Best Historical Hotels in Portugal

Set on a quiet cobbled side street just below St. George’s Castle and opposite one of the most enchanting viewpoints in the city, this impressive hotel occupies one of Lisbon’s most desirable locations. This impressive 15th-century hotel has been given a new lease of life and combines authentic style with plenty of luxurious touches. The hotel’s 19 rooms are set right into the medieval walls and boast luxurious Portuguese beds, huge freestanding tubs,1 and breathtaking views of this charming neighbourhood.

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.

Discover an unparalleled experience at Casa da Companhia, a 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Porto. Just 5 minutes away from São Bento Station and within walking distance of the city’s main attractions, the property offers 40 rooms & suites, a spa, a fitness suite, heated indoor & outdoor pools, and an outdoor terrace. Embodying timeless design and modern facilities, it provides guests with a high-end boutique feel and an opportunity to enjoy the city’s tranquil atmosphere and historical roots. Immerse yourself in the picturesque Clérigos district and experience true luxury at Casa da Companhia.

With just 81 spacious rooms and suites for guests to choose from, the Castanheiro Boutique Hotel combines traditional style with modern convenience and finesse. Set right next to the Palace of the Jesuits and just a short stroll along winding cobbled streets to dozens of attractions and entertainment options, the hotel also features plenty of onsite amenities for guests to enjoy such as the Til Spa with its hydrotherapy circuit, Turkish bath, sauna and indoor swimming pool. Guests can also make their way up to the rooftop to enjoy stunning panoramic views while splashing around in the heated outdoor swimming pool.

Standing on the historic grounds where the governor of Belém Tower once resided, Palácio do Governador offers a rare combination of historical significance and contemporary comfort in one of Lisbon’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods. The brilliant Atlantic blues frame this boutique retreat, placing guests at the heart of Portugal’s maritime legacy.

Known as the Grande Dame of hotels in Lisbon, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa, is the place to be and the place to be seen. The landmark hotel comprises 285 rooms and suites – which vary in sizes and views – all are stylish and modern. The stunning Presidential Suite has been exclusively designed with pieces from the Ricardo Espírito Santo Foundation and Mily Posoz Collection, has a balcony with views of the Avenida and is the real jewel in the hotel’s crown! Guests can unwind at the Anantara Spa which is a sanctuary for the senses and offers treatments that combine Thai and Portuguese traditions whilst the all-day fitness centre is the place to work out. The unique swimming pool amidst the fronds of its semi-tropical garden guests will find the pool which hosts live DJ sets on a weekend in high season. When it comes to drinks and dining the offering here is a gastronomic delight. From fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese to cuisine to creative cocktails and sweeping city views aplenty at the rooftop Sky Bar by Seen (and everything in between!) every occasion is catered for. Guests will not be disappointed!

Ultra-boutique hotel, Gran Cruz House, is set right beside the Douro River and is at the heart of the vibrant city of Porto. Dating back to the 17th century, the building which houses the beautiful hotel oozes with history with many original features that have been retained and are complimented by a flawless contemporary design. The seven stylish guest bedrooms present their own individual design and character with each given their own Wine Port category along with a special work of art.  Casario is Gran Cruz House’s fine dining establishment, a cosy restaurant on the second floor with a riverside terrace. Guests can enjoy breakfast here along with a choice of tasting menus, a la carte menus, beautiful local wines and ports – a truly divine Portuguese gastronomy experience. This intimate hotel is one not to be missed.

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.

Adães Bermudes first designed this building as apartments and indeed it served this purpose from 1908 to 2017, winning awards for the architecture. Now, the listed Art Nouveau property offers 36 guest rooms with interiors by Atelier Maldonado. Street art and installations have been incorporated into the contemporary-chic decor, with technology embedded into the guest experience (the concierge is accessed via WhatsApp). Infame is the lifestyle hotel’s destination restaurant offering incredible seafood, with mixologists creating cocktails in the bar. But if you’d rather venture beyond the front door for food and drink, the local district of the Intendente has much to offer.

Conveniently set in the centre of Lisbon The Ivens Autograph Collection is the perfect base for a city adventurer. Housed in an iconic building that encapsulates the spirit and culture of Lisbon, the hotel presents 87 unique rooms, of which ten are spacious suites including two signature top floor suites. Guests can choose to dine at the hotel’s three restaurants; Rocco Restaurant is an Italian-inspired restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Crudo Bar offers a gastronomic seafood journey and Gastro Bar presents light meals and an exquisite drinks menu. Guests can also make use of the gym which includes a range of cardio equipment and free-weights.

The five star hotel, PortoBay Flores is conveniently located in the historic centre of the city of Porto and within easy access of the city’s main attarctions. The hotel is steeped in history and fuses its 500 years heritage with a contemporary style. Comprising 66 rooms and suites – with 55 modern rooms in the new building and 11 in the stately home with decor to reflect the building’s classic character. Guests can also enjoy use of the relaxing spa with with three treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam bath, a gym and an indoor pool. The landscaped garden and patio is a serene outdoor and an ideal spot to enjoy pre-dinner drinks before dining at the hotel’s restaurant in the former noble halls of the palace. This is an ideal base for a charming and relaxed break in Porto.

Offering guests all of the creature comforts and style that you would expect from a leading boutique hotel combined with the convenience of being situated right on Avenida da Liberdade, this hotel boasts a playful and vibrant design that makes it popular with younger travellers. Guests have a choice of view as the 72 guest rooms face different sections of the city, while the backyard patio is the perfect place to meet new people and unwind with a drink or two from the chic Bar Small and Delicious.