12 of the Best Boutique Hotels in the Azores

The Azores are nine volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic. São Miguel is the largest, with crater lakes and geothermal pools; Pico is known for its vineyards; Faial and Terceira for colourful harbour towns. See our article, where to stay in the Azores by island.

On São Miguel Island Sensi Azores Nature & Spa offers ocean-view treatments and a thermal-inspired experience; Octant Furnas is built around natural hot springs in Furnas Valley with thermal baths and rituals; and Nine DOTS Azores has a small but beautifully designed spa perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring; Herdade no Ananás offers a hot tub in a greenhouse.

Sustainability is at the heart of many Azorean stays. On São Miguel, Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort and Sensi Azores focus on local materials and low-impact design. On Faial Island, Azul Singular offers a unique glamping experience surrounded by nature — a beautiful example of sustainability done differently.

Yes – Azul Singular on Faial Island offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience in the Azores. Set within lush gardens, its canvas lodges and wooden pods combine the adventure of camping with the comfort of boutique design.

Several Azorean hotels welcome families. White Exclusive Suites & Villas and Sensi Azores Nature & Spa on São Miguel Island offer suites and villas with space for small groups, while Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort features family-friendly bungalows and direct beach access.

Direct flights from Lisbon, Porto and Faro (seasonal) reach São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Faial. For smaller islands, take local flights or ferries. Renting a car is recommended — it’s the best way to reach viewpoints, trails and beaches.

Pico is the top spot for whale watching; São Miguel for crater-lake hikes and the hot springs of Furnas; Terceira for history and volcanic caves. Each island has its own charm.

May–October is best for hiking, swimming, and whale watching. Weather changes quickly — pack for all seasons.

Stay at least three days if visiting São Miguel Island, or a week + for two or more. Each island deserves slow exploration.

Growing up, we were fortunate to travel a fair bit around Portugal, and we've never stopped exploring. So, we know our beautiful country pretty well. When we started JO&SO, we first focused on the places we already knew and loved. We also talked to our friends and family to get as much inside info as possible. We mark the hotels where we've stayed as Visited, and we also feature the top places we want to visit – we call this our Watchlist .

Porto is our hometown — a coastal city in northern Portugal set along the Douro River. We love its contrasts: old-world charm and creative new energy, wine cellars and cool design shops, the Atlantic breeze meeting cobbled streets. We share our favourite spots in our book The 500 Hidden Secrets of Porto.

Ericeira, a picturesque seaside town, is located on Portugal's western coast, approximately 35 km (21 mi) northwest of Lisbon. Nestled between Sintra and Mafra, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. As the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe, it is easily accessible via Lisbon's A8 and A21 motorways, making it a popular coastal destination.

Some of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon include Pátio do Tijolo, Memmo Príncipe Real, Palácio Ludovice, and Sublime Lisboa. All have been personally visited and handpicked by JO&SO – Joana and Sofia, two Portuguese sisters on the hunt for the best places to stay in Portugal.

The Algarve is Portugal’s southernmost region, known for its beaches, cliffs, emerald sea, and whitewashed villages. Like many Portuguese families, we spent our childhood summers here and still do — now, one of us (Sofia) calls it home. The Algarve gets a rep for being touristy, but it’s a large region full of hidden gems. We’re always discovering new ones.

Central Portugal is located in the heart of the country, between the northern and southern regions. The major cities in Central Portugal include Coimbra, Aveiro, Viseu, Leiria, and Castelo Branco — a region known for its mix of mountains, surf coast, and charming historic towns.

The Azores are nine volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic. São Miguel is the largest, with crater lakes and geothermal pools; Pico is known for its vineyards; Faial and Terceira for colourful harbour towns. See our article, where to stay in the Azores by island.

Known as the Island of Eternal Spring, Madeira blends dramatic cliffs, lush levada trails and a deep blue sea — plus the world-famous fortified wine. It’s a year-round destination for nature lovers.

We love Quinta da Côrte for its art-filled spaces and artisanal Portuguese details. Torel Quinta da Vacaria features interiors by Joana Astolfi, while Monverde Wine Experience Hotel blends modern architecture with vineyard views. Casa do Rio and Quinta do Vallado pair Scandinavian minimalism with the wild beauty of the Douro.

