Where to stay in Portugal to best enjoy the country?
There are options for everyone with resort towns, cities, charming villages or off the beaten path locations...
Below is my guide where I compare the best places to stay in Portugal, including:
- best areas and towns to stay in Portugal,
- map to get your oriented,
- best hotels in Portugal, and best resorts, rentals,
- alternative accommodations...
Find a gem for your dream vacation!
❝
It’s being priceless in planing my trip.
Alexandra about zigzag
In this article, no ads, no sponsored posts. Just some affiliate links.
If you purchase through them, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (Disclosure).
Where to stay in Portugal in 2023 - summary + map
If you don't want to read the entire article describing all the best areas to stay in Portugal, here are my simple answers.
Where to stay in Portugal - Map
To get you oriented, below is a map to help you locate all my selected areas listed below:
Note: This article is about Mainland Portugal.
If you are heading to Madeira, check out my article about where to stay in Madeira.
Porto = best place for cultural experience
Porto is one of the largest city in Portugal, and the center has kept all its ancient charm.
It is easy to explore, with beautiful architecture, a lot of history and magnificent views.
See hotel and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Porto here
Algarve = best place for beaches
The Algarve is the region of beaches.
On the West coast you have the surf beaches, on the South-West coast, the magnificent golden cliffs and on the South-East coast the long sandy beach.
See hotel and rental deals in Lagos (West)
See hotels and rental deals in Tavira (East)
or head to my detailed section about Algarve West here
Praia da Falesia, Algarve
Lisbon = best place to staying Portugal without a car
The capital city has a lot to offer.
The city center is already full of historical buildings to visit, food to taste, old streets to explore and activities to enjoy.
But it is also a great hub to book day tours and explore more of the country.
See hotel and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Lisbon here
Alentejo = best part of Portugal to relax
The Alentejo is the beautiful countryside where cork tree grows.
You can see beautiful hills covered in trees, charming old villages and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
For example, see hotel and rental deals in Marvao
But open the map, zoom out and you will see many options in the countryside
or head to my detailed section about the Alentejo here
Relaxing Alentejo
Monsanto = for a very unique stay
Monsanto is the village with giant boulders on and around the houses.
It is busy during the day, but enjoying it overnight is a treat!
For example, see hotel and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Monsanto here
Where to stay in Portugal with family
It really depends on what you are looking for.
- For a budget option with history and nature, you can look around Guimaraes
- For beaches, you can look in the Algarve (check out my guide about where to stay in the Algarve)
- ... the list could be endless
Where to stay in Portugal for a honeymoon or romantic couple stay
It really depends on what you like as a couple.
- Some enjoy long stay on the beach, in that case consider the Algarve
- Some enjoy a vibrant city with lots of good restaurant, in that case Porto or Lisbon can be a great choice
- Some enjoy road tripping, in that case all towns below can be visited!
All 15 listed below = best places to stop on a Portugal road trip
If you are planning a road trip around Portugal, all of the proposals below are worth considering.
The absolute must stay, in my opinion are:
- Porto
- Lisbon
- A place in the Algarve
- A village in Alentejo
- Somewhere along the Douro Valley
- Obidos
Need to rent a car in Portugal?
or directly see the best deals on my favorite platform
Best places to stay in Portugal: hotels, resorts, rentals...
You could also choose where to stay in Portugal, based on your hotel preferences.
Therefore, I am listing some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire country.
About the selection:
I have created this guide totally independently. None of the hotels has paid to be included.
The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience traveling there and my research.
Good to know about the accommodations in Portugal
breakfast in a guesthouse in Portugal
My top 4 - best luxury hotels and resorts in Portugal
- In Quinta do Lago (Algarve)
The Conrad Algarve has 3 restaurants, golf course, pools and more
See photos and availability - Boutique Hotel Santiago de Alfama
A charming quiet eden close to many historical sites. Excellent breakfast.
