Valverde Lisboa Hotel & Garden, Relais & Châteaux

"For design inspiration Clever use of touchy-feely textiles, vintage and contemporary artworks, and restored mid-20th-century furniture keeps things agreeably mixed up at Hotel Valverde. It's dark, hushed, and discreet yet smiling and unstuffy, with sunshine by the pool and terrace rather than on the roof, as is the more typical Lisbon way. Rooms are elegant, furnished with antiques and paintings to give a luxurious feel. Sumptuous velvet chairs sit alongside roll-top baths for ultimate relaxation after a day’s exploration. —Matthew Buck Price: Doubles from $272 Address: Av. da Liberdade 164, 1250-146 Lisboa, Portugal" - Abigail Malbon

"Opened in 2014 on Lisbon’s grandest boulevard, the tree-linedAvenida da Liberdade, Hotel Valverde has the look and feel of a private—if elegantly bohemian—residence. Each of its 25 dramatically painted rooms and suites is uniquely furnished with plush drapery, vintage artwork, and vibrantly patterned area rugs atop herringbone wooden floors. Adding to the hospitable atmosphere is a film-screening room (housemade chips provided), afternoon tea at the Sítio Valverde restaurant, which is bordered by elegant 18th-century engravings, and a colorful patio dotted with massive tree-ferns surrounding a heated outdoor pool. Fado seekers need not look far: There’s live music performed twice a week and accompanied by Portuguese dishes like confit of suckling pork belly. For the best views in the house, the Valverde Suite overlooks São Jorge Castle, though all the other rooms either have windows that open onto the avenue or balconies above the patio."

"So, can you tell us a little about this place?This sophisticated hotel claims prime real estate in the center of Avenida da Liberdade. But that doesn’t mean it feels like sterile chain; instead, what makes this boutique hotel stand out is its warm, residential ambience marked by contemporary art and modern furnishings. It sounds lovely. What are the other guests like?You won’t bump into conference attendees or backpackers in the lobby here. Rather, you'll see stylish travelers—designers, artists, and writers. That's our tribe. How was check in? The hotel's warm atmosphere extends to the hospitality—check-in is reliably smooth. Perfect. Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.Staying true to its residential feel, Valverde's guest rooms have deep, warm hues and pretty patterned fabrics, as well as high-quality, comfortable furniture. We feel at home already. How about the little things, like the mini bar, or the shower goodies? What made your stay more comfortable?Rooms have reliable (and free) wifi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Suites offer sitting areas; upgraded suites have proper living rooms. Excellent. And how about room service, or the dining options in general: Worth it?A complimentary à la carte breakfast takes place in Sito Valverde, the hotel’s restaurant, which serves modern Portuguese cuisine and craft cocktails throughout the day. Order the refreshing house specialty, the Valverde Spirit, and enjoy it while sitting amid the chic vintage furniture. We can do that. Does the service get top marks?Staffers make the hotel feel like home. Great. Any other services of features you'd like to shout out? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Don’t miss Pateo, a verdant oasis with a heated swimming pool and lounge furniture. You can enjoy afternoon tea service, cocktails, light bites, or, on occasion, live jazz and fado. Will do. So, bottom line: Why would we stay here?Hotel Valverde is a great option for anyone wanting a hospitable, residential-like stay near the action." - Jenna Scatena