Mission brilliantly accomplished: the result is there for all to see at the welcoming As Janelas Verdes, a 29-room manor where every corner has traces of the literary and artistic heritage of one of Portugal's most important novelists. There is a friendly mood to the place, perfect for lovebirds looking for the romantic side of Lisbon. The furniture is very much the same as when Eça sat at his wooden desk facing the Tagus to write “The Maias”. The armchairs, oil paintings, heavy drapes and the gorgeous stone and cast iron staircase leading to the top floor library are all original 19th century pieces.
There is no restaurant, but a very short walk away, right next to the National Museum of Ancient Art (MNAA), Le Chat has one of the most beautiful balconies in Lisbon, facing the city harbour. Its menu is fresh and modern with some traditional dishes. Le Chat is also a good spot for late evening drinks.
Breakfast at the hotel is served as a buffet in one of the salons. We're not quite sure why, but their fresh-squeezed orange juice is one of the most superb drinks we've had lately (it's just oranges, but believe us, they are the best we've ever had).
Time Out tip: Right across from the MNAA, Boulangerie serves some of the city's best breakfasts, with croissants and real French bread (homemade, fresh oven baked). It has nice outdoor tables facing a small square. There is usually a big crowd on Sundays, but while you're waiting you can go to the museum and see for yourself the famous St. Vincent Panels medieval paintings.