Where to Stay in Portugal: Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas

LAST UPDATED:
August 29, 2022

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Where to Stay in Portugal: Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas

Below is a mix of the Best Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Portugal we have visited and love, plus those that have caught our eye - divided by the following regions:

So far we have mostly focused on bringing you our favourite boutique hotels and small guesthouses in Portugal. However we’ve had multiple requests for additional recommendations, specifically for holiday homes, apartments and villas (preferably with dreamy swimming pools) in Lisbon and on the Lisbon Coast, Porto and the Douro, Alentejo (including Comporta), the Azores and Madeira.

We have always been a bit torn about this. We think they can be brilliant options but it would be a monumental task for us to test all of them in the same way we do with the hotels and serviced apartments that we feature in our collection (and our Watchlist, which we are working our way through).


When the pandemic hit the world, we used the lockdown time to pull together the holiday homes and villas (including Airbnbs) in Portugal we already knew and loved, plus those that we would definitely love to check out in the future.

These lists include a variety of options, from apartments for couples in the cities, to beautiful villas in the Portuguese countryside that are perfect for groups and families.

For us, a place to stay is not just about how it looks. It’s the vibe and most importantly - the location. Whenever we visit a place we ask ourselves two questions: Would we come back? Would we recommend it to a like-minded friend? We have to be honest about the answer to those questions, and both of us have to agree.

It’s important to bear in mind that there are some very special locations in Portugal that are yet to offer a wide range of accommodation options. In some instances, we may have to compromise a little on a place to stay in order to experience for a killer location.

We want to ensure that every place we recommend will create awesome memories for you. While preparing these selections of holiday homes, apartments and villas in Portugal, we continually refined our lists. If you are like us i.e a planner who likes to hunt down the absolute best places to stay on your trips, we hope these shortlists will save you a lot of time.

Keep scrolling to discover some of the best Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Portugal.

Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Lisbon and on the Lisbon Coast

Our beautiful Portuguese capital offers a wide range of holiday rentals and serviced apartments all over the city, as well as some cosy beach houses. We've been researching it all so that you don't have to.

Scroll below to discover some of our tops picks for Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Lisbon and on the Lisbon Coast.

The Lisboans - holiday apartments in Sé, Lisbon.

The Lisboans
– Sé, Lisbon

Serviced stylish apartments set in a stunning townhouse, right in the heart of historic Lisbon. All the accommodation types showcase their own exclusive interior design, with a choice of one or two bedrooms, and every living room comes furnished with a sofa bed.

Casa na Portuguesa holiday apartment in Bica-Chiado in Lisbon.

Casas na Portuguesa
– Bica-Chiado, Lisbon

Casas na Portuguesa offers two and three-bedroom apartments housed in a recently renovated building, combining traditional Portuguese architecture with modern features. The apartments are located near Ribeira Market in Lisbon’s Bica neighbourhood, known for its highly-photographed funicular railway that connects the lower part of the city to Bairro Alto. It's also near to Chiado, Estrela and Cais do Sodré, making it a great starting point to discover Lisbon.

 

Patio São Vicente

Patio São Vicente
– Alfama, Lisbon

Patio São Vicente offers cute cottages with equipped kitchens and a shared charming patio, located in Lisbon’s picturesque Alfama neighbourhood.

Hermitage Castelo - Casa Chafariz - Serviced Apartments in Santos in Lisbon

Hermitage Castelo - Casa Chafariz
– Santos, Lisbon

Five fully serviced one and two-bedroom apartments set in a beautiful historical building facing a charming square near the waterfront. Santos is one of Lisbon's most typical neighbourhoods and is also viewed as the city’s design district.

From the Vine - Holiday Apartment in Baixa in Lisbon.

From the Vine
– Baixa, Lisbon

With its high ceilings, beautiful wooden floors and vibrant, jungle-themed decor, this two-bedroom glamorous home in Lisbon’s bustling Baixa neighbourhood feels like an elegant tropical wonderland. 

Tejo Twilight is an holiday apartment in Príncipe Real, Lisbon.

Tejo Twilight
– Príncipe Real, Lisbon

Artfully designed to make the most out of Lisbon’s dazzling light and stunning skyline, this two-bedroom home in the city’s upscale Príncipe Real neighbourhood is an ideal base for those looking for a stylish, central stay.

