It’s impossible to ignore the astronomic rise in popularity of Lisbon. Crowned as the “World’s Leading City Break Destination” for four consecutive years from 2017 to 2020, and more recently honoured as “Europe’s Leading City Destination” in 2023, the Portuguese capital has transitioned from a hidden gem for seasoned travellers to a well-known holiday hotspot. And for good reason, too – the ‘City of Seven Hills’ boasts a unique history, stunning architecture, streets adorned with colourful azulejos (ceramic tiles), and a booming food scene. So where better to discover this vibrant city than from the comfort of its first-ever luxury hotel?
Located just minutes from Lisbon’s lively city centre and offering breathtaking hilltop views of Old Lisbon, St. George’s Moorish Castle, and the Tagus River, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon stands as the city’s most coveted address. Since opening its doors in 1959, this distinguished hotel has been providing guests with unforgettable experiences and unmatched luxury for over 60 years.
Considered avant-garde at the time of its construction, the Ritz Lisbon’s brutalist exterior stands in stark contrast to the timeless elegance and grandeur of its interiors. Designed by the renowned French interior designer Henri Samuel and brought to life by skilled Portuguese craftsmen, the hotel’s interiors seamlessly blend Art Deco and Louis XVI influences. The Ritz Lisbon proudly showcases one of the country’s largest privately owned collections of Portuguese Modern art, with bold original artworks gracing the walls of public areas as well as the 282 guest rooms and suites. Enhancing this artistic experience, the hotel has designed an app that serves as a personal art curator and tour guide during your stay.
The Ritz Lisbon’s newly designed rooms and suites offer guests a tranquil sanctuary in which to unwind. I was delighted to be staying in one of the hotel’s ‘Deluxe Park-View’ rooms, a refined and sophisticated space that embraces the Art Deco style seen throughout the hotel. Highlights include a plush king-size bed, a charming chaise longue, a marble-clad bathroom complete with double sink, and elegant dark wood accents. The pièce de résistance is access to your very own private terrace, offering panoramic views over Eduardo VII Park, the hotel gardens and the signature red rooftops of the city. Visit between May and June to catch the blooming of the Jacaranda, an exotic tree that when flowering, creates the most beautiful purple canopies.
Guests of the Ritz Lisbon can indulge in culinary delights at any of their exceptional bars and restaurants. Known for its lavish brunches, the hotel’s Varanda restaurant provides diners with a stunning view over Eduardo VII Park and a menu that highlights local specialties and ingredients. Located at the Ritz bar is O JAPONÊS, where guests can enjoy an authentic menu of fresh sushi and sashimi from the Atlantic Coast. If casual, alfresco dining is what you’re after, then may I point you in the direction of the Ritz Pool Bar, where Lisbon-inspired cocktails and petiscos (Portuguese for “snacks”) are served from morning until early evening. A special mention goes to the hotel breakfast, where guests are entirely spoiled for choice by the decadent daily selection (I spotted a shard of honeycomb from which honey was elegantly dripped onto slices of toast).
In the heart of the hotel sits the fine dining restaurant, CURA (a take on “curadoria”, meaning “fine curatorship” in Portuguese). Michelin-starred chef Pedro Pena Bastos takes the helm, with a seasonal menu of contemporary Portuguese dishes, including his signature squid with hazelnuts, roasted seaweed butter and caviar. All of the exquisite dishes incorporate ingredients from local suppliers and farmers, ensuring only the finest, freshest ingredients are used. This was epitomised by the fourth (yes, fourth) course, which featured ancient wheat bread and a loaf of milk bread. We layered these with rich lovage butter and doused them with the most delicious green olive oil, crafted by the chef’s family.
To balance out all of the delicious food and drink on offer, the Ritz Lisbon provides guests with access to their impressive fitness centre, Pilates studio, and rooftop outdoor running track. For those seeking relaxation, the luxurious Ritz spa provides an oasis where the bustling city feels worlds away. Adorned in marble and oak, the space features an expansive indoor pool overlooking the hotel terrace and neighbouring park, complete with poolside loungers.
The spa itself boasts an extensive treatment menu, including their signature ‘Mind & Body Digital Detox,’ a 60-minute Ignae treatment designed to alleviate the stresses and tensions of a digital lifestyle. I was expertly guided through a series of therapies, beginning with a flower-filled foot bath, followed by a full-body massage, a blue-light repelling facial, and concluding with a soothing head massage.
If you’re looking to find adventure outside of the hotel, the Ritz Lisbon ensures its guests can discover the best of Lisbon’s culture through a selection of private tours and experiences. Highlights include a vintage motorcycle sidecar tour, where you can weave through the vibrant streets and gain an insider’s view of the city. We enjoyed the hotel’s brand new boat excursion, boarding a luxury yacht to experience Lisbon’s Seven Hills from the Tagus River, passing under the 25th of April Bridge and along the Belem cultural area. The hotel’s chefs prepared an exclusive hamper for us, filled with the finest Portuguese delicacies and, of course, bottles of champagne.
The Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon blends unparalleled luxury with a rich cultural experience, offering guests a truly unforgettable stay. From its opulent interiors and exceptional dining options to its state-of-the-art fitness facilities and tranquil spa, the hotel caters to every need with meticulous attention to detail. Its prime location, coupled with bespoke tours and experiences, ensures that guests can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of Lisbon. Whether you’re visiting for relaxation, adventure, or a taste of the city’s culinary delights, the Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon stands as the ultimate destination for discerning travellers seeking the very best.
Rates start from 950€/£815 per night
R. Rodrigo da Fonseca 88, 1099-039 Lisboa, Portugal
