Lisbon’s cobblestone hills are a pathway through a rich history of occupation, which includes the Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and the Romans. Following in the footsteps of these famous civilisations, we recommend that you call Portugal’s capital home, too, if even for a few nights. 

Spoiled for choice for exceptional places to stay, some of the best luxury hotels in Lisbon are also some of the most historic. Many are housed in centuries-old palaces, set next to ruins and shrouded with modern splendor. We’ve selected seven sensational historic Lisbon hotels to what your appetite for a visit to this enchanting city. 

Hotel Avenida Palace

Photo credit: @hotelavenidapalace on Instagram

Built in 1892, Hotel Avenida Palace was one of Lisbon’s first grand hotels.  Michelin-starred restaurants, city sights and high end boutiques are within walking distance, but prime location isn’t the only reason you desire a stay at what discerning travelers consider the best luxury hotel in Lisbon. 

Royals, aristocrats and wealthy bourgeoisie from around the world have checked-in to this Rossio hotel. Live music fills the hallways throughout each month, the sounds of Fado, jazz and classical piano pieces often the soundtrack to guest stays. Evening tea at the Palace Lounge offers a moment to stop, sip and speculate on which distinguished celebrities, dignitaries or nobles have claimed the presidential suite. 

Read more about royal retreats: 7 Luxury Gold Hotels That Have Hosted Royals, Celebrities and More

Corpo Santo

Photo credit: @corposantohotel on Instagram

Discrete luxury is a specialty at Corpo Santo, one of the best luxury hotels in Lisbon for those who appreciate lavishness with a historical flair. A section of the Fernandina Wall, commissioned in 1373 by King Fernando, sits in the refined Fernandina Room where a good book, a strong drink and sweet silence are always welcome. Free walking tours provided by Corpo Santo lend more context to this ruinous hotel, though complimentary access to the Sense Spa is a much more relaxed way to let the historical environment seep into your every pore.

If you love luxury stays: Why Ireland’s Best Hotel is Made for a Holiday Season Escape

Hotel do Chiado 

Photo credit: @hoteldochiado on Instagram

The ever-popular Chiado neighborhood is one of Lisbon’s most historical. Hotel do Chiado’s plot of land has been occupied since the 1200s. Centuries of fires, earthquakes and other damages have lead to reconstructions and renovations, until this historic building finally became a laid-back, upscale hotel. As one of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon’s commercial artery, Hotel do Chiado is an ideal stay for first-time visitors getting acquainted with the city. Head to the rooftop bar for a Chiado Champagne or find a more iconic view from the Elevator de Santa Justa just one block away.

You may also enjoy reading: 10 of the World’s Most Famous Luxury Train Rides

The One Palácio da Anunciada

Photo credit: @theonepalaciodaanunciada on Instagram

The relatively new The One Palácio da Anunciada has yet to become one of the famed historic hotels in Lisbon, but has all the trappings and is sure to be a feature of the city for many years to come. Just behind the Praça dos Restauradores neighboring the Coliseu dos Recreios and Teatro Politeama, The One is minimalist luxury set within a 16th century building. 

Refined traditional Portuguese plates line the tables of the Condes de Ericeira restaurant. Original refurbished hand-painted frescoes and a dazzling coffered ceiling adorn your surroundings. Original wrought iron columns are featured in the Boémio Lounge lobby bar, tempting you to stay in and savor The One’s historical flavor despite being at the epicenter of Lisbon’s gastronomy scene.

Take a look at these artsy accommodations: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels 

Solar do Castelo 

Photo credit: @lisbonheritagehotels on Instagram

The stunning Solar do Castelo hotel is situated in the Alfama neighborhood tucked within the medieval São Jorge Castle. Built on the grounds of the former kitchen of the Royal Palace, a complimentary bottle of Port wine greets guests in each of the Solar do Castelo’s 20 romantic rooms. The garden courtyard showcases relics found during the hotel’s renovation, including the palace’s water tank dating back more than 800 years. Solar do Castelo is the sole hotel in the Castle Village, making it an exclusive escape for visitors who seek a retreat in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and to enjoy a decadent stay at one of the best luxury hotel in Lisbon.

Bookmark for later: Our Favorite Classic Cocktails, and the Timeless Hotels To Try Them At

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

Photo credit: @tivoliavenidaliberdade on Instagram

Less than a century old yet still capturing the opulence of Portugal’s famed historic hotels, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa delivers the best luxury hotel experience in Lisbon, bar none. Private sailings on the Tagus, private chauffeurs for trips to Sintra and Cascais, and private helicopter rides over the city are just the tip of the lavish iceberg. 

Both the Presidential Suite and the Diplomatic Suite have Avenida views stretched out before their private balconies. Dozens of specialized treatments at the Anantara Spa cater to every skin type, stress level and soulful desire. The Sky Bar by SEEN is renowned as the trendiest rooftop bar for long Lisbon nights while the pool bar offers exclusive DJ sets for guests only.

Pousada de Lisboa

Photo credit: @pousadasdeportugal on Instagram

We invite you to experience one of Portugal’s historic hotels on Spain & Portugal In Style where you’ll spend two nights at one of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon, Pousada de Lisboa. Located in the historic Terreiro do Paço, the building itself is over two-centuries old and is adorned with artifacts loaned out from nearby museums. With an indoor swimming pool, exceptional spa, savory steakhouse, and unrivaled views from your suite, your stay will be a highlight of your trip.