Gallop is an holiday apartment in Sé in Lisbon.

Gallop
– Sé, Lisbon

This characterful four-bedroom Lisbon apartment features high ceilings, large windows with original wooden shutters and solid walnut floorboards. There’s an eclectic collection of furniture that works well with the lavish bones of the place, creating an atmosphere that feels grand yet homely. Step outside, and you’ll find yourself right in the historic centre of Lisbon, between Baixa and Alfama.

Lemon Tang is an holiday apartment in Graça, Lisbon

Lemon Tang
– Graça, Lisbon

A studio apartment in the same building as our previous pick. The spacious shared terrace, pool and garden area are a treat.

Vogue - Holiday Apartment near Cais do Sodré in Lisbon.

Vogue
– near Cais do Sodré, Lisbon

Located near the nightlife hotspot, Cais do Sodré and the iconic food Time Out Food Market, this contemporary two-bedroom apartment offers exposed walls and warm wood to create a luxe but inviting feel.

Casa R&R is an holiday apartment in Estrela in Lisbon.

Casa R & R
– Estrela, Lisbon

This two-bedroom apartment in Estrela offers boho decor, where rattan and wicker furniture blend in among earthy tones and flourishing indoor plants. There’s an inviting private terrace plus the building’s communal amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, a fitness room and a sauna.

SeaYa Villas

SeaYa Villas
– Cascais

Sea’Ya Villas consist of three totally independent villas, in the picturesque village of Charneca in Cascais, less than 2km from the famous Guincho beach. Surrounded by nature, these beach holiday homes are also a great option for those traveling with family.

Living room at Bem Lembrados, an apartment to rent in Cascais. White sofa, hanging black and white photos, microcement flooring and wooden shelves with decorative objects

Bem Lembrados
– Cascais

This spacious two-bedroom apartment is located in the Bairro dos Bem Lembrados neighbourhood, in the coastal town of Cascais. The town centre and the main beaches are a 10-minute walk from the apartment.

Princely Attire is an holiday villa in São João do Estoril, Lisbon.

Princely Attire
– São João do Estoril, Lisbon

Perched on the cliffs of Estoril, this remarkable eight-bedroom villa boasts sweeping ocean views. Recently the house was beautifully renovated by renowned Portuguese architect Manuel Aires Mateus, known for his minimalist yet elegant style.

There’s a private path that leads directly down to the beach (Praia da Azarujinha) and a heated swimming pool, making this an excellent option for a family or large group looking for a seaside villa near Lisbon. 

Azenhas do Mar West Coast Design and Surf Villas

West Coast Design and Surf Villas
– Azenhas do Mar, Sintra

Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque village on the coast of Sintra, around a 40-minute drive from Lisbon’s centre. These well-equipped five charming one-bedroom apartments all come with a balcony and sea view, plus a shared terrace. Booking in advance is recommended.

Areias do Seixo Villas in Santa Cruz

Areias do Seixo Villas
– Santa Cruz

Areias do Seixo Villas are located on the west coast of Portugal, only a 50-minutes drive north of Lisbon. Boutique hotel Areias do Seixo has created five unique three-bedroom villas, each with an outdoor terrace, a private pool, a fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Santa Cruz beach is only a 10 minute walk from the villas.

Bear in mind that while the villas are perfect for families, that Areias do Seixo Hotel’s main building (bedrooms, restaurant, spa and outdoor swimming pool) is designed for people over 16 years of age. However, children can access the reception, lobby, bar and terrace areas, between noon and 6pm, namely, for light meals service. Those seeking something more adventurous can also stay a the Shelter, a glamping experience by the lake.


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Buy the Full List: 45 Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Lisbon & Lisbon Coast

Handpicked Holiday Homes and Apartments in Porto

Our hometown has some really lovely boutique hotels and guesthouses, but if you’re looking for an apartment or home to rent in Porto, you will also be spoilt for choice. When visiting Porto, if you have time we highly recommend a 1-3 day trip to the wine region of Douro.

Scroll below to discover some of our tops picks for Holiday Homes and Apartments in Porto.

