Portugal’s balmy historic capital is becoming an increasingly de rigueur city break destination. Once visited, it’s easy to see why – Lisbon is a picture-perfect panorama of ancient ruins, glitzy cafes and boutique shops, and white-doomed cathedrals all lining a maze of cobbled alleyways and encircled by a sea of terracotta roofs.
There are many reasons to visit this gorgeous centuries-old city, including chic Michelin-starred restaurants and gourmet-food markets galore, a cosmopolitan waterfront where it’s almost essential to kick back and sip on expressos, numerous terraced viewpoints where you gaze in awe at the no-filter necessary sunsets and a burgeoning art scene.
With this newfound love for creativity overspilling into their blossoming collection of trendy hotels, there’s also no shortage of truly beautiful places to stay. From my many stays and from gorgeous quirky-chic boutiques to grand and modern, here are my favorite cool and unique hotels to stay in Lisbon, Portugal (in no particular order).
Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
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WC Beautique
Set in the heart of downtown Avenida Almirante Reis, the exceptionally rated WC Beautique Hotel is a stunning example of how to dispel the idea that all hotels should look and feel the same.
Uniquely decorated and conceived to celebrate the beauty of modern-day bathrooms, this hip and cool inner-city hotel features a lobby area with two huge stand-alone bathtubs and marble walls with running water features. Bespoke furniture has been designed like ripples of water, forming a truly unique aesthetic.
Bedrooms are elegantly furnished with turquoise walls, and circular beds illuminated from underneath. While some rooms are funkier than others, all of them are a delight for the senses with quirky washing facilities barely separated from the main sleeping area. The oval rooms are the most original, and they lie in the curve of the rounded Art Nouveau building. There’s a minibar included in the rate, offering beer, water, and juices, as well as a Delta Espresso machine.
The hotel’s Banho Restaurant, located in the basement serves well-executed Portuguese cuisine, and has tiled turquoise floors and walls that mix mirrors with images of water.
Meanwhile the on-site bar has an extensive menu of crafted cocktails and fine wines.
Pros
Central downtown location
Artistic circular beds
Crafted cocktails and wines
Unique bathroom-inspired decor
Cons
Limited separation in bathrooms
Some rooms can be dark
Memmo Alfama
Located in the lanes of Moorish Alfama, the 4-star exceptionally rated Memmo Alfama offers an authentic taste of Lisbon living. The twin bell-towered 12th-century Cathedral is at the end of the road, while Lisbon’s fortified Castelo do São Jorge is just above you.
The building’s 19th-century exterior has been painstakingly restored, while the interior offers 21st-century style and convenience. From the thick exposed ancient stone walls to the fine cement floor in the bathrooms, the old and the new blend seamlessly here. All interior elements are imbued with the Memmo mantra ‘make yourself at home’, as written on the wall by reception.
Bedrooms at this trendy Lisbon abode have a simple feel with wooden floors, rustic bedcovers and simple white linens, while the bathrooms are fresh and modern. The rooms differ in size, the largest being the Mansard Junior Suite, offering a supreme vantage point over Alfama and the Tagus River.
In true small hotel style there is a 24-hour honesty fridge filled with local delicacies, a sitting room with tables and chairs and a small Wine Bar upstairs that offers food and views out across the city. The buffet breakfast offers a true taste of Portugal, and is the perfect way to kickstart your day in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
There is also a beautiful red-tiled lap pool and fire pit on the terrace where you can rejoice in happy moments with your loved ones.
Pros
Rooftop Pool with views
Authentic Alfama experience
Prime cathedral & castle location
Buffet breakfast delights
Cons
Few dining options within the hotel
Some rooms are a little compact
Dear Lisbon, Charming House
Located in the iconic neighbourhood of Santa Catarina, where winding streets spill down the hills of the city, the exceptionally rated Charming House is an authentic Mediterranean hotel with a Moorish vibe. This is the perfect urban oasis for those seeking to explore the real Lisboa, inviting you to get lost in the pace of fado, the authentic cuisine, the vibrant nightlife, and the charming boutique shops.
The communal lounge is an eclectic mix of wingback chairs, rustic tables and button leather sofas centred around a stunning feature fireplace.
Bedrooms are refined with crisp white bedding, polished wooden floors and incredible views out across the Santa Catarina rooftops. You can opt for a double with a private terrace, a junior suite, or a double room with either a patio or city view. Each one is perfectly balanced in terms of space, decoration and character.
Breakfast is served on-site, comprising a variety of bread, traditional jams, home-baked cakes, and freshly squeezed juices, among many more delights. For more filling fare for lunch and dinner, explore the international food cafes and restaurants that can be found on every corner of this buzzing, bohemian neighbourhood.
