5 Best Hotels in Coimbra and Central Portugal, Portugal

To absorb Guarda's history, book a room in this beautiful 17th-century mansion just around the corner from the cathedral. Lodgings are comfortable and furnished with flowing draperies and colorful tapestries. Don't worry, you also have TVs and other modern comforts. There's even a small family chapel.

Near some of the city's prettiest parks, this boutique hotel in an elegant town house is a little removed from the hustle and bustle. The guest rooms are small but tastefully decorated, in modern neutral tones. As you linger over the complimentary breakfast buffet, your friendly hosts can help organize activities in the region, including walks in Serra da Estrela and Serra do Caramulo.

At this working winery, about 18 km (10 miles) southeast of Viseu, you can reserve either modern apartments or antiques-filled rooms in a 19th-century manor house. The historic main building has a stone-clad sitting room outfitted with chandeliers and a fireplace. The friendly owners will happily arrange tastings of the wines produced on-site. This area is famous for its birdlife: partridges, hoopoes, and red kites are just a few of the species you might spot here.

Located in the tiny village of São Lourenço do Bairro, this delightful 18th-century manor—surrounded by vineyards and pine groves— has comfortable guest rooms with wooden floors, period furniture, and modern bathrooms. A couple of rooms have antique iron headboards, and one has a four-poster bed (which is well worth requesting). Guests can make use of the library, game room, and playground.