There are quite a few hotels in Viseu Portugal to choose from, and they range from simple to upscale. For those on a tight budget, a stay at the Youth Hostel might be in order, though you can opt for more private Viseu accommodations if you spend a little more. Even if you stay at one of the more luxurious Viseu hotels, the rates should be relatively low, as Portugal hotels are affordable on the whole. You normally don't have to make reservations in advance when it comes to securing lodging in Viseu, though it is a good idea when possible. Travel to Europe is at its peak during the summer months, so booking ahead come summertime is recommended.

When it comes to the best hotels in Viseu, the Montebelo Hotel & Spa (pictured) is arguably the frontrunner. Gardens surround this 172-unit hotel, which sits on a hill near the heart of the city. Views of the countryside help to make for a relaxed setting, and if you really want to relax, then a visit to the onsite spa is a great idea. In addition to offering a range of treatments, the Montebelo Spa also offers hot tubs, a heated indoor pool, a Turkish bath, and fitness rooms. When you're not enjoying spa treatments at the Montebelo Hotel & Spa, you can enjoy a round of golf on the hotel's course or treat yourself to a satisfying meal at the onsite restaurant. Other amenities and facilities include a tennis court, an attractive outdoor swimming pool, an equestrian center, and a game room. As for the rooms here, they are easily among the most luxurious in the area. In addition to being clean and attractive, they boast amenities such as plasma televisions, work desks, mini bars, and safes. Wi-Fi internet access is available if you need it, as is air conditioning, and hair dryers. Helping to make the Montebelo Hotel & Spa one of the best hotels in Viseu is the fact that it offers exceptional service, free breakfasts, and free parking.

If for some reason you can't get a room at the Montebelo Hotel & Spa, you might look to the Hotel Palacio dos Melos, which is also one of the top Viseu hotels. Found in the heart of the city, the Hotel Palacio dos Melos can make for an excellent base for those who want to enjoy walking tours in the historic center. When you're not touring about town, you can take advantage of the special rates and privileges at the Montebelo Golf Course, not to mention the Montebelo Equestrian Club. While the Hotel Palacio dos Melos exudes Old World charm, it is not devoid of modern facilities. In addition to a quality restaurant, the hotel also features an inviting bar, and you can always relax in the lounge, which is cozy. Wireless internet access is available for an extra fee if you want to email friends or plan visits online to other Portugal destinations, such as Lisbon and the Algarve. While less luxurious than the rooms at the Montebelo Hotel & Spa, the rooms at the Hotel Palacio dos Melos are nonetheless relatively upscale. They are attractive in décor, some more colorful than others, and boast plenty of good amenities. Among the amenity highlights figure air conditioning, cable TV, a mini bar, a hydromassage bathtub, a direct dial telephone, and a hair dryer.

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If you are interested in staying in one of the best, not to mention one of the largest Viseu hotels, then you'll want to keep the Pousada de Viseu in mind. Housed in the former Sao Teotonio Hospital, this centrally located hotel is one of the newer hotels on the scene, having only recently opened its doors to the public. Whether you're in town for a while or just passing through on your way to other Portugal destinations like Porto, the Pousada de Viseu can make for some excellent Viseu accommodations, partly because of the fact that the rooms here are spacious and well outfitted. Standard in-room amenities include cable TV, a mini bar, a safe, a direct dial telephone, a hair dryer, air conditioning, and internet access. Outside of the rooms, guests will find two restaurants, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a 24-hour reception desk, and a bar. The bar is located in the beautiful cloister, which makes it an excellent place to break for a drink or two.

When looking for your ideal Viseu accommodations, it's a good idea to keep the area bed and breakfasts in mind. You'll do especially well to keep the Quinta de Sao Caetano on the radar, as it's easily one of the best small hotels in the country. There are only six units at this renowned inn, which can be found under a mile north of the city center. Originally built in the seventeenth century, the Quinta de Sao Caetano boasts a wedding chapel that was finished in 1638. In other words, the historic appeal here is significant. An excellent breakfast is included in the rates at the Quinta de Sao Caetano, and it is served in an old dining room. Outside, a heated swimming pool invites guests to enjoy a relaxing dip, while the views of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park encourage recreational planning. Hiking and enjoying scenic drives are among the top things to do in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, and in the winter you can ski on the slopes of the highest mainland mountains in Portugal. As for the guest rooms at the Quinta de Sao Caetano, traditional furnishings add to the historic appeal. Thick walls help to make for a good night's sleep, as do the comfortable beds. Air conditioning is available if you need it, and free parking is also available if you rented a car.