Are you planning a trip to Portugal? Then our selection of one-of-a-kind holiday rentals and Airbnbs in Portugal will help you make it a memorable experience. Whatever your Portugal itinerary looks like – a visit to Lisbon with a day trip to Sintra, relaxing at one the golden Portuguese beaches, a few days exploring Cascais, a Costa Vicentina road trip, a Douro cruise, an action-packed Porto city break or a relaxing stay in the Algarve near Lagos, Cavoeiro, Faro or the Benagil cave – we’re sure you’ll find your dream vacation rental in this curated list of unique homes and Airbnbs in Portugal. And to help you plan your trip even better, we’ve included the nearest town, closest beach and the best activities in the area for all Portugal rentals.
Let’s have a look at some of the most eye-catching boutique house rentals and mesmerizing Airbnbs in Portugal.
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In case one of the holiday villas in Portugal listed here would no longer be available on the platform, then we apologize for the inconvenience. We’ll do our very best to keep this list updated on a regular basis.
What you should know before renting a vacation rental or Airbnb in Portugal
Some houses in Portugal, especially authentic properties in the old town center, may lack decent airconditioning. For some areas, such as the cooler Sintra mountains, those might be acceptable options in shoulder or low season but never in summer. If you’re unsure whether airconditioning would be essential at your location, we’d suggest to read the reviews on the booking platform to learn about other travelers’ experiences.
When booking an Airbnb in Portugal’s hubs Lisbon and Porto, you’ll need to pay tourist tax as part of your reservation. At €2 per person per night (with a maximum of €14 per person), it’s a reasonable cost.
If you’re headed to Portugal on a family beach vacation, it’s worth informing if any beach essentials will be made available to you. Some hosts have a collection of beach towels, parasols, buckets and spades for their guests to enjoy.
Rent a house in Portugal: Airbnb or rental platforms?
This article started as a collection of Portuguese Airbnbs but recently we’ve been including more and more Booking.com and VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) home rentals in Portugal. Here’s why: Before April 2021 we, and many other travel bloggers with us, were allowed to promote Airbnb listings as Airbnb Associates. Despite its success, Airbnb chose to end this cooperation and communicated that they prefer to focus their efforts on attracting more new listings than on promoting existing ones. As a result, Airbnb Associates were requested to remove all links to the Airbnb website. That’s why we’ve replaced the links and feature (either the exact same or very similar) Booking.com rental homes in Portugal instead of Airbnbs in Portugal.
Algarve Airbnbs and other house rentals
Let’s start off this list of unique Airbnbs and house rentals in the most popular region for holiday makers: The Algarve. The sought-after southern and tranquil south-western coastline are dotted with one-of-a-kind homes and hidden retreats. Here’s our selection of amazing rentals and Airbnbs in the Algarve.
Psst… For a more classic Algarve vacation, be sure to check out our selection of private pool villas in Algarve as well.
Treehouse overlooking both rural landscapes and seascapes
This hand-crafted wooden treehouse is tucked away between the authentic town of Tavira and the Spanish border. It was built onto a carob tree and offers a rustic interior with luxury finishes. This unique vacation rental comes with its own rooftop terrace offering front-row seats to the sunset. The stylish rural retreat where it’s located operates as a small hotel and, in addition to the treehouse, also offers suites and a family apartment. The latest addition is this gorgeous little cabin with its own private pool. The walls of this brand-new wooden structure consist of piles and piles of logs, resulting in a gorgeous little hideaway that blends in perfectly with the landscape. Contrary to the treehouse, this cute cabin does come with its own kitchenette.
More details about this treehouse in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Cacela Velha.
- Nearest beach: Cacela Velha beach.
- Perfect for: Families looking for a tranquil and all-natural escape in a boutique hotel with excellent service.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Enjoy one of the prime Algarve beaches nearby, explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park with its deserted islands, go horse riding on the beach, spot some unique birds in the Castro Marim Natural Reserve Bird Observatory, explore enchanting Tavira town or explore the area by bike.
- Nightly rate: €306-478. A minimum number of nights may apply in high season.
