Portugal's seaside capital seamlessly weaves romantic cobblestone streets through ancient UNESCO sites, creating a diverse hospitality landscape of 15th-century palaces, historic townhouses and bohemian retreats. Of the 60-plus hotels in the MICHELIN selection in Lisbon, the very best have been awarded between One and Three Keys by our Inspectors based on specific criteria. This lively European city and its surroundings are home to 10 Key hotels: each a showcase of Portugal's laid-back lifestyle.
The Three Key distinction recognizes hospitality so extraordinary that guests might choose to never leave the property. Just 20 miles west of Lisbon is the area’s sole Three Key hotel: Penha Longa Resort, set in the lush forests of the Sintra Cascais Nature Reserve and just 10-minutes from the beaches of Cascais and Estoril. Spacious Signature Suites offer private balconies overlooking the property’s 27-hole golf course. A spa, heated infinity pool with views of the misty Sintra mountains, and 14th-century monastery are all onsite — and, when hunger hits — guests have seven restaurants from which to choose. Midori and LAB by Sergi Arola each sport MICHELIN Stars.
Just below the Three Key distinction are the exceptional Two Key hotels. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon represents the famous brand’s renowned, five-star hospitality with Two Keys in the very heart of the city. Interiors showcase a blend of Art Deco with Louis XVI-style flair, all underlined by an extensive collection of local artwork. Rooms are light, airy, and spacious, and the Presidential Suite offers views of St. George's Castle and the Basílica da Estrela. Culinary options include Cura, a Portuguese fine-dining experience with a MICHELIN Star.
The One Key Hotels
One Key Hotels are among the most special in the MICHELIN selection — and in Lisbon, they tend to offer highly intimate stays in highly historic settings. In the cultural heart of town, steps from theaters, shopping and nightlife, sits Barrio Alto Hotel, an 18th-century building restored by Eduardo Souto de Moura, winner of the prestigious Pritzker Prize for architecture. Perched above Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28 route, guests here find themselves immersed in the intimate sounds of fado music and nearby tasca eateries, a blending of Portuguese elegance with bohemian chic. Visitors love to linger on the rooftop terrace, where panoramic river views make it one of the best vantage points in Lisbon.
Santiago de Alfama is nestled in the labyrinthine streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district and the preferred base for travelers exploring ancient churches, fado music and picturesque St. George’s Castle. The restored 15th-century palace is now a coveted boutique hotel known for attentive service. Rooms are clean, bright and stylish, and The Santiago Suite offers exceptional views of the Tejo River. Within walking distance are five museums and Feira de Ladra, a biweekly street market.
Oenophiles will appreciate Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel, where the guest experience is centered around Portugal's rich wine culture. Apart from the expected — wine tastings, vineyard tours and a well-stocked wine bar — the former palace’s original architecture and lavish interiors, which include a vertical garden in a airy atrium, make it another standout stay in the capital’s bustling center.
For guests prioritizing serenity over sightseeing, laid-back luxury beckons at Sublime Lisboa, a 15-room boutique tucked into the upscale residential neighborhood of Amoreiras. The focus is undoubtably wellness in this design-forward, 20th-century townhouse, enhanced by in-room beauty services and verdant outdoor spaces. Complimentary high tea, a celebrated Italian restaurant, and personalized concierge service are more perks at this wonderful One Key spot.
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Hero image: Penha Longa Resort
