The best hotels in Lisbon

Brown's Central is everything but dull. Despite being located in the middle of Pombaline dowtown in an old building, it does not seek to impress through its link to the city's history. Instead, it breaks through the stigma of the hotel as a closed-off space to be a meeting point and an arts venue. Its bar and restaurant both have a cultural program with pop-up concerts and chats, and they are trendy gathering points for artists and prospecting gallerists. The place has an arty feel: a revivalist style recreating the café scene of the early 20th century, combining vintage furniture and contemporary artworks. The common areas have an intimate and familiar feel: walls are painted in strong colours, the floor is tiled and there is an Art Déco-inspired counter. Outside, you'll find that hip hangout party place Bairro Alto is a small stroll away, getting home after a few too many glasses of Maderia wine will be no problem at all. 

Designer Graça Viterbo brought an original, intimate feel to this hotel, and thus gave the city centre back a comfortable and glamorous location – a hotel the way hotels used to be in the days before multinational chains. It has a mere 20 rooms – some of them with an amazing view of downtown and the Tagus. Ironically (considering this was once the castle's kitchen) there is no restaurant in the premises, but room service works around the clock with a menu of snacks and salads, and that should do if you're in a hurry. But if you get the evening blues and your body calls for serious nourishment, go out and seek one of the many nearby restaurants – but first wait for sunset, when the inner courtyard is lit (literally, and in terms of how the cool kids speak). The city center is a mere ten minutes away too, so the hotel is absolutely ideal for really getting stuck into everything Lisbon has to offer. 

The Olissipo Castelo is unique for several reasons, particularly its view of Lisbon. It has 12 classic and comfortable rooms, in need of a technological upgrade – the old TV sets almost feel like visual pollution. The suites have a living room and a 50sq/m terrace; all of them offer the same panorama. The staff is friendly and helpful in suggesting restaurants or alternative cultural events to their guests. They are always willing to share the city's most precious secrets for the greater good of their guests' enjoyment. There is no restaurant at the hotel due to the insane amount of dining spots between Alfama and Mouraria – practically one every other door. Bairro do Castelo has plenty going on, better off using a "restaurant space" to make things even nicer for the guests, don't you think? The hotel serves breakfast and there's a bar and room service, but these are little more than sandwiches. You'll want to eat out anyway, that's part of the fun of a holiday. 

HF Fénix Music is not just a music-tribute hotel, it's a whole sensory experience. All 109 rooms have a theme, from rock to pop to classical music to fado, and every one is equipped with all you need to create you own private disco: Bluetooth sound systems, Internet access touchscreens and even dynamic, disco-style lighting. Music is everywhere: the front desk is drum set-shaped, the bar resembles a piano keyboard. On top of the building you will find a small oasis that will make you forget you're in the centre of Lisbon: a lounge terrace with a swimming pool and a bar with a broad view of the castle. The restaurant serves breakfast only – such a great establishment could do more. At the bar you can chat and have beer either at the counter or on the couch, everything lit as if on a dance floor. When you're done getting lost in music and feeling so alive, some local points of interest include Bairro Alto for even more entertainment, Avenida da Liberdade for fancy shops and historic buildings, and Parque Eduardo VII because who doesn't love a nice park. 

Look out over the Tagus from one of the many windows in this glass tower. The InterContinental provides the lap of luxury, with elegant decor that harks back to the Golden Age of Hollywood glamour. There are vintage Azulejo ceramic tiles along the walls, the steak tartar at their exemplary restaurant Akla is well known and there's a wine cellar too. You can access free wifi everywhere in the building, use the onsite gym and take advantage of the private parking. Should you decide to venture beyond the lovely accomodation, you'll notice you're 550 yards from Marquês de Pombal Square (count!) and 750 yards from trendy Avenida da Liberdade's boutiques.

In Portugal the term pousada (hostel) is usually used to mean somewhere cheap and cheerful, but that's not the case here at all. Run by the SLH group – that's Small Luxury Hotels of the World – Pousada de Lisboa offers cosmopolitan luxury with a commitment to Portuguese art. Tapestries, sculptures and paintings line the lobby, stairwells, rooms and more. Other features include a wellness center, sauna, and a fitness center. Also, should you swing by, you'll find you're situated in the impressive Pombaline Interior Ministry building, which sits right on the banks of the Targus, overlooking Praça do Comércio. Beautiful. 

Given the name, you'd be right to assume that this hotel was once a palace – belonging to Marquis of Valle Flôr no less. You'd also be right in guessing that Pestana Palace is a five-star establishment that is so high-end that even Madonna has stayed here. You may well just rub shoulders with the stars if you stay here, but if not, at least you can take advantage of the spa, gym, indoor/outdoor pools and three restaurant/bars, there's a fourth in the summer months, pool side. Many of the rooms have balconies overlooking lush gardens too. Either way, it'll be like a prayer has been answered. 

Situated in one of the finest spots in Lisbon, Memmo's third hotel offers an unbeatable view of the city from the sweeping terrace of their restaurant/cocktail bar. Named after the nineteenth-century Portuguese King D Pedro V, this place certainly feels fit for royalty. Guests can enjoy sleek modern design, secure parking with valet service and a free walking tour that leaves from reception daily at 5pm. The food is also fit for a king: Café Principe Real Restaurant really helps you get in with the Lusophony vibes through Portuguese dishes, but also international dishes which have informed Portugal, so think Brazilian, African and Asian cuisines. Mmmmm. 

This historic building was protected from alterations when renovations were being made, so much of its nineteenth-century charm remains. Naturally, this means the 25 rooms vary hugely in size, but even the smallest ones (little more than 20sqm) are decked out beautifully and have en suites (with tubs). Each room also has a different aesthetic, from neoclassical to Scandi midcentury modern. Guests can enjoy cocktails or afternoon tea in the restaurant/bar, live fado twice a week and a walled pool garden. You also have a 24 hour front desk here, so you can really get stuck into enjoying and exploring the beautiful, exciting city that is Lisbon. It's why you're here, after all! Although we wouldn't blame you for just sitting in this hotel all day. 

