Portugal’s coastal capital sits on the Tagus River with the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge linking Lisbon to Almada across the Tagus River. As one of Western Europe’s oldest cities, Lisbon boasts a rich heritage and a unique charm. Cobbled roads, symmetrically laid Portuguese pavements, and brightly painted buildings with hills overlooking the river create a picturesque setting, while miradouros—viewpoints scattered across the city’s seven hills—reveal layers of terracotta rooftops and offer panoramic views.
Among the many landmarks is São Jorge Castle, reachable on foot or via the famous Tram 28, which passes through Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, with nearby stops providing access via a short uphill walk. The historic Alfama district alongside the river is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods, featuring winding lanes flanked by beautifully tiled palaces and shady squares, providing a picturesque setting for visitors. In trendy Belém, find the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT). Visit the Museu do Aljube, which showcases Portugal under dictatorship and the country’s subsequent struggle for freedom and democracy. The pastel de nata, a must-try Portuguese pastry, originated with monks at Jerónimos Monastery before later becoming commercially famous in Belém, and daily you’ll find a queue outside the popular pastry shop.
Bairro Alto is a charming and buzzing bohemian neighborhood known for its cobbled streets and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal area for travelers looking to soak up city life. Chiado, a central neighborhood, blends historic charm with modern amenities, making it a popular choice for those wanting to explore Lisbon's cultural and culinary offerings. Exploring Lisbon’s neighborhoods, each with its unique character and style, is a delightful experience, enhanced by the city’s colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere. The city’s nightlife and cobbled streets further contribute to the energetic experience of city life, inviting visitors to explore and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Beyond the city, a string of Atlantic beaches from Cascais to Estoril, and further inland the charming royal sanctuary resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains – Sintra. You would be forgiven for losing your heart to this European city with its effortless blend of traditional heritage, modern design, and progressive thinking.
The First-Class.com guide to the Best Hotels in Lisbon:
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon - 9/10
The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon next to Park Eduardo VII is perched atop one of Lisbon's seven hills. Commissioned during António de Oliveira Salazar’s regime in the 1950s, its since had millions of euros poured into a substantial renovation with the addition of a spa and swimming pool. Inside, an art-deco theme mingles with the updated Louis XVI style. In the vast lobby, chandeliers cast light over hand-woven rugs, antique collectables and local art. The hotel offers several hundred spacious rooms and suites spread over 10 floors, all are luxurious and spacious, most have large balconies overlooking the park, all with private bathrooms with L’Occitane toiletries.
Take in a Michelin-starred meal at CURA restaurant. The Veranda restaurant offers views of the park and the city. The Ritz Bar is decked out in red and black and serves everything from espressos and champagne to light meals and snacks. The velvet-upholstered cocktail lounge has an undeniable aura of sophistication. The hotel features a fitness centre on the 11th floor with an outdoor running track overlooking the city, and also an on-site spa with saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, a superb indoor lap pool and treatment rooms.
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Olissippo Lapa Palace Hotel - 9/10
The Olissippo Lapa Palace was built in the 19th century. A luxurious 5-star hotel in the city’s diplomatic quarter surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Tagus River. Each of the 109 rooms and suites has a different style, with many featuring spacious living areas and elegant marble floors that add to the classic, high-end ambiance. You’ll find art deco, Algarvian and Neo-Classic styles spread across the Palace Wing, Garden Wing and Villa Lapa. All rooms feature beautiful Portuguese Vista Alegre porcelain. They are bright and airy and include a lounge area and a marble bathroom. Most have a balcony overlooking the river or gardens, offering scenic views. Serving Mediterranean cuisine with a distinct Italian flair, the Lapa Restaurant is in an elegant dining room with an open-air terrace.
A draw at the hotel is Rio Tejo Bar, arguably one of the best spots in the city for a casual drink with classic Lisbon views. During winter, the hotel’s afternoon tea serves a range of 30 different teas from India, China, Vietnam and Japan. The outdoor pool is in a tranquil garden with ornamental fountains and water features – it’s heated from May to September so don’t miss it. For relaxation between sightseeing, the Lapa Palace Spa has a sauna and Turkish bath, and the modern gym is well equipped. Luxury accommodations here frequently include unique amenities such as outdoor pools, fitness centers, and personalized concierge services. Premium suites command significantly higher rates depending on season and availability, while most 5-star hotels in Lisbon average between $300 and $400 per night depending on the season. The spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and wellness therapies, making it a popular choice for relaxation and rejuvenation. Many luxury hotels in Lisbon also offer exceptional dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants and rooftop bars with stunning views of the city and the Tagus River.