Airy living room with filly open floor to ceiling windows with a beautiful city view, at B28 Apartments Porto

B28 Apartments
– Historic Centre, Porto

B28 are among some of the best serviced apartments in Porto, tucked away on the charming street Rua de Belomonte in the heart of the historical centre. The apartments are light and airy with minimalist decor, ornate ceilings and hardwood custom doors – not to mention the killer views some of the apartments offer. Accommodation options range from studios to two-bedroom apartments which are ideal for families. Fresh bread is delivered to your door each morning, and a daily cleaning service is also included in the price of your stay.

Local Tip: Nearby don’t miss Escovaria de Belomonte, a historical artisan shop selling brushes of all types – the store is one of Porto’s most precious gems.

Armazém Luxury Housing Apartments

Armazém Luxury Housing Apartments
– Historic Centre, Porto

These stylish apartments are run by Armazém Luxury Housing, one of our favourite boutique hotels in Porto (you can read more about the hotel here). The apartments are located just a few metres from the hotel, in the historic centre of the city.

Village by BOA

Village by BOA
– Historic Centre, Porto

An uninhabited 19th-century neighbourhood has been transformed into 40 accommodation units across five beautifully restored buildings in the iconic Bairro do Silva.

Village by BOA is set in a historic neighbourhood characterised as a 'ilha'. The ilhas (islands) of Porto were originally distinct working-class housing complexes that are thought to have been influenced by British back-to-back terraced houses from the late 18th to early 20th century.

The 40 accommodation options range from 30-85m2, featuring one to two bedrooms. All come equipped with fully furnished kitchens, complimentary toiletries, and daily housekeeping services.


S.Bento Residences - Serviced Apartments in Porto

S.Bento Residences
– Historic Centre, Porto

S.Bento Residences offers 16 stylish fully-equipped apartments, each uniquely decorated. Renowned Porto architecture studio Pedra Líquida designed the building. Its origin was an old ruin located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it rises as an extension of the cliff itself. The inside houses comfortable self-catered apartments and a 24-hour reception desk, with concierge service.

The sleek living room and kitchen at Villa Almada by Canto de Luz, with floor to ceiling modern windows overlooking the garden

Villa Almada by Canto de Luz
– Downtown, Porto

This two-bedroom villa is housed in the grounds of the boutique hotel Canto de Luz. The villa is an oasis in the heart of the old town, featuring its own dining terrace, a private garden and a small but mighty swimming pool. Also worth mentioning is the homemade breakfast, the daily housekeeping, a 50” smart TV (inc. Netflix), an Xbox with games, a gas BBQ, a bean to cup coffee machine and a music smart speaker.

Condes de Azevedo Palace Apartments

Condes de Azevedo Palace Apartments
– Downtown, Porto

These serviced apartments are set in a unique renovated 13th-century palace in downtown Porto. There are ​​19 generously sized apartments and studios, with fully equipped kitchens and access to a shared garden. As a bonus, they offer a 24-hour front-desk service and breakfast is delivered straight to your door.

Baumhaus Serviced Apartments
– Boavista, Porto

Designer apartments set in a gorgeous four-storey building in the centre of Porto. Guests can also enjoy a beautiful garden with an iconic pine tree, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the city.

Super Naturals is an holiday apartment in Cedofeita in Porto.

Super Naturals
– Cedofeita, Porto

This pretty studio apartments is located in Cedofeita and offers a lovely outdoor terrace. Within walking distance to the historical centre and all the best sights.

Your Pale Blue Tiles is an holiday apartment in Bonfim in Porto.

Your Pale Blue Tiles
– Bonfim, Porto

Set in a gorgeous blue-tiled 19th-century townhouse, we really like the nordic cool look of this one-bedroom apartment. It’s located in the up-and-coming Bonfim neighbourhood, home to the School of Fine Arts of Porto (Faculdade de Belas Artes da Universidade do Porto) just outside the city centre. The area has a creative vibe, with a few coffee shops and vegan cafes opening up in recent years.