Inside the hotel, a friendly staff helps the location feel comfy, but the Augusta Boutique Hotel also aims to be recognized for its tasteful decoration. Their furniture is well chosen, a retro-chic mix of vintage and design pieces that does not overwhelm. Essentially a bed & breakfast in terms of service, there are few common areas, with the exception of a terrace, from which you can see the castle hill. The 12 rooms are the centrepiece of the hotel: they too have an irreverent aesthetic, with tapestries by the bedposts, wooden panels on the walls and wonderfully curated vintage furniture contrasting with the monochrome. Breakfast comes with a catch: there is no specific room to have it. You can either enjoy it on the terrace or in your room at no extra cost. Just as a little holiday should be without any annoying surprises. The beds here a verrrrry comfy too. 

Formed from two old mansions built in the heart of Lisbon (on Colina Sant'Ana), Torel Palace boasts crisp and classic rococo décor. All over you'll discover golden and florid details fit for a French monarch and, as if that weren't Instagrammable enough, you can get the most stunning views of the city from here, thanks to the fact that Torel Palace sprawls down a hill that rolls on toward São Pedro de Alcântara and the Tagus beyond. Inside, you'll have free wifi to upload the Insta shots with, minifridges, Nespresso machines and flat-screen TVs. There's a pool on the hillside, a gym, restaurant and a bar too, so truly all the comforts you could need in one place. When venturing beyond your Palace, you'll easily find yourself at Coliseu dos Recreios, and the National Theatre Dona Maria II both are a short walk away. 

Located down a narrow street in Chiado, Martinhal is a short walk from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon's historic centre. Plus, with childcare available at the hotel, this is the perfect place for parents holidaying with young children. Stay here for easy access to Time Out's acclaimed Mercado da Ribeira, as well as other restaurants, bars and attractions at the lively Bairro Alto, Alfama (known for its Fado Houses and narrow streets), and the iconic São Jorge Castle. All of which are around a mile away at most.

The five-star Altis Avenida harks back to the sumptuous design of the 1940s. Rich gold trim and slabs of marble run throughout, with lovely modernist touches. Despite the retro glamour, you can rest assured that they have all the mod cons. Enjoy an elegant lobby bar, rooftop restaurant (called Rossio) and 24-hour room service, which is ideal for the late nights exploring (reception is also 24 hours, so you're not getting locked out). Plus they're pet-friendly, so you can bring Fido along, so long as he's under 15kg (sorry big Fido) and they'll provide a bed and bowls too. When walkies calls, you can have a stroll around the shopping triangle, Rua Augusta Street, Chiado and Liberdade Avenue. All of which are within five minutes of the hotel. Woof.

If you're looking to unwind you could do worse than staying at Corinthia, literally anywhere. Their spa is well known for its hydrotherapy, beauty and wellness centre, the panoramic gym means you can get a sweat on while feeling glam (perhaps it'll be a glow, not a sweat here). The hotel prides itself on providing a haven of peace and comfort. There are two restaurants to enjoy – O Típico for traditional Portuguese cuisine and Sete Colinas for international scran, do both, mix it up. On Fridays there's live music in the Terrace Lounge, from which you can see the entire Águas Livres Aqueduct. When heading out, you're a within fifteen minutes on the metro from basically everything you'll want. 

The Lumiares Hotel offers accommodation in Bairro Alto, the bohemian and cultural heart of lovely Lisboa. But let's tackle the inside features first. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV, and some also have a seating and/or dining area. There is even a kitchenette, equipped with a dishwasher, if you like to cook (we assume you hate to clean, everyone does). There's a coffee machine too. In the hotel-at-large, you'll also find a spa centre, sauna, and a hammam because, yes. There's also a great bar. Outside, hip spot Rossio is 400 metres away, as is the neighbourhood of Chiado. Dona Maria II National Theatre is 500 metres away. Plenty more, too. 

Nothing to with football exactly, this is a staunch favourite with families and groups alike, thanks to its spacious rooms and free parking. It's also just a few minutes' walk from the Rossio Square, which also means you'll have easy access to great restaurants, bars and shops locally and in neighbouring neighbourhoods Chiado and Bairro Alto. That being said, just some of the amenities at the hotel include a breakfast buffet, sushi restaurant and rooftop bar, so you needn't really leave at all. 

With a lovely location in the old Palace of the Counts of Paraty, Hotel da Estrela enjoys something many hotels in Lisbon don't: outdoor space. And stunning baroque architecture).The gardens of this luxury stay are beautifully kept, with a circular pond in the centre, and serene seclusion is guaranteed by the surrounding trees. There are only 19 rooms here, so exclusivity is the name of the game, and the staff will make you feel so special you forget about those people too. The restaurant caters well with experimental Portugese cuisine and traditional reigonal wines. You're pretty much in the heart of the city too, so a quick venture outside will provide many things to do and see. 

AlmaLusa is somewhat a newbie to the Lisbon hotel scene, having only opened in March 2016, but it brings a lot to the table. For starters, it's a beautifully rennovated eighteenth-century Pombaline building, and still boasts all the mod cons you could possibly need without compromising on character. All 28 rooms offer at least a 42" HD flat-screen, a 4G smartphone (because simply why not), Castelbel toiletries, and tea/coffee making facilities. Plus the hotel is only a street away from the Chiado, the Ribeira das Naus and the busy downtown streets, so you won't be short on options. If you fancy staying in, there is also a restaurant on-site which serves up a wide range of Portuguese, Mediterranean and international specialities, along with a vast wine selection. There's staff on hand 24/7 too, so you'll never be caught out. 

This futuristic white cube on the waterfront is frankly ridiculously swish. It is also perfectly placed to explore the sights of the area, given that landmarks including Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Pastéis de Belém pastry shop (possibly the most important landmark) are all within walking distance, but that's assuming you even leave the hotel. Altis Belém has a Michelin-starred restaurant, a lighter but equally delicious place to eat, indoor and outdoor pools (the latter overlook the marina), a spa and a rooftop sun deck. There's an equally impressive bar, too. Of course the rooms are also equipped with coffee machines, electric curtains and the rest too. 

