When visiting Portland, you should stay in one of its many unique neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character and set of amenities that cater to different types of travelers.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top 7 areas/neighborhoods:
Downtown Portland (Portland)
Best For: Business / Luxury
Vibe: Downtown Portland is the hub of the city, with a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to many attractions, including the famous Pioneer Courthouse Square. The area is also home to a wide range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: Convenient location, plenty of dining and entertainment options, easy access to public transportation.
Cons: Can be noisy and crowded, parking can be a challenge.
The Pearl District (Portland)
Best For: Luxury / Families
Vibe: The Pearl District is a trendy and upscale neighborhood with a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. The area is also known for its beautiful parks and green spaces.
Price Range: $200-400/night
Pros: Upscale amenities, beautiful parks, convenient location.
Cons: Can be expensive, limited budget-friendly options.
Alberta Arts District (Portland)
Best For: Backpacker / Artists
Vibe: The Alberta Arts District is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a thriving arts scene. The area is known for its colorful street art, independent shops, and multicultural restaurants.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Affordable prices, unique character, plenty of artistic inspiration.
Cons: Can be noisy, limited parking options.
Hawthorne District (Portland)
Best For: Families / Foodies
Vibe: The Hawthorne District is a charming neighborhood with a small-town feel, known for its vintage shops, restaurants, and cafes. The area is also home to a weekly farmers' market.
Price Range: $100-250/night
Pros: Family-friendly atmosphere, plenty of dining options, convenient location.
Cons: Can be crowded, limited parking options.
Nob Hill (Portland)
Best For: Luxury / Business
Vibe: Nob Hill is an upscale neighborhood with a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars. The area is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the city.
Price Range: $250-500/night
Pros: Upscale amenities, beautiful views, convenient location.
Cons: Can be expensive, limited budget-friendly options.
Mississippi Avenue (Portland)
Best For: Backpacker / Foodies
Vibe: Mississippi Avenue is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a thriving food scene. The area is known for its independent restaurants, bars, and shops.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Affordable prices, unique character, plenty of dining options.
Cons: Can be noisy, limited parking options.
South Waterfront (Portland)
Best For: Families / Business
Vibe: The South Waterfront is a modern and upscale neighborhood with a mix of high-rise condos, offices, and restaurants. The area is known for its beautiful views of the Willamette River and easy access to downtown.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: Convenient location, plenty of amenities, beautiful views.
Cons: Can be pricey, limited budget-friendly options.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $30-60 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and communal spaces, great for meeting other travelers |
| Guesthouses | $80-150 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run establishments with a homey atmosphere, often with shared bathrooms |
| Hotels | $100-250 | Comfort/Business | Standard hotel amenities, convenient location, often with fitness centers and restaurants |
| Boutique Hotels | $150-350 | Experience | Unique character, upscale amenities, often with a focus on local art and culture |
| Resorts | $200-500 | Relaxation | Luxurious amenities, often with spas, pools, and fitness centers, great for a relaxing getaway |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $80-250 | Long stays/Families | Fully equipped kitchens, often with multiple bedrooms, great for families or long-term stays |
Booking Tips
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (June to August) to ensure availability and the best prices.
- Use online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood that is close to public transportation to make it easy to get around the city.
- Look for accommodations that offer free amenities such as breakfast, parking, or Wi-Fi to save money.
- Be sure to read reviews and check the cancellation policy before booking.
- Negotiate the price if you are staying for an extended period or booking multiple rooms.
- Keep an eye on seasonal pricing, with prices tend to be higher during peak season and lower during the off-season.
Safety & Location Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood that is close to downtown, but also has a more residential feel to it, such as the Hawthorne District or Nob Hill.
- Avoid areas with high crime rates, such as some parts of Southeast Portland.
- Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible, as parking can be a challenge in some areas.
- Keep in mind that Portland is a very walkable city, and many neighborhoods are easily accessible on foot or by bike.