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Verride Palácio Santa Catarina - 9/10
Verride Palácio Santa Catarina boutique hotel in a lovingly restored 18th-century palace houses 19 luxury rooms and suites, each embellished with intricate original stucco, gilded furniture, and marble floors that evoke classic opulence and craftsmanship. Blending vintage with modern detail and located in the heart of Lisbon, staying here means you wake up in one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, while nearby Lapa is noted for a quieter, more residential experience in Lisbon. All rooms have large windows bringing in plenty of natural light and loads of custom Portuguese finishings. Some rooms have balconies. The Arch Suite and the King’s Suite are favourites, as is the Queen’s Suite for its romantic white-and-blue bathroom with tiles dating back to 1901. Suites feature spacious living areas, and the royal suites offer an elevated sense of comfort and grandeur. The warm reception rooms have imported chandeliers, silk-lined walls and art pieces on display, further enhancing the regal atmosphere of this Palace Lisbon.
Suba restaurant provides a fine dining experience with a modern take on classic Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine. It is light and bright and decorated with pale marble and wooden flooring. The rooftop bar is another jewel in the hotel’s crown with its 360-degree views of the city, river and ocean beyond. Verride Palácio has a small swimming pool area and is pet-friendly. The property is right next to Santa Catarina Belvedere and just 300 metres from Chiado.
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Bairro Alto Hotel - 9/10
The Verride Palácio Santa Catarina is a boutique hotel set within an 18th-century palace, reflecting the founders’ vision as a true passion project. Every detail, from the restored historic features to the elegant design, showcases their personal dedication to creating a unique luxury experience. The interiors are a blend of classic glamour and contemporary comfort, with marble floors, chandeliers, and gilded furniture enhancing the sense of opulence.
The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, including royal suites for those seeking the utmost in luxury. Many suites feature a spacious living area, providing guests with a comfortable and homely space to relax or dine in privacy. The royal suites are particularly notable for their restored decor, generous layouts, and premium amenities, appealing to travelers who desire a regal experience.
Dining at Verride Palácio Santa Catarina is a highlight, with Suba serving as an atmospheric restaurant. Its vaulted ceilings, historic details, and stylish ambiance create a distinctive setting that elevates the culinary experience. For those seeking panoramic views, the rooftop terrace is a standout feature, offering sweeping vistas of Lisbon and serving as the perfect spot for sunset drinks or simply soaking in the city’s scenery from a distinguished vantage point.
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Lumiares Hotel & Spa - 9/10
The five-star Lumiares Hotel & Spa in Bairro Alto is home to 47 apartment-style suites that combine the luxury of a hotel with all the home comforts. Set in the heart of Bairro Alto—a charming and buzzing bohemian neighborhood known for its cobbled streets and vibrant nightlife—this hotel is ideal for travelers looking to soak up Lisbon's city life. Each spacious apartment has a fully equipped kitchen with Smeg appliances and a fridge stocked with wine and beer. The interiors are super modern, the bedrooms decorated in splashes of pink, cool greys and brass. Other distinct touches are the geometric patterns, Portuguese tiles in the bathroom and handmade tapestry cushions. Some suites also offer a separate living area, providing extra comfort and space for relaxing or dining.
The Lumi Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is headed up by Chef João Silva and serves elegant Portuguese dishes with international flair. This atmospheric restaurant features a unique ambiance, making it a memorable dining experience. The rooftop bar on the 5th floor serves high quality, locally sourced, seasonal food – with a strong focus on fresh ingredients. Ask for a room on the upper floors for views of Castelo de São Jorge and the terracotta rooftops. Tucked away in the hotel’s basement is a spa haven with four treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room and a gym. There’s no pool here but the sister hotel, The Vintage, caters to those who want a refreshing dip. The hotel is located near the city’s botanical garden.
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Poussade de Lisboa Hotel - 9/10
The Lumiares Hotel & Spa is centrally located in the heart of Lisbon’s Bairro Alto, offering easy access to the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, historical sites, and key attractions. This boutique hotel features apartment-style suites, each with a spacious living area and a fully equipped kitchen—bonus points for those who appreciate the comforts of home paired with luxury decor and high ceilings. The hotel’s world-class spa provides a range of indulgent treatments, while the Lumi Rooftop Bar & Restaurant serves as a stunning rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Lisbon, making it an ideal spot for sunset drinks and soaking in the city’s scenery from a distinguished vantage point.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of being steps away from Lisbon’s best shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The Lumiares’ thoughtful design and amenities, including its fitness centre and attentive service, ensure a memorable and comfortable stay for discerning travelers.
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Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel - 8/10
The intimate Santiago de Alfama is centrally located in the oldest part of Lisbon, in the heart of Alfama—an area renowned for central luxury shopping and landmarks along Avenida da Liberdade. This family-run boutique hotel is housed in a fully restored 15th-century palace, tucked between St George’s Castle and the beautiful Santa Luzia lookout point, occupying a prominent corner that offers a distinctive sense of place within central Lisbon. Acclaimed architect Luís Rebelo de Andrade worked with the owners for almost six years to bring the building back to life, preserving original walls while meeting the demands of a luxury modern hotel. The hotel’s great location provides easy access to key attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and historical sites, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.
The rooms vary in shape and size, with some suites offering a separate living area for added comfort and relaxation. The Santiago Suite on the fourth floor boasts the best views over Alfama and the river, while two spacious and bright Junior Suites are also available.
