The little coastal city of Portland Maine has become a serious travel hotspot, and with that comes a ton of options on where to stay. And if you’re looking for the best hotels to stay in, you’re not alone. So instead of you sifting through every listing, I’ve narrowed things down to a few categories that actually make sense for travelers. Consider this your quick Portland Maine hotel guide, a roundup of stays that really live up to the buzz.
PS: If you haven’t decided yet, check out our guide on the best neighborhoods/areas in Portland Maine.
Now let’s dive in!
In a Hurry? Here Are Our Top Picks for Every Traveler’s Need!
TRAVEL TIP: DON’T WAIT to book a hotel you like, they go fast at popular destinations. Book it first with free cancellation to lock in the room; just cancel it if plans change. You’ll save hours of time & effort from trying to find another later.
Best Family Hotels in Portland Maine
Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Maine
Embassy Suites feels more like a home base than a hotel, which is why I think it’s one of the best family hotels in Portland ME. The rooms are all suites, so you get extra space for kids to spread out (or for parents to enjoy some quiet after bedtime). The free hot breakfast is a huge plus when you’re traveling with little ones, and the indoor pool gives everyone a way to burn energy no matter the weather.
What I like here are the little conveniences that make family travel easier: a free airport shuttle, kitchenettes in some rooms, and a manager’s reception with snacks in the evening. Parents can also relax knowing Old Port and the beaches are just a short drive away. For me, it’s the balance of comfort and location that makes this spot stand out.
This place feels perfect if you want a family-friendly stay that keeps you close to both the airport and downtown. You can check Hotels.com or Booking.com to compare deals.
Nearby Attractions: Old Port (10–12 min drive), Portland Head Light (15–20 min drive)
Nearby Transport: Portland International Jetport (2 min drive, free shuttle), easy access to I-95
Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
Cambria Hotel has a fresh, modern vibe that works well for families who like city life but also want space to unwind. The location is a winner, you’re right in the middle of Old Port, close to Casco Bay ferries, with shops and restaurants all around. I think it’s great if your kids enjoy exploring on foot and you don’t want to rely on the car much.
What stands out here are the extras that make the stay smoother: spacious rooms with big windows, a rooftop bar where parents can sneak in a sunset drink, and a restaurant that’s open late if you need an easy dinner. It’s also pet-friendly, which is a bonus if your “family” includes a four-legged member.
I recommend this spot if you want a family stay that mixes comfort, convenience, and a fun neighborhood atmosphere. You can check availability for Cambria Hotel on Hotels.com or see other deals at Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal (5 min walk), Eastern Promenade walking trails (10 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (15 min drive), ferries to Peaks Island right nearby
Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront
Hilton Garden Inn is the kind of hotel that understands what families need. It got spacious rooms, helpful amenities, and a waterfront setting that make this one of my top picks for family hotels in Portland ME. Rooms here also have refrigerators and microwaves which is super helpful when the kids need snacks or want a simple meal. Also, the indoor pool and hot tub let everyone splash and unwind even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
What stands out here are the kid-friendly touches: rollaway beds and cribs available, connecting rooms so parents and little ones can stay close, and extra seating and living-area space in many rooms. The restaurant on-site, Port65 Kitchen & Bar, serves breakfast and dinner, so you don’t need to go far at mealtimes. I think this place is great if you want comfort, convenience, and enough services to make travel with children smoother.
This place feels perfect if you want a family-friendly stay where you can walk to ferries or dinner, but also retreat to a calm room at night. You can check Hilton Garden Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront on Hotels.com or see rates on Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal (≈ 5 min walk), Old Port shops & restaurants (5-10 min walk), Eastern Promenade trails (10 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Portland International Jetport (≈ 15 min drive), local bus stops, walkable to ferries
Best Affordable Hotels in Portland Maine
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland
La Quinta has a more suburban feel, but it’s budget-friendly and still only a few minutes from downtown by car. The rooms are clean and modern, and the free breakfast adds extra value. I recommend this one if you’re okay being a little outside the center but want to save money.
Free parking, a small outdoor pool, and pet-friendly rooms stand out here as these extras aren’t always available at lower prices. It’s close to the highway too, which makes day trips easy if you’re exploring more of Maine. Plus it’s close to the airport so it’s super convenient for your flights. And the free breakfast? Chef’s kiss!
This hotel feels perfect if you’re road-tripping or just want affordable comfort without fuss. You can look for deals on La Quinta through Hotels.com or Booking.com
Nearby Attractions: Thompson’s Point (5 min drive), Old Port (10 min drive)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (10 min drive), free parking for guests
Inn at St John
Inn at St John is one of the oldest continuously operating inns in Portland, and it shows in the charm. The vibe is vintage and a little quirky! The rooms are individually decorated, and the staff make it feel more personal than a chain. Prices are very reasonable compared to downtown hotels.
