Lisbon could be the most underrated city in Europe. From its architecture and cobblestone streets to its network of trams, it is a perfect and picturesque city escape. Sample the unique Portuguese cuisine (Pastel de Nata, I’m looking at you) and its plentiful wines at a myriad of casual restaurants and cafes. Among its many museums, my favorite is the Carris Museum, dedicated to transportation. There is no shortage of things to do – or places to stay. Lisbon’s top hotels and best suites are the focus of this week’s feature story.
1. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
2. Bairro Alto Hotel
3. Corinthia Lisbon
4. Altis Avenida Hotel
5. The Lumiares
6. The Ivens
7. Olissippo Lapa Palace
8. Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel
9. Tivoli Avenida Liberdade
1. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
The Telegraph gives The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon a 9 out of 10. It says, “This landmark hotel was built in 1959 by the Dictator Salazar to prove that Lisbon could do luxury as well as any other European capital. More than half a century later it is still setting the bar, managed by the Four Seasons Group with its inimitable service and impressive spa and fitness facilities.”
Forbes Travel Guide writes of the only property in the city it rates 5 stars, “Check into Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon and your fellow guests could be anyone from a visiting head of state to the lead singer of a famous rock band. This is the preferred address for discerning travelers in a city that is alive with culture, culinary innovations, and creative inspiration.”
If you like to stay fit while you travel, “The sprawling 7,535-square-foot rooftop gym provides a scenic workout — its Life Fitness equipment room, Pilates studio and second studio have floor-to-ceiling windows. But even if you don’t have time for a sweat session, a visit to the U-shaped outdoor track is a must to take in one of the best views of the city.”
Presidential Suite
The 2,655-sq.ft. Presidential Suite is located on the top 10th floor with views of Eduardo VII Park, Marquês de Pombal Monument, St.George’s Castle, the Tagus River, 25th April Bridge, and the hotel’s pools and gardens. There are five private balconies.
More suites at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon.
2. Bairro Alto Hotel
Forbes Travel Guide gives the hotel 4 stars. Its inspectors say, “Bairro Alto Hotel is a privately owned boutique property set in one of Lisbon’s most fashionable and lively areas. It has a quirky charm that is effortlessly luxurious and welcoming because of its small scale and personalized service. Set on a corner of Camões Square, and with Lisbon’s famous yellow trams passing right by the lobby door, the hotel is on the doorstep of the vibrant Bairro Alto area that gives it its name.
The Telegraph adds, “The grande dame of Lisbon’s boutique hotel scene has re-opened after a major expansion courtesy of architect, Eduardo Souto de Moura. Behind its ochre-colored façade, it houses 87 rooms, the first outpost of chef Nuno Mendes in his hometown, and a much sought-after roof terrace.”
Alecrim Signature Suite
The 700-sq.ft. east-facing Alecrim Signature Suite is located on the top floor of the new wing. There is a small, covered balcony with views of the city’s historic quarter and the River Tagus. There is also the possibility of connecting the suite with an additional room.
More suites at Bairro Alto Hotel.
3. Corinthia Lisbon
Conde Nast Traveler writes, “Located In the business district, but also conveniently near the wonderful Gulbenkian Museum with its sensational collection of art, Lisbon’s biggest five-star hotel punctures the city skyline and overlooks the beautiful 18th-century aqueduct. Luxuriously spacious interiors combine marble and wood, gold and chandeliers. All 518 plush rooms and suites are decorated in a mix of rich browns and golds; smallish marble bathrooms are big on ESPA products. Family rooms with two bedrooms and two bathrooms are also available, where little guests are treated to little bathrobes and slippers, as well as amenity kits. The hotel offers arguably the most efficient service in Lisbon too, from reception to housekeeping.”
Forbes Travel Guide adds, “Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Corinthia Lisbon is a bit removed from the action. But its location also makes it a tranquil place to stay in Lisbon. Relish in the solitude by gazing at views of the 18th-century Aguas Livres Aqueduct and Eduardo VII Park from the upper floors of the hotel. Though it’s also in the financial district, making it a convenient base for business travelers as well. But the Corinthia provides enough amenities to cater to both leisure and business travelers. There’s a 32,000-square-foot, 13-treatment-room spa; breakfast spot Sete Colinas; and Mediterranean and international restaurant Típico.”
Presidential Suite
The 1,679-sq.ft. Presidential Suite includes a 10-seat dining room, fully equipped kitchen, study area with library, and panoramic city views.
More suites at Corinthia Lisbon.
4. Altis Avenida Hotel
Forbes Travel Guide writes, “Located at the end of one of Lisbon’s most famous boulevards, Avenida da Liberdade, the stylish and serene Altis Avenida Hotel sits right in the middle of the action. It’s across the street from the city’s central train station, an architectural gem that is worth a visit even if you never leave the center of town. You can walk to Rossio Square, Praca do Comercio and the historic neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and Alfama, so long as you can make it up the hills.”