The Alentejo is all about slowing down. Think rolling plains dotted with cork and olive trees, wild beaches, river beaches, historic towns and delicious regional cuisine. It’s where time moves at a gentler pace — perfect for anyone seeking peace, space, and authenticity.

The Douro Valley is one of our favourite regions in Portugal. Think dramatic hillsides, centuries-old vineyards, state-of-the-art wineries, beautiful quintas, and a deep sense of place. Staying here means waking to river views, tasting wine where it’s made, and discovering timeless hospitality. The boutique hotels in the Douro Valley are another reason to visit.

Most boutique hotels in Comporta are between five and fifteen minutes’ drive from the coast, depending on where you stay. From AlmaLusa Comporta to Comporta Beach is about a 15-minute walk, though it’s not very pedestrian-friendly and can get hot in summer. If you prefer not to drive, consider cycling — most hotels offer complimentary bikes or can arrange electric rentals.

Because we're from Porto. We grew up in Foz do Douro, the exact neighbourhood this guide covers. We launched JO&SO in 2016 because our friends kept asking for recommendations and there was no guide that reflected what we were looking for: hotels with beautiful design, real personality, and a story worth telling. We wanted to visit every property ourselves, get to know the people behind them, and tell their stories, including taking our own photos. Condé Nast Traveller called JO&SO "the most insider online guide to Portugal's coolest hotels." We published our first book - The 500 Hidden Secrets of Porto - in 2021. Every recommendation on joandso.com is one we'd make to a friend.

We don't provide bespoke travel advice or personal recommendations. Everything we recommend is already available for free on our website to help you plan your trip.

For unforgettable Lisbon views, stay at Memmo Alfama, Bairro Alto Hotel, Pátio do Tijolo and The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, which open onto the picturesque rooftops of Lisbon and the Tagus River. In nearby Cascais, Artsy Cascais offers sea-view rooms and a rooftop pool with Atlantic panoramas.

We believe March to June and September to November are the best times to visit Portugal, offering milder weather and fewer crowds.  July–August sells out early, especially small boutique hotels and coastal five-star hotels—book well ahead for those. Some boutique hotels in Portugal close in low season (typically winter).

Ericeira is the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe, known for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and world-class surf spots. This seaside gem, nestled on Portugal's west coast, offers a charming town with whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and excellent seafood restaurants.

Some of the best boutique hotels in Porto include The Rebello Hotel & Spa, Tipografia do Conto, Duas Portas, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, and Armazém Luxury Housing. All have been personally visited and handpicked by us, JO&SO – Joana and Sofia, Portuguese sisters.

Some of our favourite boutique hotels in the Algarve include Pensão Agrícola, Casa Mãe, Praia do Canal Nature Retreat, Amaria and Companhia das Culturas — all have been personally visited and handpicked by us, Joana and Sofia, two Portuguese sisters.

Our favourite boutique hotels in Central Portugal include Areias do Seixo and Noah Surf House in Santa Cruz, BODE Country House in Monsanto, Casa de São Lourenço and Casa das Penhas Douradas in Serra da Estrela, TheVagar Countryhouse in Belmonte, and Casa no Castanheiro in Mêda. 

On São Miguel Island Sensi Azores Nature & Spa offers ocean-view treatments and a thermal-inspired experience; Octant Furnas is built around natural hot springs in Furnas Valley with thermal baths and rituals; and Nine DOTS Azores has a small but beautifully designed spa perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring; Herdade no Ananás offers a hot tub in a greenhouse.

Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is ideal for first-time visitors, with plenty of restaurants and local life. For a slower pace, head to Ponta do Sol or the wild north coast of the island.

Yes – wellness is a big part of the region’s charm. Six Senses Douro Valley is world-renowned for its holistic spa and vinotherapy treatments, while Vidago Palace offers a grand thermal spa built around its mineral-rich springs. For a countryside escape, Monverde has a serene spa and vineyard-inspired therapies.

Yes, some of our favourites include Herdade da Matinha, Sublime Comporta, São Lourenço do Barrocal, AlmaLusa Comporta, Gandum Village, and Monte da Bemposta. Use the filters on this page to browse all pet-friendly hotels in the Alentejo. Check each hotel’s pet policy before booking.

