As Portugal’s capital emerges into a dynamic hub for global business, Lisbon balances centuries-old charm with modern innovation. This historic city, perched along the Atlantic coast, draws an increasing number of professionals who recognise its potential as both a strategic base and a destination for sophisticated leisure.
From the cobblestone streets of the Alfama district to the sleek offices of the Parque das Nações business quarter, Lisbon demonstrates remarkable dexterity in preserving its cultural heritage whilst embracing contemporary culture. The city’s growing reputation as a premier business destination is evidenced by its rapidly expanding startup ecosystem and the influx of international corporations establishing regional headquarters.
For the discerning traveller, Lisbon offers an array of refined experiences. Whether dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, discovering historic palaces converted into luxury hotels, or unwinding at exclusive rooftop lounges overlooking the Tagus River, the city provides a sophisticated backdrop for business and pleasure.
Before you fly
aether Private Terminal
Best for: Stress free travel experience from Manchester Airport
Luxury travel takes a transformative leap forward as Manchester Airport unveils a pioneering private terminal that fundamentally reimagines the airport experience. Starting from £90 per person, this exclusive facility offers a sophisticated sanctuary where chauffeur-driven transfers, private security screening, and award-winning dining by chef Adam Reid combine to create an experience previously reserved for private aviation.
The innovative terminal democratises luxury travel while eliminating traditional airport stress points. Guests enjoy private security and passport control, panoramic runway views, and premium amenities in an environment where staff consistently outnumber visitors. This groundbreaking approach to airport design proves that the journey to your destination can be as refined as your final resort. Read more about our experience at aether here.
TAP Air Portugal is our airline of choice when it comes to effortless travel to Lisbon. Flying from Manchester, there are multiple daily flights to choose from, and being a partnering airline of aether, the journey can be elevated to the most luxurious heights. TAP Air Portugal’s fleet is modern comfortable, and offers the best levels of service travelling throughout Europe.
Where to Stay
The One Palácio da Anunciada
Best for: Palatial opulence in the heart of Lisbon
Lisbon’s historic heart welcomes The One Palácio da Anunciada, a masterfully restored 16th-century palace turned five-star hotel that stands as a testament to Portuguese architectural heritage. Located moments from Avenida da Liberdade, this 83-room property seamlessly blends historical elements with contemporary luxury through award-winning designer Jaime Beriestain’s thoughtful renovation, which preserves original features including 18th-century flooring and hand-painted frescoes.
Behind the palace walls, guests discover a 2,500-square-metre garden featuring a protected dragon tree, one of Lisbon’s longest outdoor pools, and the tranquil Despacio Spa. The culinary journey unfolds across three venues, including the grand Condes de Ericeira restaurant and O Jardim Wine Bar, while the newly renovated Presidential Suite offers an unparalleled luxury experience with its private chef’s kitchen and sophisticated living spaces. The property’s prime location on rare flat terrain provides an ideal base for exploring Lisbon’s cultural landmarks while enjoying five-star comforts and impeccable service.
Read our in-depth review of The One Palácio da Anunciada here.
Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa
Best for: Business trips and timeless elegance
Nestled along Portugal’s most prestigious thoroughfare, the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa has graced Lisbon’s skyline since 1933. This grande dame of hospitality seamlessly marries its storied heritage with contemporary luxury, offering 285 sophisticated rooms, including a magnificent 270-square-metre Presidential Suite adorned with pieces from the Ricardo EspÃrito Santo Foundation.
Beyond its elegant accommodation, the property presents a world-class Anantara Spa, blending Thai and Portuguese wellness traditions, while its culinary offerings range from the seafood excellence of Cervejaria Liberdade to the panoramic sophistication of SEEN Lisboa. Under the guidance of Chefpreneur Olivier da Costa, the hotel continues to attract global luminaries seeking the finest expression of Portuguese hospitality in the heart of Lisbon’s luxury district.
Read our in-depth coverage of Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa here.
Where to Dine
JNcQUOI Asia
Best For: A sophisticated glamorous Asian dining experience
Lisbon’s gastronomic scene reaches new heights with JNcQUOI Asia, a sophisticated establishment on the prestigious Avenida da Liberdade that artfully bridges Portugal’s historic maritime legacy with contemporary Asian luxury. This ambitious venture from the Amorim Luxury Group seamlessly blends four distinct Asian cuisines under the guidance of celebrated chefs, including Michelin-starred David Thompson as culinary adviser.
Beyond its striking golden dragon centrepiece and three distinctive dining spaces, JNcQUOI Asia offers an experience that transcends traditional dining. The venue houses a designer boutique featuring prestigious fashion brands, a secret entrance to the exclusive Frou Frou Chinese restaurant, and the sophisticated Ganda Bar that transforms into a nightlife destination. With exceptional cocktails, technically precise cuisine, and an atmosphere that captures both Portuguese heritage and Asian refinement, JNcQUOI Asia stands as a cultural bridge between East and West in Lisbon’s luxury landscape.
