Though it doesn’t get quite as many visitors as Nantucket or Cape Cod, and doesn’t have the same small-town-utopia reputation as Kennebunkport, Portsmouth is one of New England’s top coastal getaways.
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The New Hampshire capital is a triple threat when it comes to walkability, history, and culture. It’s one of the oldest cities established during the English colonial era, dating back to 1623. You can check out historic and colonial architecture at local museums—or just by walking through the historic district and shipyard.
The downtown area is highly walkable, framed around the pedestrian-friendly Market Square. There’s boutique shopping, excellent dining, and a decidedly youthful energy thanks to its proximity to the University of New Hampshire. In short, it’s a fantastic place for a mellow fall getaway, especially when you stay at these walkable Vrbos in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems to make finding the perfect rental for your next trip a breeze.]
Most walkable Vrbos in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
- Best location: Tugboat Vista
- Best for couples: Historic 1BR
- Best design: The Penthouse at Penhallow
- Best for history lovers: Sunny Private Studio
- Best outdoor setup: Historic Charm in West End
- Most budget-friendly: State Street Parlor
- Best for big groups: Downtown House
Most walkable Vrbos in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Tugboat Vista
All Vrbos in Portsmouth, New Hampshire listed on this page have a perfectly walkable location to the city’s downtown and historic areas—but this Vrbo stands out thanks to its water views. The two-bedroom unit overlooks the Piscataqua River and has views of Memorial Bridge. You can watch tugboats drift by out the window, offering you a front-row seat to Portsmouth’s maritime happenings. For sea-lovers who visit coastal towns, there’s no better setup.
Historic 1BR
This simple one- bedroom is located in Portsmouth’s historic district and retains select historic features, including exposed brick and exposed wood beams. It’s ideal for couples who want a no-frills getaway that includes a little extra charm. You’ll find modern features throughout, including a full kitchen. That being said, Portsmouth’s best restaurants are just a few minutes away on foot.
The Penthouse at Penhallow
There’s a lot to appreciate at this Vrbo, whether or not you consider yourself a design fan. The two-bedroom penthouse is located in the heart of the historic area, which you might notice when looking around. There’s exposed brick, exposed beams, and quality leather furniture throughout, creating a stately, classic ambiance. Anyone who likes the finer things in life will feel right at home. Just know that there’s no elevator—you need to walk up two flights of stairs.
Sunny Private Studio
This lovely studio is part of the Daniel Webster home, a historic building registered in Portsmouth. Webster served as the US’s Secretary of State twice, serving under three US presidents in the early 1800s. This studio is located on the first floor facing the Southwest. The home has a non-working fireplace and a small kitchenette, offering a cozy and basic stay. Your booking includes one parking spot.
Historic Charm in West End
The grounds of this historic four-bedroom home were originally broken in 1623, making this a very historic site. However, the home that’s currently standing dates back to 1869. Today, it’s a beautiful, well-balanced stay that families and large groups will appreciate. If you’re looking for outdoor space to enjoy the spring, summer, or autumn in Portsmouth, you have a lovely little backyard fire pit setup. In fact, the gardens are so impressive that it was featured on a local tour a few years ago.
State Street Parlor
If you’re okay staying just slightly outside the main hub of downtown Portsmouth, you can save big on this newly updated two-bedroom. It’s been beautifully redesigned with bold, tasteful additions, like the dramatic wallpaper. There’s also a fenced backyard (this is a pet-friendly stay), with a fire pit and a lovely sunroom-porch where you can catch up on your emails, if (absolutely) necessary. Best of all, this is a budget-friendlier stay than other Vrbos in Portsmouth.
Downtown House
If you want to fit a group of ten, this three-bedroom home has three king-sized bedrooms and two sofa beds. Just keep in mind that one isn’t actually a sofa bed—it’s a modular couch. (The ‘sleeps ten’ is probably okay for younger groups who aren’t as worried about mattress quality.) That being said, the king-sized rooms are still worth keeping in mind when you’re traveling with a group of six. The open living room-kitchen is also great for hangout sessions.
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