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.
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Portland, Maine
A charming luxurious coastal townhouse set in the heart of Portland's west-end. Modern rooms feature luxe linens, fireplaces, private balconies and spacious modern bathrooms with large tubs. Feast on delicious lobster breakfast dishes and spend evenings by the outdoor fire pit. A lovely hideaway.
Portland, Maine
Elegant B&B in a leafy area just minutes from downtown. Handsome Victorian townhouse is home to a pretty English garden, welcoming parlour and dining room. Rooms with unique character feature soaring ceilings, grand mouldings and antique furnishings. Quiet, tranquil environment; ideal urban retreat.
Portland, Maine
In the heart of the city's Old Port district, this hotel is surrounded by boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Two blocks from the waterfront. Beautiful, smart rooms feature fireplaces and luxurious marble bathrooms. Full of historic charm. Ideal for exploring Portland's top landmarks.
Portland, Maine
Refined B&B on a tree-lined street in an upscale neighbourhood. Original Victorian architectural features - double-height ceilings & picture windows - blend seamlessly with mid-century furnishings and cosy contemporary decor. Enjoy common dining & sitting room, plus a bar serving light bites.
Portland, Maine
A lively boutique hotel located in bustling Old Port district. Newly-renovated and well-appointed rooms are both cosy and contemporary; think fresh nautical colour palette, comfy furniture, homely decor and sea views. Enjoy the seafood restaurant, guest pantries, gym and access to the waterfront.
Portland, Maine
A warm and welcoming, albeit slightly whacky, boutique B&B in Portland. The interiors are a treasure trove of local artworks, murals and antique pieces that tie together beautifully to create a vibrant and lively environment. The breakfast is exceptional and the staff are knowledgable and helpful.
Portland, Maine
Stylish contemporary rooms in a centrally-located red-brick Victorian mansion. Minimalist decor and chic furnishings complement the building's original architectural features; wood floors, moulding, gabled ceilings and double-height windows. Enjoy the modern art, front parlour and spa treatments.
Portland, Maine
A small hotel set across two floors of a Nationally Registered Historic Building. Luxurious, spacious and contemporary apartments have high-tech amenities like touchscreens, stainless steel appliances in fully equipped kitchens, and luxurious showers. A sleek choice for independent travellers.
Portland, Maine
Beautifully resorted 19th-century guesthouse walking distance from the sea. Interiors are divine; roaring fireplaces, wooden ceilings and period features blend seamlessly with minimalist four-poster beds, bold colour walls, unique antique furniture & modernist artwork. Stylish, sophisticated & sexy.
Portland, Maine
A charming and warm establishment just outside Portland and a stone's throw away from the beachfront. Higgins Beach Inn is a relaxing, family-friendly choice. Rooms are bright and airy with a distinctly nautical feel and there's a restaurant specialising in seafood. A quaint coastal stay.
Portland, Maine
A luxurious oceanfront hotel. Modern, warm, and inviting. Breathtaking ocean views from rooms, which feature a smart, contemporary design. Activities include nightly fire pits, beachfront sunsets, early morning yoga and garden tours. Ideal for a stunning and elegant sea-side retreat.
Portland, Maine
In the heart of Casco Bay, this idyllic hotel offers a relaxing retreat with a smart outdoor pool and Cabana Bar. Beautiful sea views. Access to Pebble Beach and to miles of scenic trails. Full of historic character. Contemporary rooms with plush beds and flat-screen TVs.
Portland, Maine
An unpretentious and relaxed seaside hotel with a country club feel. Uniquely surrounded by water on three sides, Blackpoint Inn boasts magnificent sea views. Sophisticated and tasteful bedrooms and a smart, fine dining restaurant serving locally sourced seafood. Quintessential New England charm.
Portland, Maine
A whimsical and well put together printing press themed hotel, in the old headquarters of Portland’s Press Herald. The interiors feature ancient type writers, type print carpets and wallpaper and beautiful artworks by local artists. The restaurant stands out as remarkable even in this foodie town.