Discover more about JNcQUOI Asia with our in-depth review here.
Eleven
Best for: The ultimate Michelin Star fine dining
Perched atop Parque Eduardo VII in a striking modernist building, Eleven restaurant has earned its place as Lisbon’s premier dining destination. Under the masterful guidance of German Chef Joachim Koerper, whose culinary journey spans Europe’s most prestigious kitchens, this Michelin-starred establishment offers a sophisticated blend of Mediterranean cuisine crafted from the finest local ingredients.
From the theatrical tableside preparation of crayfish carpaccio to the perfectly executed passion fruit soufflé, each dish demonstrates Koerper’s commitment to culinary excellence. The restaurant’s four distinct menus, complemented by sweeping views of the Tagus River and the Portuguese capital, create an unparalleled dining experience that has maintained its position at the forefront of Lisbon’s competitive fine dining scene since earning its Michelin star in 2004.
Read about our experience at Eleven here.
Solar dos Presuntos
Best for: Elevated Portuguese Cuisine
Solar dos Presuntos presents a compelling study in sustainable luxury hospitality, demonstrating how heritage dining concepts maintain market leadership in an evolving premium sector. Since 1974, this distinguished establishment has balanced traditional Minho regional cuisine with sophisticated operational delivery, attracting both corporate clientele and high-net-worth individuals to its 200-seat venue near Rossio Square.
Under Executive Chef Hugo Araújo’s stewardship, the establishment continues to demonstrate commercial excellence through precise menu engineering, strategic procurement practices, and an acclaimed wine programme. The business model, which combines premium positioning with authentic regional offerings, provides valuable insights for luxury sector operators seeking to maintain market relevance whilst preserving heritage values. Notable patronage from global figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham further validates the establishment’s sustained appeal in Lisbon’s competitive dining landscape.
Mesa de Frades
Best for: Immersive, soul-soothing culture
Beyond the bustling streets of Lisbon’s Alfama district lies a cultural jewel that captures the essence of Portuguese heritage. Mesa de Frades, set within an 18th-century chapel commissioned by King Joseph of Portugal, stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of historical preservation and living tradition. Each evening, this intimate venue transforms into a sanctuary of Fado music, where established performers and emerging talents share their artistry beneath centuries-old royal tiles.
The venue’s evolution from royal chapel to charcoal works, then tavern, and finally to its current incarnation as a premier cultural destination, mirrors Portugal’s own journey through time. Under the guidance of musician Pedro de Castro since 2005, Mesa de Frades offers guests an unparalleled evening of traditional Portuguese cuisine followed by soul-stirring Fado performances. Read more in our extensive review here, which explores the venue’s rich history, architectural significance, and its vital role in preserving and advancing Portuguese cultural heritage, providing an insider’s perspective on one of Lisbon’s most distinguished establishments.
Read our detailed review of Mesa de Frades here.
Time Out Market
Best for: All-inclusive contemporary dining
Lisbon’s culinary landscape has been transformed by an ambitious market hall concept that seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary dining excellence. The historic Mercado da Ribeira Nova, a 19th-century architectural landmark, now houses a carefully curated collection of the city’s most distinguished restaurants alongside traditional market vendors, creating an unprecedented fusion of gastronomic experiences.
The venue’s stringent selection process ensures only the highest calibre establishments secure a position within its storied walls, from the acclaimed steaks of Café de São Bento to Sea Me’s innovative Portuguese-Japanese fusion cuisine. This sophisticated reimagining of market dining has not only elevated Lisbon’s culinary status but has created a blueprint for modern gastronomic destinations worldwide, demonstrating how thoughtful curation and commitment to quality can reinvent traditional spaces for discerning contemporary audiences.
SEEN Lisboa
Best for: Cool and sophisticated rooftop vibes
High above Lisbon’s most prestigious avenue, a culinary masterpiece has redefined the city’s fine dining scene. Helmed by renowned Chefpreneur Olivier da Costa, this ninth-floor establishment combines panoramic views with architectural brilliance, offering an experience that transcends traditional gastronomy.
The venue’s sophisticated fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese influences, coupled with its Art Deco elegance and masterful mixology programme, has established it as the preferred destination for business executives and discerning diners. From its striking 360-degree central bar to the adjacent rooftop terrace overlooking historic St. Jorge’s Castle, this elevated sanctuary presents a compelling proposition for those seeking excellence in Portugal’s vibrant capital.
Here is our in-depth review of SEEN Lisboa.