Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Portland, Maine?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Portland, Maine?
Many visitors spend two to three days in Portland, Maine during their visit. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because there's so much to see and do. This coastal town offers a number of attractions to explore, including the beaches, the beautiful scenery, the hiking, and the restaurant scene.
Portland is a coastal city in Maine that has a beautiful seaside setting with picturesque lighthouses and dramatic viewpoints. There are many restaurants and bars in the Old Port area. The city also has bike trails and coastal walks that take advantage of the coastal setting.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Portland, Maine? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Portland, Maine?
Many visitors spend three days in Portland, Maine, and this is a good amount of time to see the laid-back coastal town's major attractions such as the beaches, the beautiful scenery, and the hiking. This smaller city can be explored in three days, which would give you enough time to see the major sights. Below, we have a few suggestions of things to do.
How to spend 3 days in Portland, Maine
Don't miss the Portland Head Light during your trip to Portland, Maine, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
Portland, Maine is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.
A few tour suggestions include:
- 2 Hours | Portland, Maine Hidden Histories Walking Tour ($49)
- 2 Hours | Portland, Maine Black History Walking Tour ($49)
- Sunset Sea Kayak Tour of Casco Bay ($48)
The beautiful beaches await you in Portland, Maine, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Oyster Farm & Complimentary Tasting Sea Kayak Tour in Casco Bay ($79)
- Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise ($48)
- Sunset Sea Kayak Tour of Casco Bay ($48)
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Oyster Farm & Complimentary Tasting Sea Kayak Tour in Casco Bay ($79)
- Donut Tasting Walking Tour in Portland’s Old Port ($48)
Known for it's hiking, Portland, Maine sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.
This coastal town is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.
Is 4 days enough time in Portland, Maine?
Four days is more than enough time to see everything that Portland, Maine has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend two to three days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the beaches, the beautiful scenery, the hiking, and the restaurant scene at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.
Portland, Maine
How to spend 4 days in Portland, Maine
With 4 days in Portland, Maine, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the coastal town has to offer.
Shopping in Portland, Maine is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.
Is 5 days enough time in Portland, Maine?
Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Portland, Maine, as it's not as large as some other cities. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. Relax at the beach, admire the wonderful scenery, discover the nearby hiking trails, and taste delicious cuisine. You could also use Portland, Maine as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.
How to spend 5 days in Portland, Maine
If you have more than 5 days in Portland, Maine, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the coastal town has to offer.
After you've explored most of Portland, Maine, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Portland, Maine, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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