The outdoor space at this hip and beautiful Lisbon accommodation offers a Riad-style patio with a small swimming pool and Arabian styling, and although there is no restaurant on-site, guests can enjoy a continental-style breakfast in the lounge.
Pros
Authentic Mediterranean charm
Santa Catarina rooftop vistas
Embrace Lisbon’s fado and cuisine
Riad-style outdoor patio
Cons
Can get booked up
Small swimming pool
Potential lounge noise
Mama Shelter
With its vibrant and quirky decor that echoes the colorful and sun-soaked city, Mama Shelter Lisboa is centrally located in the French Quarter, between the Botanical Garden and Parque Eduardo VII and close to Avenida da Liberdade.
The hotel’s playful approach to hospitality and décor is characterized by colorful fabrics, Portuguese crafts, blue wave patterns reminiscent of the ocean, and fun fish-filled ceilings by French artist Beniloys.
The rooms have ocean-inspired decor, luxurious beds, free movies, a fridge and air conditioning. All 130 of them are spread over 8 floors. Standout features are the televisions framed in Portuguese cork, lampshades crafted from Portuguese straw, and walls festooned in ceramics by the Bordallo Pinheiro brand. Guests can use the “Move Me Up” option to choose a quiet room on the 7th or 8th floor, above the bustle of the city.
You’ll experience the hallmark Mama Shelter informality and comfort, with open-air terraces, a rooftop bar and a Mediterranean restaurant famous for homemade food, signature cocktails and music sessions. You can tuck into homemade pizza from the wood-fired oven, and sit around the island bar at dinner, while mingling with other solo travelers. A continental and buffet breakfast is served here every morning.
Mama Shelter is making waves on Lisbon’s hotel scene, and the visiting DJ nights Thursday – Saturday have become an electric hub for locals.
Pros
Eclectic decor mirrors the city's vibrancy
Rooftop bar and terrace for socializing
Homemade food and signature cocktails
DJ nights attract locals
Cons
Some noise
Not for all ages
Altis Belém Hotel & Spa

This 5-star design hotel located on the Tagus River near the Monument of the Discoveries takes its inspiration from Portugal’s Golden Age in the 15th and 16th centuries. You will be within walking distance of famous monuments and sights such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Belém Cultural Centre, Berardo Collection Art Museum, Oriental Museum, Ajuda Palace and more.
The boldly contemporary structure mixes black granite with white marble, while white leather sofas sit atop black marble floors, forming a graceful, dazzling design.
The decor in the rooms and suites takes you on a journey across Africa, Arabia, India, Siam, Osaka and Brazil, and the use of light and water views have won it awards like Portugal’s Leading Design Hotel 2015 and 2016 and Europe’s Leading Design Hotel 2016 for the World Travel Awards. For example, in some rooms, tropical birds are etched against a jungle background to symbolize Brazil. The Superior Rooms come with a balcony, and the Presidential Suite is inset with a whirlpool tub.
For dining, you can take your pick from Cafetaria Mensagem overlooking the river, or the Bar 38⁰ 41’ which is named after the geographical coordinates that symbolize the departure of Portuguese navigators. Alternatively, you can head to Feitoria, the only Michelin-starred hotel restaurant in Lisbon.
Panoramic river views provide the most idyllic setting for the luxurious rooms, as well as the tranquil BSpa by Karin Herzog.
Pros
Bold and modern aesthetics
Michelin-starred dining at Feitoria
Rooms showcase diverse world cultures
Rooms with balconies and sea views
Cons
The spa may feel compact
Not a budget-friendly option
1908 Lisboa
Housed in an award-winning Art Nouveau building situated in downtown Lisbon, the 4-star exceptionally rated 1908 Lisboa Hotel is uniquely different on so many levels. It is set in an emerging neighbourhood, just a 20-minute walk from the Praça do Comércio and the capital’s waterfront. Across the road is Ramiro, one of the city’s most iconic beer halls.
The interiors brim with a sense of place, with original tiles and murals by Lisbon street artist Vanessa Tedoro, alongside Bordalo II’s art installations. Cool antiques blend perfectly with funky Art Nouveau features, whilst the unique and sophisticated Lisbon hotel is also home to an ever-evolving art gallery sharing the work of up-and-coming artists. The lobby has stunning tiled floors that combine beautifully with the industrial decor and an original turned staircase.
Bedrooms are clean and comfortable and have a modern vibe, whilst bathrooms offer steaming hot showers and are incredibly clean. You can splash out and book the King of Dome duplex suite with its tiny round window under the dome, offering a bird’s eye view of the red-roofed capital.
