Altis Suites ★★★★

Lisbon has a captivating charm that pulls me back time and time again. I’m fascinated by its old, twisting streets, mesmerised by its many faces, and drawn into the mysterious appeal that oozes from every corner. Despite sharing characteristics with other cities, such as the trams and bridges of San Francisco, or the rustic, pastel houses and the nightlife of Havana, I’m certain that there is no city quite like Lisbon. There is no one word alone that can describe the Portuguese capital; rather, it combines an amalgamation of sensory experiences - smells, sights and sounds. I’m well and truly entranced with the city, and that’s why I keep finding myself back again, wandering the old streets and sipping coffees in leafy plazas.

On this particular occasion, I was on a mission to discover Lisbon as a local, and the Altis Suites provided the perfect home away from home without losing the holiday experience. There is a hint of hedonism imbued throughout Lisbon, one that can only be truly sampled on holiday, away from the monotonous daily grind. The apartment-style setup of the Altis Suites was exactly what I was looking for – the independence of my own space to come and go, but with the added luxury services of my five-star neighbour, the Grand Hotel Altis. I could make lunch in my kitchenette and then, ten minutes later, be cooling off in the pool next door.

My suite was spacious and bright, with a comfortable, homely feel and a touch of style – ideal for snuggling down with a glass of wine and leafing through guidebooks. From the apartment, I could explore the streets of Alfama, my favourite part of the city, dipping in and out of local art shops and enjoying the vistas of Lisbon sprawling out below. From the expansive plazas on the waterfront, I would sip coffee while watching the boats float along the River Tagus; following that, I would window-shop in the designer boutiques of Chiado, or take the tram to Belem and get lost in the cultural quarter of the city. In the evenings, I would sit in the bars of Bairro Alto late at night, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

I loved having the freedom of a self-catered apartment, but I was content in the knowledge that if, at the end of a long day, I didn’t want to cook, I could head next door to the Grill D. Fernando Restaurant in the Grand Hotel Altis. Having spent the day in the spectacular Botanical Garden, I took the opportunity to do this. As a coastal city, Lisbon is renowned for its excellent seafood, and the Grill D. Fernando Restaurant did not disappoint, with a menu of delectable dishes made of fresh, local produce.

And, after a wonderful morning exploring the contemporary art galleries, majestic monasteries, and peaceful gardens of Belem, I ducked into the Altis Belem Hotel, and took delight in their in-house spa with extensive range of services and facilities. There’s nothing quite like a relaxing massage after one too many pasteis de nata!

Lisbon is a city that has to be explored in person to really experience the enchanting atmosphere of its charming, cobbled streets. I enjoyed imagining Lisbon as a make-believe fantasy town with the colourful tiles, the grand monasteries, and the picture perfect streets – however, this happening city with its animated nightlife is very much alive and real! I am therefore content in the knowledge that I can always return in the future. And what better way to do so than straight into the welcoming arms of the Altis Suites?