Casa do Rio and Quinta do Vallado both stand out with gorgeous vintage furnishings, mingling antiques with clean contemporary architecture. Quinta da Côrte pairs traditional Portuguese craft with modern bursts of colour and artisanal tilework. Torel Quinta da Vacaria rounds the list with interiors by Joana Astolfi, where each room takes cues from the surrounding landscape.

All of the boutique hotels we feature in Comporta offer family-friendly accommodation, with a mix of rooms and villas featuring fully equipped kitchens and private pools. We personally think Independente Comporta has the most laid-back, family-friendly vibe. AlmaLusa Comporta, in the village, also works well for families, with suites that include kitchenettes and easy access to nearby restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Foz do Douro is a seafront neighbourhood in Porto, sitting where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean, about 15–20 minutes west of the city centre. It has a completely different feel to downtown Porto: quieter, more residential, with 19th-century villas and wide avenues that lead to the sea. It's the part of Porto most visitors miss entirely. People go to Foz to relax: the beach, the beach bars, Serralves, and really good restaurants. No crowds, no tourist trail. Just the city at its most local.

We strictly don't let a place pay its way to be featured on our website. Everything we feature on joandso.com has to be 100% because we like it. We also review our lists regularly. On JO&SO, we only feature what we consider to be the best boutique hotels, guesthouses and holiday rentals in Portugal. You can submit your place for us to review here.

Lisbon’s most luxurious boutique hotels include Sublime Lisboa, Palácio Ludovice Wine Hotel, The Ivens, Bairro Alto Hotel and Valverde Hotel. Discover our curated selection of Five-Star Hotels in Lisbon →

Most visitors stay in Porto’s city centre — Ribeira, Baixa or Cedofeita — where you can walk almost everywhere. For sea views and a more relaxed vibe, we recommend Foz do Douro. For wine and some of the best views of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia sits just across the river. You can also explore our guide, Where to Stay in Porto by Neighbourhood.

For a first-timer, cities Lisbon and Porto are easy wins. Beach lovers should look at the Algarve; vineyard breaks are best in the Douro Valley; Alentejo for slow escapes; nature seekers should consider the islands of Madeira or the Azores. You can browse the best boutique hotels in Portugal by region.

Surfers should head to Praia de Ribeira D’Ilha and Praia dos Coxos for the best waves in Ericeira. Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul are probably the best choices for swimming, but always be careful of strong tides. Praia de Foz do Lizandro is a long sandy stretch with a scenic boardwalk.

Most of the boutique hotels we feature in the Algarve have a pool. Praia do Canal Nature Retreat has a 50-metre infinity pool overlooking forest and ocean, Casa Mãe features a stunning triangular garden pool and a rooftop lap pool, and Companhia das Culturas offers two outdoor pools. Hospedaria and Pensão Agrícola each have small pools.

For a romantic escape, we recommend Areias do Seixo — a design-led coastal retreat with fireplaces and sea views — or BODE Country House, a peaceful hideaway in the foothills of historic Monsanto. If you prefer mountain tranquillity, Casa de São Lourenço offers sweeping Serra da Estrela views and a serene spa.

Sustainability is at the heart of many Azorean stays. On São Miguel, Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort and Sensi Azores focus on local materials and low-impact design. On Faial Island, Azul Singular offers a unique glamping experience surrounded by nature — a beautiful example of sustainability done differently.

Currently our top picks for boutique hotels in Madeira are Reid’s Palace – the island’s legendary five-star grande dame perched above Funchal Bay and 1905 Zino’s Palace – a colourful Art Deco hotel with ocean views in Ponta do Sol.

Several boutique hotels in the North of Portugal welcome families with ease. Vidago Palace has vast parklands and an outdoor pool perfect for children, while Ventozelo Hotel & Quinta offers nature trails and space to roam. FeelViana Sport Hotel, by the beach in Viana do Castelo, is ideal for active families who love surfing, cycling, and outdoor adventures.

Spring, early summer, and autumn are ideal — pleasant weather, blooming fields, and golden light. During summer inland temperatures can soar. In the cooler months, cosy farmhouses and spa hotels make for perfect winter retreats.