See photos and availability - Convento do Espinheiro (Evora)
In a historical building, this 5 star experience feels quite unique
See photos and availability - Six Senses Douro Valley
Located on a hill, overlooking some terrace vineyards and the Douro river, the 19th century manor offer quite a unique stay!
See photos and availability
My top 3 - best boutique hotels and resorts in Portugal
- The Colégio Charm House
with a very lovely with pool and garden right in the center of Tavira
See photos and availability - Boutique Hotel Santiago de Alfama (Lisbon)
In a charming quiet Eden close to many historical sites. Excellent breakfast.
See photos and availability - Descobertas Boutique Hotel (Porto)
Right in the heart of the Ribeira, it is decorated with a lot of taste and provides a fantastic breakfast
Check out photos and book
Sunset in the Algarve
My top 6 - unique accommodations in Portugal
- Bela Visit Silo Housing
In the northeast of Portugal, discover the unique accommodation created in old silos!
see photos and availability - A windmill in the forest only 10 min from a beach...
see photos and availability - Algarve: Houseboats on the Ria Formosa
see photos and availability - Alentejo, Evora: Ecorkhotel
A minimalist design, white walls, olive trees - the hotel is the first in the world being cork-clad
see photos and availability - Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park in North Portugal
Bungalows surrounded by trees.
see photos and availability - Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho
Travel in time by staying in this 17th century fortress turned into a luxury hotel - in Cascais
see photos and availability - ... and so any more. People are getting really creative.
Douro valley views
4 examples of sustainable accommodations in Portugal (ecofriendly)
- Algarve: Casa do Vale de Lama is inside a permaculture farm, with a salt-water pool, solar passive house...
see photos and availability - Algarve Quinta Alma offers luxury tent retreats
see photos and availability - Gaviao Nature Village
Glamping tents, bungalow made of local materials, eco-friendly furniture and its own electric system...
see photos and availability - Eco Soul Ericeira Guest House (North of Sintra)
Located just a short walk from the beach, 80% for its energy is renewable
see photos and availability - ...
Camping in Portugal
- Portugal has a good network of Campsites (called Parques de Campismo).
- Plan ahead as they fill up in Summer with Portuguese families
- Roteiro Campista has a huge list of Campsites
- Free Camping / Wild Camping is tolerated in the country site. They do not accept it in nature parks and beaches unless otherwise indicated. The wildfire risk is high in Portugal in Summer. Always better to ask the local tourism office if you are allowed to camp.
Area 1 - where to stay in Lisbon
Why stay in Lisbon?
Capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a very enjoyable city to stay for a couple of days at the beginning or the end of your road trip, or even to stay a week.
The city is vibrant, with a great mix of culture, and lots of places to visit.
Lisbon, Portugal
Things to do around Lisbon
- The entire Lisbon center
- The Belem Tower
- The Monastery of Jeronimos
- Sintra is only 30min away
- Arrabida Reserve
- Cascais beaches
- ...
Best areas to stay in Lisbon
There are 5 districts / neighborhoods that are the best to explore Lisbon.
Especially if you have only 2 or 3 days, you want to be close to the attractions.$
- Baixa - the most central
- Alfama - the old quarters (where you find the castle and the cathedral)
- Avenida de la Liberdade - high-end with shopping
- Bairo Alto alias Chiado - party and nightlife
- Cais do Sodre - nightlife
Best places to stay in Lisbon - suggestions
- Quiet luxury
The Boutique Hotel Santiago de Alfama is a charming quiet eden close to many historical sites. Excellent breakfast.
See photos and availability - Beautiful decor
If you like hotels with perfect modern decor, have a look at The Lift Boutique hotel. Close to the Santa Justa Lift in the Baixo neighborhood
See photos and Prices - B&B style
- The Augusta Boutique house is a small B&B on the pedestrian street. If the weather permits, you can enjoy a fantastic breakfast on the rooftop terrace!
See photos and prices - Great location
The hotel Riverside Alfama is very close to the river. Rooms are modern and clean. Easy access to many sites and restaurants.