A wall filled with art prints, and a dining table at the stylish Flattered to be in Porto

Flattered to be in Porto
– Foz do Douro, Porto

We absolutely adore the Flattered to be in Porto apartments, situated in the residential neighbourhood Foz do Douro where we grew up. They are our top choice recommendation if you want to stay by the beach in Porto, with some of the apartments offering soothing sea views. The apartments are cleaned daily and a basket with an array of delicious fresh breakfast goods is delivered to you each morning. The kitchens are very well equipped which makes these apartments a great choice for longer stays or families.

Casa Castanha - Holiday Home in Porto Handpicked by JO&SO

Casa Castanha
– Massarelos, Porto

Casa Castanha is an architect-designed building named after its striking slim facade. This gorgeous two-bedroom townhouse comes with a pretty cool rooftop terrace and two bikes that guests can use for free. It’s located in Massarelos, near the river and within walking distance of the historic centre of Porto.

The Wave Catcher is an holiday apartment in Foz do Douro in Porto.

The Wave Catcher
– Foz do Douro, Porto

This three-bedroom architect-designed home is located in Foz Velha, Porto’s quaint seaside neighbourhood. Concrete floors and multi-level spaces make for a unique living area with a chic surfer lodge vibe that continues throughout the rest of the home. The spacious balcony offers both city views and seascapes.

Home Waters is an holiday apartment in Foz do Douro in Porto.

Home Waters
– Foz do Douro, Porto

With its feet right in the sand, this modern one-bedroom apartment couldn’t be closer to the beach. Windows perfectly frame the Atlantic, while the interior takes inspiration from its surroundings. The apartment is within walking distance to many great restaurants and bars, and it’s only a 15-minute ride to Porto’s centre on the bus or tram (Uber, Bolt etc. widely available).

Starboard Waters in an holiday apartment in Foz do Douro in Porto.

Starboard Waters
– Foz do Douro, Porto

This contemporary two-bedroom apartment sleeps up to five people each and are a two-minute walk from Praia do Carneiro, in the neighbourhood of Foz do the Douro. After a busy day exploring the city or chilling at the beach, relax on the big L-shaped sofa.

Leeward Waters in an holiday apartment in Foz do Douro in Porto.

Leeward Waters
– Foz do Douro, Porto

In the same building and similar design-wise to our previous pick. 

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Buy the full list: 38 Handpicked Holiday Homes and Apartments in Porto

Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in the Algarve, including Costa Vicentina

The Algarve is Portugal’s most sought after destination and there are many good reasons why. The Algarve has gorgeous golden sandy beaches with a beautiful turquoise sea, delicious fish, world-class golf and friendly locals. It’s a region with an unforgettable scent of almonds, oranges and figs.⁠ There are still many secrets in the Algarve waiting to be discovered.

Scroll below to discover some of our tops picks for Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in the Algarve, including Costa Vicentina.

Casa 1876, a Traditional Algarve house,  with a swimming pool with floating toys and a clear blue sky

Casa 1876
– São Brás de Alportel, Algarve

Casa 1876 is a family holiday home in São Brás de Alportel, in southern Portugal. Rural and elegant, Casa 1876 is a modern farmhouse set in a beautiful olive grove area, with serene views over the valley and the sea in the distance. Its four bedrooms can comfortably host up to eight people. We think this is one of the most beautiful villas in the Algarve.

 

The Modernist - Holiday Apartments Handpicked by JO&SO

The Modernist
– Faro, Algarve

What used to be known to locals as ‘the ugliest building in Faro’ has been brought back to life as a three-storey building with six apartments available to rent. Inspired by the 1970s everything has been impeccably renovated in full respect of its original Mid-Century Modern Design. Each apartment comes with a kitchenette, a private balcony, a shared garden patio and a rooftop to sunbathe and enjoy panoramic views of Faro (outdoor shower included). A truly unique place to stay in Faro.

Flattered to be in Algarve – Holiday Apartment in Tavira, Algarve

Flattered to be in Algarve
– Tavira, Algarve

Facing the centuries-old Tavira saltpans, these two-bedroom holiday apartments are housed in the multi-residential complex of Convento das Bernardas - a modern renovation undertaken by Eduardo Souto de Moura, one of Portugal’s most acclaimed architects and 2011 Pritzker laureate. There are two saltwater swimming pools, a parking space for each unit and beautifully kept outdoor spaces and communal areas.