Casa do Rio is perfect for couples looking for peaceful isolation and breathtaking views. Quinta da Côrte’s art-filled interiors and serene setting create an intimate feel, while Six Senses Douro Valley blends spa indulgence with vineyard views and candlelit dining. Quinta de São Bernardo offers private terraces ideal for slow mornings and sunset wine tastings.

Spatia Comporta is one of our favourite choices for couples, with its adults-only cabanas, club, beautiful pool, and the excellent ŌRA restaurant tucked among pine forest and peaceful paths. Sublime Comporta’s Bio Pool Suites are another top pick, each with a fireplace and bath, and all sharing a serene natural pool that feels wonderfully private. Quinta da Comporta is perfect for couples who want to indulge in its wonderful spa.

The most atmospheric way is the Number 1 tram, one of Porto's historic trams, running along the Douro riverbank from Infante (near São Francisco Church in Ribeira) all the way to Passeio Alegre in Foz. It takes about 20 minutes and the ride itself is worth it, with the river alongside you the whole way. If you'd rather walk, the riverside route is beautiful: allow around 60–75 minutes on foot at a leisurely pace, or considerably less by bike. Bus 500 is faster and runs more frequently than the tram, and Ubers are widely available across Porto if you'd prefer a direct ride.

Sure, you can submit a hotel here. 🙂

We think that all the boutique hotels in Lisbon we feature on JO&SO are great for couples. But if we have to pick, for a romantic Lisbon escape, we recommend Memmo Alfama, Hotel das Amoreiras, Palácio Ludovice, and Sublime Lisboa.

Serviced apartments are a great option for families. We recommend Village by BOA, Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments or B28 Apartments in central Porto, and Flattered in Porto overlooking the beach in Foz do Douro. Mo House is a guesthouse in the heart of Porto, offering suites with kitchenettes and a homely feel.

Yes to both. You’ll find intimate small hotels perfect for couples and family-friendly hotels with space to roam.

The easiest way to get to Ericeira is by car, which takes approximately 40 minutes to an hour to travel about 50 km from central Lisbon. Bus travel time varies depending on the route taken and stops made, but generally takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. There are also some private transfer services and taxi options available.

The New Year's celebrations in Funchal offer a vibrant atmosphere, featuring a spectacular fireworks display, lively street parties, rooftop gatherings, boat cruises, and festive dinners. Staying at one of the best boutique hotels in Madeira ensures an unforgettable experience during this festive season. Families from across Portugal and beyond flock to Funchal, immersing themselves in the festivities. The mesmerising fireworks, music, and joyful atmosphere create an unforgettable way to welcome the new year.

Praia do Canal Nature Retreat has one of our favourite spas — with a small heated indoor pool, an ice-cold plunge pool, two types of saunas, and a steam room. Casa Mãe offers holistic treatments in a peaceful, minimalist setting, while Companhia das Culturas features a hammam-style steam bath and yoga sessions surrounded by nature.

Casa de São Lourenço and Casa das Penhas Douradas both feature excellent spas with heated pools, saunas and treatments inspired by the Serra da Estrela landscape. Areias do Seixo also offers holistic rituals, yoga sessions and wellness experiences surrounded by dunes and sea air.

Yes – Azul Singular on Faial Island offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience in the Azores. Set within lush gardens, its canvas lodges and wooden pods combine the adventure of camping with the comfort of boutique design.

Yes – both of the boutique hotels we feature in Madeira have wellness areas. Reid’s Palace has a world-class spa and heated pools, while 1905 Zino’s Palace offers spa treatment with ocean views.

Six Senses Douro Valley offers a “Paw, Paw” programme for small dogs, while Monverde allows pets among its vineyards. Vidago Palace accepts dogs in select rooms, and A Padaria Farmhouse offers a relaxed, pet-friendly countryside stay. Always check each hotel’s pet policy for room options, weight limits, and possible fees before booking.

The Alentejo is vast. The Alentejo coast is breezy and beach-driven, while the inland areas (Évora, Monsaraz, and the wine country around Beja) are rich in history and vineyards. Both offer completely different experiences — and we love them equally.

Six Senses Douro Valley is ideal for families, with spacious rooms, pools, a kids’ club and activities for all ages. Ventozelo Hotel & Quinta offers open countryside, walking trails, and local dining in a relaxed setting. Quinta de São Bernardo works well for families or groups, with villas that include private pools and kitchens, perfect for longer stays in nature.

