Straight ahead, there’s the castle of Saint Jorge. On the ground floor, prawns and port are served in the bar and restaurant. Up above is the sun terrace, looking out over a quilt of terracotta roof tiles and the Graça neighborhood. With this boutique Aparthotel as your compass, you’re always oriented toward beauty and adventure.

Standing proudly on a beautiful corner, its intricate “Azulejos” give the impression of a lavender sheen. The bones of the two buildings are from 1830, and in 2016 the owners restored them to evoke the traditional lifestyle of that époque. 

The interiors are deftly designed, owing to a clean and timeless style. Fresh, bold paint colors complemented antique elements, like the ornate circular staircase.

In this international yet culturally rich city, you’ll want to stay in the heart. And at Lisboa OnJ, you’ll be front and center, well-slept and fed at the same time.

This 19-room apartment hotel in Lisbon has several room types. The studio options can accommodate up to four people, as well as the one-bedroom apartments. The two-bedroom apartment can sleep up to six adults.

Each apartment has a full kitchenette, seating area and a private bathroom with a walk-in rain shower and free toiletries. Each unit is also air-conditioned and has a large flat-screen TV and free WiFi. 

WONDERFULLY WALKABLE

In 2019, TimeOut.com declared “The multicultural Lisbon parish of Arroios is the world’s coolest neighbourhood right now.” Known for its art galleries, hip and traditional restaurants mashed side-by-side and historical institutions like the neoclassical São Lázaro Municipal Library, it’s right outside your front door.

Once you’ve stepped out, you’re also near Figueira Square and a 10-minute walk to downtown Lisbon. If you walk five minutes uphill on Sao Lázaro street, you’ll reach Campo Mártires da Patria, which used to be a bullfighting area and is now quite the opposite: a quiet park, save for the chirps of birds and chickens. You might even spot a roaming peacock. While you’re here, stop into Gelato Mu for a creamy treat. 

Downhill from the hotel and a short walk away is Vida Portuguesa, featuring the best Portuguese arts and crafts.

Zé da Mouraria is another wonderful neighborhood to stroll through. Replete with tradition and authenticity, it’s full of locals.

Meanwhile, various vantages around the city compete for the best miradouro (viewpoint). A lesser-known favorite is Jardim do Torel in central Lisbon. Take the Lavra funicular to Santana hill's top and catch glimpses of Avenida Liberdade, the city center and river.

LOCATION

Portugal, Lisbon, closest airport: Humberto Delgado Airport (3.7 miles away)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring, summer and fall.