See photos and prices - Budgent option
The Sunset Destination hostel is a great option for those with a smaller budget. Great location and it even has a small pool!
See photos and availability
Area 2 - where to stay in Porto
Why stay in Porto?
Porto is the Northern capital of Portugal. It has a lot of charm, more than Lisbon, in my option (see my battle article).
With the river in the middle, you can enjoy old streets, historical, architectural, impressive bridges and lots of wine!
I recommend spending at least 2 days to enjoy it!
Porto, Portugal
Things to do around Porto
- The entire Porto center
- The Porto seafront
- A boat tour on the Douro
- Visit of the Douro Valley
- Day trip to Braga with the Bom Jesus do Monte church
- Visit of Unesco town of Guimaraes
- ...
Porto accommodation Suggestion:
I stayed in a really great apartment perfectly located called Go2oporto Apartment rentals. They have a several rentals. Mine was the Go2oporto @Reboileira Side.
- Location: Fantastic location near the restaurant, the river and everything!
- State: Clean. Shower looked great but water pressure was not the best.
- Very good internet
- Check-in: Meet up in a shop nearby, really nice welcome, with a few gifts in the apartment. Loved it!
- Breakfast: N/A - Apartment
- No views in this one, but very close to the river
- You will have to pay for parking in the large underground carpark nearby. The rental agency provides reduction cards.
Best places to stay in Porto - Other suggestions
- The same rental agency also has amazing rentals on booking.com with a direct view on the Douro River: [email protected]a apartments, Go2oporto River apartments, Go2oporto River front apartment
- Luxury
Located along the Douro River, the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel is established in a 16th century building - history, heritage and style
Check out photos and book - Boutique hotel
Right in the heart of the Ribeira, the Descobertas Boutique Hotel is decorated with a lot of taste and provides a fantastic breakfast
Check out photos and book - Good value for money
Porto de Rio is centrally located by the Douro River and the studios have really nice design
Check out photos and book - Hostel
Only 50m from the Clerigos Tower, the Yes! Porto Hostel has a very friendly staff and great facilities
Check out photos and book
Area 3 - where to stay in Algarve West (beaches)
Why stay in the Algarve West
The Algarve region is very touristic and there are thousands of options for accommodation.
The west half is where you find the famous golden beaches nestled at the foot of impressive cliffs
While looking, I opted for Lagos to be close to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region and the size of the town was nice.
But there are many more places to consider.
Ponta da Piedade
Things to do in the Algarve West
- The famous cliffs of Ponta da Piedade
- Kayaking at the foot of the cliffs - See boat tour and kayaking options
- Praia da Marinha, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
- Benagil sea cave - book a boat / kayak tour from Portimao
- The magnificent and colorful Praia da Falesia
- ...
- See all the best things to do in the Algarve
Lagos accommodation Suggestion:
When I saw the pictures of Uma Casa A Beira Sol, it was love at first sight.
- Location: Less than 10min walk from Dona Ana Beach - 2min drive to the magnificent Ponta da Piedade
- State: Apartments within a stunning garden. Each apartment has its own table outside where breakfast is served surrounded by plants and flowers
- Limited kitchen facilities in the apartment
- Great swimming pool
- Check-in: Welcoming. Great staff
- Breakfast: Fantastic!!!! Fruits, cheese, egg tarts, jam... all served at your table in the garden (but don't take it if you need to leave early as it take some time to really enjoy it)
- See more photos and availability
Other places to stay in the Algarve
There are many more places to stay in the Algarve.
Learn more in my article about where to stay in the Algarve.
Area 4 - where to stay in Sintra (surprising)
Why stay in Sintra?
Sintra is main the touristic town outside of Porto and Lisbon.
It is full of amazing palaces which have been listed in the Unesco World Heritage list.
Definitively a must stop!
It is not far from Lisbon, so you can stay in Lisbon, but I think spending one or two nights in this incredible place is worth it.
