Top Luxury Stays with Rooftop Pools

You can find the latest updates on Lonely Planet Guimarães Guide.

The Santa Luzia ArtHotel is a prime example of luxury meeting modern architecture in the city center. This property features a stunning rooftop pool that remains open throughout the warm summer season. Guests can enjoy professional cocktail service while lounging on the sun deck overlooking the old town. The hotel also provides high-quality towels and comfortable sunbeds for all staying guests.

Most luxury hotels in this category offer additional wellness facilities like spas and fitness centers. You might also consider luxury manor house stays in Guimarães old town for historical charm. These properties often combine traditional Portuguese masonry with sleek, modern pool designs on their upper levels. Staying here allows you to experience the rich heritage of the region in total comfort.

• Average Price: €160 - €280 per night
• Pool Season: May to September
• Key Amenity: Poolside bar and lounge
• Location: Walking distance to historic squares

Best Hotels with Rooftop Pools in Guimarães City

Selecting the best hotels with rooftop pools in Guimarães city requires looking at both location and amenities. The most popular choices are situated near the Largo da Oliveira or the Praça de Santiago. These hotels allow you to swim while watching the sunset over the medieval rooftops. Discover everything that is new in Guimarães in 2026 to make the most of your visit.

Modern hotels in the city center have invested heavily in creating exclusive rooftop environments for their guests. These areas often serve as social hubs during the late afternoon and early evening hours. You can expect clean facilities, attentive staff, and well-maintained pool water during your entire stay. Many of these pools are designed with infinity edges to maximize the visual impact of the scenery.

Families often look for family suites with castle views in Guimarães hotels when traveling together. Several hotels with rooftop pools also offer larger room configurations to accommodate children and groups. Having a pool on-site provides excellent entertainment for younger travelers after a morning of sightseeing. It is a great way to balance education and relaxation during your holiday.

The city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its well-preserved architecture. Staying in a hotel with a rooftop pool gives you a unique perspective on this heritage. You can see the intricate tile work and stone carvings from a completely different angle. This visual connection to history makes your stay even more special and memorable.

1. Check for hotels with 24-hour front desk service.
2. Verify if the pool is heated during the shoulder season.
3. Look for properties that include breakfast in the room rate.
4. Choose a hotel with secure parking if you are driving.

Practical Booking Tips for Your 2026 Stay

Planning your trip for 2026 requires early action to secure the best available hotel rates. Guimarães is a popular destination, and rooms with pool access sell out very quickly. You can plan your trip using official resources from the Visit Portugal tourism board. Booking at least three to six months in advance is highly recommended for summer travel.

Nightly rates for hotels with rooftop pools typically range from €120 to €250 during the peak season. Prices may drop significantly if you choose to visit during the spring or early autumn months. Many hotels offer flexible cancellation policies if you book directly through their official websites. Always check if the pool has specific age restrictions or limited hours for children.

The weather in northern Portugal is most suitable for outdoor swimming from June through August. Daytime temperatures often reach 28°C (82°F), making a rooftop pool a very valuable hotel feature. You should pack high-quality sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Portuguese sun. Most hotels provide umbrellas, but the reflection from the water can still be quite intense.

Exploring Landmarks Near Your Rooftop Hotel

Most hotels with rooftop pools are located within a short walk of the Guimarães Castle. This iconic landmark is known as the foundation site of the Portuguese nation and its monarchy. You can easily spend an entire morning exploring the castle walls and the nearby chapel. The views from the castle towers are similar to what you see from your pool.

The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza is another must-see attraction located in the same historic district. This 15th-century palace features impressive chimneys and a vast collection of tapestries and antique furniture. Walking between these sites is easy because the city center is mostly pedestrian-friendly and very compact. You will find many charming cafes and traditional restaurants along the stone-paved streets.

After a day of walking, returning to your hotel for a swim is the ultimate reward. You can watch the city lights flicker on as the sun sets behind the Monte da Penha. This mountain is accessible via a scenic cable car ride located near the city center. Combining cultural exploration with luxury relaxation creates the perfect balance for your 2026 Portuguese adventure.