For a five star room with a view to match, look no further than the Olissippo Lapa Palace. Each suite either faces the river Tagus or the hotel's exotic gardens. Inside, your eyes are also treated. This time, to nineteenth-century manor house aesthetics complete with crystal chandeliers, marble bathrooms and polished mahogany dressers. The heated swimming pool in the gym/spa is a real treat, but there's also an outdoor pool if you'd rather bask in the sunshine. Restaurant Hotel Lapa serves fine Mediterranean cuisine and regional wines, while  you can get cocktails, homemade iced teas and fruit juices poolside in the warmer months. Central Lisbon is just a short drive away. 

Here's something seriously cool. hotel Tivoli Lisboa is a hotel housed in a 1930s building on Avenida da Liberdade. It is also, naturally, a 5-star luxury hotel boasting a rooftop bar with panoramic Lisbon views. There's an equally picturesque round pool and two restaurants to get the tastebuds going as well as the tongue. The Avenida da Liberdade, where Hotel Tivoli resides, is basically *the* street to be on when it comes to classy bricks and motar, too. Shops include Cartier, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. In 2016, its Thai owners invested 15 million euros in a total makeover of the rooms and common areas, so while it might be near a hundred years old, it is still cutting all the edges. You don't want to mess with perfection, though: no changes were made to the top floor terrace, proud host of the Sky Bar, one of Lisbon's hippest rooftops, nor to the botanic garden with a swimming pool. Some things are timeless. Your stay will be too. 

Next to the Figueira Square, in the excellent area of the city, close to the Rossio, the Chiado, and the Cathedral you'll find this lovely boutique hotel. Inside are 53 elegant and contemporary style rooms, they are low on frills, but high on tranquility and comfort. There is also a traditional Lisbon patio turned into a café, and an outdoors area to enjoy. The Portugal Boutique Hotel doesn't have its own food and drink, but it does have access to the bar and restaurants at the nearby Hotel Mundial. One of these is the Varanda de Lisboa, where traditional Portuguese food is served with a panoramic view to the city and the river. These quirks mean the value is sky high. Of course, the 24 hour hotel reception means you'll be welcomed back home at any hour (Lisbon loves a party, after all). 

This Belle Époque style hotel opened for business in 1892, and has often been praised as one of the finest and prettiest places to stay anywhere in Europe. And not just the prettiest of the Belle Époque gaffs either. It was designed by José Luís Monteiro, the same master builder who conceived the facade of the nearby Rossio train station, so you can compare the two if that's your thing (or if you're just kinda standing outside waiting for someone to hurry up or whatever). Avenida Palace precedes by many decades the big tourist boom. It survived the Portuguese republican revolution, the Spanish civil war and both world wars, while being a major venue for political intrigue and espionage – or so some say. Its 82 rooms and suites face Lisbon's centre. The bathrooms are marble, the decoration is Spartan, generally all is pretty much perfect. There's views of St. George's Castle too. 

138 Liberdade Hotel's 72 rooms come with a choice of view, according to how much peace and quiet you require. This doesn't mean any of them offer no peace and quiet, they all offer peace and quet. But take it as a hint at the level of care that's provided for you at this five star spot. There is the front of the hotel, overlooking the vibrant Avenida da Liberdade, a lovely boulevard with its share of heavy traffic and nervous honking if you want to feel reminded of the exciting city you're in while using the free toiletires and sipping Iberian wine; or you can face the backyard patio, where the bar's outdoors tables are placed, which offers a rare commodity in the city centre: silence. Conceived by and for young people, in Liberdade the leisure areas share an open space with the lobby. After checking in we felt tempted to immediately take a detour towards the bar before going up to the room, but we're well behaved and waited patiently until 2pm. At the Bar Small and Delicious (also a restaurant), the gin menu has scores of choices, which connaisseurs will appreciate. And everything from night life to historical cafes to districts full of Fado music is less than a twenty minute walk. 

Sure, there's something lovely and special about the trend of smaller, more intimate boutique hotels, across Lisbon. But sometimes, big is better (or at least, as good as). Enter the SANA Group and its huge five-star hotel parked right next to the Amoreiras. If it was a giant, it'd be the big friendly one. Service warm and homely. The 291 rooms and suites are a luxury proposition indeed. Their minimalist décor highlights their generous size and spaciousness, making their king-sized beds the centre of attentions. Bathrooms are also worthy of mention, with their huge showers and tubs, so large you will feel like soaking in a bath all day long and fall asleep (we're not saying that's what happened, but we're not saying it didn't either). It's a good spot for a spot of business too, there's 14 meeting rooms. You'll also be at Bairro Alto within twnety minutes by public transport. Large. 

Graça Viterbo, one of the busiest interior decorators in the country, was tasked with turning a palace where writer Eça de Queirós once lived into a boutique hotel. 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 too, which is very nice. The very romantic property is located on the banks of the river Tagus too, placing you nicely in the triangle of Lapa, Madragoa and Santos. They're known as the old quarters, and there's plenty to do. Recpetion is 24 hours, so don't worry about being out too late. 

Miguel Câncio Martins, the same architect that designed the famous Buddha Bar in Paris and the Pacha in Marrakesh, created this stylish hotel from a Pombaline-style 18th century building. And they say all good things come in threes, don't they. The original outline remains unchanged, with its cast-iron balconies, stonework and tile walls. But the makeover inside has ensured the hotel remaims fresh-faced, urbane and cosmopolitan throighout. Mixing the young and the old is an alchemy that earned it international recognition as one of Portugal's most successful restoration projects. You will see why right on your way in, with an old apothecary counter converted into a tea station, and the mezzanine turned into a library. It is a small hotel, 41 rooms, with a range of amenities you wouldn't expect from a location merely six storeys tall. Further inside, as in your bedroom and that, you'll find toiletries are provided via Molton Brown and the TV is stacked with all the channels. When you're out, make use of the 24-hour front desk. 

