The Best Hotels in Portimão, Portugal, for Every Traveller
Sat halfway between Lagos and Albufeira in Portugal‘s beautiful Algarve, Portimão is the perfect place to spend an active holiday rolling in the waves of Praia da Rocha, watching world-class golf, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife. This idyllic port city is also served by a pleasing slew of hotels, ranging from ultra-stylish budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts wrapped by championship golf courses. Read on to discover the best hotels Portimão has to offer, bookable with Culture Trip.
Hotel Rio Arade
Boutique Hotel
This 18th-century manor house sits in the charming, whitewashed fishing village of Estômbar and offers nine rooms with balconies overlooking the town. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool, set in tranquil gardens. a Daily breakfast is comprised of fresh fruit, local hams and cheeses and homemade cakes. There are a variety of local vineyards to explore within the region as well.
A.ti.tudo Nature
Eco Hotel
Deep in the Algarvian countryside, where wildflowers cover the fields and storks nest on telegraph poles, this wellness cottage offers seven bedrooms, with decor inspired by nature. Outside, there’s a swimming pool and space to do workshops and courses such as working with olive oil, artisanal soaps and natural cosmetics. Nearby is the pretty thermal spring town of Caldas de Monchique.
Hotel Oriental
Resort, Chain Hotel
This 84-room hotel, with Asian-inspired interiors, overlooks the golden sands of Praia da Rocha, one of the largest beaches in the region. There is a large swimming pool with a panoramic deck overlooking the beach, plus direct access to the sands. There are many shops and bars just outside the hotel, with the marina a few minutes’ walk away.
Hotel da Rocha
Hotel
This modern, high-rise hotel overlooks Praia da Rocha and offers good access to the sands. Spacious suites (which also have sofa beds, perfect for families) are comfortably furnished, while the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, a bar that serves drinks and tapas, a fitness room with cardio equipment and a massage room. Bars and restaurants are plentiful just outside the hotel entrance.
NDS Prestige Guesthouse and Suites – Urban Chic Concept
Guesthouse
Black-and-white photography and a monochrome palette add an urban vibe to this six-suite guesthouse. NDS Prestige is located a couple of blocks from the Arade River and close to downtown Portimão, making it perfect for those who want to explore more of the local culture. There’s a terrace and a garden to enjoy when the weather is nice (which is nearly always), and the hotel offers childcare services for families.
Jupiter Marina Hotel
Spa Hotel
Boho-chic touches, such as macrame wall hangings and earthy tones, brighten the 150 contemporary guest rooms at Jupiter Marina Hotel. Comfortable and spacious, they also offer privileged views of Portimão, the Arade River and an inner courtyard. This romantic spa hotel is perfect for couples but also an excellent choice for adults who want a relaxing vacation in the Algarve. It’s also home to Facho Restaurant, serving Portuguese and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and a full-service spa centre. And how could you not love the rooftop infinity pool?
Morgado Golf and Country Club
Golf Hotel, Resort
Morgado has two 18-hole golf courses with mountain views so lovely they might throw you off your game. Never mind, you can lick your wounds in one of the 98 guest rooms, the hotel restaurant or (more likely) in one of two bar lounges. Although 12km (7mi) from the closest beach, there are two adult pools surrounded by sun loungers and two children’s pools. Set in a calm environment, it is a peaceful, family-friendly retreat.
Tivoli Marina Portimão
Hotel
The 196 modern apartments at Tivoli offer a home-away-from-home vibe with a living area and kitchenette. Each also comes with a terrace. Located close to the beach, the hotel enjoys views of the marina. Additional perks are the free breakfast, the hotel restaurant’s terrace service, two bars and an outdoor pool.
Pestana Algarve Race
Resort, Spa Hotel
This contemporary five-star hotel is perfect for those seeking the tranquil countryside rather than the energetic coast (it’s still less than a 20-minute drive from the nearest beach). It’s also designed for families, and each room (some are adjoining) includes complimentary access to go-karting. There’s also a spa, restaurant and bar, a fitness centre and an arcade room for kids. Room views take in the Serra de Monchique range.
Bela Vista Hotel and Spa
Spa Hotel
Set inside an early 20th-century mansion on Praia da Rocha, Bela Vista Hotel & Spa is a romantic and regal choice for luxury-loving travellers. Attention to detail includes the cool colour palette of coastal tones matching the seaside views and the traditional azulejo accents. It’s also home to the Michelin-star Vista Restaurant, where you’ll discover dishes blending Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisines. Spa services, a rooftop terrace and an outdoor pool make the experience even sweeter.
Next Inn
Budget Hotel
Next Inn is for travellers looking for a bargain price. Renovated in 2014, it offers 24 bright guest rooms, ranging from singles to triples and group rooms that accommodate four to five people. From the rooftop terrace, you have a bird’s-eye view over the centre of Portimão and toward the mountains. Cosy armchairs fill the hotel’s common room and an additional reading room.
Mary Lussiana contributed additional reporting to this article.