The 9 best Pensions in Portugal, Portugal

April 28, 2023 Randal Brittian

Portugal’s Mediterranean charm is most prominent on the golden beaches of the Algarve; in the wilderness of the Azores islands; among the vineyards of Douro Valley; and on the cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto, where old-world culture meets cosmopolitan bars and restaurants.
Things to do in Portugal

1. Dianamar

Rua Latino Coelho 36 8200-150 Albufeira, Albufeira 8200-150 Portugal
Excellent
69%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 189 reviews

Dianamar

Dianamar Bed and Breakfast by the Sea is perfectly situated only 200 metres from the lovely Albufeira beach and a short walk (300 metres) to the centre of Albufeira with it's many restaurants, bars and shops. This small and cosy home away from home is owned by a Swedish family. Dianamar is recommended by several travel guides (Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, Let's Go, Guide Routard, Geoguide, ...).You will find Dianamar in a small and quiet street in the heart of Rossio, a nice and quiet old quarter of Albufeira. Our roof terrace has sun beds, shower, tables and chairs. From this terrace you have a splendid view of Albufeira, the beach, the ocean and the marina. When you stay at Dianamar you get: Breakfast buffet, snacks and drinks, free safety boxes, laundry service and free wifi internet. You can watch several international cable channels in our TV-room. Our breakfast buffet is served from 830 am to 11 am. Afternoon tea/coffee is served 3-6 pm. Dianamar has different types of rooms (single, double and triple rooms) at reasonable prices. All rooms have a private balcony. Some rooms have sea view. All rooms have private wc and bathroom. We arrange transport to and from Faro Airport at favourable prices. Larger groups are very welcome. We can help you to organize special programs for your group (dinner parties, excursions etc).Dianamar welcomes guests from April to October.

Incredible value and hospitality in Albufiera

Reviewed By billsJ3796RU

Eugenio as our host for 3 nights could not have been more helpful or accommodating! He helped us with transportation to local activities and provided anything that we asked for. This is centrally located but not in a noisy part of town, with a view to die for! We had a patio to enjoy a happy hour, with a free bottle of wine, nice breakfast each morning - this is the place to stay!

2. Casa de Docim

Rua da Sangiva, 2 Lugar de Docim, Fafe 4820-578 Portugal
Excellent
91%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
3%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 34 reviews

Casa de Docim

Eighteenth-century country house, carefully restored in keeping with the past and a cozy, familiar and charming gift. With 4 double rooms and a suite with two bedrooms and living room is ready to give you a warm welcome to the life of the field. Breakfast is included and the use of the kitchen is permitted if the house is rented in its entirety or subject to availability. The pools, the garden, the orchard, the routes of access to the house, geometric, covered by vines and bordered by century-old codornos offer a bucolic setting in perfect communion with nature. Remember places where silence is only interrupted by the bell of the church or the birds chirping? The house is still Docim!

A real gem!

Reviewed By barbabientje

Casa de Docim is a real gem and has every ingredient for a perfect holiday: the beautiful house, the wonderful surroundings, the garden, the pool, the delicious homemade breakfast every morning, plenty of room and toys for the kids, the fully equiped shared kitchen, ... And last but nog least: the staff! Fatima, Dulce and Christina and the entire staff who make sure you feel like royalty... nothing is too much... we had truly a wonderful stay!

3. Pensao Francisca

Brejo de Baixo Almagreira, Santa Maria 9580-014 Portugal
Excellent
91%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 123 reviews

Pensao Francisca

Our B&B Pensao Francisca is located close by the village of Almagreira, VPT on Santa Maria island, Azores. On the first floor, we rend three spacious modern rooms each fitted with a own bathroom. There is a customers area where we serve breakfast in case weather conditions do not allow to serve it on our sunny terrace, you have access to Wi-Fi or a computer to check your mails etc as well. A rich "Swissstyle"-breakfast is included in the rate. Enjoy the views overlooking the plateau of Tremocal out to the Atlantic ocean. To the famous sand beach "Praia Formosa" it's just a 30 min walk, the next store and cafe is a 8 min walk away from our place.

Wonderful stay!!!

Reviewed By Anastasia S

We stayed at Pensão Francisca for two weeks in October. As a young family with a 4-month old baby, we really enjoyed our stay and couldn’t have asked for kinder, more welcoming hosts. Franziska’s breakfasts were absolutely delicious, and we loved her freshly baked breads, homemade bircher muesli, homegrown fruit and veggies (the best avocado I’ve ever tasted!) and eggs from the chickens that roam happily around the farm. Both Franziska and Christian have a wonderful energy, and they are doing what they love - their passion for organic farming and sustainable living made us really appreciate the beauty and the unique environment of Santa Maria. They gave us a lot of tips and ideas for what to do on the island and how to be best prepared for the changeable weather. Our baby girl had a wonderful time too, and the room was very comfortable for her, had a large bath, and a cozy cot to sleep in. Thank you Franziska and Christian for having us. We really hope we can come back someday and maybe even be your neighbours. From Douglas, Anastasia and Delphy