The Telegraph gives the hotel a perfect 10 when it comes to style and character: “Built in the 1940s by acclaimed architect, Cristino Silva, it was restored in 2011 by the Altis group, who ensured its Portuguese modernism remained intact, including its retro façade and staircase. Interiors use marble and mirrors, mixing black, white, and gold for the urban chic feel inspired by 1940s glamour.”
Grand View Suite
The Grand View Suite on the top floor offers panoramic view over Rossio Square, São Jorge Castle and the River Tagus. The living room opens onto your own 475-sq.ft. terrace.
More suites at Altis Avenida Hotel.
5. The Lumiares
Conde Nast Traveler’s top pick for grandeur, the publication says, “Situated in the bohemian Bairro Alto area, where you’ll find a maze of restaurants, bars, and nightlife, The Lumiares is designed to feel like a home away from home. Previously a derelict 17th-century palace, the hotel’s design pays homage to Lisbon’s colors, patterns and light with collaborations from local artists and makers. From the sleek reception to calming spa treatment rooms, each design detail has been cleverly thought-out and perfectly executed.”
Miradouro Penthouse
The Miradouro Penthouse features two bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a large central living area, and fully fitted kitchen. There is a private outside terrace with table and chairs – perfect for an al fresco breakfast, or early evening drink. This flagship suite directly overlooks the iconic viewpoint of São Pedro de Alcântara and enjoys views of Castelo de São Jorge.
More suites at The Lumiares.
6. The Ivens
Conde Nast Traveler writes of its top pick for luxury, “Like an oasis hidden in the city (but not hidden from it), The Ivens is inspired by the journey of Ivens and Capelo, 19th-century Portuguese explorers who visited Africa. As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted by tropical plants, parrots, macaws, beetles, velvet armchairs, and golden details. The 87 rooms allude to flora and fauna through notes of color in the wallpaper and carpets. The in-house restaurant, Rocco, is already one of the places to be right now in Lisbon, fully booked day after day by creatives, artists, and bohemians.”
Signature Suites
The 538-sq.ft. Signature Suites may not be as expansive as some, however, each include a private sun deck and separate bedroom.
More suites at The Ivens.
7. Olissippo Lapa Palace
Forbes Travel Guide reports, “Originally built as the private residence of a count, Olissippo Lapa Palace sits proudly atop Lapa Hill in Lisbon’s most elegant and exclusive neighborhood. The hotel’s hilltop position affords stunning views of the city and the Tagus River, which is just minutes away. Lavishly decorated in the traditional style of Portugal’s King João and Queen Maria, the antique-filled and marble-embellished interiors feel regal, yet are warm, inviting and comfortable. Guests of the Olissippo Lapa Palace join the ranks of royalty, international diplomats, heads of state and celebrities such as Barbra Streisand, Rod Stewart and Bruce Springsteen, all of whom have laid their heads at the Lapa Palace.”
Royal Suite
The 1,560-sq.ft. Royal Suite is located in the original Palace on the 5th floor. It features 19th century style deco with a large separate living room and beautiful terrace overlooking garden, river and city. It can be converted into a two-or-three-bedroom suite.
More suites at Olissippo Lapa Palace.
8. Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel
Forbes Travel Guide writes, “It took the Pestana Group 10 years to get permission to convert Lisbon’s Palace of the Marquis of Valle-Flor into the luxury hotel you find today. Built in and around a 19th-century cocoa and coffee baron’s opulent palace and family home (and classified as a national monument since 1997), this Lisbon hotel is unique in a way that only bonafide history can provide. The attention to detail here is exceptional; every room in the palace has been brought back to its former magnificence with Louis XV furniture, romantic frescoes and several lounges decorated in the Italian, French and Chinese styles so fashionable in the late 1800s. Equally luxurious are the two modern wings added to the palace to house 194 modern units accessible via two glass bridges over the palace’s exotic garden.”
Suite D. Carlos
The Suite D. Carlos at 1,250-sq.ft. is the largest suite of the hotel. The palatial decor and 19th century wooden floors are some of the unique elements of this National Monument. It has a bedroom with double bed, and two living rooms, one with a work desk and another with a dining table. It also features a 350-sq.ft. terrace overlooking the Tagus River and the magnificent gardens of the palace. The bathroom has separate shower and Victorian tub.
More suites at Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel.
9. Tivoli Avenida Liberdade
The Telegraph reports, “The Tivoli Lisboa, located on Lisbon’s main thoroughfare, has long been one of the capital’s landmarks. It was built in 1933, and completely redesigned by acclaimed architect Pardal Monteiro in the 1950s. The hotel’s long history is visible in different elements of its architecture, from its modernist lobby with original artworks and low ceiling, crowned by a glass dome, to its buzzy, on-trend Sky Bar offering far-reaching views over Lisbon’s rooftops to the Tagus River. The round outdoor swimming pool, hidden in a garden of century-old botanical trees, has the feel of a jungle paradise, rooms are classically decorated, and the staff are efficient and visibly proud to work here.”
Presidential Suite
The seventh-floor, 2,950-sq.ft. Presidential Suite features pieces from the Ricardo Espiríto Santo Foundation and Milly Possoz Collection. The balcony has views of the Avenida.
More suites at Tivoli Avenida Liberdade.