Sublime Comporta’s spa is tucked within pine forest and offers a heated indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, Turkish bath, and organic treatments using ingredients from its garden. It also runs regular yoga sessions and wellness retreats. Quinta da Comporta’s Oryza Spa is a sanctuary inspired by the surrounding rice fields, with rice-based rituals, hammam, sauna, hydrotherapy pools, and a gym overlooking the paddies. Its design, built from reclaimed wood, feels calm, earthy, and deeply restorative.

Yes, especially if you've already seen Porto's city centre and want to understand what the city actually feels like to live in. Foz isn't a neighbourhood built around tourists. It's where Porto's families have been going for generations: for Sunday lunch, for evening walks along the promenade, for the beach in summer. JO&SO, two sisters who grew up in Foz, were asked by Condé Nast Traveller to introduce the neighbourhood to their global readership in 2018.

Yes, here are some of the best boutique hotels in Portugal that are family-friendly.

It depends on what you’re looking for. Our favourite months to visit Portugal are May, June, September and October because it’s quieter and the weather is still great. Note that July and August are busy and hot. However, there are plenty of sunny and warm days in the winter in the Algarve which can be lovely especially if you come from colder countries.

If you’re looking to unwind, choose The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, The Vintage Lisbon, Palácio Ludovice, or Bairro Alto Hotel. These boutique hotels in Lisbon feature relaxing spas, saunas, or wellness treatments ideal for a rejuvenating city break.

We think that all the boutique hotels in Porto we feature on JO&SO are great for couples. But if we have to pick, for a romantic Porto escape, we recommend booking a room with a river view at The Rebello Hotel & Spa or a room with a sea view at Vila Foz Hotel & Spa. Armazém Luxury Housing is perfect for design lovers who appreciate intimate spaces.

The weather in Portugal varies depending on the region and season. The southern coastal Algarve is known for its warm and sunny weather, while the northern areas, like Porto, can be cooler and rainier. Overall, Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.

Located near the Atlantic, Ericeira enjoys a microclimate with mild winters and temperate summers, averaging 20-23°C (68-73°F). Despite winters having average temperatures of 11-13°C (52-55°F), the sun remains strong year-round. Weather can fluctuate due to northern winds, yet the region maintains a generally pleasant climate throughout the year.

We think all of the boutique hotels we feature in the Algarve are pretty romantic, but if we had to pick, we’d recommend Pensão Agrícola, Hospedaria, Praia do Canal Nature Retreat, and Casa Mãe — especially one of the suites in the main house.

For families we recommend Noah Surf House for its relaxed surf spirit, spacious rooms and activities for all ages. Casa das Penhas Douradas and TheVagar Countryhouse also welcome families, with outdoor adventures, fresh mountain air and cosy communal spaces.

Several Azorean hotels welcome families. White Exclusive Suites & Villas and Sensi Azores Nature & Spa on São Miguel Island offer suites and villas with space for small groups, while Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort features family-friendly bungalows and direct beach access.

Hike a levada through the Laurissilva forest, ride the cable car to Monte, zoom down in a wicker toboggan, sip Madeira wine, and take a boat trip to see dolphins. For sandy beaches, hop on a ferry to Porto Santo Island.

All the boutique hotels we feature in the North of Portugal are perfect for couples, but here are a few favourites. Casa do Rio offers dreamy isolation overlooking the Douro River, while Six Senses Douro Valley blends spa indulgence with breathtaking views. Vidago Palace adds Belle Époque grandeur, and Quinta de São Bernardo has private villas and terraces made for slow evenings with a glass of wine.

At least three to five days will let you unwind and explore one area properly. Stay longer if you’d like to mix coast and countryside — distances can be big (for Portugal, at least), and part of the charm here is taking things slow.

Every hotel in this region makes the landscape part of the experience. For sweeping views of the river and vineyards, Casa do Rio offers one of the most breathtaking settings in the Douro. Quinta de São Bernardo opens directly onto the river, while Quinta do Vallado and Ventozelo both provide panoramic vistas across the valley.

