Best Historical Hotels in Portugal

People who want the chance to feel like royalty are sure to love staying in this luxurious hotel, which is set on a hillside to provide guests with stunning views. While each guest room is decorated in uncompromising style with marble floors, picture windows, large private balconies and antique furniture, the suites are particularly enchanting as they boast private turrets and huge four-poster beds. Taking afternoon tea in the Rio Tejo Bar is a decadent experience that should not be missed as guests can take their pick from more than forty varieties of tea as well as a selection of tasty treats.

The recently opened Torel Palace occupies a prime city-centre location in Porto with a fascinating history dating back to 1861.  The original palace, which is now home to the stunning hotel underwent significant restoration in 2020 and the grandeur of the building has been masterfully restored; from its grand winding staircase, ornate cornicing and beautiful library – every corner is filled with charm and character – which extends to the outdoor pool and restaurant too. Foodies will revel in the dining experience presented at the hotel’s restaurant, Blind, a tribute to Portuguese writer José Saramago. The 10-course tasting-menu is inspired by chef Vítor Matos’ childhood memories and will stimulate your taste-buds and your senses. With attentive service and the perfect level of privacy, the Torel Palace Porto truly is a haven of luxury in the heart of Porto. 

The One Palácio da Anunciada is an exclusive 5-star hotel set in the Baixa district in the heart of Lisbon. Its elegant design showcases the history of the original 16th-century building in which it is set, and award-winning designer Jaime Beriestain intertwines a contemporary style to create a unique ambience Comprising 83 tasteful rooms (of which 11 are junior suites and two are suites) guests have their own sanctuary of neutral tones and high-quality material and traditional Portuguese finishing touches. The hotel is home to Despacio Spa at The One – a tranquil spa (with treatments available|) that overlooks the hotel’s extensive gardens and a 24-hour fitness centre is onsite for the more energetic guests. The noble rooms of the original palace have been beautifully transformed into a selection of refined dining spaces for guests to use at their leisure. Traditional Portuguese market cuisine with a Mediterranean influence can be enjoyed in the more formal restaurant whilst cocktails, wine and light bites are served at the chic wine bar which has direct access to the extensive palace gardens. The One Palácio da Anunciada is the ideal place to relax and recharge after a day discovering Lisbon.

Boasting more than a hundred years of history and a décor that is reminiscent of the British colonial style, guests who appreciate classic elegance are sure to love staying at this luxurious hotel. Rooms and suites feature huge balconies where guests can stand and gaze out at the ocean, while the beautiful gardens are the perfect place to unwind after taking a dip in one of the swimming pools. Guests who want to try something a bit different can sign up for traditional tango or foxtrot dancing classes or lessons with a professional tennis coach – both of these activities are perfect ways to work up an appetite for the award winning dishes that are served in one of the hotels many excellent restaurants.

Just outside of Porto, on the coast, is Vila Foz Hotel & Spa. Designed by Nina Andrade da Silva, it’s housed in a 19th-century villa with rooms in the main building and a newer wing. Those preferring a more modern feel should opt for the latter, while the original spaces offer stucco ceilings and hardwood floors – both have Maison Codage bath products. Airport transfers are by the hotel’s vintage Rolls-Royce, personal trainers take guests on runs, bikes are available for use and there’s a complimentary shuttle bus into the city. This was the neighbourhood’s first five-star residence, with a Michelin-starred restaurant and ornate interiors with the prolific use of onyx.

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Verride Palacio Santa Catarina offers a blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury complete with a rooftop pool. Experience the allure of Lisbon’s history paired with contemporary comforts, award-winning dining featuring Portuguese cuisine from the restaurant, and sweeping views from the rooftop haven.

With views of the city’s historic centre from its spacious rooms, this 18th-century palace offers luxury in the heart of Porto. The rooms have high ceilings, flat-screen TV’s, and lush marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and stand-alone bathtubs. Several rooms have separate sitting areas and WiFi is available throughout the whole property. The hotel has a Fitness Centre with the latest equipment that is open any hour of the day as well as a sauna, and spa with several treatment rooms. The onsite Restaurant Astoria offers guests a wonderful range of Portuguese cuisine served alongside local wines, while the Cardosas Bar is perfect for enjoying a glass of Port or a cocktail before heading out to enjoy the nearby sights and nightlife.

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.

Torel Avantgarde is a beautiful hotel which is nestled on a hillside, away from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant Porto city centre (which is only 10-minutes’ walk away). Stunning views of the Douro River and the city can be enjoyed from almost every angle; from the outdoor pool and hot tub to the terrace restaurant ‘Tenro by Digby’, and not to forget the stylish front-facing rooms. But it’s not just the natural beauty that is a sight to behold here, the 49-room boutique hotel is known as the “artists’ hotel” with its design and concept inspired by the Avante-Garde era of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Each room and suite is dedicated to important historical-artistic global figures reflecting their individuality and creativity. The Frida Kahlo room, one of the most famous in the hotel, offers an incredible twin bathtub with views out to the city – check-in here and you won’t be disappointed! The hotel’s dining experience offers a contemporary twist on traditional Portuguese cuisine and presents guests with a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Unwind or rejuvenate with a treatment at the hotel’s Calla Wellness & Spa, where natural and organic products from Phyt’s and Oliófora are the order of the day.

Combining pure luxury with cultural heritage, this iconic hotel offers guests a selection of rooms to choose from with the biggest and best providing stunning views over the Praҁa do Comércio square to the Tagus River. Huge rain showers in the marble decorated bathrooms help to complete the feeling of pure decadence. Stunning city views can be enjoyed with splashing around in the swimming pool that is situated at the very top of the building, while guests are also treated to a large fitness room, sauna and spa to make unwinding in style effortless.

Located on the southern bank of the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, The five-star Rebello Hotel & Spa combines Porto’s industrial heritage with contemporary design. The hotel occupies a series of 19th-century warehouses, which have been meticulously transformed into 103 loft-style suites, each featuring expansive windows and modern finishes. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a destination spa with an indoor pool inspired by ancient Roman baths, a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Porto’s historic centre, and multiple dining options serving local cuisine. Its prime location provides easy access to the city’s UNESCO-listed Ribeira district and renowned port wine cellars, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking both luxury and cultural immersion.

This 5-star boutique hotel is located in the bohemian and vibrant area of Bairro Alto. What was once a former 18th century palace has now been converted into spacious apartment suites – all of which have been created in collaboration with local brands, makers and artists. The vibe is authentic Portugal. The Lumi Rooftop bar and restaurant boasts stunning panoramic views across the city and serves contemporary dishes sourced from local ingredients. The small but perfectly formed spa is a haven for guests in which to retreat, relax and rejuvenate. This is a hidden gem worth seeking out.