The second oldest city in the Unites States — and the oldest in New Hampshire — beautiful Portsmouth has a wonderfully lively buzz: perfect for a waterside holiday. A hugely popular place to visit, Portsmouth offers a broad range of accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to luxurious hotels with fantastic facilities. The best places to stay in Portsmouth NH are housed in striking heritage buildings, fusing the city’s fascinating history with chic, contemporary interiors.
Set alongside the Piscatagua River, the region was originally home to Abenaki and other Algonquian languages-speaking nations, who inhabited the area for thousands of years. First explored by Europeans in the early 1600s, Portsmouth grew wealthy as one of the busiest ports and shipbuilding cities in the United States. Delve into the city’s history to discover links to the slave trade, the American Revolution and the Civil War, all of which shaped the city’s development, as well as the rise and fall of its inhabitants’ fortunes.
Much of the city’s past can be glimpsed through its impressive architecture. Despite significant early nineteenth-century fires, Portsmouth NH’s leafy central streets remain lined with lovely colonial, Georgian and Federal-style houses. Many have been carefully preserved, and are now open to the public. The Strawbery Banke Museum, for instance, showcases 17 houses in the city’s oldest neighbourhood, offering a precious glimpse into the past -- best appreciated with a guided tour. There are ample individual house-museums dotted around the city centre, too.
When it comes to the great outdoors, Portsmouth NH offers activities aplenty: head out on a river cruise to spot marine life and admire spectacular views over Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse and Fort Constitution, enjoy a round of golf at one of the area’s many courses, or stroll through riverside Prescott Park. For the best boutiques, cafes and restaurants, amble along Market Street to Market Square, and make sure to catch a show at The Music Hall one evening.
In addition to heaps of history and culture, Portsmouth NH has a fun, youthful vibe, ideal for unwinding with friends or family. Our pick of best places to stay in Portsmouth NH ranges from grand waterfront hotels with indulgent spas to smart guesthouses in beautifully restored heritage properties, promising fabulous food and lots of charm. This is a very popular destination, so book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!
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Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire)
Great value quaint historic inn. Situated in a 19th-century red-brick former brewery, rooms are small but many have river views; decor is contemporary with bright colours, mismatched furniture and nautical palettes. Warm, welcoming and cosy public areas have fireplaces and exposed-brick walls.
Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire)
Historic downtown 19th century home converted into range of contemporary-chic self-catered studios. Cosy living areas and modern kitchens are decorated with SMEG fridges, on-trend colour palettes and bold prints. Walk to the waterfront and great restaurants. Brilliant option for longer stays.
Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire)
A beautiful Queen Ann building, masterfully restored, in the heart of Portsmouth. The sharp interiors are modern and indulgent while nodding to the building's rich history. An excellent breakfast is served each morning and helpful staff will guide you to the best dinner spots. Warm and welcoming.
Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire )
Nestled on Portsmouth's Seacoast, this renovated sailmaker's house has been transformed into a boutique inn. Behind the wooden facade, a spiral staircase leads to cosy guestrooms with original brick fireplaces, sink-in rugs and bespoke fittings. Maritime accents run throughout; a stylish guesthouse.
Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire)
A stalwart landmark of the New Hampshire coast, this gleaming white and splendid hotel has stood the test of time to become a paragon of hospitality. Interiors are classic and traditional with floral patterns, neutral colours and panoramic sea views. Restaurant, pool, spa, gym, golf, marina, bar.
Portsmouth NH (New Hampshire)
Modern apartment-hotel situated in a historic house metres from the water. Feel right at home, each light and airy self-catering studio with a nautical colour scheme comes with kitchen and laundry facilities. There are also cosy living, dining & working areas. Quiet base ideal for a country escape.
