Accommodation in Portugal

Overview of the offer

Portugal is a highly tourist-friendly country, offering a wide range of accommodations with generally good value for money. You’ll find everything from hotels of all categories to campsites and various types of rentals.

Hotels

There’s a broad selection of hotels in Portugal, classified from 1 to 5 stars based on location, quality of facilities, and services. Some establishments also offer "aparthotel" options, providing more freedom while maintaining the usual hotel benefits (housekeeping, etc.). As a general rule, budget around 30/35 € minimum for a double room at the lower end.

Pousadas

Also worth noting are a few pousadas, which, like Spain’s paradores, are charming, historic, or exceptionally located establishments. These represent the high end of the hotel market, with rates starting at 100/150 € per night.

All-inclusive

The all-inclusive option is available in the country, primarily concentrated along the southern coast. As always, if you’re planning a sedentary beach holiday, it’s worth checking these offers, especially during promotions. Sometimes, the price of a flight + hotel package can be nearly the same as a standalone flight to the destination.

Youth Hostels

Portugal has plenty of youth hostels, whether in cities, the countryside, or near beaches. They remain affordable for dormitory-style stays and sometimes offer double or family rooms, occasionally with meal options. As always, you’ll need a Youth Hostel card.

Camping

Whether public or occasionally private, campsites are plentiful in Portugal (see details). Most are classified from 3 to 5 stars based on location, quality of facilities, and services. As is common in Europe, many now also offer bungalow or mobile home rentals. Wild camping is prohibited in the country for both tents and campervans unless you have the landowner’s permission.

Homestays

Homestays or B&Bs are quite common in Portugal. Overall, prices remain reasonable for good value, though don’t always expect a private bathroom, for example. You can find options starting around 30 €.

Other options

Rural gîtes

Apartments and villas

Holiday villages

Holiday villages are classified from 3 to 5 stars and are primarily located in the most tourist-heavy areas.

Choosing your accommodation

When selecting accommodation, the first step is to define the type of trip you’re planning—mostly sedentary or on the move. If you don’t plan to leave your base, a weekly rental or an all-inclusive beach resort might be a good solution. Otherwise, camping in season (if you’re driving) or homestays can be a budget-friendly choice.