Sintra, Portugal
Things to do around Sintra
- The colorful Pena Palace
- The Castle of the Moors
- The many other palaces
- Cabo da Roca and its cliffs
- Magoito beach with petrified dunes and long black cliffs
- Cascais and its sand beaches
- ...
- Check out my article about the best things to do in Sintra-Cascais National Park.
Where to stay in Sintra?
You can either stay in the older part of the town at the bottom of the hill around the National Palace or find cheaper accommodations in the modern part of town just a 15min walk away.
Sintra accommodation Suggestion:
I opted for the modern part and selected the CasAzul Apartments because of the ideal location and amazing reviews on Booking.com.
- Location: on the pedestrian street in the center of Sintra - very practical
- State: Really clean. Not the biggest, but well organized and practical
- If you are very, very tall, I would pick another one as it is under the roof. I managed at 1m75.
- Like from most apartments in Sintra, you can hear the train passing by.
- Check-in: very easy. Maria was very welcoming.
- Breakfast: NA but we had oranges, sweets and coffee to welcome us
Best places to stay in Sintra - Other suggestions
- Mid-range
Especao Edla for another mid-range option with great location in the city center and modern decor
Check Photos and Prices - History
The Romantic Suites & Garden Guesthouse for those looking for accommodations with a historical vibe - get ready to travel back in time!
Check Photos and Prices - Away from the crowds
For an option off the touristic Sintra but not far away: Quinta de Sao Tadeu has a mix of modern and old. Really well done!
Check Photos and Prices - Budget
Consider the Casa Azul Hostel - really good location, great owner (same as my rental apartment)
Check Photos and Prices - Luxury
Have a look at the amazing Tivoli Palacio de Seteais
Check Photos and Prices
Area 5 - where to stay in the Douro valley (taste)
Why visit the Douro valley
A river, some hills and a multitude of vineyards... what more could you want?
Starting in Porto the Douro Valley extends all the way to the East border.
This is a very touristic region and there are many places to stay along the winding river.
Douro Valley
Things to do in the Douro Valley
- Visit one vineyards
- Visit another vineyards
- Stop at the lookouts to enjoy the views
- and taste some wine!!! (but do not drive after...)
Douro Valley accommodation Suggestion:
Because of our itinerary, driving down from Guimaraes, I selected a stay at the Quinta Das Quintas and Spa in the town of Baiao for its location and good price.
- Location: Beautiful views of the Douro valley
- State: The main building is old. However, our cottage a little further along the road was all modern and large with 2 bathrooms and a huge terrace.
- Peaceful in the wilderness
- Check-in: A bit difficult to find someone to check in, as everyone is working but otherwise welcoming
- You can opt for diner, which was good
- Breakfast: nice buffet
Best places to stay in the Douro Valley - Other suggestions
- Luxury
Quinta do Bosque offers a delicious restaurant and an unforgettable pool
see photos and availability - Boutique
Quinta da Granja is modern and some of the units have a kitchenette, if you don't want to eat out all the time
see photos and availability - House rental
Quinta das Murtinheiras is ideal for a family or 2 couples
see photos and availability
Area 6 - Where to stay in Alentejo (e.g. Marvao)
Why stay in Marvao or the Alentejo?
The Alentejo is one of the most beautiful, yet less visited regions of Portugal.
It is such a peaceful area with countryside hills covered with cork trees and olive trees.
IN the North of the region, one of my favorite village is Marvao.
At the top of the hill, the white house village and castle offer splendid views of the region.
Marvao and Alentejo
Things to do in the Alentejo
- Slow down... enjoy the drives
- Visit the many charming villages such as Marvao and Monsaraz
- Visit a cork farm
- Learn more in my Marvao article.
Marvao accommodation Suggestion:
I love amazing views. So, I wanted to stay at the top of the village and selected Dom Dinis.
- Location: Perfect, very close to the castle and the fortified wall to enjoy the scenery
- State: Clean, Practical. Good bathrooms.