With Magnificent Stays a hallmark of every Luxury Gold tour, every night is an experience in itself. For more exceptional hotels and destinations, take a look at our worldwide collection of small group journeys.

Although we’re only six months into 2023, and there’s plenty to be excited for with the summer still ahead of us, but we’ve always got one eye on what’s coming up further down the line. And 2024 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for luxury travel. To whet your appetite for 2024 travel, we’ve selected some of the new openings in the luxury travel sphere that deserve your attention. These offer the perfect reason to treat yourselves to an unforgettable luxury guided vacation to these spectacular destinations.

New luxury trains in Italy – Orient Express ‘Dolce Vita’

@orientexpress

Over 150 years ago, the first ever Orient Express journey launched luxury train travel into another dimension.  And to this day the name Orient Express is still the epitome timeless nostalgia and glamour.

In 2024, this five-star train will launch six new ‘Dolce Vita’ itinerates, the ultimate way to bookend your Italian vacation.

From the snow-capped peaks of the northern Alps through the picturesque hills of Tuscany and the breathtaking beaches of the southern coast, journeys visit iconic cities including Venice, Rome and Matera.

Every aspect of this luxury train pays tribute to “La Dolce Vita.” Choose from 12 Deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and one La Dolce Vita suite. In partnership with esteemed local and international chefs and sommeliers, passengers will savor a 5-star dining experience onboard, showcasing the best of Italy through world-renowned wines and delicious haute cuisine.

Plus new hotels – Orient Express Minerva Hotel, Rome and Orient Express Venice

Furthermore, bringing the Golden Age glamour of the rails to their own hotels, the very first Orient Express Hotels have announced new openings in 2024 in Rome and Venice.

The Orient Express, Minerva in Rome will be sited in the former Palazzo Fonseca and is set to be a high-class romantic landmark for Rome. This exquiste 17th century palace is adorned with Roman columns and sculptures by Rinaldi Rinaldo.

The Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, built in 1400 by architect Filippo Calendario, known for Venice’s famed Doge’s Palace is the home for the Orient Express Hotel, Venice. An ode to the city’s heritage, suites will all overlook the gardens and canals of Venice and select terraces hidden on the hotel’s rooftops will offer the most beautiful views of the wonders of the Serenissima.

Expect all the luxury and nostalgia of the Golden Age of Travel that you get from their trains, wrapped up in a sumptuous hotel, with the finest Italian gastronomy on offer.

Take a timeless Italian journey with: Ultimate Italy

You might also enjoy reading: An exclusive invitation from La Famiglia Mazzei, a Tuscan wine dynasty

Egypt – new art hotel

In the bustling capital of Cairo, Egypt is set to get its first luxury ‘art hotel.’ Set to open in early 2024, the Hyatt Centric Cairo West will create an art journey for guests from the moment they arrive.

Reflecting the outstanding historical riches of Cairo and Egypt, the urban hotel will showcase the city through the lens of contemporary artists. At every turn, including in its 283 rooms, nods to Egyptian crafts and pharaonic heritage will blend with a showcase of the country’s pop culture.

Paintings, sculptures and architectural features will be complemented by landscaped gardens, a sumptuous pool and inspiring social spaces. Located in the Pyramid Heights area close to the new Grand Egyptian Museum (set to open this year) the hotel is perfectly located to immerse yourself in the rich history of Egypt.

See the best of Cairo and Egypt with: Elegance of the Nile

 You may also enjoy reading: Riches of the Nile: Why Egypt’s icon is the grandest river in the world

Lisbon – new Melia hotel

Hailed as one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe, Portugal’s capital Lisbon is a highly desirable destination. Blending traditional heritage with striking modernism, all wrapped up in a glorious year-round climate.

To add to the city’s alure, a new ME by Meliá Hotel, an exciting new opening for Lisbon is set for 2024, bringing its unique brand of luxury to the city. Described as a destination in itself, local art will blend with the latest technology to bring an eclectic and luxurious stay.

The fully equipped spa will offer everything you need to disconnect and enjoy a total-relaxation experience, whether in the indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath or massage cabins. And a classy Rooftop Bar will let you sip a cocktail and soak up the ambience in the city, with fantastic panoramic views.

Discover the delights of Lisbon on: Spain & Portugal in Style

London – new museum takes you back in time

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Why not top off a five-star visit to the capital with a step back to a bygone era? From spring 2024, a unique opportunity awaits visitors who wish to journey back in time, and step into the heart of Elizabethan High Society.

The new Shakespeare Museum in London is one of London’s most exciting new openings for 2024. Situated on the grounds of the old playhouse that staged productions like Romeo & Juliet and Henry V, the museum is set to transport visitors to this captivating era.

Guests can anticipate immersive, multisensory encounters, wrapping you in the sights, smells, sounds and ambiance that inspired Shakespeare’s plays. Through cutting-edge AI technology and a projected reconstruction of the playhouse, you’re promised a remarkable resurrection of the past, and can even step onto the stage yourself.

Visit London on: Castles & Kingdoms and British Royale

You may also enjoy reading: How Travel Concierge Michael Gives a Royal Welcome in the UK

Europe is renowned for its picturesque cities, where stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and iconic landmarks pose against backdrops like the golden Mediterranean and the snowy Alps. But some cities are so spectacular, they keep us coming back time and time again. From London to Rome, here are five timeless and beautiful European cities to revisit this summer.