Best Historical Hotels in Portugal

Part of the fabulous ‘Torel’ boutique chain, its newest edition is based in the centre of the Bolhão district (home to Portugal’s famous blue and white tiles). It used to be an old soap factory so expect the design to be inspired by this and to reflect its rich history. Compact and elegant but playful and joyous, Luffa, it’s bright and cheery restaurant, serves excellent breakfast and dinner and be sure to check out the Japanese rock garden exterior where guests will find a pool, a Jacuzzi and a spa.

Located close to the River Douro in the charming Miragaia district and in front of a magical but practically vertical park, Timbre Virtudes is very much its own hotel. Quiet, dignified, steeped in history, the renovation of three historic and aristocratic family homes has kept the granite bricks and many original features admirably in tact. Of particular note are the ‘flirting’ benches which feature in a handful of room – maids used to overlook the nearby passageway and engage with suitors below. Enjoy the excellent Través restaurant and bespoke cocktails made at the bar by mixologist, Bruno.

Tarabel Lisbon is a beautiful boutique property offering refined residential-style, personalised hospitality in an impeccably restored mansion in the chc city district of Lapa. Expect nine creatively designed and decorated rooms, an emerald-tiled heated pool, terraced gardens looking out towards the Tagus and elegant dining. French decorator and hotelier Rose Fournier has filled every room with antiques, and flea-market finds and the result feels less like a hotel and more like staying with someone who has exquisite taste. Adults only, gloriously personal, and surely one of the most charming small hotels in southern Europe.

A grand home that once welcomed emperors and royalty (including providing the backdrop for Prince Pedro and Inês de Castro’s illicit love affair), Quinta das Lágrimas is now a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Indeed, you can read about the local history in ancient books contained within the hotel’s exotic wood-panelled library. Set among 12 acres of gardens, the estate includes a pool surrounded by Balinese-style daybeds, a golf course, a golf academy, a driving range, a putting green, sweeping stone staircases and a dining terrace. Inside is the Bamboo Garden Spa and pool with floor-to-ceiling windows and several excellent eateries.

A former noblewoman’s residence, this palace in the Serra Lousã hills contains three centuries of stories inside, with mountain views outside. 46 rooms are available in the original house (with period features and a Juliet balcony), or in the newer wing — all are glamorous with on-trend meets vintage decor. Guests can swim indoors within the spa area, or in the garden’s outdoor pool. Portuguese plates are served in the fashionable top-floor À Terra, either in the main dining room or at the chef’s table in a glass-ceilinged annexe. And A Viscondessa is Palácio da Lousã’s for fine food.

Venture a little further out of town, to Torre de Gomariz Wine & Spa Hotel, deep in the northern vineyards of Portuguese wine country. The nearby forestry and acres of greenery make this a peaceful escape, in five-star style. The boutique property is found in the parish of Cervães, Minho and dates to the 15th and 16th centuries, with a romantic medieval tower at its heart. Guests can sample the local produce at the Wine Bar, or dine in slightly more formal surroundings at the Gomariz Restaurant. Popular daytime activities include hiking, hopping on a bike, playing tennis, or chilling out in the Camellia Spa.

Stay in a 16th-century building which had former purposes as a hospital, a hermitage devoted to São Marcos, a hostel and a Templar convent. Wrought-iron balconettes, a huge pillared courtyard and statues keeping watch over the rooftop are contrasted by a palm-flanked pool terrace to the rear. There is also an indoor pool, a kids’ play area, a spa, a gym and two restaurants, along with over 100 bedrooms. Although reincarnated as a hotel in 2018, the property retains a classical, almost medieval Portuguese style, that infuses every corner with a sense of history.

Located in the historical centre of Porto in an old renovated building, this hotel is close to many of the cities best sights such as Clerigos Tower. The rooms are spacious and all have private bathrooms and a view, many overlooking the charming Porto city. All are fitted with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV’s, WiFi, and some come with a classic bathtub. There is a snack bar for local snacks and small meals, and breakfast is available for guests on request. Nearby attractions include the lively Ribeira area, the Dom Luis I Bridge, and the Porto Cathedral.

This hotel is located in Porto old town in a beautiful 16th-century building that has the charm and feel of a classic Parisian hotel. The whole hotel has an old-world luxurious feel to it and its rooms are decorated with one-off furnishings, stucco detailing, high ceilings and paintings hung on the walls. Facilities in the hotel include WiFi and a library to relax and soak up the atmosphere. A hearty breakfast is served in the morning to begin a day of exploring Porto where many sights are just a short walk away.

This hidden gem is located near the Duoro River in a renovated 19th-century rowhouse in the heart of Porto with views over the riverside area. There are eight rooms at the hotel which are all air-conditioned and have either city or river views. All have WiFi and a private bathroom. Breakfast is served daily in the bright and airy dining area, or it can be delivered to your room. Nearby attractions include the historical Ribeira area and the centre of Porto is a short walk away. The waterfront promenade can be toured at ease by bike which the hotel can rent to guests, and guided city tours can also be arranged.

For those looking to live the high life, this is the hotel in Porto for you. This is a grand 18th-century Baroque building that overlooks the Duoro River and is a short walk from the beach. This hotel offers the chance to holiday like a royal in its large over the top public spaces, elegant architecture, and comfortable modern rooms with all the amenities. The hotel boasts a lovely infinity pool that overlooks the river for guests to soak up the sun and relax, along with an indoor pool, spa, and Turkish bath. Buffet breakfast is served at the onsite restaurant and is made with the freshest ingredients. Food can also be served by the pool or at the hotel’s bar.

This centrally located hotel faces the S. Joao National Theatre, Batalha Square and is a stone’s throw from many other Portos attractions. Its charming rooms come with either twin beds or doubles, and private bathrooms with free toiletries. The rooms also have WiFi access, modern electronics, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can start their day off with a delightful breakfast from the buffet in the morning or a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant in the evening. For those about to head out and enjoy Porto’s nightlife be sure to begin the night with a cocktail or two from the bar. For those preferring to relax and unwind guests can make use of the indoor pool, the fitness centre, sauna, or indulge in a massage.