The Best Pousadas in Portugal

Pousadas are Portugal’s historic hotels, set in castles, convents, palaces and monasteries across the country. Staying in one is a memorable way to experience Portuguese history. Here are some of the best pousadas, and tips for booking.

Quick answer: highlights include the castle pousada in Óbidos, the Convento de Tavira in the Algarve, the castle in Estremoz, the Palácio do Freixo in Porto and the citadel in Cascais. Book direct or through booking sites, and look for off-season deals.

What is a pousada?

The pousadas were created in the mid-20th century to provide comfortable lodging in historic buildings and beautiful regions. Today they’re run as a hotel group, and they range from simple country inns to luxurious palace hotels.

Some of the best

• Óbidos: rooms inside the castle walls. Check prices. See Óbidos.
• Tavira: a former convent in the old town, with a pool. Check prices. See where to stay in Tavira.
• Estremoz: the medieval castle above the marble town. See Estremoz.
• Porto: the baroque Palácio do Freixo on the river. Check prices.
• Cascais: inside the citadel by the marina. Check prices.
• Évora: a former convent next to the Roman Temple. See where to stay in Évora.
• Guimarães: a monastery on the hill above town. See where to stay in Braga and Guimarães.
• Lisbon: a pousada in a historic building on Praça do Comércio.

Tips

• Book early for summer and weekends, as many pousadas have few rooms.
• Driving: many are in small towns, so a road trip is ideal. See the best road trips.
• Dining: pousada restaurants often focus on regional cuisine.

More: the best luxury hotels in Portugal and castles in Portugal.

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