About Portland
Portland is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Maine. Its population was 68,408 at the 2020 census and the Greater Portland metropolitan area has a population of approximately 550,000 people, the most populous metropolitan area in Maine. It is the county seat of Cumberland County. Historically tied to commercial shipping, the marine economy, and light industry, Portland's economy in the 21st century relies mostly on the service sector. The Port of Portland is the second-largest tonnage seaport in the New England area as of 2019.
Places to visit in Portland
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Portland Head Light
Landmark · 3 mi from centreA classic white lighthouse on rocky cliffs in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, with a small museum, coastal walking paths and picnic lawns. It is a short drive from downtown.
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Old Port
NeighborhoodBrick buildings and cobbled streets by the working waterfront, filled with seafood restaurants, independent shops and bars, the center of Portland's lively food scene. Evenings are especially lively.
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Portland Museum of Art
MuseumA downtown museum with strong holdings of American and Maine art, including works by Winslow Homer, whose nearby coastal studio can also be toured through the museum.
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Eastern Promenade
ParkA hillside park on Munjoy Hill with a waterfront trail, a small beach and wide views over Casco Bay and its islands, great at sunrise.
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Portland Observatory
HistoricA wooden signal tower once used to spot incoming ships, now open for climbs to a deck with panoramic views of the city and harbor.
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Peaks Island
Nature · 3 mi from centreA short ferry ride from the Old Port, this island is easy to circle by bike or golf cart, with rocky shoreline, quiet roads and a relaxed village.
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Victoria Mansion
HistoricA lavish Italianate villa with remarkably intact interiors, including painted walls, carved woodwork and original furnishings that reveal nineteenth-century taste. Guided tours explain the craftsmanship in each room, and the house is decorated elaborately for the winter holidays.
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Wadsworth-Longfellow House
HistoricThe childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a Federal-style house with family belongings and a peaceful garden behind it on Congress Street. Tours run in the warmer months.
Where to stay in Portland
Popular hotels in Portland, out of 240 properties you can book.
The Hotel Zags Portland
From $87 per night
The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton
From $114 per night
Hampton Inn Portland-Airport
From $156 per night
Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District
From $131 per night
The Duniway Portland, a Hilton Hotel
From $169 per night
Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown
From $126 per night
Next by Jupiter
From $157 per night
Park Lane Suites & Inn
From $104 per night
Hyatt Regency Portland
From $117 per night
The Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown
From $102 per night
Best Western Cascade Inn & Suites
From $140 per night
Hyatt Centric Downtown Portland
From $135 per night
Best time to visit Portland
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Portland is September, when average daytime highs are around 73°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Portland weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 51° 39° 0%
- Thu 22 Oct 64° 41° 0%
- Fri 23 Oct 52° 39° 10%
- Sat 24 Oct 59° 36° 6%
- Sun 25 Oct 61° 41° 1%
- Mon 26 Oct 66° 46° 1%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/New_YorkUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Portland
These are the airports closest to central Portland. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- PWM Portland International Jetport3 mi (5 km) from the city centre
Getting around Portland
Portland, and Maine in general, does not have an extensive public transportation system, so renting a car is generally the best option. While 5PM traffic can get a little congested, driving in Portland is not a daunting task.
By Uber
UberX should be available 24/7. It's slightly cheaper than a taxi. Surge pricing generally happens only on Friday and Saturday nights after 1AM when the bars close. UberX is also available to pick up and drop off at the Portland International Jetport.
Portland travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Portland?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Portland is September, when average daytime highs are around 73°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
What is the weather like in Portland?
July is usually the warmest month in Portland, with average highs of 83°F (28°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 18°F (-8°C). The wettest month is typically March, with about 179 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Portland?
Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the closest airport, about 3 miles (5 km) from the centre of Portland.
What time zone is Portland in?
Portland uses the America/New_York time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Portland?
Portland, and Maine in general, does not have an extensive public transportation system, so renting a car is generally the best option. While 5PM traffic can get a little congested, driving in Portland is not a daunting task.
What are the best places to visit in Portland?
Top sights in Portland include Portland Head Light, Old Port, Portland Museum of Art and Eastern Promenade. A classic white lighthouse on rocky cliffs in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, with a small museum, coastal walking paths and picnic lawns. It is a short drive from downtown.
Where should I stay in Portland?
Popular areas for hotels in Portland include Downtown. Well-reviewed options include The Hotel Zags Portland and The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton.
How many hotels can I book in Portland?
Destina Holidays currently lists 240 properties in and around Portland, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