- Check-in: No issues
- Breakfast: Great room for breakfast and nice buffet
- See more phtoos and availability
Best places to stay in Marvao - Other suggestions
- Central and historic
Estalgem de Marvao - Casa de Campo is located in the heart of the village in a historical house. It has a nice patio to relax in before or after your walk.
Check out photos and prices - Outside the wall - Family / Group
If you need more space, you can rent villas in the vicinity of Marvao such as Quinta d'Abegoa, only 5min drive from Marvao.
Check out photos and prices - From those links, click on the map, zoom out, and find more accommodations lost in the magnificent countryside
Area 7 - where to stay in Obidos (time travel)
Why stay in Obidos?
Obidos is one of the most famous fortified villages in Portugal.
Not far from Lisbon, you can spend the night there, and tour the whole wall at sunset or sunrise!
Exploring inside the walls feels like traveling back in time
Obidos, Portugal
Things to do in Obidos
- Admire Porta da Vila, the gate and its tiles, typical of Portugal
- Climb on the fortification wall at the opposite end of the castle for the best views of the entire village
- Walk main street
- Enter the castle grounds to admire the impressive fortress
- Enjoy sunrise from the fortifications
- Taste the local liquor in a chocolate cup
- Learn more in my Obidos Article.
Obidos accommodation Suggestion:
There are accommodations inside the fortified city or just outside the wall. I selected Casa do Fontanerio de Obidos for the excellent reviews and location just near an entrance in the wall.
- Location: Just outside the fortified wall. Easy central access to the "village" of Obidos.
- State: Quite old house. The family loves explaining the history. Clean but tired. A lot of charm.
- Check-in: Very welcoming family.
- Breakfast: Nice - great atmosphere. Good choice.
- Wifi was ok but not very fast
- As in all fortified towns, parking is not the easiest...
- See more photos and availability
Best places to stay in Obidos - Other suggestions
- Luxury and history
a fantastic option is of course to stay in the Obidos Castle Hotel i.e. Pousada Castelo de Obidos. Some rooms even include stone walls!!!
Check the amazing photos and latest prices - Inside the walls
if you want to stay inside you should consider Casal da Eira Branca. It has a beautiful terrace to relax at the end of the day.
Check photos and prices - Family
It is a bit further away from Obidos (but not that far...), but you can fit many people in Valentine's House which is decorated with a lot of taste.
Check photos and availability - Cheaper option - Hostel
For those on a budget the Hostel Argonauta has really good reviews and is really well located
Check photos and prices
Area 8 - where to stay in Evora (blend)
Why stay in Evora?
Evora is a famous walled city with Greek and Roman architecture.
It combines traditional architecture, historical sites from various periods and a beautiful countryside.
It is a practical location to explore the Alentejo.
It is a great 1 or 2-day excursion for people staying in Lisbon.
Things to do in Evora
- Roman Temple
- Explore the historical old town
- Visit the Cathedral
- Visit the Bones chapel (Capeloa dos Ossos)
- Admire the Aqueduct
- Tour the fortification walls
- ...
Evora accommodation Suggestion:
I wanted to stay in the heart of Evora to easily visit everything on foot. I selected the Evora Inn Chiado Design.
Best places to stay in Evora - other suggestions
- Convento do Espinheiro (Evora)
In a historical building, this 5 star experience feels quite unique
See photos and availability - Apartments
The Casa Soure Suites and Apartments are centrally located and modern
see photos and availability - Boutique
MouraSuites Hotel is a great mix of traditional architecture with modern design
see photos and availability - Guesthouse
Valeriana Exclusive Guesthouse has a wonderful rooftop terrace and excellent breakfast
see photos and availability
Area 9 - where to stay in Coimbra (central)
Why stay in Coimbra
If you enjoy staying in larger towns and are road tripping in Portugal, Coimbra is the perfect location between Lisbon and Porto.