The Lemon Lodge - Holiday Homes in the Algarve Handpicked by JO&SO

The Lemon Lodge
– Aljezur, Algarve

Tucked away between the Monchique hills and endless beaches of Costa Vicentina, The Lemon Lodge is a small-scale organic farmstead. The renovated Algarvian Taipa farmhouse offers two unique lodgings, surrounded by a landscape of pine trees. If you wish, they can make your experience entirely off-grid so that you can properly switch off and be at one with nature.


Rustic bathroom with vintage lamps at Casa da Oliveira in Bordeira in the Algarve.

Casa da Oliveira
– Bordeira, Algarve

This little one-bedroom house is situated in Bordeira, a small rural village in south-west Alentejo and the Costa Vicentina Nature Park. The house has been fully renovated by the owner, an interior architect. The whiteness of its walls, the irregular steps made of shale, the hand-painted wooden materials, all work together to make this house a very charming and cosy place to stay.

 

Holiday House in Aldeia da Pedralva in the Algarve, with an outdoor terrace, round dinning table under the shady terrace

Holiday House in Aldeia da Pedralva
– Vila do Bispo, Algarve

This four-bedroom holiday home is located in the countryside near beautiful wild beaches. It’s part of Aldeia da Pedralva, a resort that was built from the ruins of an abandoned Portuguese village. There’s a communal seasonal swimming pool, a couple of restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities such as surfing, biking and bird watching. Expect to spot grazing sheep, donkeys and chickens roaming freely in the surroundings.


Under Canvas - Holiday Home in Portimão in the Algarve.

Under Canvas
– Portimão, Algarve

This fantastic six-bedroom home in the city of Portimão belongs to Dutch artist Eric de Bruijn. The riad-inspired courtyard offers a black swimming pool and dusty pink walls with beautiful tall cacti. Sleeps up to 14 people.

Portimão is not the prettiest city in the Algarve, but it has its charm. The famous sandy beach Praia da Rocha beach is a 15-minute walk away, and there are plenty of beautiful beaches a short drive away. The holiday home is also within walking distance to many good casual eateries, plus one of Algarve’s best Michelin-starred restaurants, Vista.

Best Seat in The House - Holiday Apartment in Vila Nova de Cacela, Algarve.

Best Seat in The House
– Vila Nova de Cacela, Algarve

A modern floor-to-ceiling glass windows two-bedroom holiday home located in the resort Monte Rei Golf and Country Club. You don't have to be a golf fanatic to stay here, as there are also spa treatments, tennis courts, a cinema, a games room, restaurants and a huge swimming pool surrounded by loungers to be enjoyed. The charming village of Cacela Velha and some of Algarve’s best beaches are a fifteen-minute drive.

For What It’s Earth –  Holiday Home in Lagoa, Algarve.

For What It’s Earth
– Lagoa, Algarve

If you’re looking for a spacious yet sleek villa with a swimming pool in the Algarve, this one might be for you. This five-bedroom villa sleeps up to ten people and is beautifully decorated, with a focus on sustainability – think solar panels, recycled materials and wastewater systems.

Nearby Carvoeiro has plenty of charming restaurants, bars and picturesque beaches. Praia da Marinha is a ten-minute drive, Praia da Benagil is reachable in thirteen, while the clifftop boardwalk and seaside eateries in town are just fifteen minutes away.

Contiguity – Holiday Home in Lagoa, Algarve.

Contiguity
– Lagoa, Algarve

Creative, modern design fuses with traditional features to perfection at this immaculately converted Quinta dating back to 1895. Offering three bedrooms and a swimming pool, the house is nestled in the historic centre of Lagoa. Jump in the car and hit the coast for stunning beaches and coves less than a ten-minute drive away. 

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Buy the full list: 44 Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in the Algarve, which we have divided into three sections: Eastern Algarve (including Faro, Olhão and Tavira), Western Algarve Part I (Costa Vicentina) and Western Algarve Part II (incl. Lagos, Alvor, Silves)

Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Alentejo, including Comporta

The Alentejo region is home to some of the most beautiful villas in Portugal, from architect-designed holiday homes in Comporta overlooking pretty rice fields to authentic farmhouses in truly rural settings. Be ready to embrace the slow life and discover charming sleepy villages, spectacular wild beaches and fantastic regional cuisine.

