AlmaLusa, Lisbon - hotel review

From scenic watersides to bustling nights out and epic custard tarts, Lisbon does it all in style - and this beautifully designed boutique hotel is no exception.

Where is it?

Set on a grand square where the historic Baixa and trendy Chiado neighbourhoods meet, and just a few moments away from the waterfront, there could be few better locations in Lisbon. There’s bustle aplenty and you’re no more than a short walk from any of the city’s highlights and hotspots, yet you’re just off the thick of the tourist trail - a particular boon during the busy summer months.

Style:

Stone floors and reclaimed wood surfaces pair with modern fittings and minimalist designs to create a bijou bohemian bolthole that’s both cosy and contemporary. It’s far from traditional, yet unmistakably Portuguese and a neat showcase for its stunning 18th century building.

Facilities:

​AlmaLusa doesn’t feel like the kind of hotel that would encourage you to spend your holiday in a gym - plus, there’s no room for one. However, there is a full concierge service that offers in-room massages along with everything from transfers to tours, bike hire and boat trips.

Food & drink:

There’s a good atmosphere at the hotel’s relaxed Delfina restaurant, which shows off traditional Portuguese cooking and even manages to lure in some locals. Even if you’re not eating in, do make time for a porto tonico or two on the square-side terrace - the white port and tonic mix is Portugal’s answer to the G&T.

Which room?

Deluxe rooms come with cute Juliet balconies overlooking a picturesque square and suites come with a mini kitchen and dining area perfect for enjoying a glass of wine, but at this hotel a standard room is a treat in itself. Spacious, exquisitely designed, and featuring a coffee machine and both shower and bath, you wouldn’t want for a thing.

Extra-curricular:

Away from the hotel, eating should be high on the agenda. Lisbon has a dynamic global restaurant scene, but first and foremost you need to tick off some Portuguese classics. Start at least one of your mornings with a traditional pastel de nata (custard tart) - Manteigaria is a handy 10 minute walk away is known for doing the best in town. Also tick off piri piri chicken at Bonjardim (eat your heart out, Nando’s) and visit popular A Cevicheria in the Principe Real neighbourhood for some sensational ceviche and good-time vibes. The city’s Time Out Market, just a stone’s throw from the hotel, is also a must-see, whether for a bite of street food or some deli goods to stick in your suitcase.

Stop off at LX Factory, a former textile factory converted into a hipster hub of shopping, eating, drinking and mooching during the day, and hit Barrio Alto, Lisbon’s answer to Soho at night to soak up the bar scene. You can’t miss the stunning waterfront, but make sure Ribeira das Naus is on your radar for waterside drinks.

Best for: A city break where you’re right on top of the action, but still in a quiet enough spot to get some relaxing done.

Details

From £101, 1100-365, Praça do Município 21, Lisboa, Portugal. Visit almalusahotels.com.