The Restaurant Infame serves up delicious local food, and running along the front of the hotel is the bar, providing seasonal cocktails and classics with the hotel’s own twist.
The staff here have created an excellent Concierge App, where you can find up-to-date sightseeing and cultural recommendations.
Pros
Centrally located in a historic building
Unique Art Nouveau and antiques blend
Clean rooms with modern amenities
Delicious local cuisine and cocktails
Cons
Some rooms lack scenic vistas
Some bathrooms are small
Internacional Design Hotel
A trendy boutique hotel situated in a truly central location on the corner of Rossio Square, Internacional Design Hotel puts you within a few minutes of the traditional districts of Bairro Alto, Chiado and St. George’s castle.
Inside you’ll discover an unrivalled blend of cosmopolitan comfort, personalized service, and local insider knowledge. While the Internacional might be one of the oldest hotels in the city, the interiors are anything but dated. Even the aromas are considered to the tiniest detail, so one can easily identify the place even with eyes closed.
The modern decor combines bold patterns with intricate works of art and an eclectic mix of furnishings to create design-conscious looks, whilst bedrooms have been created to match the many themed floors that run throughout the property.
Choose from pop art-inspired Andy Warhol rooms, as well as rooms on the Zen, Urban and Tribal floors, all with plenty of space, style and even individually themed scents on offer. Each unit is equipped with independent air conditioning, sound-proof windows, telephone, mini-bar, safe deposit box, LCD television with cable channels, Nespresso coffee machine, and plenty of thoughtful add-ons.
The Bastardo Restaurant is a beacon of passionate cooking, serving dishes made of unique ingredients. Meanwhile the Bastardo Bar features plastic chairs, long-hanging lampshades and trendy artwork as well as a modern menu and first-class drinks.
The hotel also boasts a beautiful garden, where you can sit out and savour a cup of tea.
Pros
Central Rossio Square location
Themed rooms with unique scents
Charming garden for relaxation
Culinary delights of the Bastardo restaurant
Cons
Garden seating may be limited
Vibrant decor might not suit all
Torel Palace
You’ll get the royal treatment at this boutique hotel, with 25 rooms, a villa and five apartments located in a complex consisting of two historic palaces and a mansion. The site is beautifully hidden away on one of the seven hills of Lisbon, a location chosen for its spectacular view of the Tagus river and São Jorge Castle across the cityscape.
You’ll love the 19th century traditional architectural details, light-filled interiors, rich furnishings and the combination of classic and modern styles. The two houses are adjacent to each other with a courtyard running in between.
The rooms and suites are surrounded by gardens and terraces, and most have balconies to relax and enjoy the surroundings. They were all named after the Kings and Queens of Portugal.
The 2 Monkeys fine dining restaurant invites guests to interact with the chefs in a small, intimate environment, while the Black Pavilion is more informal in style and draws on local, seasonal ingredients. A delicious breakfast is served every morning and there are all kinds of extra services like babysitting, laundry and an airport shuttle that will make your visit go that much more smoothly.
The swimming pool is a great place to relax and unwind, and comes with a terrace from which you can enjoy the views over the city. Spa treatments can be booked up here also.
Pros
Breathtaking Mediterranean views
Historic palaces and mansion complex
Intimate Chef Interaction at 2 Monkeys
Relaxing pool with city views
Cons
Fewer options for larger groups
Spa gets booked up
An early reservation is needed
AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado
Understated and utterly sophisticated, the AlmaLusa Hotel is tucked away in an 18th-century building that was once the site of the city’s old arsenal. It sits in a square dominated by the palatial City Hall, within walking distance of the wide flowing Tagus River and the main Railway Station of Rossio.
The building has listed status meaning that the interiors are full of original features including flagstone flooring and huge wooden fireplaces that have been carefully combined with contemporary elements and a clutter-free approach to hotel design. The muted color and rich textures exude an aesthetic that is both soothing and uplifting.
The 28 bedrooms and 12 spacious suites are well equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, smart televisions and REVO SuperSignal radios, and are dressed in calm neutral colors with soft beds and quality furnishings. Bathrooms offer traditional black and white slate tile designs and feature walk-in showers with rain heads.
The ground floor Delfina Restaurant serves buffet breakfasts consisting of traditional pastries, smoked salmon, fruit and local hams. For lunch and dinner, you can indulge in hearty Portuguese food, as well as a range of wine, beer and spirits.
As a guest, you can take part in one of the hotel’s excursions to neighboring Sintra, or a walking tour through Lisbon’s Jewish quarter, or even ride along the city’s hills on a Segway.
