The 18 coolest hotels in Lisbon

I arrived at Mama Shelter from the beach – sand in my shoes, covered in sun lotion, hair stringy with seawater – and found myself sharing the lift with an impeccably dressed group ascending to the rooftop for sundowners. Not that anyone gave a damn, because anything goes here, the only Portuguese outpost of Mama Shelter’s brand of playful boutique hotels strung across the continent. 

Mood? Quirky-cool. 
Location perks? Two miles away from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Budget range? Not cheap, but not the most expensive. 

The Memmo Príncipe Real is one of the group’s handful of hotels in Portugal. Unlike a lot of touristy Lisbon, this area north of Barrio Alto is still a favourite among trend-savvy locals. Príncipe Real is in fact one of Lisbon's most exclusive places to visit, and the spot is short of hotels – which makes this one particularly special. Its purpose-built, modern style also sets it apart from the Pombaline aesthetic of downtown Lisbon. It's also decked out with quality in mind. Each room has air conditioning, but more than that – they're equipped with modern Bang & Olufsen TVs and Bose speakers, plus many have terraces. The receptions are beautiful too, so if you don't want to leave that's fine – but the area is ripe for exploring.

Mood? Boujee energy.
Location perks? In Príncipe Real, known as one of the most 'exclusive and elegant districts' in the capital.
Budget range? A real(ly big) treat.

While Lisbon has a number of green spaces dotted around its outskirts, downtown can sometimes seem like a maze of tram lines, tiles and narrow, winding streets. Booking in a Hotel da Estrela guarantees some green space at the start and end of each day, and its gardens are perfect for a spot of relaxing in the sun on those days when sightseeing seems all too much. With just 19 rooms and suites, the hotel offers a more intimate experience than most, and the staff is always happy to assist in any way possible. Set in Lisbon's Estrela District, which is beautiful and overlooks the most bustling part of the city, this spot is ideal for slow mornings before making the most of the city. The restaurant serves up traditional Portuguese cuisine 'with a twist' too.

Mood? Contemporary design. 
Location perks? In the heart of the Estrela District.
Budget range? Super affordable.

Another of Design Hotels' Lisbon offerings is the Altis Belém Hotel & Spa and it's a destination worth visiting Lisbon for in its own right, thanks to the unique architectural feat. The hotel not only packs a five-star rating, but also houses its own Michelin-starred restaurant, Feitoria which, again, you should go to even if you don't decide to book a room. The location is also pretty elite. It's a neighbour to some of the capital's most famous monuments such as Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Pastéis de Belém pastry shop (not a monument, strictly speaking, but it might as well be). While nearby, should you pop up the Tagus River from downtown Lisbon to explore, you'll find a place packed with excitement and adventure. 

Mood? Modern vibe.
Location perks? Waterfront views of the Tagus River. Bliss.
Budget range? Spenny.

All 19 rooms at the award-winning Santiago de Alfama differ in size, and even the most affordable ones include a range of amenities that you wouldn't normally find in a boutique hotel: lots of space, a large bed, a full bathroom, and in some rooms, an old-style tub. The boutique hotel sits in the nostalgic district of Alfama, providing a unique location filled with character and ancient architecture. At the on-site Audrey's café – named after the glamorous Ms Hepburn – breakfast is served à la carte and boasts an immense selection morning favourites. By night it transforms into Manny's bar, serving signature cocktails and snacks 'til late. 

Mood? Boutique chic. 
Location perks? In the heart of Lisbon's historical hub.
Budget range? Mid-range.

Remember Memmo from ealrier? Well here's another, this time in Alfama, Lisbon’s most traditional neighbourhood. Until a few years ago, visitors would have to settle for local lodgings and budget hostels here, but that all changed when the Memmo Group opened up the area's first boutique hotel. Their Alfama outpost is an informal home-away-from-home for tourists who don’t want to traipse back to Barrio Alto or Príncipe Real after a day of tackling the city's steep hills. There are 42 rooms of varying sizes, some with a balcony, plus a few quieter ones overlooking the inner courtyard. The interiors are incredibly homely for a hotel, with bookshelves and big wooden dining tables throughout. There's also a fantastic rooftop pool with a seating area looking over the city into the sea, and 24-hour reception so you can come and go when you please.

Mood? Design dream.
Location perks? Stunning river views from the roof terrace.
Budget range? Very well priced.

Brown's Central is everything but dull. Despite being located in the middle of Pombaline downtown in an old building, its links to the city’s history are left firmly at the front door. Instead, it breaks through the stigma of the hotel as a closed-off space to be a meeting point and an arts venue. Its bar and restaurant host cultural events – from pop-up concerts to chats – and double up as trendy gathering spots for artists and prospecting gallerists. The place has an artsy feel: a revivalist style recreating the café scene of the early 20th century, combining vintage furniture and contemporary artworks. The common areas have an intimate and familiar feel; walls are painted in strong colours, the floor is tiled and there is an Art Déco-inspired counter.

Mood? Eclectic magic.
Location perks? As centrally connected as the name suggests.
Budget range? Very affordable.

Born in 2010, Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel is full of surprises. Upon stepping into the lobby, you'll discover a wealth of luxuries; we're not talking gold-plated walls, but good taste and friendliness. It is a favourite among the LGBTQ+ community. There are 89 rooms; those on the ground floor are the plainest, but even they have a Nespresso machine, free wifi, glass-walled showers and biodegradable amenities – stuff worthy of a five-star hotel. Feng-shui principles determine the hotel configuration both inside and outside the rooms, which are ample, minimalist and very comfortable.

