Pousada de Lisboa

This full-service grand hotel in a restored historic building offers top amenities and a central location.

• The Portuguese antiques and art adorning the hotel
• The stunning views over the square from the suites
• The full gym and spa with an indoor pool

Set in a prime corner of the largest square in Europe, Praça do Comércio, Pousada Lisboa was the first of the country’s chain of historic-buildings-turned-hotels to open in Lisbon. In this case, the building was not a restored palace but a grand 18th-century government building that once housed the Ministry of the Interior. From the lobby, which has images of maps, famous discoverers and sailing ships on the ceiling, to the paintings and antiques lining the hallways and hanging over the breakfast room, reminders of Portugal’s glorious history are everywhere. In fact, many of the statues and paintings adorning the grand halls and stairwells are on loan from state museums. And yet the 90 guest rooms and facilities deliver the latest in comfort and convenience. The guest rooms blend classical design elements such as dark wood-paneled walls or historic artwork with contemporary amenities including large marble bathrooms with updated fixtures. The top suites have massive windows with prime views of the square. The spa and state-of-the-art fitness center includes a glass bottomed indoor pool, a sauna and an adjoining rooftop terrace. There are two restaurants and bars, including one with an exposed brick, barrel-vaulted ceiling and alfresco tables on the square so guests can enjoy regional dishes while observing the city bustle and boats on the Tagus River stream by.

Those who want a grand, historic hotel in a central location, along with amenities like a great gym and indoor pool