Pros
18th-century charm and architecture
Prime City Square location
Delfina Restaurant offers local flavors
Original interiors with serene aesthetics
Cons
Only one on-site restaurant
Limited room selection
Limited fitness amenities
The Vintage Hotel & Spa
This 5-star hotel with a soul redefines mid-century design with stylish, clean lines, vintage colours and understated luxury. With the location on Principe Real in the centre of the city, you’re close to all the cool bars, restaurants and sights, as well as the upscale shopping at the Avenida da Liberdade. A 25-minute walk in one direction will take you straight to the water front and the majestic Praça do Comercio, and in the other direction, you’ll land at the Gulbenkian Museum.
From the fabulous V Rooftop Bar to the spa with a heated pool and organic herbal teas served in bespoke China made by a local artist, you’ll get an authentic taste of the Lisbon experience. The clean-lined interiors have been woven by Spanish-based Quiet studios, with vintage pieces, and colourful Portuguese portraits scattered around, befitting the hotel’s name.
The rooms have large windows with city views, seating areas, artwork by João Rei and specially curated bar carts with a gin and tonic kit and complimentary snacks. They are divided into three categories – Inspire, Relax and Play. All 53 of them draw on a rich palette of botanical green, warm blue, and deep terracotta, in homage to Lisbon’s dazzling rooftops. The coffee machines are accompanied by Costa Nova cups and saucers, as well as a minibar stocked with Lince craft beer brewed in Lisbon.
You’ll find traditional Portuguese cuisine at the Blue Restaurant and wine and cocktails at the Lobby Bar. It’s no surprise that this charming boutique eatery has been chosen for the 2022 Travelers Choice Best of the Best award from TripAdvisor. It leads directly off the street and delivers delicious Portuguese fare with a contemporary twist.
The V rooftop bar and restaurant is the perfect spot for the summer months, inviting guests to delight in light meals. They host cinema nights up here, as well as DJ events.
Other on-site facilities include a spa with steam room, sauna, jet pool, and treatments using Portuguese brand Claus Porto products.
Pros
V Rooftop Bar with city views
Individually designed rooms with vibrant colors
TripAdvisor's 2022 Best of the Best award
Upscale spa and wellness center
Cons
High demand could impact reservations
Potential noise from DJ events
The Lumiares
If you’ve always wanted to live in a palace, the studios and suites in this boutique hotel, housed in a 17th-century palace are designed to feel like home. The location in the trendy Bairro Alto puts you near all the sights, and the narrow streets surrounding the property are lined by tiled façades, ancient palaces, and old family businesses.
Billed as a love letter to Lisbon, the hotel decor uses the light, views and local art and crafts to create a stylish retreat full of color and character, helping it win the 2022 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award. As you walk in, you’ll notice a sculptural and cubic brass lighting installation hanging on the stairwell, echoing the Art Deco style lettering on the walls.
The 47 high-ceilinged apartments vary in size. They have French windows with white wooden shutters, balconies with views over the picturesque red-tiled city roofs, and come with fully equipped kitchenettes and separate living areas. Fabrics and fittings from local artisans such as the cushions from the Alentejo, rugs by Ferreira de Sá and traditional Portuguese tiles in the bathrooms add to the sense of belonging. The in-room kitchenettes are luxurious with high-end appliances and porcelain, and you’ll be welcomed with complimentary white wine on arrival.
The Lumi Restaurant boasts an open kitchen on the inside and a rooftop space, serving up dishes which draw on the traditional Portuguese kitchen. This is the best place to start the day, with the à la carte breakfast consisting of dishes such as avocado toast and chicken empanadas alongside the normal egg selection, fresh fruit and yoghurt. There’s also the Rebel Café downstairs with an entrance from the street, offering a popular hangout spot for digital nomads.
A great feature of the hotel is its small but elegant spa, offering four treatment rooms using La Sultane de Saba products.
Pros
17th-century palatial charm
Balconies overlooking red-tiled rooftops
Kitchenettes in spacious apartments
Centrally located in the Bairro Alto district
Cons
Small spa with limited capacity
The central location may have noise
Le Consulat
This Pombaline-style building used to be the Brazilian consulate and is now a boutique hotel with just 18 guest apartments and suites, representing the best of Lisbon to global travellers.
Located near Luis de Camoes Square in the lively Chiado district, it introduces you to the cuisine, art and culture of the city. Yellow trams rattle past and one of Lisbon’s best nata bakeries is right across the road! The area’s most beautiful church, the Baroque Igreja São Roque, is also just a five-minute walk away.
A variety of Lisbon galleries have partnered with the hotel to dress it in original art. It thus brims with bold character and chic style. Industrial in areas, you’ll find spaces adorned with terrace windows opening out onto the main square.