Moorish flair steps away from the beach
A former fisherman’s cottage was transformed into this magical Moroccan riad equipped with modern amenities. It’s tucked away in the winding streets of sleepy Salema village, with easy walking access to picturesque Salema beach, shops and local restaurants. This stylish retreat with its gorgeous courtyard enjoys a privileged location in one of the most authentic parts of the Algarve.
More details about this villa rental Portugal:
- Nearest town: Salema, located haldway between lively Lagos and surf paradise Sagres.
- Nearest beach: Salema beach (Praia da Salema).
- Perfect for: Couples or families who prefer a quieter Algarve experience and a more authentic feel without compromising on the proximity of a beach.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Watch the fishermen arrive with the catch of the day, discover the Monchique mountains, hike amidst fields of wildflowers in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, look for the dinosaur footprints at Salema beach, explore the Algarve coast by kayak, check out the megalithic monuments that dot the area, swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Praia da Ingrina, discover the Ponta da Piedade rock formations and visit the end of the world in Sagres and Cape St. Vincent.
- Nightly rate: €170-€215. No minimum number of nights applies.
Floating house to explore distant horizons
Whether you’re looking for a different kind of accommodation or a one-of-a-kind experience, this gorgeous houseboat is guaranteed to wow you. It’s anchored in the Ria Formosa lagoon which you can reach by water taxi from the Olhão marina. The houseboat comes with 2 SUPs to explore the coastline and a small inflatable boat to visit the nearby beaches. A wooden platform makes it easy to go for a swim. The houseboat is equipped with 2 bedrooms, a bathrooms and a small kitchen. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset from the top deck or the sun lounger.
More details about this Algarve house rental:
- Nearest town: Olhão.
- Nearest beach: Bordeira beach.
- Perfect for: Those looking for the ultimate escape.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Explore the coastline or head to Ilha da Culatra by SUP, count the starts from the top deck, take in the beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park or explore enchanting Olhão town.
- Nightly rate: €200-470. A minimum number of two nights applies.
Stylish cottage in a natural park
This picture-perfect house in the enchanting town of Bordeira is a true stunner thanks to its white-washed walls, traditional roof and the harmonious blend of natural elements. The hosts thought of every little detail to make your stay truly memorable. The intimate patio is the perfect place to end the evening after a day of Costa Vicentina adventures.
More details about this holiday accommodation in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Bordeira.
- Nearest beach: Bordeira beach.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers or surfers.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Take a surf lesson, hike along the Rota Vicentina’s Fisherman Trail in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, climb the Bordeira dune, visit some of the charming villages that does this pristine rural area and take a day trip to Sagres or Lagos.
- Nightly rate: €200-250. A minimum number of nights applies.
Glamping in a spectacular setting
Enjoying a privileged location and spreading over 50 hectares (125 acres), the Quinta Alma natural retreat is a place of intense beauty and soothing tranquility. There’s no better place to unwind and reconnect to nature than in one of the intimate tents that dot this breathtaking landscape. Each well-appointed tent – the Romantic Mountain Shelter, the Superior Safari Shelter and the Riverside Deluxe – comes with its own private bathroom. Enjoy a delicious daily breakfast (included with every stay) before taking a dip in the on-site lake. After a day of exploration, you’re free to prepare your meal in the shared kitchen before retreating to your tent for a spectacular stargazing experience.
Details about this unique rental in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Aljezur.
- Nearest beach: Monte Clérigo beach.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Take a dip in the on-site lake, hug the residential donkeys, explore the pristine landscapes of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park or the verdant Monchique mountains, climb the Bordeira dune, visit the charming village of Aljezur with its famous castle, discover the nearby beaches, conquer the area by mountainbike, spend the evenings stargazing or and the days reconnecting to nature.
- Nightly rate: €130-200 (plus extra beds). A minimum number of nights applies.
Region of Lisbon Airbnbs and other house rentals
Are you looking to combine your trip to Lisbon with an exploration of the wider Lisbon area? Then you’ll love this selection of house rentals and Airbnbs near Lisbon.
