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Why?  Situated on a peninsula, ringed by islets, and filled with charming Victorian buildings, shops and restaurants Portland, Maine, is an ideal holiday destination, which is probably why its population significantly increases in summertime as thousands flock to holiday in Portland. The city is packed with things to see and do, from lingering at the cafes of the Old Port to taking a lobster boat cruise.

When?  While summer is definitely the season to make the most of a holiday in Portland, many choose to travel to Portland during the autumn, a pretty season when the russet foliage sets the city alight. Winters are very chilly with temperatures often dipping below freezing.

Who for?  Anyone looking for a relaxing summer seaside break will enjoy a holiday in Portland, where there is plenty of good seafood to eat, some interesting diversions and attractions, and plenty of unique boutiques and stores to browse through.

More Info:  Find out what to see and do during your holiday in Portland, and how to get around the city, with the help of our comprehensive Portland (Maine) travel guide, which can be printed out and packed to take with you when you travel to Portland.

Overview

Portland is Maine's biggest city and is the state's cultural and economic hub, attracting over three and a half million visitors each year. Originally a fishing and trading settlement, the town was destroyed three times over a hundred year period, and finally regained stability as a shipping port.

Unfortunately, over-zealous Independence Day celebrants managed to set fire to most of the city's commercial buildings, hundreds of houses and roughly half the city's churches in 1886, causing it to be rebuilt once again, this time in a Victorian style. Spectacular examples of this architecture can be found in the mansions set along the famous Western Promenade.

Despite its tough beginning, Portland remains a beautiful city, ideally situated on a peninsula that juts out into Casco Bay, flanked by several small islands. Historic architecture blends with modern amenities and the city is a bustle of activity, making it one of the country's top cities to live in. Resplendent in natural beauty, Portland is highly popular in summer and visitors can enjoy boat rides; walks, shopping and dining at the Old Port historic waterfront; a visit to the Downtown Arts District or to the prominent Portland Head Light Lighthouse. The home of poet Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow is also well worth a visit, as is the Maine History Gallery, and for the kids, there is the Children's Museum of Maine.

Portland is a wonderful city to visit in its own right, with plenty of attractions, activities and sights for the visitor, and it is also a useful base from which to explore the rest of this beautiful state.