Mood? Zen vibes.
Location perks? Walking distance from Marquês de Pombal Square.
Budget range? On the spenny side.

Situated right in the centre of Rossio, this boutique hotel gets serious Brownie points for location. It also scores highly for its historic lilac facade, which is the oldest in Lisbon. Inside is a different story, as the Internacional had a modern makeover in 2009, so now all 55 rooms centre around the themes Urban, Tribal, Zen or Pop. There's a bar and restaurant too, which specialise in cocktails and Portuguese grub.

Mood? Main character energy.
Location perks? Nestled in the historical part of the city centre.
Budget range? Well priced.

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you – the Evolution Lisboa Hotel is actually held up by a sculpted hand. The hotel is conceived for independent guests or impatient people who can't stand waiting. Everything is managed in an efficient, quick and informal way. Wi-Fi, USB chargers and electric sockets are everywhere, so you can stay permanently plugged in (handy for uploading pictures of that hand on the 'gram). Rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable, including a sitting area, a desk and a view of the city.

Mood? Join the tribe.
Location perks? Super central – with so many great amenities to match.
Budget range? Mid-range to high-end.

Hidden in an old 17th-century convent on a Lapa hill facing the Tagus, this small boutique hotel has been open for business for more than 100 years. True, the current configuration is modern, but this is not a party destination; rather, it is a quiet haven away from the crowds, with easy access to the city centre. You might even wonder if you had the right address on your way in, as you meet the unassuming lobby and the friendly staff. There is still something monastic about the 32 rooms, with their austere lines and antique furniture pieces, reminiscent of the building's former use. Expect large rooms with big four-poster beds, tables built out of old doors, modern fixtures and clear tones that make the rooms even sunnier.

Mood? Regal energy.
Location perks? A welcome retreat from big city life.
Budget range? Soooo well priced.

The view from the sixth-floor terrace is enough reason to book a night at this Bairro Alto spot, with it possible to see out across Lisbon and all the way to the river. There’s no restaurant but its bar does specialize in mixology; their original cocktail menu is infusion-based, and they have a great selection of teas. Breakfast is a neverending food festival, so you'd better pace yourself: homemade yoghurt, detox juices, “nata” tarts, croissants, varieties of bread, bacon and eggs are just some of the treats on offer.

Mood? Contemporary style.
Location perks? Views over the São Jorge Castle, Bairro ALto and Tagus Bridge.
Budget range? Worth it.

My Story Hotel Rossio's reputation, as one of Lisbon's best, isn’t solely based on its location, which is right in the middle of the Rossio. It's the decor that makes it stand out from the crowd; imagine a clash between the 17th century and Andy Warhol’s Factory, where stone arcades are lit by neon lights and the bar mixes ancient tiles and chandeliers with modern designer furniture. In 18 of the hotel’s 46 rooms, you will get a view of the Rossio, and you should demand one of them – it's a rare privilege to get to watch the city parading in front of you.

Mood? Golden deluxe.
Location perks? Walking distance from Chiado and Liberty Avenue.
Budget range? A great deal.

Located at the Rua Jardim do Regedor, the hotel stands out thanks to the deep red that colours this turn of the 20th-century building. The reddish tones are also to be found inside as part of the bold decoration by designer João Rolo. The 56 rooms, though not huge, are comfortable and spacious enough for a good night's rest after a day of walking around.

Mood? A taste of history.
Location perks? Check out nearby restaurants in the Rossio, Chiado and Alfama areas.
Budget range? Mid-range.

Throughout Lisbon, you'll find tall, decorative townhouses lining the streets, and it's inside one of these that the AlmaLusa resides. Dating back to the 18th century, these old Pombaline buildings hold a wealth of history. AlmaLusa is a beautiful boutique hotel to make a base from which to explore the bustling Baixa-Chiado neighbourhood. And if the hordes of tourists get too much, you can retreat to the charming in-house restaurant Delfina, which serves a fine fusion of Portugal's regional dishes.

Mood? Historic charm. 
Location perks? In the heart of Município Square and all its history. 
Budget range? Decently priced.

When it comes to the Hotel Santa Justa, the X-factor may be each room’s well-stocked minibar. Not that you need it – the hotel’s bar offers not only a vast drink menu but also some all-important snacks. The 55 rooms are modernly styled and spacious – family rooms and attic suites are huge and come with a Nespresso coffee machine, to give you one last shot of adrenalin before getting in line for the Santa Justa Lift – which is right next door.

Mood? Clean and modern.
Location perks? Extremely central with a bunch of great landmarks nearby.
Budget range? Spenny AF.

Planning every minute detail of a holiday can be, well, tiring, making the whole experience feel like hard work. Built for the tourist that hasn't made any plans, the Gat Rossio is strategically located in a quiet street behind the Restauradores square and its friendly staff can tell you the best things Lisbon has to offer during your visit. Between the lounge and the outer terrace, you’ll also be rubbing elbows with other guests. A buffet breakfast is served on long tables, which is usually a good meeting point for early birds.

Mood? Contemporary chic.
Location perks? Walking distance to Restauradores Square. 
Budget range? Very reasonable. 

Essentially a bed & breakfast in terms of service, Augusta Boutique House’s 12 rooms are the centre-piece of the hotel – expect an irreverent aesthetic, including tapestries by the bedposts, wooden panels on the walls and wonderfully curated vintage furniture contrasting with the monochrome. There are few common areas, with the exception of a terrace, from which you can see the castle hill. As for breakfast, you can either enjoy it on the terrace or in your room at no extra cost.

Mood? Understated elegance.
Location perks? In the heart of Pombaline Downtown. 
Budget range? Affordable.