A few years ago, the city's most traditional district had little to offer tourists apart from some local lodgings and budget hostels. A less money-conscious traveller looking for a fuller experience would have to look elsewhere, which is unusal, as this is a place where everyone will want to pay a visit. Anyway, we said unusual – that lasted until the day the Memmo Group decided to up the stakes and start Alfama's first boutique hotel worthy of that name, youthful in spirit but much more ambitious than its neighbours. It is not a luxury hotel, neither is it meant to be one. Memmo wants to be a home away from home, and that requires an informal mood that would not fit in with the five-star model. There are 42 rooms of varying sizes, some with a balcony, others with larger areas to make up for a less inspiring view, and yet a few quieter ones overlooking the inner courtyard. There's a wine bar, an honesty fridge, places to sit overlooking the river, and far more. The location, of course, is sublime. 

Portuguese high society's golden age was about to come, but 1950s Lisbon was still behind its peers in terms of luxury accommodations. There were a couple of hotels with a good international reputation, but not much else. And then came the Ritz, in 1959. Its grand opening was a hot ticket, with more than two thousand guests. The luxury, and sense of importance here, remains the same. This five star hotel is still one of the city's most popular. “No” is a taboo word here; ask for anything and the hotel will get it for you (within reason, of course). Designed by award-winning architect Pardal Monteiro, the building is a city landmark. There's L’Occitane products in the bathrooms, on-site restaurants, indoor pools, a spa and more. The super trendy Avenida da Liberdade is less than 10 minutes on foot too. 

Designed in 1940 by modernist architect Cassiano Branco, Hotel Britania remains genuine and true to itself, and that's what makes it so special. Ignoring the competition and thoroughly uninterested in adapting to 21st century trends, its calling card is simplicity – not everyone needs state of the art technology or contemporary furniture to feel home. Just nice accomodating staff, well made furniture, spacious rooms, and nice toiletries. Perennially voted as one of the hotels with the nicer staff, its team is devoted to turning every stay into a guided tour through the golden age of European architecture. There are 32 rooms (and a suite) decorated in grey and wooden tones, and they are both comfortable and spacious. Some of them have balconies and cork floors, but most have classic marble floors, the same material used in the lobby. For partying, Bairro Alto is less than a mile away. For tranquility, the botanical garden is a short stroll from the hotel. 

Getting to the Solar dos Mouros, a small boutique hotel near the castle, is not easy. Given you're in the historic centre of the city, you will walk, cut through narrow alleys that look like they're going nowhere, climb a few steps, turn around to enjoy the view, slip a couple of times on the pavement and right when you're about to question the accuracy of Google Maps, you will see, hiding among the trees, an old house with 13 rooms. But staying in the historic centre does have its perks: you're close to everything, it's absolutely beautiful. Crucially, the “old” part refers only to the facade – inside you will find a bold decoration based on chromatic shock – walls come in red, yellow, blue, green and orange (no, really). Your first impression will be that of an artist's studio, and you wouldn't be too far from the truth. Outside, you're within a few hundred yards of Lisbon Cathedral, the iconic São Jorge Castle, and Portas do Sol. You'll get some great views of the river there. 

The 91-metre tall giant hides within its walls one of the most effective staffs you will ever find (they even have a medical department). Its 369 rooms will make you want to move in. We don't even mean the ten executive suites, whose generous areas make them larger than many Lisbon apartments; the standard rooms are breathtaking enough in its style and luxury features, such as Bang & Olufsen LCD screens, marble bathrooms and delightful beds by Sheraton's exclusive brand, Sweet Sleeper. Only the Club Rooms include breakfast, free wi-fi and access to a panoramic lounge with a bar and light meals service, the place where we suspect VIPs go to dodge meetings.

The rooms are great, large and comfy, both classic and relaxed, but it's the rest of the Plaza that truly sings. The original decoration mixes the old and the new with a delightful zest: old furniture and designer pieces, brightly painted walls and marble rooms with armchairs and rocking chairs. Some traces remains of the 1950s, when the hotel opened for business as a meeting point for the artists that drew crowds to the nearby Parque Mayer. It has been managed ever since by the same family, who remained committed throughout the years to the hotel's informal and bohemian style. There's a private library that you can read books from too. Outside, you're seconds from the metro which will be the key to exploring absolutely every corner of the city. 

Born in 2010, Inspira Santa Marta is like a Kinder chocolate egg – plain on the outside, full of surprises within. Upon stepping into the lobby (it's a bit bigger than a Kinder egg), you will see some of those surprises come to light. Don't expect gold-plated walls, but this utilitarian hotel has earned a positive reputation for its good taste and friendliness. There are 89 rooms; those on the ground floor are the plainest, but even they have a Nespresso machine, free wi-fi, glass window showers and biodegradable amenities by Ominsens – very good stuff worthy of a five-star hotel (and for liberally using). Feng-shui principles determine the hotel configuration both inside and outside the rooms, which are ample, minimalist and very comfortable. It is a favourite among the LGBTQ+ community also. Eduardo VII Park, Rossio, Chiado, and Bairro Alto are all a small walk away. 

Located in Janelas Verdes, a really nice area near the Museum of Ancient Art, this is much more than just a hotel with a pretty facade. Every one of its nine rooms and seven suites is unique. Some of them have a view to the Tagus, the others to the inner courtyard, but all of them are faithful to its original architecture, with wooden floors, big windows and painted ceilings, so you can really absorb the Lisboa vibes. The “wow” moment will come when you open the door to a suite that used to be the palace's kitchen, and gaze at an enormous fireplace. But even that might not be as wondrous as the chapel suite, with its tiled walls and king-sized bed. Ramalhete has something of a double personality: a classical side allied to a more modern perspective. There's a pool, too. 

The International Design Hotel's gets 10 out of 10 marks for its location, on the corner of the Rua da Betesga and the Rua Augusta, smack bang in the middle of the Rossio. It only lacks official recognition to be a national monument, with its ancient facade being one of Lisbon's oldest. That's not the only reason people enjoy staying here though. The hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2009, cleaning up the dust and ensuring the city centre has a hotel with a strong personality for decades to come. Its 55 rooms are small, but they make up for that with their design options, based on four major themes: Urban, Feeling, Zen and Pop. All of them are good, not that you'll be spending too much time there, given what's on the doorstep. 