The high ceilings boast eloquent stucco work, while large windows let in the famous Lisbon sunshine, and the elegant decor in light earth tones gives a welcoming, homely feeling. Each suite has a unique design with local artwork, and many have balconies looking out over the city. Floors are wooden, balconies are lavish, and bathrooms are stocked with own brand amenities.
Taberna Fina, the hotel’s esteemed restaurant, is headed by chef André Magalhães, long acclaimed for his restaurant Rua das Flores on a neighbouring street. You’ll discover an exquisite menu decided on the day by the season and the market produce. Breakfast is served in the lounge, which becomes the Rove bar in the evenings with drinks, food and music.
With its friendly and professional service, Le Consulat will add a sense of graciousness to your stay, where art is at the forefront and your convenience is the number one priority.
Pros
Prime location near Luis de Camoes Square
Renowned Taberna Fina restaurant with daily breakfast
Each suite boasts unique local artwork
Housed in a former consulate
Cons
Limited on-site amenities
Small hotel with limited room selection
My Story Hotel Figueira
This landmark building in Figueira square is full of elegance and modern comfort while recalling the bustle of the area’s fruit and vegetable market in times past. It’s also close to all the sights, museums, shipping, restaurants and bars in the heart of the city, and right next to the tram stop, from which you can explore all of Lisbon’s charming neighbourhoods.
All interior spaces exude comfort, boutique design, and modernity in an atmosphere of serenity. The essence of Lisbon’s downtown and the daily lives of its people are embraced through the artwork dotted around the property.
The rooms have unique, clean and stylish decor with all the comforts of rich furnishings, parquet floors and soundproof windows, though you may want to leave them open to the sounds of the city outside. You can opt for a Double Room with a city view, a Twin Room, or even a Family Room, all of which offer state-of-the-art amenities like kettles, mirror TVs, and tech-forward appliances.
On-site you can head to the innovative Italian restaurant, signed by chefs Augusto Gemeli and Prakash Adhikari, who serve up dishes inspired by the fruit and vegetable market of Figueira Square. The result is a gourmet Italian menu with homemade bread and Italian pizzas fresh from a traditional wood oven. Guests can also kickstart their day with a buffet breakfast, before heading out to explore the gems of the vicinity.
The hotel also plays host to pleasant outdoor spaces including a garden and swimming pool, inviting you to delight in happy memories.
Pros
Tranquil vintage-chic ambiance
Embraces Lisbon's artful serenity
Innovative Italian restaurant
Modern amenities and soundproof windows
Cons
Some rooms lack scenic vistas
No spa facilities
LXBoutique
LXBoutique is a hip, blue-fronted hotel which led the way for the millennial crowd when it opened in 2010. It’s an artsy but unpretentious boutique close to the bars of Bairro Alto and the shops of Chiado, with wonderful views out across the river. Pensão Amor, a popular bar set within an 18th-century house lies across the road, while the world-famous Time Out Market is just a few minutes’ walk away.
The 4-star exceptionally rated LX Boutique Hotel has a fresh, modern feel with an arty vibe, and each of the five floors has its very own theme. Taking inspiration from the Lisbon’s traditional Fado music, to its wide River Tagus and literary giant Fernando Pessoa, the corridors brim with a sense of place, drawing on the city’s charm.
Bedrooms have a cozy, waterfront feel and are dressed in hues of blue and grey, whilst the bathrooms are bright and modern. Some boast French windows with pristine river views, while others are tucked under the loft with sloping ceilings and white shutters.
The restaurant, open all day, is operated by the Confraria group, renowned for their sushi. A popular dish is the house Confraria roll with grilled salmon. The hotel has a nice, friendly bar that is perfect for a cold beer or two. There are plenty of bars and restaurants just outside the hotel doors, so if Sushi isn’t your thing you certainly won’t go hungry here.
A stand-out feature of LXBoutique is the free walking tours organized daily.
Pros
Each floor has distinct themed decor
Vibrant Location near Bairro Alto's bars
Free walking tours organized daily
Some rooms offer scenic river views
Cons
Some noise as located near bars
Limited dining variety
Hotel Portugal
Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the historic Rossio Square, this refined boutique hotel offers uniquely decorated bedrooms and 24-hour room service. The many bars and eateries of the lively Bairro Alto are within a 10-minute walk, as is Chiado, an iconic Lisbon area filled with shops and cafés.
Inspired by the beauty of traditional Portuguese tile designs, every room at the 4 star exceptionally rated Hotel Portugal is individually styled but contains high-end furnishings, soft, sumptuous bedding and hues of royal blue.
The guestrooms, dressed in navy blue, evoke a sense of elegance and are draped in plush materials. Each room is soundproofed and includes a fully stocked minibar, as well as a built-in interactive TV.
