Gay Lisbon Lisbon City Guide

Overlooking the seemingly endless Tagus River and framed by a string of panoramic hills, urban beauty Lisbon also happens to be blessed with year-round sunshine, allowing full appreciation of her contrasting virtues. Cobblestone streets feature canary-coloured trams that putter up and down beside majestic squares that neighbour gritty, graffiti-ed streets. The traditional serenading sounds of authentic Fado performers meanwhile merge with more modern tunes emerging from Bairro Alto, the city’s bohemian party district. A liberal city that embraces its deep-rooted heritage, Lisbon is a diverse city break where you can wine and dine in sophistication on the fancy tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade, or savour a casual street beer in LGBT hub Príncipe Real. And just outside the city limits, an equally eye-catching experience awaits; storybook castles, seaside towns, surf-happy beaches and miles of nature’s splendour.

Where to stay in Lisbon

In a city where historical grandeur meets contemporary sophistication, Lisbon’s finest hotels seamlessly weave Portuguese heritage with modern luxury. Perched atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, the magnificent Verride Palácio Santa Catarina commands breathtaking views over the Tagus River and the terracotta rooftops of the historic centre. This meticulously restored 18th-century palace harmoniously blends period features with contemporary comforts, offering just 19 sumptuous rooms and suites. The property’s crowning glory, SUBA Restaurant, presents innovative Portuguese cuisine alongside panoramic city vistas, whilst the intimate rooftop pool provides a serene escape above the city’s bustling streets.

Just steps from the vibrant Chiado district, The Ivens artfully captures the spirit of exploration within a former public broadcasting building. This Autograph Collection gem draws inspiration from 19th-century Portuguese explorers Ivens and Capelo, infusing their adventurous spirit throughout its eclectic design. The hotel’s 87 rooms and suites transport guests to exotic lands through rich textures, bold patterns, and curated artifacts. Gastronomes will delight in the hotel’s remarkable dining venues, including the sophisticated Rocco restaurant and the convivial Crudo Bar, where the city’s well-heeled locals gather for evening aperitifs.

Nestled in the fashionable Príncipe Real neighbourhood, Memmo Príncipe Real emerges as a beacon of contemporary Portuguese design. This architectural marvel, with its clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows, offers 41 sleek rooms with sweeping views across the city’s picturesque landscape. The property’s location in Lisbon’s most cosmopolitan quarter puts guests at the heart of the city’s thriving design scene, innovative restaurants, and charming concept stores. The hotel’s stunning infinity pool appears to merge with the cityscape, while the sophisticated Café Colonial serves creative Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist. For those seeking proximity to Lisbon’s vibrant gay scene, the hotel’s position in Príncipe Real couldn’t be more perfect, with the neighbourhood’s celebrated LGBTQ+ venues just a short stroll away.