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About Portugal

Portugal's variety is one of its greatest assets. Along with its calendar full of colourful festivals and unique culture. In a single day, you can travel from verdant mountains in the north to the vineyards on the slopes, through the rocky centre to the rustic rural pleasures of the Alentejo region and on to the glamorous golden sands of the Algarve and the coast. When choosing the best places to stay in Portugal it really depends on what you are in search of. There is a wide range of accommodation, from charming traditional B&Bs to uber-chic luxury stays.

Lisbon is a vibrant capital city abounding with charm and colour and filled with the music of Fado and the characteristic rattling of yellow trams trundling past decorative tiled façades. Most of us know Porto, an ancient port city graced with spectacular architecture and surrounded by Port wineries.

Many turn to Portugal for sunshine and cloudless blue skies, in which case you're here for the Algarve! As well as mile upon mile of golden sand framed by characteristic limestone rocks standing guard dramatically over turquoise waters, the Algarve is also rich in birdlife, golf courses and surf breaks. While the resorts around Faro and the airport are well developed, the Western Algarve is still a beautiful semi-wilderness.

Madeira is another year-round warm and sunny destination, and of course, it tempts with its Madeira cake and wine too. While Alentejo offers more dramatic, rural scenery, and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life in amongst vineyards, white towns and megalithic monuments. Alentejo covers almost a third of Portugal, from the Atlantic coast to the Spanish border and the Algarve, but it has only about seven per cent of the population. And its charming old white towns, where nothing has changed for decades, are sparsely dotted amongst olive groves and cork forests. Alentejo's beaches are beautiful and on a road trip along white cliffs and virginal coasts you'll feel like you're the only people in the world.

With so much to offer Portugal is unsurprisingly a popular summer destination, so in order to get a room at one of the best places to stay in Portugal we recommend booking well in advance.

If you know which part of Portugal you're heading to skip to our Portuguese Destination Guides:

The Best Places to Stay in Portugal

For a City Break: Lisbon

  • The Heritage Av Liberdade, situated on one of Lisbon's most famous streets, is an award winning hotel - the brain child of architect Câncio Martins, renowned for the Buddha Bar in Paris and Strictly Hush in London.
  • The only Art Deco hotel in Lisbon, the Hotel Britania has been beautifully restored and retains many period features. Bedrooms are large and a library and intimate bar on the ground floor give the place a distinctly private club feel.
  • The Hotel Lisboa Plaza offers traditional, old world charm coupled with very personalised service. The bar and fabulous terrace emphasise the relaxed ambience. With a long list of devotees who wouldn't dream of staying anywhere else, you might want to book well ahead!
  • Book a room at the Solar do Castelo and you'll have bagged the only accommodation within the walls of the Castle of Saint George, which rises out of the beautiful labyrinth of the old Moorish quarter. This unique hotel manages to effortlessly blend the old and new, with exposed stone walls complemented by new pale wood and rich fabrics.

For Foodies and Wine Buffs: Porto and the Douro Valley

  • Six Senses Douro Valley is the one to book if you're looking for a seriously luxurious and pampering stay in the Douro Valley. It will not disappoint with its sleek, contemporary rooms, plus excellent spa and gourmet restaurant.
  • Some of Porto's port houses offer accommodations too, one of the best examples being The Yeatman by well known Port brand, Taylors. Rising above the port houses to offer views of the Douro Valley, this is a lavish place to stay, with a fantastic spa, infinity pool and plenty of marble. But still awash with character.
  • Porto is filled with magnificent art and architecture, and the Hotel Vidago Palace is an excellent example. The beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and pristine parklands are well worth the short hike into town.
  • The Palacio Freixo, a baroque masterpiece built in the 18th century, is another. There are many restored public areas, so you can pretend you're living in a palace. But it's also got all the mod. cons.. Including an infinity pool overlooking the stunning Douro.

For Sunshine: The Algarve

  • Just outside historic Sagres on the unspoilt Western Algarve, the Martinhal Beach Resort is a luxurious resort village with plenty of space and plenty to do. There are five swimming pools, kids clubs for all ages and a fabulous spa located in its own private grounds.
  • Quinta do Barranco da Estrada is an idyllic, 12 room, rural hideaway overlooking peaceful Santa Clara Lake. Canoeing and sailing are included in the price, plus you can walk, birdwatch, eat great food and generally chill out.
  • Vila Vita Parc is a truly luxurious cliff top resort, with outstanding facilities for all the family. There's a kids club for every age group, watersports galore, and a nine hole golf course to name but a few. There's also a private sandy beach, great spa and Michelin starred cuisine.
  • Vivenda Miranda began life as the home of a 17th century noble family. It now offers twenty-five bedrooms, a stunning pool and terrace with breathtaking views and direct access to the Porto de Mós beach, just outside Lagos.