Scroll below to discover some of our tops picks for Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Alentejo, including Comporta.

Casa Maritima is an holiday villa in Carvalhal, in Comporta.

Casa Marítima
– Comporta, Alentejo

This stunning five-bedroom holiday home with a dreamy infinity pool and a lush garden is located near the beaches of Pego and Carvalhal, in Comporta.

Swimming pool with sun loungers at Casas de Arroz in Comporta

Casas de Arroz
– Comporta, Alentejo

These four architect-designed ‘huts’ (houses with thatched roofs inspired by local fishing huts) in Possanco can be rented independently or all together. There’s a shared infinity pool overlooking the neighbouring rice fields and wild meadows. Cabin rental in Comporta doesn’t get much better than this.

 

Swimming pool and sun loungers at Flor de Arroz, a holiday villa in Comporta

Flor de Arroz
– Comporta, Alentejo

This gorgeous boutique stay offers a two-bedroom villa with an adjacent two room cabin, accommodating up to eight people in total. Flor de Arroz is located at the foot of the magnificent rice fields of Comporta in Lagoa Formosa.

Outside view of Manos 114, a holiday home in Comporta with outdoor terrace, swimming pool and big windows showing the inside of the villa

Manos 114
– Comporta, Alentejo

Manos 114 is a cosy three-bedroom villa located in Comporta, just a five-minute drive from the beaches of Carvalhal and Pego. Surrounded by pine trees, this is the perfect place to relax and to enjoy morning and evening walks. The villa is a perfect retreat all year round, including in winter by the fireplace.

 

Campo de Arroz, white beach house with a swimming pool surrounded by the beautiful nature of Comporta

Campo de Arroz
– Comporta, Alentejo

Campo de Arroz is a beach house with an inviting swimming pool located in Comporta’s magnificent rice fields near the beautiful Carvalhal and Pego beaches. It features a house and a garden cabin, which can be rented either together or separately, and accommodate up to 10 people.

Casa de Cantoneiros, an holiday villa in Comporta.

Casa de Cantoneiros
– Comporta, Alentejo

This pretty holiday home in Comporta has six en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a garden and a heated salt-water swimming pool. The villa is a ten-minutes drive from the beaches of Comporta, Pêgo, Carvalhal or Aberta-a-Nova and a five-minute walk from the village of Muda.

Casa Branca da Muda, holiday villa in Comporta.

Casa Branca na Muda
– Comporta, Alentejo

An industrial-style six-bedroom villa nestled in the peaceful village of Muda, minutes from the best beaches in Comporta. Enjoy spectacular views in a stylish space, with wall-to-wall open views of the countryside. This home was custom built and furnished with great attention to detail.

Casa dos Brejos - holiday villa in Comporta

Casa dos Brejos
– Comporta, Alentejo

This luxurious six-bedroom villa comprises handcrafted wooden structures that sit atop shimmering sand, with a beautiful pool at its foot. The kitchen offers original, striking touches with its black cabinets, glossy tiles, and an angular island.

Precious Cabin in Comporta - Holiday Home Handpicked by JOSO

Cabin in Comporta
– Comporta, Alentejo

This stylish modern cabin in Comporta has spectacular views and is within walking distance to the beach and the village. The house has two bedrooms, one with a double bed and the other with a bunk bed - ideal for a family with kids or a couple. A swimming pool is a recent addition.

Precious House in Comporta

Precious House in Comporta
– Comporta, Alentejo

Precious House in Comporta is a modern, well-designed three-bedroom villa in Comporta, surrounded by a natural landscape of pines and eucalyptus. The house comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms, laundry space and an open plan kitchen to a 60sqm living room. There’s a 12-metre lap pool and a sun deck.


Monte do Pardieiro do Meio, holiday home in the Alentejo.

Monte do Pardieiro do Meio
– Grândola, Alentejo

This four-bedroom villa sleeps up to 10 and truly shows what the Alentejo region is about. This idyllic place is surrounded by nature and cattle, and the nearby village of Grandola with all its amenities is only a 10-minute drive away. Comporta and some of the spectacular wild beaches are less than a 30-minute drive.

