5 Best Hotels in Lisbon, Portugal

A 17th-century convent has been transformed into this contemporary-chic retreat with co-working spaces and studios and apartments (many with kitchens and work areas) that attract a mix of laptop-clutching digital nomads and vacationers. There's a 24-hour gym as well as a large outdoor pool area with hotly contested lounge chairs for sunbathing. Numerous drinking and dining options include stylish Santa Joana, a standout for its elevated Portuguese cuisine under acclaimed chef Nuno Mendes. Hip nightspots The Kissaten and Spiritland host listening parties and serve creative cocktails, with the former boasting the city's largest whisky collection.

Lisbon's downtown pousada—part of a national network of hotels in historic buildings—this former government ministry, whose presidential suite was the office of the dictator Salazar, has been overhauled with a view to elegance and comfort. Statues line the corridors and other artworks abound. Guest rooms are decorated in a simple contemporary style; the pricier ones afford amazing views of the square and river. A generous buffet and à la carte breakfast is served in the interior patio, whose transparent roof is retracted on warmer days. The in-house Rib restaurant serves fine steaks and Portuguese wine, but lighter alternatives may be ordered either there or in the bar. There's just one other pousada in the city: a much smaller property in the Alfama neighborhood.

The discreet entrance belies the sleek design and wealth of amenities and perks inside, from a luxurious spa to a rooftop bar to complimentary in-room gin and tonic trays. The bespoke mid-century furnishings in rooms and communal spaces evoke Mad Men–era glamour, while the warm color palettes recall the grandeur of Lisbon’s historic palaces. Every style detail is perfect, from the retro telephones by the bed to the luxurious basement spa with modern fitness facilities and a relaxing pool area. Above ground, the V Rooftop Bar is a leafy space for cocktails and petiscos soundtracked by DJs spinning vinyl after hours, while the ground-floor bar and restaurant is a slick space for breakfast or dinner.

Just around the corner from the monastery of the same name, this is a good base for exploring the many local sights. The lobby and other public areas have bright splashes of color, while the guest rooms have more restrained color schemes and simple furnishings. Some have views of the neighboring botanical garden or the monastery. The sundeck is a fine place to relax with a glass of wine.

Run by the same family since its inauguration in 1954, this hotel recalls the glamour of mid-century Lisbon, combining elegant original fixtures and fittings with more modern amenities such as a gym and LCD TVs. The bar serves light meals and snacks, and guests are welcome to pour themselves a drink from the honor bar at the rooftop terrace.The hotel is also a good choice for families thanks to its relaxing communal areas with free all-day tea and coffee, huge buffet breakfast served until midday, and optional extras like babysitting services.