It has a river, historical building and a vibrant life thanks to the historical university
Things to do in Coimbra
- Admire the buildings of the university, the oldest in Portugal
- Discover the Baroque library Biblioteca Joanina
- Visit the Machado de Castro National Museum
- Discover the Monastery of Santa Cruz with Manueline elements
- The old cathedral
- Walk along the river front
- ...
Best places to stay in Coimbra
- Guesthouse
Republica Guest House is located right in the center with excellent breakfast
see photos and availability - Boutique Hotel
Sapientia Boutique Hotel offer moderns simple decor that let you breath and a rooftop terrace
see photos and availability - Luxury
Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas will transport you in time as you will stay in a medieval palace (but with all the modern luxury you need)
see photos and availability
Area 10 - where to stay in Aveiro (Venice of Portugal)
Why stay in Aveiro?
Aveiro is considered the "Venise" of Portugal with the waterways in the city.
You can decide to stay in the town or on the beach 10min drive from the town (where the colorful houses are).
Aveiro, Portugal
Things to do in Aveiro
- Take a boat tour in the canals and to the salt farms
- Stroll along the canals, especially at night
- Walk around town to discover the churches and white buildings
- Visit the associated seafront town of Costa Nova with its colorful buildings
Aveiro accommodation Suggestion:
I opted for the town center and selected a stay at Casa do Cais.
- Location: Really good location near the water. Quiet.
- State: Very modern and clean. Common area on the ground floor and common patio.
- Check-in: No issues. Welcoming owners with good advice.
- Breakfast: N/A - equipment in the flat for breakfast
- Very good wifi
- see photos and availability
Best places to stay in Aveiro - Other suggestions
- Rental
The Central Tiled Apartment is right in the center with a rooftop terrace
see photos and availability - Boutique
The 1877 Estrela Palace with a design you will never forget
see photos and availability - And many houses and apartment on the beach front
e.g. Costa Nova Beach view
see photos and availability
Areas 11 to 15 - other best towns in Portugal to stay (unique, Unesco...)
Area 11 - where to stay in Monsanto (unique)
Monsanto, Portugal
- Location
Middle of the East border of Portugal
Coimbra to Monsanto = 2h15
Lisbon to Monsanto = 3h - Why stay there
The boulder village of Monsanto should not be missed. It is one of the most amazing and fun villages to visit in Portugal.
The hilltop is covered with boulders and houses have been built around, using them as walls or roofs. This creates architectural wonders.
It deserves a long visit to take the time to explore all the streets and discover the many structures. - Things to do
Visit the streets and find all the houses around or under boulders
Climb to the ruins of the castle
Visit the pigpens
Learn more - Accommodations
You can stay at the Sun Set House in the heart of the village - see photos and availability
Area 12 - where to stay in Tavira (Algarve East)
- Location
East of the South coast of Algarve
Faro to Tavira = 30min drive
Lisbon to Tavira = 3h drive - Why stay there
If you want to explore East Algarve, Tavira is the place to stay. This small town has a lot of charm. - Things to do
Bird watching at Ria Formosa
Visit the Castle and old town
Walk around the salt pans
Look at the wild flamingos in the low waterways
Take a boat tour from the nearby Cabanas de Tavira - see options - Accommodations
Pousada Convento de Tavira, located around a 16th century convent, offers a quiet courtyard in the heart of the city. - See photos and availability
The Colégio Charm House is very lovely with a pool and garden right in the center of Tavira - See photos and availability
I personally stayed in Tavira for one night at the Taah Billa Guesthouse. Well located, spacious, very simple decor, clean, good price, nice welcome. It was fun!- See photos and availability
You can also stay a little further away from the city center, for example at the Abacatus Farmhouse - See photos and availability
Area 13 - where to stay in Guimaraes
- Location
North East of Porto
Porto to Guimaraes = 50min drive
Coimbra to Guimaraes = 2h drive - Why stay there
Guimaraes is home to Unesco site heritage buildings and is centrally located to explore the North of the country. - Things to do
Visit the Palace of the Dukes
Walking in the historic streets of the town
Sit in the square Largo da Oliveria
Look around the castle
Take the cable car
... - Accommodations
Pousada Mosteiro de Guimaraes for some luxury and views - see photos and availability
Hotel da Oliveira in the old town - see photos and availability
GuimaraesLiving Hostel - see photos and availability
Ferreira's house - an apartment in the center - see photos and availability
Area 14 - where to stay near the Unesco monasteries (e.g. Batalha)
- Location
North of Lisbon
Lisbo n to Batalha = 1h40 drive
Batalha to Tomar = 35min drive - Why stay there
Portugal has some really magnificent monasteries.
