Tourists looking for a completely unique experience in Portugal are turning their attention to Airbnb and the cool accommodation options on offer there, ranging from rustic homes to eclectic concepts. Here are just a few of the creative and popular retreats we think are the best Airbnbs around, in mainland Portugal and beyond.
Restored cottage with patio in the historic centre of Lisbon
Tiled floors and exposed stone walls mix with minimalist mid-century-style furnishings at this restored artisan’s cottage in Lisbon’s Old Town. Though the surrounding streets are full of places to eat, you’ll be tempted to cook at home thanks to the sunny central courtyard. Air conditioning keeps things cool in the summer and the bathroom has a walk-in rain shower. It sleeps up to three, with a double bed in the bedroom and a sofa bed in the living room.
This remote rural hideaway is surrounded by a lush green valley with the Douro River cutting through below. The best views are to be had out on the deck, which is surrounded by rustic stone walls with a private swimming pool jutting out into the landscape. The house (built in the 1800s and renovated in 2010) feels starkly contemporary inside thanks to the liberal use of pale wood, glass and steel, and sleeps six across three bedrooms. If you fancy exploring farther afield, famous vineyards and historic cities are within an hour’s drive, or you can take a boat trip down the river to discover the sandy beaches.
Located in northern Portugal’s green Minho region, the Casa do Rio, a stone cottage set into a forested landscape, has been dubbed the most sought-after Airbnb in Portugal. For tourists wanting the best of nature, this gem is hard to beat, particularly as it has the soothing backdrop of flowing water from the nearby river and is located near mountains. The closest restaurants and bars are approximately 15 to 20 minutes away by car, and the house is surrounded by nature trails. The Casa do Rio fits four people comfortably, with one bedroom and two sofa beds.
The bright and airy Clérigos Room offers breathtaking views of the historic Clérigos Tower in Porto. This private room is located inside a UNESCO-listed building in the heart of the city and is within easy walking distance of many of Porto’s must-see landmarks, including the bookshop Livraria Lello & Irmão and the beautiful São Bento station (an excellent stop for those who appreciate Portugal’s azulejos, or tiled exteriors).
Madeira is a beautiful destination for nature and hiking enthusiasts, and the Casa Típica de Santana is one of the area’s traditional homes located near some spectacular walking routes and ocean views. This cosy house, which fits five guests, boasts a distinctive thatched roof and is surrounded by lush cultivated land, fruit trees and spectacular emerald-green mountains.
Instead of planning to stay downtown in Lisbon, you can choose to sleep right on the Tagus river in this boat Airbnb. It fits up to four guests in two bedrooms and comes with a kitchen and bathroom. The boat is docked in Belém near the Discoveries Monument, Belém Tower and the riverside cafés and restaurants, which makes it ideal for exploring Lisbon’s historical side.
The Moinho das Feteiras is a charming mill near Ponta Delgada Azores that is available for two couples to stay in. The panoramic sea views and lookout point are just one part of this Airbnb’s charm; the other part is the mill itself, built in the 1800s. São Miguel island is the largest in the Azores archipelago and a treasure trove destination with its breathtaking green landscape (it goes by the nickname of The Green Island), mesmerising lakes, whale watching opportunities and unique local culture.