Guests at this unique Lisbon abode can dine at the stunning Varanda de Lisboa located next door, that serves up gorgeous Portuguese cuisine and panoramic views out across the city, or eat on the terrace at the Golden Sushi Japanese restaurant.
The Jony Rules bar in the lobby offers a good selection of local wines, and is the perfect spot to see the day away accompanied by like-minded urban explorers. Meanwhile the Premium Winehouse, which is newly opened and has an extensive list of fine wines, has the look and feel of a first class cellar bar. It is ideal for those who want to taste unique cheeses, local chorizos, and Portuguese snacks.
Pros
Family rooms and cots
Prime location near Rossio Square
Rooftop panoramic views
Varanda de Lisboa restaurant
Cons
Some Noise Due to Urban Location
Space Constraints in Rooms
Hotel York House
What was once a 17th-century Carmelite convent is now a contemporary boutique hotel in the Lapa district, a quiet, leafy part of Lisbon. It neighbours the Ancient Art National Museum, and a 15-minute walk will take you to the city’s most exciting food market the Time Out Mercado.
Stone floors and wood panelling retain a sense of the buildings unique history, while antique furnishings add style and comfort, and the beautiful courtyard garden is the perfect place to swing in a hammock or read a book beneath the canopy.
Bedrooms at the 4-star highly rated York House Hotel mix original features like antique brick floors, terracotta tiled vaulted ceilings and wooden beams with modern lighting and contemporary furnishings. They are reached via steep, stone stairs. The walls are monotone in colour from Matisse blue to rusty red, and bathrooms are either black slate or marble with large basins and bathtubs with showers overhead.
On the ground floor you’ll find the fine-dining restaurant which opens for lunch and dinner, offering pristine views onto the terraced garden through huge windows. Breakfast is also served here, consisting of croissants, cereals, fresh fruits, scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausages.
The bar spills out onto the beautiful garden terrace, and is tiled with intricate Portuguese cobblestones.
Pros
Charming historic atmosphere
Proximity to cultural sites
Fine-dining restaurant and scenic terrace
Beautiful courtyard garden with hammocks
Cons
Steep stair access
Not suitable for mobility-impaired guests
Restricted dining hours
My Story Rossio
Here we have an offbeat hotel by the busy Rossio Square on the Avenida da Liberdade, right on top of a wide selection of shops, restaurants and nightlife. The hotel has the privilege of sharing a part of Lisbon’s 18th-century history. During the 2nd World War, this square was used as a meeting point for refugees arriving in Portugal, and from it you can relish extraordinary views of the Castle of São Jorge.
The exceptionally rated My Story Rossio is a small hotel with lots of quirky touches that transform it into an intimate hideaway in the heart of the city. Maps of Lisbon line the floors of the lobby area, whilst the original 18th-century stairwell is well-lit by a rooftop skylight.
The 46 rooms at this cool and creative Lisbon hotel offer ceiling beams and exposed stone walls, but also feature avant-garde additions like floor-to-ceiling windows, mirror televisions, wooden stools with leather belts, and Scandinavian-style bathrooms with wood-panelled walls. They are distributed over four floors full of traditional details, and are divided into four types: Suite, Double or Twin, Single, and Family Rooms.
The Café Portugal on the first floor is a great place to enjoy fine food and watch the world go by, whilst the Corner Bar is tiny but fun and perfectly put together. It is potentially Lisbon’s best kept secret, and is defined by an environment of comfort and sophistication.
Pros
Situated on bustling Rossio Square
Extraordinary Castle of São Jorge views
Trendy avant-garde design
Unique historical connection
Cons
Possible noise from Rossio Square
Not for longer stays
Monte Belvedere
Housed in a building that was once used as a French perfume factory, the exceptionally rated Monte Belvedere offers some of the most amazing views of the River Tagus to be found anywhere in the city. Located at the Alto De Santa Catarina, the building has been lovingly restored and now offers a fabulous rooftop terrace for taking in those views.
The building has been restored since its 20th-century roots as a perfumery, but the original architectural details were preserved as well as its unique characteristics. The result is an authentic abode full of comfort, charm, and sophistication.
Bedrooms are clean and contemporary with parquet floors, white walls, and beautiful restored original windows, while the bathrooms are graceful and feature slate tile walls and large shower cubicles. Even the standard double rooms offer breathtaking views over the sea and the city, but if you want to upgrade to a suite, you can enjoy the comfort of your own private seating area. Each room is bedecked in precious antiques, plus artwork sharing a nod to a bygone era.