This luxury hotel in the back of the Avenida da Liberdade invites its guests to gather in lively soirées where great writers are remembered. Its 107 rooms got their names from Virginia Woolf, Stendhal, Shakespeare or Mark Twain; snippets of their work hover above the bedposts. Drop by the bar and say hi to Dickens and step inside the conference room to witness an unlikely meeting of Pessoa and Cervantes. All of it is surrounded by a modern atmosphere, with light cascading over design furniture and black marble floors suggesting the hotel's creative personality. Eurostar is unusual in its price – much lower than what you'd might expect in a five-star hotel. But that doesn't mean the staff is any less friendly or the array of services any narrower. Outside, you're also in the city's historical area. Fortunately, there is also a metro, so you can go to the newer parts with very little fuss at all. 

Young and stylish, this 45-room boutique hotel is located in the nexus between the Chiado and the renewed Ribeira das Naus (a riverside “beach” of sorts). It is geared at young folks, to whom it caters with an artsy but relaxed vibe. Being in the middle of the “movida” scene makes this hotel a typical example of the cool side of Lisbon that puts the city among the world's most seductive destinations. The design options aren't particularly bold, and at a time when boutique hotels compete for pizazz this can be a relief (sometimes less really is more), as it helps create an intimate, home-style environment. Which is what you want from a place where you sleep and brush your teeth. This might be a minus if you're not into raw fish, but a plus if you love sushi: the hotel's restaurant, Confraria LX, is 100% devoted to Japanese cuisine. And it's very good at it. If you want something else, you'll find plenty of great options within a short walk of the hotel. 

Hidden in an old 17th century convent in a Lapa hill facing the Tagus, this small boutique hotel has been open for business for more than 100 years. Where once Carmelite sisters wandered, now tourists roam in search of their cloisters. True, the current configuration is modern, but this is not a party destination: rather it is a quiet haven away from the crowds, a peaceful sanctuary and yet the bustling city center is just ten minutes away and easy to access. You might even wonder if you had the right address on your way in, as you meet the unassuming lobby and the friendly but subdued staff. There is still something monastic about the 32 rooms, with their austere lines and antique furniture pieces, as if reminiscent from the building's former use. But that was then, and now you can expect large rooms with big four-poster beds, bedside tables built out of old doors, modern fixtures and clear tones that make the rooms even sunnier. Truly, then, this is how you find the best of both worlds: rest and play. A proper holiday. 

The 19 rooms are all different in size, and even the most affordable ones include a range of amenities  that you would not normally find in a boutique hotel: lots of space, a large bed, a full bathroom including, in some rooms, an old-style tub. There is neither a pool nor a garden, understandably so given the sloping terrain. But the roomy building allows for some extravagances, including an abundance of places to eat and drink: three different venues, each with a different style and purpose. At the Audrey café – named after the glamorous Ms. Hepburn – breakfast is served à la carte and has an immense selection of eggs, pancakes, toast, tea, yogurt and fruit. For lunch or supper, there's two good choices: Fábrica de Santiago and Manny's Bar. If you ever manage to step away from everything the hotel offers, you'll find São Jorge Castle very nearby, along with the rest of the city at large. There's some good views too, bring the camera. 

The 7 Hotel opened for business in 2015 and alongside its traditional rooms it offers studios with kitchenettes, so that you can prepare your own meals. There is no restaurant precisely because none is necessary; located at the Rua do Ouro, linking the Terreiro do Paço and Rossio squares, there is a world of dining options in a 300-metre radius: grease holes, world cuisine, fine pastry shops, good traditional groceries, gourmet shops and wine stores where you can get anything you require for a proper meal. Basically, if you're in the city to eat and not much else, this is the spot. The view from the hotel's 37 rooms is not especially broad, but it offers a nice panorama of one of downtown's busiest streets. Due to the building Pombaline style, rooms come in varying sizes and floorplans, but that adds to the charm we reckon. Besides, you're going to be out and about on a crawl of every Nata in town more than you'll be thinking about the room, aren't you. 

Porto Bay Liberdade offers the best of both worlds: a five-star city hotel's luxury, with all the informal relaxation and friendliness of a place that doesn't supply soap (they have free Rituals toiletries here). The location, just a couple of minutes from the Avenida da Liberdade, is an added bonus for tourists: in fifteen minutes, you can get to the traditional shops of the city centre or the Chiado. The hotel's name is a bit deceiving. You'd assume it has something to do with Portugal's second city, but actually it comes from Porto Santo, in the Madeira islands, where this group already has 11 other properties. This is their first in Lisbon. The 98 rooms on offer are utilitarian rather than dazzling, but they all have a choice of pillows, a tiny detail that can make or break your hotel stay. To make up for the lack of a spectacular panorama there is a rooftop lounge bar and jacuzzi. The metro is pretty close too. All boxes are very much ticked here. 

The hotel has 47 rooms, some of them with a balcony or a patio, but the best view is from the sixth floor terrace, where you can see Lisbon all the way to the river, ideally with sunglasses on while holding a glass of wine. Downstairs, there is no restaurant but Le9 serves light meals; there is also room service. It is important however to notice that the bar does not specialize in food but in mixology: their original cocktail menu is infusion based – they have a great selection of teas. Breakfast is a neverending food festival, so you'd better pace yourself: homemade yogurt, detox juices, “nata” tarts, croissants, five varieties of bread, bacon and eggs are some of the offering. Free parking is available, and so is free wi-fi throughout the hotel. Should you decide to even leave the hotel Lisbon’s Trindade Theatre is basically on the doorstep, Rossio Train Station and Baixa/Chiado Metro Station are within 8 minutes’ walk too, and they'll get you absolutely everywhere. 

