Lisbon Hotels You’ll Love This Year

Last updated on September 18, 2025 at 00:36:01

Right, let’s have a proper chat about Lisbon hotels. After splitting my time between Brighton and Alfama for the past year (and visiting obsessively since 2017), I’ve learnt that where you rest your head in this seven-hilled city can completely transform your experience. Trust me, I’ve made enough booking blunders to know what works and what absolutely doesn’t – especially when you’re dragging two kids along for the adventure.

Why Your Lisbon Hotel Neighbourhood Choice Matters

Here’s what nobody tells you about booking Lisbon hotels: this city’s topography is absolutely mental. You could book a stunning place with marble bathrooms and a rooftop pool, but if it’s halfway up the Graça hill and you’ve got dodgy knees (or a five-year-old who refuses to walk after 3pm), you’re stuffed.

I learnt this the hard way when Theo had a complete meltdown outside the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Picture this: gorgeous sunset, Instagram-worthy views, and my son doing his best impression of a melting ice lolly on the cobblestones. Since then, I’ve become obsessively strategic about location.

The Neighbourhoods: A Local’s Honest Take

Five Types of Lisbon Hotels I’ve Actually Tested (So You Don’t Have To)

1. The Converted Palace Hotels
These grand dames of Lisbon’s hotel scene are proper special. We splashed out on Pestana Palace for our anniversary, and honestly, Lena spent the entire breakfast asking if we’d accidentally wandered into a princess castle. The gardens alone are worth the splurge if you’re celebrating something.

2. The Boutique Tile-Lovers’ Paradise
Santiago de Alfama turned me into a complete azulejo bore. Every room tells a different story through its tiles, and they’ve got this brilliant little library where Theo discovered Portuguese picture books. Plus, their breakfast spread includes proper pastéis de nata from Manteigaria. Game-changer.

3. The Modern Chain With Local Soul
Don’t knock the Martinhal Chiado just because it’s family-focused. Yes, they’ve got kids’ clubs (lifesaver at 5pm), but they’ve also partnered with local restaurants for their room service. Nothing beats tucking into bacalhau à brás whilst your little ones are occupied with Portuguese language games downstairs.

4. The Backpacker-Turned-Boutique
The Independente used to be a proper hostel, and they’ve kept that social vibe whilst upgrading everything else. Their restaurant terrace overlooks the river, and on Thursday nights, they host unpretentious wine tastings with local producers. Met my now-mate Carlos there – he owns a tiny vineyard near Sintra.

5. The Airbnb-Killer Aparthotels
Martinhal Oriente shocked me. It’s not central, but it’s next to Parque das Nações where locals actually live. Full kitchens mean you can shop at proper Portuguese markets, and the kids can scooter along the riverside without dodging trams.

My Non-Negotiable Lisbon Hotel Features (Learnt Through Trial and Error)

• Air conditioning that actually works – August in Lisbon is no joke
• Soundproof windows – Those charming trams start at 6am
• A proper breakfast spread – Must include fresh fruit, proper coffee, and eggs done any way
• Walking distance to a metro or tram stop – Unless you fancy €20 Uber rides
• Staff who speak decent English – My Portuguese is getting there, but medical emergencies require clarity

The Secret Season Sweet Spot

Here’s what the booking sites won’t tell you: November is absolutely magical for Lisbon hotels. The rates drop by nearly half, you can actually get reservations at Ramiro (best seafood, hands down), and the weather’s still mild enough for afternoon gelatos at Santini. We’ve started doing our family trips then, and honestly, experiencing São Martinho with roasted chestnuts and no crowds beats fighting for space in July.

A Quick Reality Check About Breakfast

Most Lisbon hotels will offer you a “continental breakfast,” but here’s my advice: unless it’s included, skip it. For the €25 per person they’re charging, you could have a proper Portuguese breakfast at a local café for €5. My regular spot near Alfama does fresh orange juice, proper toast with butter and jam, a galão (Portuguese latte), and a pastel de nata for less than a fiver. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by actual Lisboetas reading their morning papers rather than tourists photographing their fruit plates.

The Bottom Line on Booking Lisbon Hotels

After all these years of traveling back and forth, here’s what I’ve learnt: the perfect Lisbon hotel doesn’t exist, but the perfect one for YOU does. Whether you’re after five-star luxury in a converted palace or a simple guesthouse where the owner remembers your coffee order, this city delivers. Just remember to book early if you’re coming during Santos Populares in June – learned that one the expensive way!

Have you discovered any hidden gem hotels in Lisbon? Or perhaps had a breakfast experience that changed your morning routine forever? Drop your family food adventures and hotel recommendations in the comments below – I’m always hunting for new places to try with Lena and Theo, especially if they involve those little Portuguese touches that make this city so special. Who knows, your suggestion might just make it into our next Lisbon adventure!

FAQs Lisbon hotels

Is there a hotel in Lisbon Airport?
Yes! The TRYP Lisboa Aeroporto Hotel is right at the airport. Perfect for early flights or quick stopovers.

Do Lisbon hotels have pools?
Many do, especially 4–5 star hotels. Some even have rooftop pools with amazing city views – great for summer stays.

Best Lisbon hotels for couples?
Look for boutique hotels in Alfama or Chiado. Romantic vibes, cozy rooms, and great views – ideal for a couple’s getaway.

Where to stay in Lisbon for a weekend?
Stay central Baixa, Chiado, or Avenida da Liberdade. You’ll be close to sights, cafés, and nightlife, so no time is wasted.