For Families: Madeira

  • Reid's Palace is the perfect place for an easy family holiday. There's plenty to do in the grounds, including an indoor play space and outdoor playground, multiple pools and supervised activities - including tennis lessons. And they'll help you organise activities for the whole family to do together.
  • Quinta de Bela Vista offers a very family-friendly five star experience. There's beautiful grounds, a beautiful bay view, and plenty of facilities to keep everyone as busy as they want to be.
  • Hotel da Vila's 15 rooms are bright and airy, but basic. It makes the grade here because its balcony rooms are great value - especially with the views - the food is good and reasonably priced and you have access to the flashier sister hotel up the hill, the Estalagem da Ponta do Sol.

To Escape and Relax: Alentejo

  • Monte de Fornalha is perfect if you're looking for a rustic retreat. Set in amongst the vineyards, this whitewashed farmhouse has been tastefully and traditionally decorated. Its three rooms and three suites, as well as a peaceful pool and terrace, offer the perfect place to relax.
  • The Casa da Ermida de Santa Catarina is a top Hotel Guru choice. It's right on a beautiful lake in the spectacular Parque Natural de Serra de Sao, so a fair way off the beaten track, yet with plenty to keep you occupied, including wine tasting, nature and fabulous walking.
  • Vinho verde accompanied by sardines and shellfish on the barbecue, Alentejo's cuisine is a pleasant surprise to many. Yes, it's rustic, and not fancy, but it's also fresh, local and original. Wine and food enthusiasts should book the Herdade da Malhadinha Nova. This restored farmhouse, and gourmet restaurant, is on a 450 hectare, family-owned wine estate. The ten rooms and suites are stylish and modern.

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The best hotels in Lisbon

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Hotel Britania, a Lisbon Heritage Collection

Lisbon

Lisbon’s only Art Deco hotel is a beautifully restored heritage townhouse in the heart of the city. The spacious rooms feature cork and parquet floors, art deco fixtures and marble bathrooms. More private members club than hotel. A truly unique and memorable stay.

  • City Style - A magnficant testimony to the art-deco brilliance of the 1940s, lovingly restored and centrally situated.
  • Great walks - Set out from the hotel and wander this historic city centre, with interesting sights around every bend.
  • Views -
  • Designer
from €194 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Solar do Castelo, a Lisbon Heritage Collection

Lisbon

A unique historical setting for 14 individually decorated contemporary bedrooms. The old blends with the new - stone walls, pale woods, heavy bricks, all the mod cons. Charming inner courtyard and garden with Medieval remains. The only hotel within St. George's Castle walls.

  • Value chic - A wonderfully enchanting stay, with peacocks dancing on the old castle walls and the gentle tinkle of the courtyard fountain.
  • Local exploring - Tucked in the walls of the medieval San Jorge castle, with a rabbit warren of winding cobbled streets to explore.
  • Great walks - Explore the pedestrians-only fortress, the winding streets are lined with cool shops, boutiques and cafes.
  • Sights nearby - Within the walls of St. Jorge's Castle and just a few minutes walk to the waterside Jeronimo's monastery.
from €195 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The best hotels in Northern Portugal

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Casa dos Lóios

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.

  • Value chic - Despite the luxury offered (think grand historic rooms with modern touches) room rates start as low at 58 Euros
  • Families - The deluxe family suites with three double beds and two bathrooms are ideal for families
  • Boutique - Stunning interiors where traditional features sit comfortably alongside smart modern design touches
  • Sights nearby - Close to the Sao Bento Station, Clerigos Church and the Ribeira river zone
from €58 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Casa da Levada

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.

  • Families - Two bedroom apartments are great for families
  • Value chic - Providing excellent value for money
  • Sights nearby - Must visit Casa de Mateus for its baroque architecture and the International Music Festival from June - Sep annually
  • Great walks - Lovely hikes can be enjoyed in nature parks surrounding the hotel
from €58 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The best hotels in Algarve

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Casa Amor

Olhao (Algarve)

A beautifully restored traditional 19th century house in the centre of town. Ten fresh and airy rooms boast a stylish mix of period features and contemporary luxury, plus there's a spacious cosy lounge, and charming courtyard for balmy breakfasts or sundowners. A chic B&B in the heart of the action.