Lovingly restored windmill
Spend the night in this historic windmill that was thoughtfully restored into a rustic and cozy home away from home. La Galette is authentic, romantic thoughtfully appointed. The 2 bedrooms, a kitchen and bathroom are spread over 3 separate floors. Relax in your hammock under the pine trees that fringe your intimate and tranquil outdoor space. Some amazing beaches are within easy reach of this gorgeous home and the spectacular Sintra palaces can be found nearby.
Another accommodation can be found on-site. It’s this stylish cottage that can accommodate 2 guests and comes with a private patio and plunge pool.
Details about this rental house in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Fontanelas.
- Nearest beach: Aguda Beach.
- Perfect for: Couples and small families looking for an authentic retreat from where to explore the wider Sintra area.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Visit the Sintra palaces, explore the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park by bike, relax at one of the gorgeous beaches or discover the cliff-perched fishing village Azenhas do Mar.
- Nightly rate: €108-124 for 2 guests, €20-€30 supplement per extra guest in the authentic mill and €213- 231 for the modern cottage. A minimum number of nights applies in high season.
Romantic bubble perfect for stargazing
Glamping never looked so good in the Rêves Étoilés bubble tent. This romantic cocoon is equipped with a kitchenette, television and minibar. In addition, guests can enjoy their private balcony, bathroom and jacuzzi. Shared facilities include a communal swimming pool, lounge bar and equipped kitchen. Located in a pristine area with minimal light pollution, so rest assured that your bubble offers front-row seats to the nightly skies. The names of the bubbles speak for themselves: Luna (Moon) and Estrella (Star). This truly is one of the most romantic Airbnbs in Portugal.
More details about this Airbnb in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Setúbal.
- Nearest beach: Albarquel beach.
- Perfect for: A romantic couple’s getaway.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Portugal Airbnb: Spot dolphins in the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve, explore the city of Setúbal, hike in the Arrábida Natural Park, visit the Badoca Safari Park, discover the Convento da Arrábida, relax at Galapinhos beach or take the Ferry to the Troia peninsula.
- Nightly rate: €140 and up. A minimum number of nights applies.
Luxurious holiday home near the Sintra palaces
An exclusive destination calls for an exclusive property. If you’re looking to explore the wider Sintra area in style, then the Quinta da Serra luxury villa makes for an excellent travel base. You’ll find it tucked away in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, about halfway the Sintra Palaces and the coast. Its chef”s kitchen, two well-appointed living rooms, seven spacious double bedrooms (sleeping 14 guests), a refined library and a game room make it one of the best Portugal holiday homes for a (multigenerational) family trip. A private and spacious outdoor living area with heated saltwater swimming pool, jacuzzi and sunken lounge with fire pits complete the stylish picture.
An on-site guesthouse is available on request to accommodate a larger group of guests.
More details about this villa rental in Portugal:
- Nearest town: São Martinhol.
- Nearest beach: Praia Grande & Praia de Macas.
- Perfect for: A (multigenerational) family getaway.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Portugal Airbnb: Visit the spectacular Sintra Palaces, relax at one of the nearby beaches, tee off at one of the nearby golf courses, hike your way to Praia da Ursa, visit the westernmost point in Europe, hit the shops in Cascais or make a day trip to Peniche, Óbidos or Nazaré.
- Nightly rate: €1300 and up. A minimum number of nights applies (7 nights in high season and 3 nights in low season).
- This amazing rental villa is available on Plum Guide, our go-to rental home service. Their selection of impeccable apartments is highly qualitative and the booking process is effortless. But most of all, and unlike Airbnb, they don’t leave you hanging when the host cancels your stay last minute. Plum Guide will look for an alternative and even add in an upgrade if inventory allows.
Tranquil retreat in a natural park
Cascais is one of our favorite places to go in Portugal. It’s a culture-packed gem that’s perfectly located to organize day trips to Sintra, Belém and Lisbon. It’s also home to a handful of beaches. Unfortunately, though, these city beaches tend to get packed on a sunny day. That’s where this gorgeous house rental on Portugal’s Lisbon Coast comes in. It’s a tranquil hideaway operated by a surf school and located within the grounds of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Praia do Guincho, one of Portugal’s finest beaches, is at your doorstep. Join your host for a surf lesson on this legendary beach or explore the best the Lisbon Coast has to offer before spending an enchanting evening at around the fire pit.
