Experience 5-Star Luxury At Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
Last Updated on December 12, 2024 by Erin Donahue
Autumn in Lisbon brings golden light, fewer tourists, and more affordable rates across the city’s diverse accommodation options. During my recent stay in Portugal’s capital, I had the privilege of experiencing the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon, a property that exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury hospitality. This isn’t my first time in Lisbon. I initially visited in the summer of 2021 as travel restrictions were gradually lifting and before it became a tourist hotspot, but returning during shoulder season offered a different perspective of the city. As a professional travel photographer and content creator, I’ve partnered with many prestigious properties since going full-time, and this historic landmark offers a unique experience on Portuguese luxury.
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A Legacy of Luxury
Built in 1959 during the Salazar era, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz emerged as Portugal’s first luxury accommodation and continues to reign as the grand dame of Lisbon’s hospitality scene. Now recognized as a Public Interest Monument, the property masterfully blends Art Deco elegance with Mid-century Modern sophistication across its 282 rooms and suites. Rising majestically in the Marques de Pombal neighborhood, the hotel commands coveted views over Eduardo VII Park and sits near the tree-lined luxury street, Avenida da Liberdade, offering guests an ideal base to explore the city.
Rooms With a View
During my stay, I experienced one of the hotel’s east-facing Premier Park-View Rooms, which proved to be an ideal vantage point for capturing Lisbon’s sunrises over the historic Old Town. The rooms themselves are a testament to thoughtful design, featuring spacious marble bathrooms equipped with both rainfall showers and deep soaking tubs. Elegant retro-style fixtures throughout pay homage to the hotel’s heritage while providing all the modern comforts expected of a luxury property. The private terrace became my favorite spot for morning coffee.
Culinary Excellence
The dining experience at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon centers around Varanda Restaurant, designed by Leonardo Castro Freire to accommodate up to 80 guests. Each morning begins with an extensive breakfast buffet, accompanied by the gentle notes of live piano music. As evening falls, the space transforms into an elegant dining destination where traditional Portuguese cuisine takes center stage. The portions are surprisingly huge and could easily serve two. For those seeking an even more elevated dining experience, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant Cura, helmed by Chef Pedro Pena Bastos.
Wellness Above the City
The hotel’s commitment to wellness is evident in its Forbes Five-Star spa, The Ritz, and fitness facilities. It provides a sanctuary of relaxation to spend the day away. The 11th-floor rooftop hosts a fitness center, complete with an outdoor running track that offers panoramic views of Lisbon’s iconic skyline. What truly sets this property apart is its dedicated Pilates studio which I think is a welcome amenity for maintaining wellness routines while traveling.
A Personal Note
In the spirit of transparency, I should mention that while this stay was part of a partnership, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon stands as the most expensive property I’ve experienced to date. As an entrepreneur who specializes in creating marketing assets for luxury brands, I’ve been fortunate to access prestigious places that would otherwise be out of reach unless I was, well, mega-rich. Having experienced other five-star properties like the Shangri-La Taipei, I can say that while the Ritz Lisbon certainly delivers Four Seasons’ signature brand of luxury hospitality, the price point feels notably steep for what you get in this particular destination.
Final Thoughts
The property undeniably stands as a testament to Portuguese hospitality and historical grandeur. Its blend of mid-century sophistication, impeccable service, and prime location makes it a compelling choice for luxury travelers—particularly during the enchanting autumn season. However, potential guests should carefully weigh their priorities and perhaps explore the city’s other luxury options, which might offer comparable experiences at more moderate price points. That said, if you’re seeking a truly iconic Lisbon experience and budget isn’t a primary concern, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon delivers an unforgettable luxurious stay.
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