Where to Stay in Portland, Maine: Best Hotels
Portland, Maine, is a vibrant coastal city that captivates visitors with its rich history, eclectic arts scene, and mouthwatering culinary offerings. From charming cobblestone streets to stunning waterfront views, this destination blends the charm of a small town with the excitement of urban life, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Choosing the right place to stay is essential, especially if you're looking for hotels with pools or luxurious amenities to enhance your experience. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, our guide will help you discover the best places to stay, nearby neighborhoods, top attractions, and helpful travel tips to make the most of your Portland adventure.
In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 5 star / luxury |
Longfellow Hotel The Francis Hotel |
| 4 star hotels |
Portland Harbor Hotel Blind Tiger Portland - Danforth Street Guest House The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection |
| B&b & mid-range |
The Chadwick Bed and Breakfast West End Inn |
| Vacation rental / apartments |
The Docent's Collection |
Find Hotels, Resorts, and Rentals Nearby in these Cities & Neighborhoods
Recommended accommodation
Internet, Parking, Balcony/Terrace, Smoking, Air Conditioner, Breakfast
Superb
29 reviews
B&bs, Accommodations, Parking, Inns, Gites, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay
Very Good
57 reviews
Accommodations, Parking, Spa, Romantic, Gites, 3-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Jacuzzis, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
563 reviews
Breakfast, Parking, Air Conditioner, Internet, Child Friendly
Superb
117 reviews
Luxury, Cheap, Accommodations, Parking, Spa, Gites, Pet-friendly, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Very Good
8 reviews
Things to do and Activities in Portland
🎫 Local Experiences & Attractions in Portland, Maine
✨ Things to Do
Portland Food Tour: Explore Portland, Maine's culinary scene on a guided food tour. Sample local dishes from various eateries and learn about the city's food culture.
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Casco Bay Island Ferry: Take a scenic ferry ride to one of the nearby islands. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline and discover charming island communities.
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Guided Brewery Tour: Visit some of Portland, Maine's renowned breweries. Experience the brewing process and taste a variety of locally crafted beers.
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📍 Top Attractions
Portland Head Light: This historic lighthouse offers picturesque views and a glimpse into maritime history. Visitor Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best lighting for photos.
Old Port District: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of this vibrant waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries that showcase Portland, Maine's charm.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad: Discover the history of railroads in Maine while enjoying a scenic train ride along the coast. Learn about the significance of rail transport in the region.
Travel Tips for Portland
💡 Essential Logistics & Insider Tips for Portland, Maine
🚆 Getting Around
The Core Tip: Portland is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transit options like buses and the METRO system connect key areas.
The Pro Move: Combine walking with public transport to avoid parking hassles, especially in popular neighborhoods like Old Port and the Arts District.
📅 Timing Your Trip
The Core Tip: Summer attracts the most visitors due to pleasant weather and numerous outdoor festivals, including the Maine Lobster Festival.
The Pro Move: Early mornings or weekdays are ideal for visiting crowded attractions like the Portland Head Light to avoid larger crowds.
🚶 Getting Around Safely
The Core Tip: Portland is known for its walkability, with many attractions accessible by foot. Crosswalks are well-marked, and pedestrian-friendly zones exist downtown.
The Pro Move: Stay alert for cyclists sharing the road, especially when navigating popular areas during busy hours.
💳 Money & Payments
The Core Tip: Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Portland accept credit cards, but smaller vendors may prefer cash.
The Pro Move: Keep some small cash handy for local markets or street vendors where card payment might not be available.
✈️ Airport / Arrival Tips
The Core Tip: Portland International Jetport offers various transportation options, including taxis and rideshare services, to reach the city center easily.
The Pro Move: Follow airport signage to designated pickup areas for taxis or rideshares to streamline your arrival process.