The sixteen Classic Bedrooms are cosy and bright, the Superior King Bedrooms have a little more space, one with access to the courtyard. Their colours vary from bright blues to muted golds and warm beiges, with Portuguese cotton-clad beds and good working desks. Focussing on local ingredients, Café Audrey opens onto the cobbled street, allowing the light to dapple on the beautiful tiled floor. The Beauty Bar is the in-house salon on the lower ground floor, an urban retreat with highly trained therapists and a holistic approach to wellbeing. The hotel is particularly popular with celebrities who are able to slip under the radar here.
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Fontecruz Lisboa, Autograph Collection - 8/10
With a prime location on a prominent corner of Avenida Liberdade near Rossio Square and the Baixa District, the Fontecruz Lisbon Hotel is a chic landmark in one of Lisbon’s most prestigious central districts. Nestled along one of Lisbon’s narrow cobbled streets, it offers guests easy access to the city’s historic charm. Its 72 rooms are divided into standard, deluxe, balcony and terrace rooms, with two spacious suites on the top floor—some of which feature a separate living area for added comfort. They feature contemporary art pieces, soundproof windows and fine furniture and all enjoy plenty of natural light. All are decorated similarly with black and white as the dominant colours. Large images of old Lisbon hang above the beds, there are glossy oval basins and the room numbers are made from mismatched tiles. In the lobby, bright red oversized chairs sit on the black marble floor, adding a touch of glamour to the classic decor.
Its individuality makes it a perfect fit for the Marriott Autograph Collection. Unwind with a glass of wine on the terrace while savouring farm-to-table cuisine at Bistrôa, an atmospheric restaurant with a unique ambiance and stylish design. There is a good wine list with some of the best wines from Portugal and Spain. The hotel borders Lisbon’s Avenida da Liberdade, a magnificent 19th-century, tree-lined boulevard and one of the main thoroughfares through the capital. Bonus points for the hotel’s attention to detail and distinctive touches that enhance the overall guest experience.
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Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa - 8/10
With over 80 years of history and located on Lisbon’s prestigious Avenida da Liberdade, Hotel Tivoli has been delivering exceptional hospitality since 1933. The hotel was completely revised under acclaimed architect Pardal Monteiro in the 1950s and again with its integration into Minor Hotels – which saw a reduction in numbers and an increase in size. The 285 rooms all have good working desks, soft carpets, signature bed linen, and some suites offer a separate living area for added comfort. Bathrooms are marble and suites have both baths and walk-in showers, Bulgari or Hermès products. The hotel’s most famous resident is Beatriz Costa, an actress from Portugal’s golden age of cinema who lived there for 30 years and has a suite named after her. The interiors feature marble floors and touches of gilded furniture, adding to the classic elegance and sense of opulence.
Centrally located in central Lisbon, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa boasts a great location with easy access to key attractions, shopping, and vibrant neighborhoods. Its prominent position on the corner of Avenida da Liberdade places guests within walking distance of Lisbon’s main sights.
Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa has two restaurants; SEEN Lisboa and Cervejaria Liberdade, as well as two bars, the Sky Bar and the Lobby Bar. The top-floor SEEN Lisboa is an atmospheric restaurant with a unique ambiance, serving international cuisine, a wine list with over 300 selections, and those panoramic views. Cervejaria Liberdade serves predominantly seafood from the coast of Portugal. There’s a warm swimming pool in the garden. The Anantara Spa combines therapies with Portuguese rituals. Use the sauna, fitness facilities and changing rooms with ease.
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Memmo Príncipe Real - 8/10
Found at the end of a narrow cobbled street, Memmo Príncipe Real is the flagship property of the small Memmo Hotels collection. Designed by architect Samuel Torres de Carvalho, the hotel’s character is rooted in Portuguese heritage. The use of local materials such as limestone and old hand-painted tiles, marble floors, and touches of gilded furniture, as well as modern art by local artists, means the property has an undeniably timeless style. Nearly all of the 41 rooms overlook the city, some rooms have balconies, others terraces, and two outdoor fires. Varying in size and shape yet with similar wooden floors, plush rugs and white linen-covered beds, the bedside lights are made of hand-blown glass that sends warm tones through the rooms. Some suites offer a separate living area for added comfort. Premium Rooms come with oval tubs as well as rain showers. Amenities are Eau d’Orange Verte by Hermés.
Memmo Príncipe Real is centrally located in central Lisbon, offering a great location with easy access to key attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural sites. Bonus points for its peaceful setting despite being in the heart of the city.
Café Príncipe Real is located in a central part of the hotel with a beautiful terrace overlooking the city. Here you will find traditional local cuisine, fresh seafood, and local wine, complemented by Mediterranean and international flavours. The restaurant is an atmospheric restaurant with a unique ambiance, perfect for a memorable dining experience. Memmo Príncipe Real has an outdoor pool and lounge area. Bairro Alto and Avenida da Liberdade are both within a 10-minute walk away. Surrounded by new concept stores and restaurants, Praça do Comércio is within easy walking distance.
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