Some boutique hotels in Comporta welcome pets. Sublime Comporta allows dogs in certain rooms and villas, Spatia Comporta accepts pets upon request, and AlmaLusa Comporta welcomes well-behaved dogs in selected rooms. Always check each hotel’s pet policy before booking, as conditions and fees may apply.

JO&SO has personally visited and handpicked three places to stay in Foz do Douro.

Duas Portas is a family-run eight-bedroom boutique hotel in a beautifully renovated 19th-century townhouse, located directly in front of the mouth of the Douro, a stone's throw from the beach. The interiors are minimalist, mixing bespoke builds, vintage Portuguese pieces, and designer furniture.

Flattered to be in Porto offers five beautifully designed serviced apartments by the beach, renovated by local architects Barbosa & Guimarães. Design lovers will appreciate the bespoke bookcases, vintage furniture, and designer lighting, and some apartments have sea views.

Vila Foz Hotel & Spa is a five-star 19th-century manor house facing the Atlantic, with 68 rooms and suites, two restaurants by Chef Arnaldo Azevedo, and a spa with indoor pool. One of the most design-led stays in Foz.

See the full JO&SO guide to hotels in Foz do Douro.

Some of the best neighbourhoods for boutique hotels in Lisbon include Baixa (Downtown Lisbon), Chiado, Príncipe Real, Bairro Alto, Alfama, and Avenida da Liberdade – all in central Lisbon. Find out more in Where to Stay in Lisbon: Boutique Hotels by Neighbourhood →

If you want to stay by the sea, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offers Atlantic views and Michelin-star dining. Duas Portas blends beachside calm with minimalist design, while Flattered to be in Porto provides fully equipped serviced apartments right by the water.

Some common Portuguese phrases that you may find helpful as a tourist include "Obrigado/a" (thank you), "Bom dia" (good morning), "Por favor" (please), "Fala inglês?" (Do you speak English?), "Sim" (Yes), “Não” (No) and "Onde fica?" (where is it?). Many Portuguese are comfortable speaking English and Spanish, while others can speak French.

None of our featured hotels in the Algarve are beachfront, but in the Algarve you’re never too far from a beach. Casa Mãe in Lagos is within walking distance of Meia Praia, Hospedaria and Pensão Agrícola are near the quieter beaches of the east, and Praia do Canal Nature Retreat is surrounded by the wild west Atlantic coastline.

Areias do Seixo and TheVagar Countryhouse are both designed with sustainability at their core, using natural materials and renewable energy. Casa no Castanheiro, a minimalist cabin built from cork and wood, is perfect for guests seeking immersion in nature.

Direct flights from Lisbon, Porto and Faro (seasonal) reach São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Faial. For smaller islands, take local flights or ferries. Renting a car is recommended — it’s the best way to reach viewpoints, trails and beaches.

Madeira is beautiful all year. Spring (March–May) brings the Flower Festival; summer means long levada walks; autumn (September–October) offers warm seas; and winter features one of Europe’s best New Year fireworks displays.

Several boutique hotels in the North of Portugal are ideal for an active getaway. FeelViana Sport Hotel in Viana do Castelo is perfect for surfing, kitesurfing, yoga, and cycling by the coast. Six Senses Douro Valley offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and even water-skiing on the Douro River. Inland, Monverde has cycling routes through vineyards, while A Padaria Farmhouse makes a great base for scenic hikes in the Douro hills.

For families, check out Herdade da Matinha, Cucumbi, Sublime Comporta, São Lourenço do Barrocal and Herdade da Malhadinha Nova. Many of the properties we feature in Alentejo have family suites, villas, and pools surrounded by nature.

Casa do Rio features one of the most beautiful infinity pools we’ve ever seen, suspended above the valley. Six Senses Douro Valley has a heated indoor pool and a spectacular outdoor pool. Most of the other hotels we feature in the Douro also have inviting outdoor pools with river or vineyard views, perfect for long, sunny afternoons.

Design lovers are spoiled for choice in Comporta. The décor here is predominantly rustic-chic with all the modern comforts — a look that has come to define the so-called Comporta style. Our top pick when it comes to design, is Quinta da Comporta, by architect Miguel Câncio Martins, which blends traditional architecture and contemporary design with natural textures, handcrafted details, and artworks by Portuguese artists such as Joana Vasconcelos and Vhils.