This trendy hotel is also home to the Madame Petisca restaurant where diners can enjoy amazing local dishes and crisp local wines, high up on the hills above the city. If you want to explore the city by night, you can rest assured that you won’t go hungry, with an abundance of food markets, bakeries, and restaurants right on your doorstep.
Pros
Unparalleled vistas of the Tagus River
Local dishes at Madame Petisca restaurant
Restored perfumery with preserved architecture
Fabulous terrace for views
Cons
On-site parking may be limited
Requires uphill walking
9 Hotel Mercy
Here we have a sleek, upscale hotel tucked away in the narrow streets of the Chiado, a district buzzing with cafés, shops and excellent restaurants. With Lisbon’s Trindade Theatre just 50 metres away, and Rossio Train Station within an 8-minute walk, this is the perfect spot to dive into the city’s historic heart.
Converted from a historical building into a modern-day hotel, the 9 is awash with first class interior design elements that focus heavily on hues of black and gold. Timeless elegance is an undisputed feature that runs through the entire property, with some spaces embracing a traditional character, others thoughtfully appointed to embrace modernism.
The bedrooms at this hip Lisbon hotel have parquet flooring and large padded headboards and are incredibly stylish, whilst bathrooms are sleek and masculine with black Corian panels and rain showers. All 47 units are contemporary in design, whether you choose one of the classic, superior, executive, club, or suite rooms. Other in-room features include bronze curtains, black bed canopies, velvet elements, and pure down mattress toppers.
The 4-star exceptionally rated 9 Hotel Mercy Hotel also offers its very own compact library space, and appeals to the younger, hipper Lisbon set by offering an unusual tea cocktail bar, the Carnal Gastrobar. Here, a DJ plays on weekend nights, under the light of a giant illuminated snake. You can enjoy antojitos, tacos, quesadillas, plus revisited Mexican flavours, all amid panoramic views of the cityscape.
9Hotel Mercy is truly cutting-edge. Its slick design, luxurious rooms, and exquisite rooftop bar combine to form the perfect spot of respite in the beating heart of the city.
Pros
Central downtown location
Upscale interior design
Exquisite bar with panoramic city views
A unique curated onsite library
Cons
Can get booked up at peak times
Only one elevator
Not a budget-friendly option
Solar dos Mouros
In the heart of the narrow streets of the Moorish labyrinth of Alfama district, the 4-star highly-rated Solar dos Mouros is housed within the towers and ramparts of St. George’s Castle. This location could not be any better for a glimpse of historic Lisbon.
18th-century stone walls are beautifully decorated with modern art, while thick hardwood floors feel solid underfoot. The white-washed walls are decorated with vivid modern art, some painted by owner Luis Lemos, others brought in from Africa.
Bedrooms and suites at the trendsetting Lisbon abode are brightly colored with oversized leather headboards and comfortable wicker furnishings, while bathrooms are clean and modern. They all have wonderful views out over the city or the river. It’s recommended that you opt for a Deluxe suite, which comes with a terrace large enough to indulge in a secluded breakfast.
Buffet breakfasts are also served in the cobbled courtyard, offering a good range of fruits and pastries, hams and cheeses, and hot dishes such as scrambled eggs and sausages. There is also a Tapas bar next to the reception which has a selection of local wines, cocktails and some of the typical Portuguese petiscos.
Outside, there are tuk-tuk tours and walking tours awaiting guests who want to explore the narrow streets of Alfama.
Pros
Stunning city and river vistas
Modern art enriches 18th-century walls
Buffet breakfast in the courtyard
Nested within St. George’s Castle
Cons
Limited rooms with terraces
Some small bathrooms
Hotel da Estrela
In a building that was once a school; the 4-star highly-rated Hotel da Estrela is situated in the elegant Condes de Paraty palace and offers reasonable access to the city’s main squares and attractions. The surrounding neighborhood, Campo de Ourique, plays host to many traditional Portuguese shops, iconic parks, and gardens.
Using a clever mix of vintage school furniture and contemporary touches, the cool and eclectic Lisbon hotel retains a real sense of the properties heritage, offering a unique approach to the hotel experience.
The 19 bedrooms and suites are spacious and comfortable with a high-end feel, while bathrooms have large tubs and contemporary fittings. Tastefully decorated and light filled, they offer majestic views across the garden, the city, and the river Tagus, while matching a classic school atmosphere with a sense of relaxation. In-room amenities include a satellite TV, ultra-high-velocity Wi-Fi, and a luxurious bathroom with walk-in shower.
The Book, the intimate on-site eatery, serves up genuine food made with fresh ingredients, unlocking the beauty of Portuguese flavors. Guests can eat at the Cantine da Estrela which serves fine international-style cuisine to diners seated on old school benches.
