The Best Luxury Hotels in Lisbon, Portugal

The 19th-century Valle Flôr Palace, erected on a hilltop in Alto de Santo Amaro, is a Portuguese national monument. Decorated in a Belle Époque style, ceiling frescoes, glazed marble, stained-glass windows and an Asian-style pavilion in the hotel’s quiet garden (where you’ll find the Magic Spa) all add to its charm. Several restaurants – among them the Valle Flôr – and two swimming pools offer opportunities to rub shoulders with the likes of Madonna, who lived here for a few months in 2017.

This six-bedroom hotel sits high on one of Lisbon’s seven hills, offering outstanding views of the Pantheon and River Tagus. A haven away from the tourist traps, it features a peaceful internal garden with nods to the property’s 18th-century heritage including walls and freestanding tubs made from local limestone. There’s a homely feel, and daily afternoon tea unusually involves traditional orange cake and arroz doce (Portuguese rice pudding).

The 18th-century Verride Palácio lies in the Santa Catarina neighbourhood, an area full of narrow streets and steep stairways. Once the residence of a Portuguese nobleman, this palace-turned-boutique hotel lies in Bairro Alto, a vibrant neighbourhood with shopping, dining and nightlife. The hotel’s luxurious interiors feature shades of white and custom-made furniture. Facilities include the on-site Suba Restaurant, a rooftop bar with incredible views over the River Tagus, and the Winter Garden, which serves breakfast.

Palácio do Governador used to be the governor’s residence of the 16th-century Belém Tower, a Lisbon landmark located just a few steps away. However, the palace’s historical importance dates even further back as it sits on top of Roman ruins, which are interwoven into the hotel’s design. Palácio do Governador’s two pools, spa and water-mirror garden offer an escape from day-to-day earthly affairs, while its on-site restaurant, Ânfora, offers Portuguese cuisine under vaulted ceilings.

In a 17th-century former battery in Cascais, 32km (20mi) from Lisbon, Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho still enjoys its greatest asset – mesmerising views of the Atlantic Ocean. The on-site Michelin-starred restaurant summons its menu from these waters, with speciality sea-to-plate dishes. The hotel’s proximity to Guincho Beach – never crowded, sometimes windy, always fashionable – is perfect for those who want tranquillity with a touch of sophistication.

During the redevelopment of the old Eurostars Museum building into a five-star hotel, builders stumbled upon many ancient artefacts of Lisbon’s old wall and port. The findings, some dating back to Roman times, were significant enough to stop work and make changes to the original project – this time, incorporating these archaeological discoveries into its design. If you’re interested in learning about these artefacts, a guided tour is available every day. The hotel also features old naval maps showing Portuguese sea routes of yore in each bedroom, and has a glorious spa and indoor pool.

A tight passage through a 19th-century edifice leads you to this 41-bedroom hotel, which offers views over old Lisbon cascading down the hills. Memmo Príncipe Real lies in the very heart of one of the most prestigious – and tendiest – neighbourhoods in the Portuguese capital. Also known as Lisbon’s gay area, Príncipe Real is brimming with LGBTQ-friendly bars, art galleries and restaurants. If you feel like staying in, savour a meal at the hotel’s Café Príncipe Real while admiring the sunset over Lisbon’s rooftops.