Verride Palácio Santa Catarina

A boutique, palatial-style property in buzzy Bairro Alto, Verride Palácio Santa Catarina not only has exquisite views from nearly every window but one of the best fine-dining restaurants in Lisbon.

• SUBA, the fine-dining restaurant located at the top of the building with sweeping views of the Tagus and impeccable food
• The small outdoor pool, located on the breakfast terrace overlooking the city
• The highly attentive service—you may never have to touch a doorknob save the one to your room

Not only does the hilltop perch of Verride Palácio Santa Catarina mean that the hotel offers some of the best views of Lisbon, it also somehow drowns out the neighborhood bustle, making the property a peaceful palatial haven set amidst the action. Here you get easy access to one of Lisbon’s buzziest neighborhoods, Bairro Alto—best-known for its restaurants and lively nightlife—without all the noise that comes with it. And Chiado and the banks of the Tagus are only a short 10-minute walk away. A dream spot, to be sure.

Entering Verride Palácio Santa Catarina feels a bit like entering your own personal summer palace, complete with high ceilings, white marble and a beautiful chandelier. Upon check-in, the concierge will take your bags while you are led on a brief tour of this small property and your room. Most rooms are simple in décor, with a light palette and modern lines and lighting, but the décor varies significantly the higher the room category, making room choice essential upon booking. For example, the Royal Suites, the top room category, may have white stucco or blue- and white-tiled walls, sculptured wooden ceilings or marble fireplaces, while lower room categories may include high ceilings, simple but sleek modern furniture and generally a more understated feel. All room have large windows for viewing the city, but certain room categories promise different views than others, such as the Superior River View rooms and the Superior City View rooms. To maximize space, we recommend either one of the suites or a Deluxe Double room. We also love the rooms with a balcony, as you can enjoy breakfast on your private balcony.

If you decide not to eat on the balcony, breakfast is served at a communal indoor table or at the outdoor terrace by the pool. Because of the hotel’s small size, it’s unlikely for the outdoor terrace to get crowded. The breakfast experience comprises multiple courses crafted daily by the chef, who is also happy to take personalized orders if you prefer something else over the day’s menu. It’s served until noon to accommodate late risers.

But the true dining star of the property is SUBA, the fine dining restaurant at the top of the hotel. This award-winning restaurant serves exquisitely presented and undeniably creative takes on Portuguese cuisine that will leave you eager for the next course. Guests have the option of enjoying this gastronomic experience in the sleek white dining room or on the rooftop, which has 360-degree views of Lisbon, and makes for a great after-dinner drink spot.

Travelers seeking a quiet and almost-private hotel experience with exquisite service and delicious food, as well as those who desire easy access to the shopping and nightlife of Bairro Alto and Chiado