4. TEIMA Alentejo SW

S. Teotonio half-way between Odeceixe and Zambujeira do Mar, Sao Teotonio, Odemira 7630-675 Portugal
Excellent
95%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 166 reviews

TEIMA Alentejo SW

A "country chic" B&B, set in a green valley, minutes away from some of the more stunning beaches in Europe

Simply divine

Reviewed By juliaaM2431UX

Luisa’s place is a piece of heaven built with obvious love , exquisite taste and bathed by tranquility. Luisa and her staff , Martha and Liliana went out of their way to make us feel welcome and comfortable. The natural, peaceful surroundings they all invite calm. As an animal lover, I adored the vicinity of few furry delightful residents that , without doubt, are as spoiled as the guests by Luisa. Fabulous breakfast and a lovely afternoon snack of tea and cakes just added to the feeling of everything being so well thought and caring. The location is perfect to explore breathtaking beaches and views , just minutes away. I travel a lot but I can say that this place is really special and miraculously managed to melt away my very tense London body and mind.

5. PortugalSurfCamp

Rua do Barril de Cima 20, Ericeira, Mafra 2655-020 Portugal
Excellent
84%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 140 reviews

PortugalSurfCamp

Located on a lush hillside next to the charming seaside town of Ericeira, PortugalSurfCamp takes you away from the hustle and bustle to a traditional styled Portuguese villa situated just a few steps away from São Julião beach. The camp provides not only great accommodation that suits all budgets but also a surf adventure of a lifetime. Expert coaches offer step-by-step introductions for beginners as well as surf guiding for experienced surfers who’d like to explore new surf spots or improve their technique. And if quality surfing isn’t quite enough, you can join yoga classes to strengthen your core, enjoy a soothing massage, jump into the refreshing pool in the beautiful backyard of the camp or just relax post surf with a chilled beer during the popular BBQ night. In addition, you can easily explore the stunning surrounding area between Ericeira and Lisbon, dive into the vibrant Portuguese nightlife and enjoy the local cuisine.

Be careful - you will not want to leave!

Reviewed By Giedre B

We stayed in the surf camp for three weeks in June 2018. This was a first time surfing experience for both of us, we went from falling every time we would try to stand up - to starting to catch green waves by ourselves. We had the help and support of Flavio and Chris during the first two weeks and Titi in the final week. All three of them are amazing teachers, pushing you when necessary, giving tips in and outside of the water and always cracking a joke and keeping the mood light. The surf instructors will always look for the best conditions to surf for all levels. We did not only surf at the home beach of São Julião, but also got to travel around the area and surf other magnificent beaches of Portugal. There is no doubt that the coaches will analyse the forecasts and will take you to the perfect spot at the perfect time! The camp has everything that you’d wish for! Spacious garden with hammocks, slacklines, small volleyball net, ping pong table, not to mention the pool area which is perfect for after surf relaxation. Inside – pool table, indo board, books, a tv with impressive collection of surfing movies and documentaries, and a community fridge full of drinks and ice cream you can buy at a very reasonable price! All making a perfect setting for socialising and getting to know other guests and the crew. In addition to aforementioned activities, there will be something planned almost every night that you can (and you should!) take part in – camp tournaments, movie nights, dinners in the city and BBQs to mention a few. As well as tours through Ericeira or must see places around. Thus, a relaxed yet active leisure time is guaranteed! The camp is very tidy, everything (including the rooms) are cleaned on a daily basis. Amazing breakfast is served everyday and recently exciting new breakfast menu was launched. This review would not be complete without mentioning Kathy’s superb cooking skills! At an extra cost the camp offers Monday dinners and the BBQ on Friday which was very lovely. The guests and the crew were all very friendly and we definitely felt like at home in no time. However, it is worth mentioning that the absolute majority of the staff and guests are German-speaking. Neither of us knows German (although we did pick up some words at the camp), hence at times it was difficult to get involved, especially during group activities. it wasn’t that big of an issue for us, and we still had a great time there, however, it is something to consider if you don't speak the language and/or are looking for an international experience. Overall, if you are looking for a relaxed holiday where you can zone out and forget about all your worries, lose yourself in the hot sun and the Atlantic ocean waves, this is the place to go! We did not know what to expect when we first came but we expect to be back soon, Akvile and Giedre

6. Bonsai Family Residence

Estrada Chao de Meninos 12, Sintra 2710-193 Portugal
Excellent
63%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
10%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 68 reviews

Bonsai Family Residence

A Magical Place To Stay and Great Value For Money

Reviewed By ventnoral

We were looking for a place to stay near Sintra for a few days summer break and this was one of the few available at an affordable price, so we booked it but did not expect too much. How wrong we were and I cannot imagine finding anywhere nearly so good. Being partly disabled, it was great having parking by the gate and only about 12 metres from the ground floor apartment. The owner, Marco, was very kind and ultra helpful, keeping us well supplied with a good range of breakfast food, tea, coffee, milk and juice. Not only that, but there were also always a couple of bottles of wine on hand! The apartment, or I should really say, house, is spacious and comfortable, with beds for three in the upstairs bedroom, a well fitted kitchen, a bathroom that was well supplied with toiletries and plenty of fresh towels and a comfortable living room with TV. There is WiFi everywhere, even in the lovely tranquil garden, with its ponds of giant colourful fish and of course, plentiful Bonsai trees. The "smokers" gazebo is such a comfortable spot, that even non-smokers like me found it a delightful place to relax and let the world go by! Thank you Marco and hopefully we will be back. Alan, Jenny & Chris (Monchique)