Batalha is one of the most famous, with its unfinished chapels. If you are spending the night there, you can visit it early, before the crowds! See pictures of the Monastery in my article.
And in Tomar you can find the Couvent of the Christ, and the castle of the Templar Knights - Things to do
Visit all the monasteries - Accommodations
I chose Hotel Casa Do Outeiro for its location close to the Monastery. Some rooms have balconies with views of the monastery. Modern, clean, a lot of light! - see photos and availability
Hotel Mestre Afonso Domingues is facing the monastery with great views from the restaurant area. Check prices and availability.
Hotel Villa Batalha, a bit further away from the monastery, but with spa and golf, for those who love a little extra... Check prices and Availability
All hotels above have family rooms (2 adults, 2 children) - but if you want your own space, Refugio da Ti Maria is a house with character you can rent not far from the center of Batalha. Check Availability and latest prices
Or you can choose to stay in Tomar which is a bigger city
Area 15 - where to stay near Serra de Estrela
- Location
North of Portugal
Porto to Covilha = 2h40 drive
Coimbra to Covilha = 2h10 drive - Why stay there
Serra de Estrela is the highest mountain range in Portugal.
It is home to beautiful landscapes and small villages.
Its main town is Manteigas with beautiful white houses in the valley but accommodations in the mountain is limited. - Things to do
Drive all around the Estrela Mountains
See the boulders, the castle, the lake, the Zezere valley, the river pools... - Accommodations
As I wanted us to cover most of the range before the night, I selected an accommodation a little more to the South in the town of Loriga where the River beaches are. I had a hard time choosing as the reviews were really varied. I opted for Casa do Meio da Vila. Old style but with character. Simple bathrooms. Clean.
TO stay in the mountains: Best rated accommodations in Manteigas or Best rated accommodations in Loriga - And for more choice consider Covilha at the foot of the mountain range.
FAQs
What is the best part of Portugal to stay in?
If you are planning on staying in only one location during your vacation, I think the best part are:
- For a beach holiday in Portugal = the Algarve - so many amazing places to visit
- For a city holiday in Portugal = Lisbon - between the city, Sintra, and the many accessible attractions nearby, you won't have time to get bored
- For a cutlural holiday in Portugal = Somewhere in the North with access to Porto, the Douro valley, the Atlantic beaches, Guimaraes and more
What city is the most beautiful in Portugal?
That is such a difficult question.
In terms of large towns, I think Porto is the most beautiful city with the river and bridge in the middle and the blue tiles everywhere.
Lisbon or Porto - where to go?
It depends on what you are looking for...
Porto or Faro - which is better?
Those towns cannot be really compared.
- Faro, in the South, will bring you access to stunning beaches, sun, small mountains and a little bit of history
- Porto, in the North, will bring you the Portuguese culture, the history and great gastronomy
Want to see more of the best Portugal has to offer?
- 30 Most beautiful landscapes in Portugal - read article
- Best things to do in Portugal - read article
- The best beaches in Portugal - read article
- The best villages in Portugal - read article
- Lisbon vs Porto - where to go? - read article
- Driving in Portugal - read article
- The best of the Algarve region - read article
- The highlights of Sintra and the Sintra-Cascais Nature park - read article
Planning a trip to Portugal?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your ideal road trip around Portugal
- 13 easy-to-plan Maps
- 120+ pre-selected scenic locations
- Planning tips to make the most of your time
- 200+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
And keep track of your own trip!
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