family choice, just moments from the beach.

For an intimate B&B

• West End Inn is an elegant six-bedroom B&B in a Victorian residence within easy walking distance of Old Port. Expect gourmet breakfasts and a grown-up, intimate feel. The friendly owners can offer heaps of Portland recommendations for foodies! Very chic.
• The Chadwick offers four smart and spacious guestrooms in a pretty, blue-painted house. Set in Portland's stylish West End neighbourhood, this is a tranquil choice for a quiet holiday, complete with a cosy firepit for atmospheric evenings.
• Pomegranate Inn is an artsy B&B with eight funky, individually-decorated rooms in the heart of the Western Promenade. Stay here for a fresh, modern vibe and heaps of creative inspiration. Breakfasts are a real treat, with series of tasting dishes featuring local ingredients.
• The Inn on Carleton has an old-school feel, with six traditionally-decorated bedrooms, a lovely English garden and an antique-filled parlour. Breakfasts are served in the formal dining room. For history buffs.

For Boutique Chic

• The Francis features minimalist design in 15 rooms and suites, set within Portland's Arts District. Stay here for the modern art collection, the spacious, airy feel and excellent spa treatments. Chic and understated.
• Blind Tiger is a beautifully restored Victorian hotel with striking, sophisticated interiors. A real treat for romantic couples, the property is swish, contemporary and very cool, fusing modernist artwork with quirky period pieces. An eclectic boutique B&B.

For Foodies

• The Press Hotel is a stylish spot in the former offices of the Portland Press Herald, in the Old Port district. Come for the appealing rooms and suites, and stay for the terrific fare crafted by Chef Josh Berry and his team using the very best Maine produce. The restaurant's ethos of partnering closely with farmers and fishermen is particularly impressive. A foodies' favourite.
• Portland Harbor Hotel is a bustling contemporary property close to the Old Port. Sink into big cosy beds, hit the gym and whisk up a snack for the kids in the guest pantry. The big attraction is the BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood restaurant, headed by Chef Gil Plaster, who uses Maine's bounty of seafood and seasonal produce to mouth-watering effect.

For Luxury & a Spa

• Portland Regency Hotel is a charming hertiage property in the heart of the Old Port district. Stay here for opulent rooms with fireplaces and marble bathrooms, as well as a wellness centre boasting a fitness studio, steam room, sauna, hot tub and top-notch deep tissue massages. A historic hotel perfect for unwinding.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Portland International Jetport and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi.
• Maine is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Kennebunkport.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Maine.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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