What I like here is the character: there’s free continental breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, and a location that’s not right in Old Port but still close enough by car or bus. It’s a nice option if you don’t mind something with a historic feel. The building itself is very photogenic too. Lots of people use it as a backdrop for their photo ops!
This place is great if you want budget rates and don’t need all the modern hotel bells and whistles. Head on over to Hotels.com for the best deals. Check rates on Booking.com too!
Nearby Attractions: Hadlock Field (5 min walk), Thompson’s Point (15 min walk), Old Port (10 min drive)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (10 min drive), Metro bus line stops nearby
Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay
Holiday Inn By the Bay offers solid comfort at a price that’s easier on the wallet compared to Portland’s boutique stays. The vibe is simple and straightforward, but you still get perks like an indoor pool and harbor views from the higher floors. I think it’s a reliable option if you want to stay downtown without splurging.
The convenience stands out here. They have free Wi-Fi, a handy shuttle for getting around, and a spot right between the waterfront and the Arts District. You’ve got museums, shops, and plenty of restaurants just steps away.
This spot works well if you’re looking for value and location in the same package. You can check availability for Holiday Inn By the Bay on Hotels.com or compare rates on Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Portland Museum of Art (5 min walk), Old Port (12 min walk), Cross Insurance Arena (3 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (15 min drive), free hotel shuttle
Best Luxury Waterfront Hotels in Portland Maine
Portland Harbor Hotel
Portland Harbor Hotel is one of those places that feels upscale the moment you step in. The vibe is polished but relaxed, with nautical-inspired décor and cozy touches that make it feel connected to the city’s maritime roots. I think it’s perfect if you want luxury in the heart of Old Port, just steps from the waterfront.
The details here make the stay feel a notch above with elegant rooms with deep soaking tubs, a peaceful courtyard garden, valet parking, and a restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Guests can also borrow free bicycles, a fun way to cruise Portland’s cobblestone streets and waterfront paths.
This place feels perfect if you want luxury and location rolled into one. You can book Portland Harbor Hotel on Hotels.com or compare prices on Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Casco Bay ferry terminal (7 min walk), Old Port shops and restaurants (2–5 min walk), Portland Museum of Art (10 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (15 min drive), ferries to Peaks Island nearby
The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
The Press Hotel is modern luxury with a quirky nod to Portland’s history. It’s housed in the former headquarters of the Portland Press Herald. The vibe is stylish and creative, with typewriter-themed décor, vintage printing accents, and an art gallery in the lobby. I think it’s great if you like hotels with a story behind them.
JThere are luxurious upscale touches with the chic rooms with marble bathrooms, plush robes, and views of downtown or the harbor. The on-site restaurant, Union, is one of the city’s top spots for local Maine cuisine. The location at the edge of Old Port puts you right where the city buzz meets the waterfront.
I recommend this spot if you’re into boutique-style luxury with character. You can check availability for The Press Hotel on Hotels.com. Or check other rates at Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Old Port (5 min walk), Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal (8 min walk), Portland Observatory (15 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (15 min drive), easy access to ferries and local bus lines
AC Hotel by Marriott Portland Downtown/Waterfront
AC Hotel brings a sleek, European-inspired vibe to Portland’s waterfront. The design is minimalist and modern, with clean lines and huge windows that give you views of Casco Bay. I think it’s a good fit if you like a contemporary feel and want to stay close to both the water and Old Port.
The amenities are a good balance of style and comfort. There’s a sleek bar and lounge with small plates, a well-equipped fitness center, and roomy accommodations with walk-in glass showers and generous workspaces. If you book a bay-view room, waking up to the water makes mornings even better.
This place is perfect if you want a modern luxury stay right by the harbor. Hotels.com got good prices. Great deals are also on Booking.com.
Nearby Attractions: Casco Bay ferry terminal (5 min walk), Eastern Promenade (12 min walk), Old Port (8 min walk)
Nearby Transport: Portland Jetport (15 min drive), ferries within walking distance
Where Will You Stay in Portland, Maine?
When you’re ready to step outside, Portland makes it easy. You’ve got the ferries to Peaks Island, fresh lobster rolls on every corner, and the iconic Portland Head Light just a short drive away. If you’re flying in, the airport’s only 15 minutes from downtown, so you spend less time traveling and more time exploring.
Whatever your budget or style, Portland delivers stays that feel like part of the experience, not just the backdrop. Now the only question is, which one will you call home while you’re here?