The story is MyStory Rossio's, a simple and cheerful hotel whose reputation as one of Lisbon's best goes beyond its excellent location, in the middle of the Rossio. Imagine a clash between the 17th century and a pop art invasion – that's what you will find here. The lobby has stone arcades and neon lights, the bar has ancient tiles, chandeliers and design furniture, the rooms (46 of them) have signs on the wall reading Fado, Lisboa and Amor (fado, Lisbon and love), to let you know romance is part of the story. In 18 of the rooms you will get a view of the Rossio, and you should demand one of them: it's a rare privilege to get to watch the city parading in front of you. The desk is open 24 hours a day, so you can join the parade at absolutely any time at all Rossio and Chiado are on the doorstep, so you won't be short on things to do. 

Myriad SANA takes the most advantage of having the Tagus by its doorstep: the hotel is literally on top of the water, so there can be no better view of the river. The view is so great you might get seasick – there are rocking chairs by the room windows. The hotel is garishly decorated in tones of red, black and white, with mirrors everywhere. The 186 rooms are a bit more low-key in terms of colours, but the River Lounge Bar is a chromatic explosion. It has a Portuguese menu with a twist; in summer nights, enjoy going over it slowly on the outdoors tables overlooking the Tagus. The hotel's top floor is 143 metres high and holds the Sayana Wellness Spa, with an indoors panoramic pool, a gym, a hammam, a jacuzzi and a floatarium where you can experience zero gravity. There are quite simply a myriad things to do at the hotel, and you'll want to go through and experience most of them. When you have, the city is at your doorstep. This place caters for weddings and things too, just in case you enjoy your time there that much. 

Hotel do Chiado was born in a Pombaline building brought back from the ashes by renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, who made a point that every one of its 40 rooms should include a patio or a private balcony with a view towards the Tagus and the São Jorge castle hill. Lisbon begs to be gazed upon, and Hotel do Chiado is the perfect spot to do it – even more so from the Entretanto Rooftop Bar, where the panorama extends as far as the eye can see, all the way until the Arrábida Range. The insides of the hotel have been renovated more than once, and its early garish colours were replaced by a soberer look. Feng-shui principles dictate the room layout, with classic furniture and neutral tones to enhance the relaxing mood. The Baixa/Chiado metro stop is a short walk away too, so you can relax about getting to wherever it is that you have to get to. 

Located at the Rua Jardim do Regedor, the hotel is rather conspicuous thanks mostly to the deep red that colours this 1900 building, where once a B&B operated.  The reddish tones are also to be found inside as part of the bold decoration by designer João Rolo. Expect a friendly, relaxed hotel that wants its guests to feel at home. Very little remains from its previous B&B incarnation, and the space was well divided to fit 56 rooms in just five floors. Some effort was needed to assemble such a puzzle, but the results were good and we can assure you that the rooms, though not huge, are comfortable and spacious enough for a good night's rest after a day of walking around. And there's sure a lot to walk to nearby: Rossio, Alfama, Chiado, and Bairro Alto can be reached pretty easily on foot. 

Okay so it looks llke and feels like and technically is more of a business hub than a hotel in the way a lot of the others on this list are pure leisure, but don't be fooled: Turim Saldanha is not all business. Consider: what are you looking for after a long day of meetings? If your answer is a nice bath, a drink and a quiet supper, then you are at the right place. Its 87 rooms come equipped with a shower and a bathtub, and they include a great list of amenities that will turn your bathroom into a private spa, great for relaxing before going downstairs for a cocktail or a glass of wine. On the ground floor you will find the Japanese restaurant Tsubaki. The hotel has private (paid) parking and free wi-fi, which means you can get business done. When it is done, catch the metro and you'll be at Chiado or Rossio within 15 minutes sharp.   

Vila Galé Ópera has only been operating (no pun intended) for 15 years, but somehow the spot carries a classy timelessness to it, maybe it's to do with the river being so close by. Who knows. Located right next to the Lisbon Congress Centre, it draws a business more naturally than a leisure crowd, and therefore it commits itself to be the best possible host for business travellers. The hotel is also very welcoming for those travelling with children, since its 243 rooms come in different sizes, including family rooms. And because life is meaningless if you can't have some fun, beyond conference rooms there is also a health club with a gym, an indoors pool and a bar serving appetizers. There is also a restaurant with regional food tastings accompanied by fine Alentejo wines.

The 94 rooms have no theme but they come in different colours. The layouts are all similar, featuring fluffy, soft beds that ensure a good night's sleep. Common areas are surprisingly tasteful, with a look mixing vintage and classic designs. The bar is a good example of the hotel's neat aesthetic, with its dark rattan chairs, Portuguese “calçada” pavement, marble walls and long sofas. Just in case you are in the mood for taking a vacation from your vacation and spend a day in the hotel doing nothing, rooms have free wi-fi and sports channels. There is a babysitting service, for which reservations are required. There is no restaurant; the only meal served is breakfast; eat and move on. That's easily done when you're like, ten steps (depending on leg length, of course) from the Metro. Avenida da Liberdade is also practically on your door. Lisbon is truly at your disposal here. 

The Altis Grand Hotel makeover included a huge 300 rooms, making them lighter and more comfortable, including new technology and large bathrooms. If you knew the “old” Altis, you will be amazed by the Spa, the renovation's masterpiece, with its swimming pool, Turkish baths, sauna e treatment rooms. this all means that a stay here is truly plush. The D. Fernando restaurant suggests Portuguese traditional cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh fish from Portugal's coastline. If you want a broader range of options, go up to the Campo de Ourique district and walk around until you find something that catches your fancy, take your time, you are on holiday after all. You're about 20 minutes on foot from the cool hip stuff, but there's also a metro just down the road too. 

SANA Capitol wants to be a home away from home that pampers businesspeople on them move with a little family-style comfort. Its 59 rooms come in neutral colours with modern furniture and designer lamps that provide an interesting light show. Black and yellow are prevalent in the bar and the lobby, the breakfast room has red leather sofas. The C Bar Food and Drinks Lounge serves drinks, cocktails, and light meals. There are good dining alternatives in the Avenida da Liberdade, five minutes away. If you are looking for more affordable places, walk a little longer down to the city centre and you will find a considerably larger number of restaurants for all price ranges. Really nice stuff all around really, isn't it. Loads of choice, a lovely city.