  • Local exploring - Situated right in the historic heart of Olhao, Casa Amor is perfectly placed for beach or culture
  • Restaurant - Breakfast is served daily, plus there's a restaurant, cafe for coffee and pastries
  • Romantic Break - With its stylish rooms and intimate feel, this is ideal for a romantic getaway
  • In/by a Nature Reserve - Casa Amor is a mere five minutes' walk from the Rio Formosa National Park
from €180 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Vila Vita Parc

Algarve

Luxury cliff-top family resort in lush gardens. Contemporary, light rooms with white on white decor drawing the eye to the spectacular sea views. Fantastic children's facilities, tennis courts, golf course, luxurious Sisley spa, and excellent food. A beach paradise.

  • Families - Loads of kiddie stuff so parents can unwind- playground with trampoline, swings and slides, kids club, creche and pool.
  • Foodies - Eight onsite restaurants to choose from- we recommend the tasting menu from two Michelin Star Ocean with wine pairing.
  • Spa breaks - State of the art spa with a huge range of treatments, yoga and meditation classes and top notch hair salon
  • Diving - Vila Vita Parc run dive certification courses as well as courses in underwater photography& deep sea diving.
from €200 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The best hotels in Alentejo

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Cerca do Sul

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.

  • Value chic
  • Families
  • Great walks - The village of Odeceixe calls for a nice walk through the main square and narrow streets.
  • Sights nearby - Aljezur is 15 minutes away with quite a few attractions.
from €60 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Estalagem de Monsaraz

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.

  • Views - Beautiful valley views.
  • Restaurant -
  • Swimming Pool -
  • Traditional
from €60 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Estremadura

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White Guest House

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!

  • Active Holiday - Situated on a lovely coastal spot, ideal for both watersports enthusiasts and for those wanting to visit cultural sights
  • Sights nearby - Various sights nearby including the Peniche Fortress, the Rosary Fountain and S. João Baptista Fortress
  • Sailing
  • Lively area
from €42 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Vila Louro

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.

  • Active Holiday - There are beaches nearby that are great for surfing and bicycles available at the hotel to explore the area
  • Surfing - Go to some of Portugal's most renowned surfing beaches nearby for an active day out on the waves
  • Sights nearby - Head to the picturesque villages of Mafra and Torres Vedras
  • Swimming Pool - Seasonal outdoor pool
from €55 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The best hotels in Porto

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Casa dos Lóios

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.

  • Value chic - Despite the luxury offered (think grand historic rooms with modern touches) room rates start as low at 58 Euros
  • Families - The deluxe family suites with three double beds and two bathrooms are ideal for families
  • Boutique - Stunning interiors where traditional features sit comfortably alongside smart modern design touches
  • Sights nearby - Close to the Sao Bento Station, Clerigos Church and the Ribeira river zone
from €58 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Charm Palace Porto

Porto (Porto)

An opulent heritage hotel occupying a restored 1900s bourgeois residence in the heart of Porto's historic centre. Intricate tiles line the hallway leading to the bright, expansive suites; the best of which boast balconies. Original features abound, updated with modern design details. A stylish stay.

  • Local exploring - Located in the heart of historic Porto, this is a decadent base is ideal for exploring Porto's pretty historic streets
  • Honeymoons - Make yours a honeymoon with a difference and stay in a superior suite in this palatial hotel
  • Romantic Break - The luxurious beds and free-standing bathtubs make these suites a favourite with couples
  • Local markets - A trip to Porto would not be complete without visiting Bolhão Market, a traditional farmer's market
from €95 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The best hotels in Madeira

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Estalagem da Ponta do Sol

Madeira

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.

  • Great walks - Madeira's network of Levadas accessible from here
  • Other Activities - Whale watching, dolphins and big turtles
  • Views - Views out to sea from the cliff top.
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace - Most with spectacular views
from €112 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Quinta da Bela Vista

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.

  • Garden - A stunning garden with magnificent views.
  • Views - Overlooking the gardens and the bay.
  • Suites -
  • 5* Luxury
from €130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia