Infante Sagres

Infante Sagres occupies a building from the 1950s and has kept a sense of occasion ever since. The building, on the small square of Praça Dona Filipa de Lencastre in the Baixa, combines neo-baroque architecture with a playful, contemporary interior style that came with a later refurbishment. It is rated five stars and is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

There are around 70 rooms, including eight suites, which keeps the atmosphere intimate. Public spaces mix period architecture with bold modern colours and furnishings, so the hotel feels neither like a museum nor like a generic luxury chain. Rooms have air conditioning, a safe, television and free Wi-Fi, and staff speak Portuguese, English, Spanish and French. The hotel has its own restaurant, and there is a designated smoking area.

The hotel's location is ideal for exploring on foot. Avenida dos Aliados is a block away, the Clérigos Tower and Livraria Lello are a few minutes' walk uphill, and the bars and restaurants of the Galerias de Paris area start just around the corner. The UNESCO-listed historic centre and the Ribeira are a pleasant downhill walk of 10 to 15 minutes. Because the square is small and set back from the main avenue, it is relatively quiet for such a central position.

Infante Sagres suits couples, travellers celebrating a special occasion and anyone who prefers character and personal service to a large resort. It works well for a short city break, when being able to walk everywhere is a priority. There is no pool, so those wanting one in summer should look at hotels such as The Yeatman across the river. Book well ahead for weekends and the summer season, when the limited number of rooms fills quickly. For a special occasion, mention it when you book so the team can suggest the most suitable room or suite, and ask about the restaurant if you plan to dine in on your first evening.

Aliados metro station is the nearest, a short walk away, and São Bento station is about five to ten minutes on foot. If you are arriving by car, ask the hotel in advance about access and parking in the surrounding streets.