The Palácio do Governador (“governor's palace” just in case you were wondering) in Belém has an Age of Discoveries theme devised by designer Nini Andrade Silva, who drew from the building's history to create an identity for the hotel. A clear view of the Tagus, only a few metres away, is another charming detail. This isn't just another luxury hotel in the city; it is a true representative of Lisbon's character, cosmopolitan and extroverted. Inside, the architectural details were maintained whenever possible; the front desk, where a chapel used to be, still has the original masonry ceilings and tiled wainscots. The hall patio has traces of a factory that once laboured here, and some of the rooms (60 in total) still have arched brick ceilings. Gorgeous. The transport links are good, and you'll want to use them to get around quickly. But after a long day, there's an on-site spa tha you'll absolutely want to unwind at. 

Built for the tourist that hasn't made any plans, is up for anything and only wants to feel happy in the city, the Gat Rossio is strategically located in a quiet street behind the Restauradores square. It's a hip hotel, that knows the city inside and out and can tell you the best way to get anywhere. What does that exactly mean? It means a friendly environment where people from all over the world gather. If you are hoping to remain incognito, that won't work: the hotel is relatively small and beyond its 71 rooms there isn't much space left for common areas. Between the lounge and the outer terrace, you will be rubbing elbows with other guests. A buffet breakfast is served on long tables, usually a good meeting point for early birds. If you're not an early bird, it doesn't really matter because there's basically endless places to eat in very close proximity. 

The Carmo's 48 rooms, much like the rest of the hotel, operate under a “less is more” rule, with classic furniture and neutral colours, and the occasional shiny bauble – a gold-rimmed mirror, a colourful armchair, bucolic wallpaper, a leather-upholstered big chair. Only the top floor rooms have an old-style bathtub and a broad view of the Tagus – try and get one of these. If that's not possible, any balcony will afford you a view of the Largo do Carmo. That's not a particularly fascinating view, but history buffs might be interested in learning this was the stage for Portugal's April 25, 1974 revolution, and that nearby lie the ruins of the Carmo Convent. There is also a lively kiosk and plenty of outdoor tables where you can sit and spend a lazy evening watching passersby. Lovely stuff, and when you decide to pop out and uh... explore the city you've decided to spend some time in, you'll find you're right in the heart of all things historical and (a five minute walk away from) the bustling nightlife. 

The Lisboa Prata Boutique Hotel has 18th century tile panels and wainscots, ancient tapestries, and bits of archaeological ruins preserved behind glassed displays; but it also has design furniture and contemporary artworks. It's an original concept that perfectly brings together the new and the old. Its 25 rooms have windows and balconies facing the street, private bathrooms and free wi-fi. The hotel is in the middle of the Rua da Prata, so the obvious destination is downtown – but take our advice and have your (paid) breakfast at the hotel: cafes and pastry shops in nearby Rua Augusta try to pass off as traditional, but they're really tourist traps – save your money for the good stuff not the: I've just gotten out of bed and I am hungrrrryyyyyy stuff. Breakfast in bed is available for an extra fee. 

The Luxe Hotel is not particularly outstanding in terms of quality or amenities, but it is located in a side street near the city's great melting pot, the Avenida Almirante Reis.   Unflashy, the Luxe Hotel has 50 classic rooms with a private bathroom, a lounge bar and a breakfast room with a long glass strip on the ceiling. The decoration is simple, modern and perfectly in line with the B&B type service. There is no swimming pool, no yard and no garden, but to make up for it you will be staying in Lisbon's future Soho, a neighbourhood where cultures from all corners of the world mix together. You will find Indian jewellers, Nepalese grocery stores, Chinese restaurants and even a fusion market with foods from all over the world at the Martim Moniz square. With all the things to see and do really nearby, you'll be pleased to know the front desk is open 24 hours a day, so it doesn't matter what time you leave (or return!). 

Located next to the Adamastor Viewpoint – and its outdoor cafe with a view to the Tagus – the Belvedere has a laid back feel (and a contemplative one too – how could it not, with such a view) and home-style comforts. It used to be a house, and only has 12 rooms – actually suites, large and well-lit, simply and tastefully furnished. The building is part of the history of the Santa Catarina hill: in the 1920s, a renowned French perfume factory was located there. Whatever memories remains of its past can now be seen in architectural details or in a few pieces of furniture. The Belvedere tries to make you feel at home – and succeeds. You will feel so at home you might end up falling asleep at the terrace while gazing at the Tagus. Worse places for a snooze for sure. The comfort levels in the hotel room should mean you're too well rested for any of that to happen really though. There's a 24 hour front desk either way. 

There are 577 rooms, large and in a classical style. Suites include a living room and a bedroom. The restaurant has a contemporary menu with some modern touches bringing classics to life. In summertime, outdoors tables spread towards the garden and dining takes place along the swimming pool with mood music. Free wi-fi is available everywhere in the hotel. If you feel like a walk around the block, take a morning off to visit the Zoo outside peak hours. We haven't yet mentioned that the Marriott loves families, and thus babysitters are on call whenever parents need a night off. And hey, you're paying for this holiday not the kids (presumably) so go out there and enjoy that well earned night off, and the next one, and the next... 

The Riverside Alfama is the perfect starting point for a random tour of fado houses and typical eateries in the neighbourhood. Its 21 rooms are both generous in size and cosy; they also seem out of the same conveyor belt, given how their layout and décor are identical – or at least very similar.   Whatever they might lack in originality they make up in comfort (great beds) and convenience (the hotel is five minutes from downtown or the Lisbon Cathedral, and less than 150 metres away from the Tagus). Breakfast is the only meal served, but once you step out on the street you will find a wide range of dining options – many of them with unbelievable views. Surely you're planning on being here to explore the city, as opposed to eat at the hotel anyway? Needless to say, tradition remains strong in Alfama, and thus fado prevails over any other music genre, so it's well worth finding some of that. Should you look to pop into other areas, you'll find Liberty Avenue and its many stores and bars very close by.  