The hotel boasts a beautiful garden, where guests can go to unwind and soak up the sun.
Pros
Majestic vistas of the garden and city
Genuine Portuguese cuisine at The Book
Reasonably priced room rates
Spacious and luxurious rooms
Cons
Minimal on-site amenities
Vintage decor might not suit all
Browns Boutique
Offering glamorous accommodation just a few minutes’ walk from the Praca do Comercio‘s waterfront plaza, the highly rated Browns Boutique Hotel Lisbon is a graceful boutique brimming with international refinement. The area surrounding the accommodation is filled with restaurants, cafes and shops, and a well-known 28 tram stop is 50 yards from the hotel.
The interior aesthetic is characterized by a predominantly red and brown palette, with precious antiques, traditional artwork, and opulent seating areas exuding a sense of place. Sporadic pots of nature, through potted plants and ceiling foliage, add plenty of charm.
Bedrooms are stylish, with crisp white linens and soft wooden furniture teamed dramatically with vintage pieces and desks for business travellers, while bathrooms are bright and modern with showers. You can book a Small Room with a view of either the hotel’s interior or the bustling street, or a Superior Room offering more space to kick back in seclusion. Alternatively, if you feel like splashing out, you can book a suite overlooking the Castle of S. Jorge and the red roofs of the city. There is also superfast broadband and iHome docking stations in every room.
The unique and stylish Lisbon hotel has its very own urban eatery, Brown’s Bistro, which offers traditional Portuguese cuisine as well as superfood salads and burgers. Cocktails are available here all day.
Pros
Short walk to Chiado and Bairro Alto
Brown’s Bistro with a diverse menu
Traditional Portuguese to superfood salads
Stylish room options with city views and some have four poster beds
Cons
Nearby tram stop noise
Limited onsite fitness amenities
Extraordinary Quirky Hotels in Lisbon Compared
The following table compares the best-rated cool and unusual hotels in Lisbon for your ease.
Hotel Name | Location | Price Range(per night) | Fitness Fscilities | Distance to Attraction (km) | Nearby Restaurants |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
WC Beautique | Avenida Almirante Reis 35 | $174 - $$273 | No | 1.1 | 4 |
Memmo Alfama | Travessa das Merceeiras 27 | $384 - $451 | Yes | 0.5 | 7 |
Dear Lisbon, Charming House | Rua de Marcos Marreiros | $208 - $252 | No | 1.5 | 2 |
Mama Shelter | Rua Vale do Pereiro 19 | $178 - $236 | No | 1.8 | 5 |
Altis Belém Hotel & Spa | Doca do Bom Sucesso, Belem | $385 - $704 | Yes | 0.5 | 2 |
1908 Lisboa | Largo do Intendente Pina Manique n.6 | $311 - $350 | No | 0.7 | 9 |
Internacional Design Hotel | Rua Da Betesga 3 | $200 - $250 | No | 0.5 | 4 |
Torel Palace | Rua Camara Pestana 23 | $580 - $609 | Yes | 0.7 | 4 |
AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado | Praça do Municipio 21 | $334 - $460 | No | 0.8 | 8 |
The Vintage Hotel & Spa | Rua Rodrigo da Fonseca | $300 - $333 | Yes | 1.6 | 3 |
The Lumiares | 142 Rua do Diario de Noticias | $639 - $957 | Yes | 1 | 5 |
Le Consulat | 22 Praça Luís de Camões | $381 - $429 | No | 1 | 7 |
My Story Hotel Figueira | 14 Praça da Figueira | $276 - $385 | No | 0.4 | 7 |
LXBoutique | Rua Do Alecrim, 12 | $262 - $672 | No | 1.2 | 6 |
Hotel Portugal | Rua João das Regras | $327 - $370 | No | 0.3 | 5 |
Hotel York House | Rua Das Janelas Verdes | $176 - $230 | No | 2.4 | 3 |
My Story Rossio | Praça D.Pedro IV | $218 - $337 | No | 0.6 | 5 |
Monte Belvedere | Rua de Santa Catarina 17 | $202 - $365 | No | 1.4 | 4 |
9 Hotel Mercy | Rua da Misericórdia 76 | $241 - $381 | No | 0.9 | 8 |
Solar dos Mouros | Rua do Milagre De Santo António 6 | $218 | No | 0.3 | 4 |
Hotel da Estrela | Rua Saraiva De Carvalho | $212 - $303 | No | 2.3 | 5 |
Browns Boutique | Rua Da Vitória 88 | $198 - $288 | No | 0.6 | 5 |
Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
I’ve been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, express.co.uk, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and metro.co.uk. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
Would be great to have some options that would work for families (ie: more then 2 people per room).