Boutique Hotels in Lisbon

Why go?

Lisbon is a grand old city in the European tradition. It was largely rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake which destroyed what was widely regarded as the loveliest port in the Mediterranean. These days it mixes majesty and shabbiness in equal measure, and its hallmark is an energy that flows through its streets, be it the old trams that rattle up the hills or its unflagging inhabitants that tumble through its cobbled streets. It’s built on seven hills – bring your comfiest shoes – and fabulous views follow the energetic as they scale another peak. Climb up to the terrace of St George’s Castle for the best view in town and find the whole of Lisbon lying at your feet with the mighty River Tejo flowing serenely under the enormous suspension bridge that hangs in the air a couple of kilometres up stream. Back down the hill you’ll find galleries, museums, theatres, shops, restaurants and clubs to keep you occupied, or head west a couple of kilometers to historic Belém, from where the great explorers set sail in their quest to discover the New World.

Any Downsides?

Lisbon is somewhat down at heel and undeniably shabby; to some this is part of its vibrant charm, but others will wonder how gorgeous it would look were its buildings to be scrubbed clean of years of pollution and its graffiti to disappear overnight. Perhaps the most notable objection in town is the price of a good hotel, which seems expensive when compared to other European cites such as Barcelona and Paris (but not, of course, London). Don’t forget that Lisbon is built on seven hills and that walking up the odd incline is unavoidable, so bring comfortable shoes.