Hotel Britania, a Lisbon Heritage Collection

Hotel review

Hotel Britania Art Deco (part of the Lisbon Heritage Collection), was designed in 1942 by the modernist architect Cassiano Branco, and is ideally placed adjacent to the Avenida da Liberdade and an oasis of calm and perfect hospitality. It has the air of a welcoming private club with 33 spacious and well equipped bedrooms with cork or parquet floors, en-suite marble bathrooms, library and Imperio Bar but perhaps what sets it apart are the exceptionally friendly and obliging staff. " We pride ourselves on the quality of people we employ," says the manager, and that's much in evidence. There's no restaurant but an assisted breakfast buffet is served daily and there is 24-hour room service.

Being centrally located allows you to explore a large amount of Lisbon on foot, lots of narrow cobbled streets on the one hand and the expansive promenade on the other. There is an abundance of very good restaurants and cafés and we were impressed with the quantity of excellent vegan options available. A visit to Lisbon wouldn't be complete without a ride on one of the historic Remodelado trams - catch the E15 through to Belem to visit the famous Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries, celebrating the country’s great adventurers. Both well worth your time, especially if you choose to go to the top of the monument which offers breathtaking views of the area. Walk through the Parque Eduardo VII with its botanical gardens, beautiful trees, hidden nooks and paths; a tranquil spot away from the city. If you have time take in an organised day trip to Pena Palace, Sintra (sampling the local pastry delicacy, quijada, is a must) and Cascais with its sandy beaches and busy marina.

Why not explore this city of great explorers?

Lulu Townsend Review published: 21/10/2024