Lisboa upscale hotel choice (??)
Jul 29th, 2015, 02:53 AM
#22
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Lobo thank you..I know you are the in-house expert here for Portugal…would you say Bairro Alto Hotel instead of Britania which also looks wonderful? (Have yet to look at Lapa Palace..)
Danon, thank you as well, as always..and Sandra, too..and HAppy Traveler, Robert, and all!
Danon, thank you as well, as always..and Sandra, too..and HAppy Traveler, Robert, and all!
Jul 29th, 2015, 05:17 AM
#24
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ekscrunchy, Lisbon is one of the most interesting cities I have ever visited. My wife and I were there for seven days in March, as the first part of a month's visit to Portugal. We'd go back in a heartbeat.
We dined at Belcanto, which was excellent. We chose one of the tasting menus, with wine pairings. Yes, it was an expensive meal, but one of the best we've had.
One thing that might interest you: we booked a food tour with Taste of Lisboa: http://www.tasteoflisboa.com By chance, we were the only ones who booked that afternoon, so we had the owner and one of her new guides all to ourselves. It was an informative and pleasant four hours, exposing us to dishes — and locations — we would otherwise have missed. I heartily recommend them, but should add that it involves quite a bit of walking. And in Lisbon, that does mean up and down hill.
We dined at Belcanto, which was excellent. We chose one of the tasting menus, with wine pairings. Yes, it was an expensive meal, but one of the best we've had.
One thing that might interest you: we booked a food tour with Taste of Lisboa: http://www.tasteoflisboa.com By chance, we were the only ones who booked that afternoon, so we had the owner and one of her new guides all to ourselves. It was an informative and pleasant four hours, exposing us to dishes — and locations — we would otherwise have missed. I heartily recommend them, but should add that it involves quite a bit of walking. And in Lisbon, that does mean up and down hill.
Jul 29th, 2015, 04:19 PM
#26
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We stayed at Lapa Palace a number of years ago. It's a lovely hotel with truly exceptional service, but you do have to take a taxi to go anywhere which we didn't feel was ideal. We're returning in September and staying at Hotel Britania. If you do consider it note that it's very small so no gym and although there's room service I don't think there's a restaurant for dinner in the hotel.
Jul 30th, 2015, 07:08 AM
#27
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I have now booked Bairro Alto for 5 nights.
But I can change to Lapa Palace or Avenida Palace and would be so grateful if those of you are familliar with these properties and their locations would offer advice. The slippery steps near the Bairro Alto are concerning to me….but I do like being near stores and interesting streets in which to wander. Taking taxi to meals should not be an issue……
I've yet to book the TAP flights; Iberia looks like only slights with connection are available on my date of 4/11/ At this point lookingn for convenience, not bargain...
But I can change to Lapa Palace or Avenida Palace and would be so grateful if those of you are familliar with these properties and their locations would offer advice. The slippery steps near the Bairro Alto are concerning to me….but I do like being near stores and interesting streets in which to wander. Taking taxi to meals should not be an issue……
I've yet to book the TAP flights; Iberia looks like only slights with connection are available on my date of 4/11/ At this point lookingn for convenience, not bargain...
Jul 30th, 2015, 07:52 AM
#28
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I understood this trip includes a relaxation purpose. With that in mind, BA can't be beaten since you'll be in the center of action.
Belcanto is one block away. The bar in the roof top of BAH has a incredible view for sun sets. Bairro Alto proper has a large number of bars and fado houses. Miradouro sao pedro de alcantara offers photo opps over Lisbon old city and castle. Tram way #28 crosses the street in front of BAH (nice to take the 28 till the end with no specific purpose, beware of pick pockets). 2 blocks to west is Bica elevador (funicular) in the most photographed street of Lx. The funicular takes passengers to a area where is pink street and mercado da ribeira (old market converted in a restaurant row). In the same area there is Cais do Sodre railways station to/from Cascais.
From BAH, the escalators of metro station lead directly to Baixa (flat area) with pedestrian streets and more coffee shops and restaurants.
Other points of interest are Rossio station (trains to Sintra), Instituto Vinho do Porto (for port wine sampling), Pavilhão Chinês.
For short, in BAH, it's neighbourood of places easily accessible from there you may easily fulfil 5 days.
Direct me for other suggestions, depending on your preferences.
