Portland Maine, USA Travel Guide
A full spectrum of hotels exist, from budget chains to luxury boutique properties, often with standard amenities.
Charming B&Bs, many in heritage homes, offer personalized service and gourmet breakfast.
Private homes, apartments, and condos, popular for families or longer stays, often include kitchens.
Budget-friendly, with dormitory-style rooms and shared common areas, some having private rooms.
No direct city camping. National parks and private campgrounds are within a 30-60 minute drive.
Pownal location with primitive camping and cabins.
Casco location with a large campground, well-liked for lake activities.
Consider this platform for house/pet sitting exchanges, an unique accommodation approach.
Choosing the right neighborhood frames your Portland experience. Each area is a distinct character.
For high season (July-August, October), book far in advance, especially for popular hotels and B&Bs. Peak fall foliage in October needs 6-12 months booking. Shoulder season (May-June, September) suggests 1-3 months ahead. Low season (November-April) has more availability and lower prices.
Policies vary by property and platform. Always check terms before booking. Deposits are common for vacation rentals. Pay close attention to refundability and cancellation deadlines. Non-refundable rates are cheaper, but offer no flexibility. Travel insurance can cover some costs.
Recommendations for different budget levels and what travelers require.
The Black Elephant Hostel: A social environment for meeting other travelers.
Boutique Hotels/B&Bs: Welcoming, personalized comfort without overwhelming size.
Hotels in walkable areas (Old Port, Arts District) for easy access to sights.
Use well-regarded platforms and consider direct booking for potential benefits.
A global accommodation booking platform with a wide array of options.
Accommodation booking site with a particular strength in Asian markets, but also global reach.
InterContinental Hotels Group, a key global hotel chain.
Specializes in budget accommodation, hostels, and guesthouses.
A well-known vacation rental booking site, great for long-term stays or groups.
Vrbo often has properties with more space and amenities for families.
Sometimes, direct booking with local properties yields better rates or packages.
Consider this house/pet sitting exchange platform for unique, cost-effective stays. (Visit TrustedHousesitters.com)
Expect more expensive prices in summer, fall foliage season, and major holidays.
Confirm cancellation policies carefully, especially for non-refundable rates.
Direct booking with properties can sometimes mean better rates or packages.
Walk-in rates are rare and usually not lower than online rates.
Think about holiday rentals for space and kitchens. Hotels with indoor pools (like Embassy Suites) are also a good option.
Hostels for a social atmosphere or boutique hotels for a personalized stay.
Vacation rentals are most practical for stays over a week, offering home-like amenities.
The Francis (West End): A restored historic mansion offering modern comfort.
The Press Hotel (Arts District): In the former Portland Press Herald building.