 

Concrete Kingdom, a holiday villa in Comporta.

Concrete Kingdom
– Comporta, Alentejo

Nestled in the peaceful hamlet of Brejos da Carregueira de Cima, this four-bedroom villa offers a stylish design aesthetic, with microcement flooring throughout, exposed concrete ceilings and large windows. The outdoor terrace with a raised swimming pool makes this a perfect setting for a relaxing getaway with all your favourite people.


Outdoor terrace, swimming pool and house, at Casas da Horta

Casas da Horta
– Alcácer do Sal, Alentejo

Casas da Horta comprises two two-bedroom villas which can be rented together or individually, each with a private outdoor patio, a swimming pool, a fireplace and a well-equipped kitchen. The estate has an inviting lake for swimming and the picturesque town of Alcácer do Sal is 8km away, while the pristine beaches of Comporta are a 30-minute drive. To top it all off Lisbon’s international airport is only an hours’ driving distance from these beautiful villas.

Herdade do Frei Cuco is an holiday home in Santiago do Cacém in Alentejo.

Herdade do Frei Cuco
– Santiago do Cacém, Alentejo

A three-bedroom holiday home with a swimming pool located in Santiago do Cacém’s countryside but also only 7km from the beach. Perfect for those seeking silence, nature and relaxation.

Casa no Montinho -  Holiday Home in Alentejo

Casa no Montinho
– Ourique, Alentejo

Casa no Montinho is located in Ourique, in the deep heart of the Alentejo countryside. The farm stay comprises two semi-detached buildings, which can be rented independently or as a whole. There are various spaces for relaxing, including a sundeck and saltwater swimming pool. Housekeeping is available on request.

 
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Buy the full list: 37 Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in Alentejo, including Comporta

Handpicked Holiday Homes and Villas in the North of Portugal

The Douro Valley is known as a wonderful haven for wine lovers. But the North of Portugal is also a haven for nature lovers. The awesome Passadiços de Paiva in Arouca is an 8 km walk on wooden stairs and suspended bridges, while in the Peneda-Gerês National Park you’ll find dozens of granite villages that haven’t changed much since the creation of Portugal in the 12th century.

Scroll below to discover some of our favourite Holiday Homes and Villas in the North of Portugal, including the Douro.

Charming living room and kitchen at Quinta do Cedro - a holiday home in the Douro, with eclectic colourful decor.

Quinta do Cedro
– Armamar, Douro

Quinta do Cedro is a small two-bedroom farmhouse located just an hour’s drive from Porto’s international airport. This charming holiday home features a swimming pool and is surrounded by vineyards, apple trees and fruit orchards. We really love the colourful eclectic decor 🙂


Quinta do Olival Loft Farmhouse, holiday home in the Douro

Quinta do Olival Loft Farmhouse
– Armamar, Douro

This authentic Douro farmhouse has been fully renovated and converted into an idyllic six-bedroom holiday home. At Quinta do Olival, you will feel the country vibes, as the farmhouse stands out with its artistic decor and its charming views of the valley and vines.

Quinta do Gato - Holiday Home in Douro Valley

Quinta do Gato
– Armamar, Douro

This four-bedroom villa with a beautiful swimming pool is set in a fully renovated rustic house in Armamar, in the Douro Valley. It has two double bedrooms, one twin room and another room with two bunk beds, sleeping up to 10 people in total. Restaurants and supermarkets are a 10-minute drive away.

Modern Talking is an holiday villa in Braga.

Modern Talking
– Santa Leocádia, Braga

This striking three-bedroom holiday home is located in the village of Briteiros, near Braga and also Guimarães, two of Portugal’s oldest and most charming small cities. Highlights include the walls of glass, the impressive collection of Mid-century furniture, the glass windows, a home library, a movie projector and a refreshing lap pool.

Casa Soenga - Holiday Home in the North of Portugal Handpicked by JO&SO

Casa Soenga
– Caniçada, Vieira do Minho

This charming holiday home is an hours drive from Porto, and it’s a great choice for those seeking a relaxing, nature-infused break not far from the city. Surrounded by a lush forest and with views of the mountains and river, Casa Soenga has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a saltwater swimming pool. The nearby Peneda-Gerês is one of Portugal’s most incredible national parks, boasting hiking trails, waterfalls and untouched forests.