Belcanto is one block away. The bar in the roof top of BAH has a incredible view for sun sets. Bairro Alto proper has a large number of bars and fado houses. Miradouro sao pedro de alcantara offers photo opps over Lisbon old city and castle. Tram way #28 crosses the street in front of BAH (nice to take the 28 till the end with no specific purpose, beware of pick pockets). 2 blocks to west is Bica elevador (funicular) in the most photographed street of Lx. The funicular takes passengers to a area where is pink street and mercado da ribeira (old market converted in a restaurant row). In the same area there is Cais do Sodre railways station to/from Cascais.
From BAH, the escalators of metro station lead directly to Baixa (flat area) with pedestrian streets and more coffee shops and restaurants.
Other points of interest are Rossio station (trains to Sintra), Instituto Vinho do Porto (for port wine sampling), Pavilhão Chinês.
For short, in BAH, it's neighbourood of places easily accessible from there you may easily fulfil 5 days.
Direct me for other suggestions, depending on your preferences.
Jul 30th, 2015, 07:59 AM
#29
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I don't think you can avoid slippery streets and hills. The beautiful stone streets of Lisbon are everywhere in the historic neighborhoods. With proper "grippy" soles and being mindful, you will be sure-footed.
If you want a density of shops/cafes, Bairro Alto gives you that Lapa is more residential (think Chelsea instead of GW, but without Chelsea art scene). Avenida is more like area around the Plaza/Sherry-N.
If you want a density of shops/cafes, Bairro Alto gives you that Lapa is more residential (think Chelsea instead of GW, but without Chelsea art scene). Avenida is more like area around the Plaza/Sherry-N.
Jul 30th, 2015, 09:09 AM
#30
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Ok, so will stick on your informed advice with the Bairro Alto Hotel.
I have booked 5 nights in early November after two weeks in Castille/Basque region of Spain (have been to French Pays Basque but not planning to do this at this time)
SO: Am I foolish to not include one overnight trip from Lisbon as kong as we are gong so far?
If we did so would like hotel primed for relaxation and hopefully, heated pool early November.
Where we could relax during day and venture out at night and maybe for lunch to plan seafood restaurants (between now and then will teach partner to eat shellfish!!!)
Maybe some fancy/upscale.splurgy (trip cincides with sick persons big birthday)_ (not gaudy) place but not only focused on golf, that we can get to be taxi or easy public transport from Lisbon and from there go to airport in Lisbon to fly back to US/JFK. And from where I can wander around alone walking from hotel if partner needs to rest…..
Possible feeling that I may have to go this alone unless I can drag willing girlfriend…….but time will tell……so grateful for all the help here!!!!! I a, just not in my normal condition for planning but feel normal enough to want to get this done!!!!!!! Takes my mind off my nursing duties!!!!!!
I have booked 5 nights in early November after two weeks in Castille/Basque region of Spain (have been to French Pays Basque but not planning to do this at this time)
SO: Am I foolish to not include one overnight trip from Lisbon as kong as we are gong so far?
If we did so would like hotel primed for relaxation and hopefully, heated pool early November.
Where we could relax during day and venture out at night and maybe for lunch to plan seafood restaurants (between now and then will teach partner to eat shellfish!!!)
Maybe some fancy/upscale.splurgy (trip cincides with sick persons big birthday)_ (not gaudy) place but not only focused on golf, that we can get to be taxi or easy public transport from Lisbon and from there go to airport in Lisbon to fly back to US/JFK. And from where I can wander around alone walking from hotel if partner needs to rest…..
Possible feeling that I may have to go this alone unless I can drag willing girlfriend…….but time will tell……so grateful for all the help here!!!!! I a, just not in my normal condition for planning but feel normal enough to want to get this done!!!!!!! Takes my mind off my nursing duties!!!!!!
Jul 31st, 2015, 04:07 PM
#35
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Lisbon's slippery side walks are dangerous and beautiful, a combination always common.
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clIJ9aFcX6...Portuguesa.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clIJ9aFcX6...Portuguesa.jpg
Aug 1st, 2015, 06:37 AM
#36
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Comprehensive info about Bairro Alto district http://www.lisbonlux.com/lisbon/bairro-alto.html
Jun 26th, 2016, 11:10 AM
#37
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Hello everyone!