For months on end – maybe even years – locals waited for the scaffolding to come down at the Saldanha square; but nothing prepared them for a new building supported by a giant stone hand. Yes, the Evolution Lisboa Hotel is held up by a sculpted hand. The name suggest a futuristic vision, but you couldn't guess what was inside. The hotel is conceived for independent guests or impatient people who can't stand waiting. It goes beyond being an original hotel, it's more of an optimized version of an hotel, where everything is managed in an efficient, quick and informal way. If you're travelling alone, it's paradise: wi-fi, USB chargers and electric sockets are everywhere, so you can stay permanently plugged in. Rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable, including a sitting area, a desk and a view of the city. It's perfect, just what you want. Nothing more, nothing less! Freelancers will also love it for its co-working spaces and after-work events in the bar, which generally include DJs and good drinks. 

Right in the middle of the Chiado, its 23 rooms include suites, studios and independent apartments with a kitchenette, affording you the option of cooking by yourself as opposed to eating out. A bottle of wine, some fresh bread and local cheese, all of which you can easily find in a quick survey of the downtown shops. That's good eating in our books. A contemporary urban hotel can't expect to be a self-contained destination – you have to work with what's around you, and in that regard the Arsenal Suites are brilliantly managed. What do you need a restaurant for with scores of dining possibilities right outside your door? Why not go without a bar, when the area has plenty of watering holes, all with panoramic views and exotic beverages? Why not have a kitchen instead to bring people together and stimulate the use of local produce? All the questions, and the answer here is simple, yes, let's make this place actually uniquely realyl quite good. And let's place it a stone's throw from Comércio Square and Bairro Alto. 

The Turim Terreiro do Paço has just completed its first anniversary, and that's all it took to demonstrate its worth when it comes to pleasing the toughest customers. It's a perfect two-in-one for people looking for an immersion in Lisbon traditions while also enjoying a comfortable rest at the end of the day. Only a small part of old Lisbon remains within the building (the restaurant walls), but the city's collective memory is on display in a video looped in the lobby's giant screen, portraying the city's major monuments. All 50 rooms are painted in neutral tones and decorated with sense and sensibility; some of them have a view of the Lisbon Cathedral, while others face the Rua do Comércio, one of downtown's busiest streets, full of the sights, sounds and scents of the city. Inside, you can access the front desk every minute of the day, perfect if you need to use some of the many services on offer here: dry cleaning, ironing and laundry services are just the basics. erreiro do Paço Metro Station is just a few hundred yards away, as the name might imply. 

It's not like the building is made of recycled cardboard, but every material chosen for decorating it is of vegetable origin. The Neya also insists on passing an environmental message to its guests, warning them against unnecessary wastes of water or towels, and even about how much energy a simple charger left in the socket will drain. Serious stuff, but not preachy – it's about persuasion, not propaganda. The 76 rooms and suites are comfortable and sober, and come with Shiatsu massage pillows, for extra relaxation before giving in to a deep sleep. It is said that snorers will feel better after a night's sleep with these pillows. The hotel's ecofriendliness extends to the Viva Lisboa restaurant, whose Mediterranean menu is seasonal and locavore. Did we mention those Shiatsu massage pillows by any chance? Oh we did... good. When you manage to not be using them all day long, Marquês de Pombal Square and Avenida da Liberdade are a nice and easy fifteen minute walk away. 

The hotel couldn't decide between being charming or beautiful, so it decided to be both (beautiful + boutique = beautique). Nini Andrade da Silva is behind its brave and completely outside-the-box concept. The 50 rooms pay tribute to nature in panels with leaves, figs or tree bark, but green is all over. The hotel layout went against the grain and put the spa on its top floor, disregarding the obvious move – an open-air rooftop bar. But there are plenty of rooftops in Lisbon; a panoramic spa is more unusual and valuable. Outside you also have Rossio's iconic train station to marvel at (as well as everything else in Rossio) and Rua Augusta is just a moment away for all your shopping needs. 

The hotel might look a bit conceited at first, but that self-confidence is justified. Its 113 rooms are simultaneously chic, vintage and practical (some of them have a balcony facing the street). Bathrooms are luxurious, pristinely white and they have an integrated Bluetooth sound system. Everything else is about living the good life. The hotel restaurant tries to innovate, with a contemporary menu with dashes of traditional cuisine to go along with a good selection of Portuguese wines. Any other food emergency can be settled at the front desk, any time of the day. As for the pool, we regret not having spent more time there: its warm water felt great while outside it was rainy and windy. We didn't check the temperature outside, but as we left the pool our skin was steaming. So you know you'll want a bit of that. In between, when you're on land, Rossio and Chiado are just moments away, as is the metro. The hotel's reception is 24 hours, so go and explore properly! 

Hotel Alegria (“joy”) is one of those timeless classics guaranteed never to go out of style. Just like joy itself, we'll always like a bit of happy won't we. The big yellows on this building might evoke joy for you also. By way of interior, decoration successfully meshes the young and the new, with vintage restored furniture next to design pieces. Everything is rather classic, but there are some bold dashes of colour (for instance, in the same room you will find a blue sofa right in front of a pink one) that will make you smile and nod in agreement. Joy, right? Hotel Alegria might as well be an early 20th century bourgeois family manor, a home full of happy people with a contagious joie de vivre. The hotel has a nice and considered 30 rooms, all of which are nice and spacious – designed to take maximum advantage of the available sunlight, because vitamin D makes people joyous too. That extra space in the rooms conquered at the expense of common areas: there is just a breakfast room (no restaurant at the hotel) and the bar, whose cocktail menu is worth looking into.

Out of the former convent the only thing remaining is the frame; everything else was conceived from scratch. The old backyard became a hip lounge bar, with light wreaths and mood music to enliven the evenings; the old dining room is now a vibrant living room with a mezzanine for serving breakfast. Proud of its artistic side, the Convento do Salvador likes to lend its salons and walls to major Portuguese and Lusophone artists. Works by Sebastião Salgado, Júlio Pomar, João Cutileiro and Paula Rego are all on display. The lobby tiled panel was commissioned by the hotel to the Pedrita duo. The famous Tram 28 passes by which never gets old. The hotel is also within walking distance of a variety of restaurants, bars, Fado Houses, museums and belvederes.