Casa dos Cabeçudos, holiday villa in Afife in Viana do Castelo.

Casa dos Cabeçudos
– Afife, Viana do Castelo

This four-bedroom villa features a patio with garden views, an outdoor swimming pool and a terrace. Casa dos Cabeçudos is located in Afife, near the beach of Praia da Arda.

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Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in the Azores and Madeira

The Portuguese islands of the Azores and Madeira are small groups of beautiful volcanic islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Madeira is a four-island archipelago while the Azores is composed of nine smaller islands, offering a more rugged nature-based experience. Even though Madeira has a larger tourism infrastructure than the Azores, we actually think that the Azores offers a wider choice when it comes to boutique small hotels and holiday homes.

Scroll below to discover some of our tops picks for Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in the Azores and Madeira.

Quinta dos Peixes Falantes in Ribeira Grande, Azores

Quinta dos Peixes Falantes
– São Miguel, Azores

Two beautiful and well-equipped studios and a couple of one-bedroom houses in Ribeira Grande, with access to a private garden and swimming pool. The holiday homes are surrounded by a garden that guarantees silence and total privacy for an immersive experience in the Azores.


Rear view of the outside of Pink House Azores, a boutique guesthouse in São Miguel.

Pink House Azores
– São Miguel, Azores

We love the look of this restored old barn turned into designer boutique accommodation, just a 7-minute drive from the historical centre of São Miguel in the Azores. There’s a seasonal outdoor pool.

La Maison by White Exclusive Suites & Villas in São Miguel in the Azores.

La Maison
– São Miguel, Azores

Surrounded by gardens, La Maison is a spacious four-bedroom villa in Lagoa, on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. It offers a private heated pool, and it’s only a five-minute walk to the beach. La Maison is owned by boutique hotel White Exclusive Suites & Villas, just 50 metres away.

Aerial view of Lava Homes, a special resort on the island of Pico in the Azores.

Lava Homes
– Pico, Azores

This special resort on the island of Pico has a small village feel, offering panoramic sea views and an incredible heated swimming pool (14x5m). There are fourteen accommodation units, from one to three bedrooms, all with kitchenettes and breathtaking views of the north Atlantic. There’s also a grocery store and a restaurant, offering both dine-in and take-away options.

 

Three House Hotel - Holiday Apartments in Madeira Handpicked by JO&SO

Three House Hotel Apartments
– Funchal, Madeira

The Three House Hotel in the heart of Funchal offers various studios to two bedrooms apartments with kitchenettes and access to the hotel’s amenities, including the swimming pool. The roof terrace boasts one of the most beautiful views of Funchal.

 

Set on the Sea is an holiday apartment in Ponta do Sol in Funchal, Madeira.

Set On The Sea
– Ponta do Sol, Funchal, Madeira

Perched above the town of Ponta do Sol on Madeira’s south coast, this one-bedroom apartment embraces minimalist modern architecture. An inviting infinity pool is shared with one other apartment, along with the hillside hot tub. It’s a six-minute walk into the centre of Ponta do Sol, where there’s a handful of cafés, bars and restaurants and a local grocery shop. The larger town of Ribeira Brava is a 10-minute drive away.

 

Apartments Praça Amarela - Holiday Apartments in Madeira Handpicked by JO&SO

Apartments Praça Amarela
– Funchal, Madeira

These well-designed apartments all face one of the most picturesque squares in Funchal. Some nice touches include the artisan ceramics, original artworks, cotton bed linen and the complimentary bathroom amenities.


<orange>Looking for more options in the Azores and Madeira?<orange>
Buy the full list: 17 Handpicked Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas in the Azores and Madeira

The Bundle - All of our Handpicked Lists of Holiday Homes, Apartments and Villas all over Portugal

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Here's hoping you create new memories here in Portugal. Tag us on Instagram (we would love it if you do!) and let us know how it goes. 🤗

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Obrigada,
Joana and Sofia
- JO&SO

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© Photos by JO&SO and by each of the mentioned places.

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