More details about this Portugal Airbnb:
- Nearest town: Cascais.
- Nearest beach: Guincho beach.
- Perfect for: Families or parties of four will love exploring this gorgeous Portuguese region, since there’s so much to see and do in and around Cascais.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Bike your way along the spectacular coastal trail that connects the Guincho beach to the Cascais marina, visit the Boca do Inferno, take a surf lesson on Guincho beach, follow the Cascais boardwalk to Estoril, get inspired at the Cidadela Art District or the Museum District, enjoy a seafood cataplana or take a day trip to Sintra.
- Nightly rate: €300 on average. A minimum number of nights might apply.
Alentejo Airbnbs and other house rentals
The Alentejo coastline, located in between the southern Lisbon and Algarve regions, is one of Portugal’s best kept secrets. It’s a luxurious destination dotted with secluded beach houses and unique retreats. Here’s our selection of the most dreamy rental houses and Airbnbs in Portugal’s Alentejo coastal region.
Understated luxury amidst the rice paddies
At the crossroads of the powdery white beaches and the rich wetlands of the Sado estuary is Comporta, a small town with a sophisticated flair. This pretty playground is discretely dotted with elegant hideaways and refined refuges such as the Casas de Arroz, an enchanting ensemble of two houses (sleeping four guests each) and two cabins (sleeping two guests each). The minimalistic design of white-washed walls, thatched roofs and wooden boardwalks pays homage to the traditional fishermen’s houses and forms a stylish canvas that accentuates the natural surroundings. Enjoy the endless country views from the inviting infinity pool before exploring the tranquil scenery or enjoying the mouth-watering local cuisine.
More details about these holiday rentals in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Comporta.
- Nearest beach: Comporta beach.
- Perfect for: Couples and families looking for a tranquil retreat in a natural setting.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Explore the pine tree and cork oak forests by bike, take a surf lesson, meet the local bottlenose dolphins on a catamaran tour, go birdwatching in the estuary, enjoy a horseback ride on the beach and treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood platter with your feet in the sand.
- Nightly rate: €300-1400. A minimum number of nights applies.
Dreamy dome amidst the treetops
If you’re looking to disconnect amidst a soothing landscape of cork oaks and olive groves, then check out one of the dreamiest stays in Portugal. This dreamy dome is surprisingly spacious and includes a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom with rain shower. It’s set in a vast domain that looks out over the Santo André Lagoon. There’s a wide range of shared facilities as well, from two inviting swimming pools (an infinity swimming pool and biological pool) to a sunset lounge and play area for little adventurers. Your private porch is the perfect place to take in all that natural beauty, watch the most mesmerizing sunset and gaze at the stars.
The other holiday accommodations at this ecological boutique hotel can be found here.
More details about this Portuguese holiday accommodation:
- Nearest town: Santiago do Cacém.
- Nearest beach: Praia da Aberta Nova.
- Perfect for: Adventurous families looking to explore Portugal off the beaten path or couples looking for a romantic experience.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Portugal Airbnb: Explore the Santo André Lagoon nature qreserve, go mountain-biking, hike the Historical Way of the Rota Vicentina, discover the most colorful wildflowers, go bird-watching,
- Nightly rate: €190-315. A minimum number of 2 nights applies in high season.
Charming beach cabin
This enchanting cabana is well equipped and spacious enough for small families. The outdoor area is a lovely place to spend the evening while firing up the bbq. This cute Portuguese Airbnb is located within walking distance of the splendid Comporta beach and even closer to the town’s posh restaurants, shops and boutiques. Comporta is the place where locals come on holiday but, thanks to its secluded character, this sophisticated town is also popular with superstars.
More details about this Portugal Airbnb:
- Nearest town: Comporta.
- Nearest beach: Comporta beach.
- Perfect for: Beach lovers who love the understated yet glamorous Comporta lifestyle.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Go horse-riding on Comporta beach, explore the Troia Peninsula, spot dolphins in the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve and enjoy the finer things in life.
- Nightly rate: €64-129. A minimum number of 2 nights applies.
