A boutique hotel is never just a place to sleep. At the very best, every detail — from design to service to culinary offerings — is crafted with an almost artisanal level of care. In the first announcement of MICHELIN Keys in Portugal, our Inspectors selected six boutique hotels in the very heart of Lisbon that embody exactly that. Below, a breakdown of just what you'll find at each of these city-center standouts — and a few tips from Inspectors on how to make the most of each one.
The One Palácio da Anunciada
When restoring this 16th-century mansion, the H10 Group set out to return it to its original splendor — and reimagine it for today as a luxury hotel. Mission accomplished: The One Palácio da Anunciada combines baroque frescoes, etched crystal and ornate mirrors with a minimalist, sophisticated design full of Portuguese details — including ceramic plates, an homage to traditional Portuguese ceramics, used as headboards. Spacious rooms, a garden with a centuries-old dragon tree, a spa, pool, restaurant and wine bar all encourage a slow, unhurried stay just steps from Avenida da Liberdade — Lisbon’s main urban artery. One notable feature: From waste management to energy efficiency, the hotel is deeply committed to environmental sustainability.
Inspector's Tip: Just to the right of the entrance, don’t miss the charming The One Art Gallery, which hosts monthly exhibitions by Portuguese artists. And take a moment to relax by the pool — you might spot the hotel’s majestic eagle, Lisbon, who helps maintain the gardens naturally by keeping pests at bay.
Pousada de Lisboa, Praça do Comércio
Its location is hard to beat — the hotel sits right on Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s most emblematic square and the perfect jumping‑off point for any tour of the seven‑hilled city’s must‑sees. The 200‑plus‑year‑old building, once home to several government ministries, is a living testament to local history. Impeccably preserved, it features original arches, stone staircases, antiques and artworks in the common areas. Each room has its own personality — all are comfortable and well equipped — and some suites look onto the Tagus, including the imposing Dom Perignon suite, which spans more than 100 square meters.
Inspector's Tip: Ask the staff about the building’s history and roam the corridors to uncover its art and heritage pieces. Then hop on tram 28 right outside the door to continue your journey through Lisbon’s past.
Book Pousada de Lisboa, Praça do Comércio with The MICHELIN Guide →
Art Legacy Hotel Baixa‑Chiado
This elegant 1920s office building has been transformed into a vibrant, contemporary hotel in the heart of Lisbon. The renovation — led by architect Luís Rebelo de Andrade — included everything from the Beaux‑Arts façade to the interior spaces. Today, each floor features a distinct color palette, and the rooms combine classic and contemporary artworks with modern furnishings and lighting by Dutch brand Moooi. Service is impeccable, and bathrooms are outfitted with Bulgari amenities, Smeg kettles and freestanding tubs.
Inspector's Tip: Have a preferred room color? Let the front desk know in advance — they’ll do their best to accommodate your request. And if your budget allows, one of the terrace suites is well worth the splurge.
Book Art Legacy Hotel Baixa‑Chiado with The MICHELIN Guide →
Bairro Alto Hotel
One of Lisbon’s original boutique hotels, Bairro Alto Hotel occupies a historic mansion on the lively Praça Luís de Camões — surrounded by classic cafés and traditional fado houses. The property was reborn after a 2019 renovation by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Souto de Moura. Today, the charm of old balconies and high ceilings blends seamlessly with warm, contemporary interiors. Wood accents, soft tones and works by local artists create a space where every detail is carefully considered. The highlight? A rooftop terrace with an unforgettable view over the Tagus.
Inspector's Tip: Just to the left of the main lobby, on the ground floor, is the hotel’s irresistible bakery. Stop in for sweet and savory treats — including traditional Portuguese pastries — made right on-site. You can also access it directly from Rua do Alecrim.
Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel
João Federico Ludovice — the German architect behind many of Lisbon’s 18th‑century palaces and churches — spared no luxury when designing his own residence. He built an opulent five‑story mansion that spans an entire block in the central Bairro Alto. Today, the meticulously restored building houses the Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel. Original azulejos, frescoes and stucco ceilings have been preserved and paired with wine‑inspired touches throughout. The rooms — some with balconies and sweeping city views — are warm and refined, featuring Caudalie amenities and Art Deco details.
Inspector's Tip: Every day at 6 p.m., the hotel hosts a tasting of local wines in the historic bar and courtyard — not to be missed. And just across the street, the charming Elevador da Glória funicular whisks you up to the historic square, Praça dos Restauradores.
Book Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel with The MICHELIN Guide →
Browns Avenue Hotel
This new hotel near Avenida da Liberdade perfectly reflects the essence of Lisbon — a city that blends past and present with warm hospitality. The property spans both a contemporary structure and a historic building, with actual Roman ruins visible on the lower level. Its entrance, tucked among lush greenery, is almost hidden from view — inside, the rooms feature thoughtful, modern design, from sleek bathrooms to glass jars for brewing your own tea. Up on the rooftop, a pool offers sweeping views; downstairs, a restaurant and library invite you to linger.
Inspector's Tip: On the lower level, discover one of the hotel’s most unique features: a small display of Roman archaeological finds uncovered during construction — fascinating and entirely unexpected.
Hero image: Lisbon as seen from the pool at Browns Avenue Hotel © Browns Avenue Hotel
