Palácio do Governador Review

Standing on the historic grounds where the governor of Belém Tower once resided, Palácio do Governador Lisbon Hotel & Spa 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, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, placing guests at the heart of Portugal’s maritime legacy.

Designer Nina Andrada Silva has transformed this heritage building into a refined sanctuary that honours Lisbon’s trading past through thoughtful interiors that feel welcoming, cosy and chic. Textiles, ceramics and natural materials are used to tell the story of maritime heritage meets modern luxury. The hotel caters to both leisure and business travellers with stylish rooms, well-designed meeting spaces, an expansive spa and a tranquil pool terrace, writes Andrew Forbes (The Luxury Editor).

Location

This district remains a visitor favourite for good reason. The hotel sits just moments from the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, the original bakery that sells the famous pastéis de Belém, the impressive National Coach Museum, and the contemporary waterfront venue, SUDLisboa, with its restaurant and pool club.

From the hotel, guests can see the striking 16th century World Heritage Belém Tower, the area’s principal attraction. Its ornate architecture conceals its military origins as guardian of Lisbon’s harbour.

Accommodation

The rooms and suites at Palácio do Governador Lisbon Hotel & Spa tell their own stories, from the charming Mansard Rooms tucked under historic eaves to the impressive Governor Suite with its sweeping vistas.

We stayed in the Governor Suite, spanning 129 square metres and offering views of the pool and Belém Tower. This palatial retreat features a king size four poster bed, an elegant dining area, and a sophisticated bathroom.

I particularly liked the spacious bathroom, where soaking in the tub I could enjoying views of the ancient Belém Tower. The room also featured beautiful 17^th century tiles.

Suite amenities include Guerlain toiletries, mini bar, Nespresso premium machine and a thoughtful welcome gift of Lisbon pastéis de Belém cakes, and a bottle of cherry liqueur.

Dining

The hotel’s signature restaurant is Po Tat, offers cuisine inspired by Portugal’s rich heritage. Chefs artfully blend Portuguese traditions with Pan Asian flair, creating what the hotel describes as “a symphony of flavours that would make the 15th century explorers proud.”

The menu features creative combinations such as squid wok with parsnips and wild garlic and Alentejo pork “presa” with quince. Desserts impress equally, with standouts like black rice ice cream with mango, turmeric and yuzu meringue.

For pre-dinner drinks, Tolomeu Bar was our choice, enjoying terrace views of the Tagus River, Belém Tower, and the hotel’s pool.

Wellness

The Felicitás Spa Governador spans 1,200 square metres, blending Portuguese heritage with global wellness philosophies. The spa features a heated indoor pool with dual cascading waterfalls, complemented by a Caribbean Shower Storm and ice fountain that offer an invigorating contrast.

Traditional Turkish bath and sauna facilities provide classic detoxification, while a tranquil relaxation area and 24-hour gym with free weights, rowing machines, treadmills and cross trainers.

The treatment menu includes the signature Governador massage, which we enjoyed first hand – a tension-reducing treatment that was professionally executed.

The hotel also features an elegant pool lined with sun loungers and day beds.

The Experience

What distinguishes Palácio do Governador is its location in one of Lisbon’s most culturally significant areas. While many visitors treat Belém as a day trip destination, staying here allows guests to experience the neighbourhood’s attractions without the crowds, particularly in the early morning and evening hours. I savoured a wonderful walk down to the Belem Tower and along the river, taking in the stunning views of the 25 de Abril Bridge.

The sight of sailboats on the Tagus River connects one to the maritime heritage that makes Belém significant. Meanwhile, the hotel’s thoughtful design creates a dialogue between Portugal’s history and contemporary luxury, providing a distinctive base from which to explore Lisbon.