7. Outeiro Tuias-Manor House

Rua Casa do Outeiro Tuias, Marco de Canaveses 4630-240 Portugal
Excellent
90%
Good
10%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 41 reviews

Outeiro Tuias-Manor House

Outeiro Tuías- Manor House has a long history since its roots go back to the XVII century. In 1621, the ancestors of the actual owners had lived here.You will be very welcome to visit the chapel which is located at the center of the house and is dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Pilar. On our farm you can visit archaeological remains dating back to the Middle Ages. The House is located 3 km from the center of Marco Canaveses and 12 Km of A4 (Porto-Vila Real), which facilitates the movement of visitors to the farm. With good road and rail access, benefits from the proximity of Porto which is located 55 km and 50 km from the Douro valley that is enshrined world heritage.

Summer in sunny June

Reviewed By angiesobrinho

Upon entering the large iron gates into the pateo you are transported into another century. The hosts and owners and a magnificent and graceful couple that makes you feel at home. What a gorgeous family they have and I had the privilege to be with. The rooms are elegant and beautifully furnished and the grounds and furniture are wonderful (all of it handworked by the host herself!). Great breakfast, with open windows while listening to the only sound in the morning: the cheerful birds singing! It was beautiful to just hear them. This is a place of true relaxation, with the train station only a 7 minute drive from the property. All the main cities around (Porto, Amarante, Vila Real, Braga, Guimarães) are only whitin an hour maximum drive and a few less train ride, so you can spend your day enjoying the cities and then enjoy the quite of the hillside town. Douro wine region is only a few minutes away so you can make the most of your stay while visiting that other Enchanted Kingdom (you cannot miss it!). I would say I have stayed in many places throughout Europe and the world and this has to be one of my favorites and most genuines. The green is greener and the water is fresher here. It's like you've entered an enchanted story, apart from the noisy day-to-day life and you just need a proper set of tea (or a glass of a vino verde, famous here) and a hat with a feather to feel that you're in an epoque movie or an Eça de Queiroz book! I cherish the memories I've from this place and the owners like few I've stayed. Have a try, in this troubled times, go and be with your family and/or friends. Make the most of your time and really have some rest and peace in here. I've stayed here while the beautiful hortenses were blooming and painted the set around with its colorful flowers! The pool at the house is privately located so you can hang around peacefully. Poker, the house dog, is a beauty and a must! So amicable and sweet,if you travel solo he won't let you feel alone! You definitely won't regret a bit. I'll come back as soon as I can! I thank to Inês and Zé Maria and their beautiful daughters (Inês and Pilar) the warm welcoming and stay. You're in my heart! See you soon ?

8. Quinta Rosa Amarela

Zambujal Cabeca de Aguia Cabeca De Aguia, Boliqueime 8100-070 Portugal
Excellent
80%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 46 reviews

Quinta Rosa Amarela

Drop your bags and feel at home; a lay back place where you can say 'I was happy here' in the heart of the Algarve! 5 Standard cozy bedrooms with access to front terrace or sea views windows, a suite with sea view and a studio with access to inside jasmin patio. A large pool with children area

Total bliss!

Reviewed By HannahGreenerGreen

We had the perfect stay at Quinta Rosa! Stayed during the pandemic and felt so at ease with social distancing etc. Breakfast is just delicious: fresh bread, fruits, yogurt, granola, cheeses, juice and eggs. Served on the terrace overlooking the garden with olive trees. There was a small confusion with our room so the hosts kindly offered the studio for free which was so spacious and we really appreciated it - thank you! Super comfy bed, very very hot powerful shower. Pool is so refreshing, plenty of space and beds. Water is definitely cool but welcome. Location is a great to access the algarve area but you’ll definitely need a car. A few reasonable restaurants nearby but you should definitely visit nearby Loulé for dinner and the market. Aldi & Lidl 3mins drive really useful for drinks and snacks as the communal kitchen was closed due to Covid. Outdoor terrace area so inviting and quiet. The place looks like an advert from Zara home - just gorgeous. Hosts Diana & her mother are so lovely and welcoming. Thanks for the perfect stay, we’ll be back!’

9. Pensao Elegante

Travessa Fala-So 12, Lisbon 1250-110 Portugal
Excellent
29%
Good
46%
Satisfactory
20%
Poor
4%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 245 reviews

Pensao Elegante

Great value

Reviewed By helenCPL

Fab central location (although be prepared to lug your suitcase up a little hill if you take public transport there!). Be prepared to speak/ understand either french/spanish/Portuguese rather than english, depending on who checks you in. Great to have my own shower in the room for the price. Loved the furniture and the shutters. Very authentic Portuguese accommodation. Excellent value and would stay again.

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.