Lisbon is a vibrant city of charm and colour, filled with the music of Fado and the characteristic rattling of yellow trams as they trundle past decorative tiled façades. A capital since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, it suffered a devastating earthquake in 1755 which resulted in much of the centre being rebuilt. On the highest of its seven hills, sits the Castle of Saint George which rises from the old Moorish quarter of Alfama, a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets. Elsewhere there are wide 18th-century avenues, triumphal arches and magnificent vistas.
Not to be missed is Belém, at the mouth of the Tagus river, from where famous Portuguese explorers, such as Vasco de Gama, set sail. It is also where the Jerónimos Monastery stands as a reminder of Portugal's power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. The order by which the hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.
Written by Mary Lussiana
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“An opulent extravaganza of stained glass, parquet floors, stucco work and painted rococo ceilings”
- Luxury
- in Santa Amaro, outside the centre, not far from Belém
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“A charming hotel, housed in an 18th-century private palace”
- Moderate
- in the historic district; next to the National Ancient Art Museum.
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“The latest award-winning hotel from the Heritage stable”
- Moderate
- on Lisbon’s impressive main avenue, surrounded by shops
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“The first design hotel in the heart of Lisbon”
- Moderate
- in the city centre
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“A city landmark offering accommodation of the very highest standard”
- Luxury
- in the centre; on one of Lisbon’s seven hills overlooking Parque Eduardo VII
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“Lisbon’s first contemporary boutique hotel with minimalist interiors and a warm ambience”
- Luxury
- in the lively, arty Bairro Alto district, next to Chiado, the elegant shopping area
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“A 19th-century private palace now a luxurious hotel in the Orient Express group”
- Luxury
- in the Lapa district, a few minutes south of the centre
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“Lisbon’s only Art Deco hotel, beautifully restored with original interiors”
- Inexpensive
- city centre; just off Avenida da Liberdade
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“A unique historical setting for 14 individually decorated, contemporary bedrooms”
- Moderate
- high up within St George’s Castle walls, on the site of the former palace kitchens
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Photo by flickr user Ana Santos