Central & Northern Portugal Airbnbs and other house rentals
Are you looking to combine your trip to Porto with an exploration of the wider area? Then you’ll love this selection of house rentals and Airbnbs in Porto and beyond.
Authentic palheiro cottage
Right in between the laguna and the beach, you find the Costa Nova coastal resort with its cute beach cottages. These traditional vacation houses are known for their striped facades. Many of these cottages have been in the family for generations and this one is no exception. This little gem with elegant fine its stripes and turquoise accents is chic and cheerful at the same time. The interior is light and airy, with a spacious kitchen, large living room, modern bathroom and 3 bedrooms. This beachside getaway also has a front porch and a large terrace. It’s just steps away from the local restaurants, cafés, bakery and seafood market.
Details about this holiday home in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Aveiro.
- Nearest beach: Costa Nova beach.
- Perfect for: Families or a group of friends.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Watch the flat bottomed gondola-like moliceiro boats floating the Aveiro canals, sink your teeth in a creamy local treat called ovos moles, visit the São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve and take a day trip to Porto or Coimbra.
- Nightly rate: €195-325. A minimum number of nights applies.
Modern treehouse at a renowned destination spa
Set in a magical verdant landscape, at an altitude of 580 metres, is a unique resort dedicated to health and adventure. For over a century, the healing waters of Pedras Salgadas have been the Portuguese epicentre of wellbeing. The Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park consists of a collection of treehouses and eco-houses that seamlessly blend into the natural landscape. Every accommodation is equipped with a kitchenette and there’s an on-site restaurant for those who prefer to dine out. A wide range of treatments is available in the domain’s thermal spa and plenty of outdoor adventures await in the all-natural environment.
Details about this unique rental in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Vidago.
- Perfect for: Families or a group of friends.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Watch the stars from the comfort of your treehouse, visit the gold mines of Trêsminas, go bird-watching or mountain biking in a mountainous setting, discover the Roman bridge over the Tâmega, take a day trip to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, explore the treetops from a suspension circuit or descend by Fantasticable in the Pena Aventura Park.
- Nightly rate: €210-290. A minimum number of nights may apply.
Front-row seats to the Douro Valley
Enjoy postcard views of the Douro Valley from the magnificent Quinta das Flores. This converted cardenho is now a tastefully appointed house with 3 beds and 2 baths with a decor of locally crafted furniture and the most gorgeous tiles. The spectacular setting is truly hypnotizing. Take in the verdant valley views from the fabulous infinity pool or the outdoor patio. This wonderful holiday rental comes with a private vineyard as well as an orchard dotted with olive and citrus trees.
Details about this rental home in Portugal:
- Nearest town: Folgosa do Douro.
- Perfect for: Families.
- Must-sees and must-do’s near this Airbnb in Portugal: Pick your own fruits in the garden, go wine-tasting at a nearby winery, explore enchanting the enchanting town of Pinhão, take a dip on the infinity pool, charter a boat to explore the Douro or take a day trip to Porto or Amarante.
- Nightly rate: €300-500. A minimum number of nights applies.
More Airbnb Portugal vacation rentals
Getting around Portugal
Unless you plan on limiting your visit to Portugal to a city break, it’s recommended to rent a car. Especially if you plan on staying at one of the more remote Airbnbs in Portugal that we selected, you will need your own transportation. Driving in Portugal is pretty straightforward, just take into account the toll roads.
Discover Cars is our go-to European car rental comparison site. The prices are highly competitive, the booking process is effortless and you can even select a pay later option that comes with free cancelation. Click here to get the best car rental deal.
That’s it for our selection of best Portugal vacation rentals. Rest assured that we’ve thoroughly researched every single one of them. Next time we travel to Portugal, we’ll sure be staying in one of these wonderful retreats.
We can’t wait to find out if any of our suggestions for unique Airbnbs in Portugal caught your eye too. If so, let us know in the comments below.
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Affiliate links are sprinkled throughout the site content. Clicking on such a hyperlink and booking on the accommodation platform it refers to, may result in a commission for CosmopoliClan at no additional cost to you. As Amazon Associates, we also earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, visit the Disclaimer page.
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