Serralves is one of Portugal's best contemporary art museums, located in Foz do Douro. The building was designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira and features rotating exhibitions of Portuguese and international contemporary art. What makes it special, especially with children, are the gardens. Before the museum opened, it was just the grounds, and we remember going there for walks as kids. It felt like a forest in the middle of the city. Give it a morning at least, and don't skip the sculptures in the grounds.

We genuinely love all of them. Lisbon and Porto are the cities where we spend most of our time, and they're both fantastic in different ways. We love the Algarve's beaches and laid-back nature; it smells wonderful too! But then we are also very passionate about sleepy Alentejo (South of Portugal) and the stunning Douro (North of Portugal). The Azores islands are magical, and Madeira is so beautiful too. It's hard to pick 🙂

Yes — several boutique hotels in Lisbon we feature on JO&SO have swimming pools, including Memmo Príncipe Real, Memmo Alfama, The Vintage Lisbon, and Hotel Hotel. See the full list in our boutique hotels in Lisbon with a pool collection →

Two to three days let you see the main sights, wander the riverfront, and taste plenty of good food. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Douro Valley — Portugal’s scenic wine region, with terraced vineyards, spectacular views, and some of the most gorgeous boutique hotels we feature on JO&SO.

Yes, a few very special ones. Amaria and Muxima are eco-minded stays near Aljezur, Casas da Quinta de Cima and Companhia das Culturas are tranquil rural retreats in the east, and Praia do Canal Nature Retreat is built with natural materials and a deep respect for the surrounding landscape.

Yes! Areias do Seixo and Noah Surf House are both located by Santa Cruz beach on the Silver Coast — ideal for surf, sunsets and seaside walks.

Pico is the top spot for whale watching; São Miguel for crater-lake hikes and the hot springs of Furnas; Terceira for history and volcanic caves. Each island has its own charm.

May–October is best for hiking, swimming, and whale watching. Weather changes quickly — pack for all seasons.

To explore beyond Funchal and reach levada trails, a car helps — though the roads are steep. If you stay in Funchal and take guided tours, you can manage without.

The North of Portugal stretches from the Atlantic coast to the mountains near Spain. It includes regions like the Douro Valley, Minho, and Trás-os-Montes, and cities such as Guimarães, Braga, and Viana do Castelo. The area around Chaves, near Vidago, is known for its thermal springs. Each part has its own rhythm — from vineyard-covered valleys and spa towns to forested hills and beautifully preserved historic centres.

Most of the places we feature have pools — it's essential here. Some of the best boutique hotels with a pool in Alentejo include Herdade da Matinha, Sublime Comporta, Spatia Comporta, São Lourenço do Barrocal, and Vermelho Melides.

Six Senses Douro Valley leads the way with its 2,200 m² spa, featuring an indoor pool with underwater sound therapy, cryotherapy, an Alchemy Bar, and 10 treatment rooms surrounded by forest. Monverde’s spa offers vinotherapy and heated pools among vineyards. Quinta do Vallado has a smaller but charming spa beside its pool, with a jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna.

Sublime Comporta’s and Spatia Comporta’s outdoor adults-only pools, surrounded by pine forest, are beautiful spots to unwind under the Alentejo sun. Quinta da Comporta’s 40-metre solar-heated infinity pool overlooks the rice fields and it’s one of the most photographed in the region. 

Yes, many times.

For families we recommend The Lisboans Apartments, The Verse, and Locke de Santa Joana. They are all beautiful serviced apartments with kitchen facilities, great design and onsite restaurants.

For boutique hotels in Porto with the most beautiful views of the city, stay at The Rebello Hotel & Spa or Mo House for sweeping river scenes. Duas Portas sits where the Douro meets the Atlantic, while B28 Apartments and Exmo. Hotel overlooks the city’s rooftops and riverfront. For sea views, Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offers an elegant stay right by the ocean.

The west, around Lagos, Aljezur, and Sagres, is wild and perfect for surfers and nature lovers. The east, near Tavira, Olhão, and Faro, feels more traditional, with calm beaches and whitewashed towns. Read more in Where to Stay in the Algarve: West or East.

Spring and autumn offer mild weather, sunny days and quieter roads. Summer is great for beach days, while winter brings snow and cosy fireplace moments to the mountains of Serra da Estrela.