Just wanted to mention that I am planning to take this trip, with the same itinerary, more or less, that I had planned last year and then had to cancel.
Hoping to spend 5 nights in Lisbon in early November, at the Bairro Alto Hotel (just sent off inquiry for my dates).
So if anyone has recent information or tips on hotels and/or restaurants and markets, please let me know. Thanks!!
Just wanted to mention that I am planning to take this trip, with the same itinerary, more or less, that I had planned last year and then had to cancel.
Hoping to spend 5 nights in Lisbon in early November, at the Bairro Alto Hotel (just sent off inquiry for my dates).
So if anyone has recent information or tips on hotels and/or restaurants and markets, please let me know. Thanks!!
Jun 26th, 2016, 11:50 AM
#38
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Eks, following this trip with interest as it is high on my radar!!! Really looking forward to your views as always on point for me....
( still think of you every time we go to Costa Brava, planning trip 7 in just 4 years thanks to that article you sent me!!)
( still think of you every time we go to Costa Brava, planning trip 7 in just 4 years thanks to that article you sent me!!)
Jun 26th, 2016, 01:20 PM
#39
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Eksrunchy,
We spent a week in an apartment right across the square from the Hotel Bairro Alto, also in November. It's a very handy location within an easy walk down to the new Time Out Mercado da Ribeira and to catch the train to Cascais.
http://www.timeout.com/city-guides/t...ibeira-lisbon/
For dining, we highly recommend anything (really!) by José Avillez.
His signature restaurant, Belcanto, sports a Michelin star and is widely considered one of the best, if not the best, in Lisboa. He's a rock star. But his informal restaurant, O Cantinho de Avillez is also atmospheric and with great food.
http://www.joseavillez.pt/fr/
In that same area you have Largo, which we really enjoyed, at Rua Serpa Pinto 10, around the corner from the Opera House.
http://www.largo.pt
Also in the area, Tagide Wine and Tapas, at 18 Largo da Academia Nacional de Belas Artes in the Chiado. For small plates or for a bargain priced lunch. The Four Seasons and Michelin recommended.
And don't forget an evening (aperitif or digestif) at the Solar do Vino de Oporto, the Port Wine Institute, just above the hotel, next to the Elevador at Rua São Pedro de Alcântara 45.
Of all the Lisbon hotels, we think the Lapa Palace is the most Old World elegant and relaxing (think Madrid's Ritz) and with the best service and nicest pool and gardens, but the Bairro Alto (hip and trendy) has a more convenient location, although taxis is Lisbon are extremely reasonable.
Will return with more dining recommendations.
We spent a week in an apartment right across the square from the Hotel Bairro Alto, also in November. It's a very handy location within an easy walk down to the new Time Out Mercado da Ribeira and to catch the train to Cascais.
http://www.timeout.com/city-guides/t...ibeira-lisbon/
For dining, we highly recommend anything (really!) by José Avillez.
His signature restaurant, Belcanto, sports a Michelin star and is widely considered one of the best, if not the best, in Lisboa. He's a rock star. But his informal restaurant, O Cantinho de Avillez is also atmospheric and with great food.
http://www.joseavillez.pt/fr/
In that same area you have Largo, which we really enjoyed, at Rua Serpa Pinto 10, around the corner from the Opera House.
http://www.largo.pt
Also in the area, Tagide Wine and Tapas, at 18 Largo da Academia Nacional de Belas Artes in the Chiado. For small plates or for a bargain priced lunch. The Four Seasons and Michelin recommended.
And don't forget an evening (aperitif or digestif) at the Solar do Vino de Oporto, the Port Wine Institute, just above the hotel, next to the Elevador at Rua São Pedro de Alcântara 45.
Of all the Lisbon hotels, we think the Lapa Palace is the most Old World elegant and relaxing (think Madrid's Ritz) and with the best service and nicest pool and gardens, but the Bairro Alto (hip and trendy) has a more convenient location, although taxis is Lisbon are extremely reasonable.
Will return with more dining recommendations.
Jun 27th, 2016, 07:57 AM
#40
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http://www.idesignhotel.com/
International Design Hotel. I stayed there last October and was very pleased. Location is terrific, staff very accommodating and a nice breakfast
International Design Hotel. I stayed there last October and was very pleased. Location is terrific, staff very accommodating and a nice breakfast
