Portland, Maine

Portland

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a charming coastal city that perfectly blends New England history, scenic waterfront views, and one of the country’s most celebrated food scenes. Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, or hopping on a ferry to one of Casco Bay’s picturesque islands, Portland offers something for every type of traveler. The city is easy to navigate on foot, filled with locally owned boutiques, breweries, cafés, and restaurants, while nearby lighthouses, beaches, and coastal towns make it an ideal destination for both weekend getaways and longer vacations.

Where to Stay

People walking and dining near The Portland Harbor Hotel on a waterfront street with parked cars and boats in the background

Portland has a few different options of where to stay, depending on what you are looking for.

If you are looking for an easy travel experience with your basic amenities then there are some great conveniently located hotels throughout the city.

AC Hotel Portland Downtown/Waterfront, ME – This hotel is about a 5 minute drive, or 10 minute walk from Dimillo’s Marina

Hyatt Place Portland Downtown-Old Port Square – This is centrally located in the middle of the city and is pet-friendly!

Portland Harbor Hotel – Another centrally located hotel within the Old Port District

The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection – This is 4-star boutique luxury hotel, with a great location but somewhat tucked away.

If you are looking for a price-efficient stay with the social aspect, then a great option would be a hostel!

Black Elephant Hostel is perfectly located in downtown walking distance to everything you may need. This hostel has a communal kitchen, and the option of both private rooms and dorm-style suites.

And of course, an Airbnb is always an option for both solo travelers, couples, or larger groups.

This airbnb is located in the heart of Portland, with one bedroom and one bathroom for up to 2 guest.

For larger groups, this airbnb can host up to 9 guests which is located in Old Port.

Transportation

Aerial view of a coastal city with docks, boats, and multiple green islands in the bay

Amtrak Downeaster train moving on railroad tracks by rocky coastline and ocean

View from car driving down waterfront street with traffic and brick buildings

Option 1: Fly directly into Portland International Jetport (PWM) – This is the easiest option if you’re coming from farther away. The airport is only about 10–15 minutes from downtown, with easy access by Uber, Lyft, taxi, or rental car.

Option 2: Fly into Boston Logan International Airport, then take the bus or train

Concord Coach Lines bus: About 2 hours to Portland with frequent departures.
Amtrak Downeaster: A scenic ride from Boston’s North Station to Portland, typically around 2.5 hours.

Option 3: Drive

From Boston: ~2 hours.
From New York City: ~5–6 hours.
From most of New England, driving is often the most flexible option if you want to explore nearby beaches, lighthouses, or towns like Kennebunkport or Freeport.

Option 4: Take the train

The Amtrak Downeaster runs between Boston and Portland several times daily. It’s comfortable and avoids highway traffic.

Where to Eat and Drink

One of the things Portland, Maine is known for is their world-class food for all cuisines.

Breakfast

The Holy Donut – A must visit while in Portland, offering Maine Potato donuts, made from scratch daily with gluten free and vegan options

Becky’s Diner – breakfast served all day (5am – 9pm), with an additional lunch and dinner menu. inside and outside porch seating overlooking Portland’s waterfront.

Lunch & dinner

Via Vecchia – Italian cuisine with a great atmosphere, extensive wine and cocktail menu and a seasonally changing food menu

Black Cow – A nice but semi-casual burger joint with a cocktail bar and house crafted sodas

Leeward – Unique pasta dishes and great wine (open for dinner only)

Eventide Oyster Co – Lobster rolls, fresh oysters, burgers and sandwiches

Duckfat – Belgian cuisine – Belgian frites, poutine, sandwiches and more. No reservations.

Brickyard Hollow – Brewery style restaurant with craft beer, unique pizza options, wings, salads, chicken sandwiches, and more

Cocktail bars & Lounges

Blyth & Burrows – Sophisticated cocktail bar in the Old Port district with oysters and other small bites with a unique cozy vibe

Room for Improvement – A vibrant cocktail bar with one-of-a-kind decor, a variety of drinks, indoor/outdoor seating, and hot dogs

Lincolns – A trendy but casual spot for small or big groups to grab drinks and socialize

Activities

The Portland Headlight – Maine’s oldest lighthouse located in Cape Elizabeth, a peaceful town situated just 5 miles south of Portland

Fort Williams Park – Adjacent to the Portland Headlight, this park has 90 acres filled with beaches, picnic space, the Cliff Walk Trail, a Children’s Garden, and few different food options including Luke’s Lobster

Eastern Promenade – 78 Acres of developed land, with views of Casco Bay in addition to direct access to the waterfront. It is lined with a large paved path for a variety of activities and passes by beaches with kayaking, picnic areas, a boat ramp, and a community garden

DiMillo’s Old Port Marina – A staple in the heart of Old Port, with a seafood restaurant (DiMillo’s On the Water) overlooking the marina

Day Trips by Ferry from Portland

Peaks Island – Only a 20 minute ferry from Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal, where you can rent bikes or a golf cart, enjoy small beaches, or explore World War II battery ruins

Great Diamond Island – A 30 minute ferry from Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal, this island is quieter than Peaks Island with peaceful beaches and walking trails