a yellow train traveling down train tracks near a building

Date of publication 10/12/2018

Lifestyle

Luxury holidays to Portugal Unique and exclusive experiences in Lisbon

The best plans to round out an unforgettable getaway

In the city of seven hills, exclusivity means hypnotic views, vibrant culinary experiences, and unique moments that immerse you in Portuguese tradition and essence. Staying in a 5-star hotel in Lisbon turns luxury into a magical and unexpected experience.

<h2>Lisbon by sea</h2>

<p>In this historic enclave of sailors and explorers, the eternal romance between the city and ocean has lasted for centuries. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s best to discover Lisbon by way of its impressive river. We suggest you do so by sailboat, right at sunset, <strong>when the golden hues of the afternoon lend the water a special glow. </strong></p>

LISBON FROM THE WATER

An ancient city of sailors and explorers, Lisbon has been in a timeless love affair with the ocean for centuries. That’s why the best way to experience it is from the majestic Tagus River. We suggest taking a sailing trip at sunset, when the saffron and golden hues of the evening light give the city its distinctly magical aura.

<h2>Embaixada LX: shopping in a palace</h2>

<p>The <strong>Palacio Ribeiro da Cunha</strong>, constructed in the 19th century, is a gathering spot for the most unique and exclusive Portuguese fashion and design brands. Located in the city&rsquo;s chicest neighborhood, Principe Real, <strong>it&rsquo;s full of hidden corners where surprises abound.</strong></p>

EMBAIXADA LX: SHOPPING IN A PALACE

The Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, a 19th-century architectural gem, has been transformed into a unique hub for contemporary Portuguese fashion and design. Located in Lisbon’s most stylish neighborhood, Príncipe Real, it’s a meeting point for exclusive and emerging brands, blending history with creativity in every detail.
Every corner hides a surprise, from boutique stores and art galleries to cozy cafés, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of style and Lisbon’s authentic charm.

<h2>Have dinner at the hottest restaurant</h2>

<p>There are two trending topics in this Portuguese metropolis&rsquo; culinary scene. The first is <strong>Jorge Fernandes, a chef who was trained in the best French and Portuguese kitchens </strong>and earned third place in the 29th edition of the <em>Chefe Cozinheiro do Ano</em> (Chef of the Year) competition. The second is <a href="https://www.iberostar.com/en/hotels/lisboa/iberostar-lisboa/gastronomy/restaurants" target="_blank">Restaurant Luz</a><a href="https://www.iberostar.com/en/hotels/lisboa/iberostar-lisboa/gastronomy/restaurants">,</a> a space where Fernandes gives his creativity free reign, applying it in equal parts to the classic recipes of his country and more international dishes. The result is an essential and fascinating eating experience.</p>

DINNER AT THE HOTTEST RESTAURANT IN TOWN

Lisbon’s culinary scene currently revolves around two headline names. The first is Chef Jorge Fernandes, trained in some of the finest French and Portuguese kitchens, and who achieved third place in the 29th edition of the Chefe Cozinheiro do Ano competition. The second is the Luz Restaurant, where Fernandes unleashes his creativity, blending traditional Portuguese recipes with international influences.
The outcome is a captivating dining experience—elegant, innovative, and absolutely unforgettable.

<h2>Discovering the culture of wine</h2>

<p>La Quinta do Gradil offers <strong>absolute immersion in the region&rsquo;s wine culture, </strong>through a visit to one of the oldest wineries in the country. There, amidst the vineyards, you&rsquo;ll enjoy food paired with regional wines, original tastings and a<strong> carriage ride. </strong>The entire experience is an exclusive peek into the world of winemaking in Lisbon.</p>

DISCOVERING THE WINE CULTURE

Quinta do Gradil offers an exclusive immersion into Portugal’s wine culture, taking visitors through one of the oldest wineries in the country. Surrounded by vineyards, you can enjoy a wine-paired meal, take part in unique tastings, and experience a carriage ride through the estate—a refined and authentic way to explore the Lisbon region’s winemaking heritage.

<h2>Vista Alegre: ceramics fit for a queen</h2>

<p>This nearly 200-year-old Portuguese brand has earned the devotion of celebrities and royalty thanks to its artisanal production process. If there&rsquo;s one brand that represents Portuguese luxury, it&rsquo;s unquestionably Vista Alegre.</p>

VISTA ALEGRE, CERAMICS FIT FOR A QUEEN

With over two centuries of history, Vista Alegre stands as one of Portugal’s most iconic brands. Renowned for its craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, it has earned the admiration of royal families and celebrities worldwide. If one brand truly represents Portuguese luxury and refinement, it is undoubtedly Vista Alegre.

<h2>A journey to the unknown at Champalimaud</h2>

<p>It may not be a museum or a UFO&hellip; but it does have something to do with science fiction<strong>. The Fundaci&oacute;n Champalimaud </strong>is a scientific research center in a futuristic building, with various spaces open for exclusive visits. Not only will visitors gape at Charles Correa&rsquo;s incredible architecture; <strong>they&rsquo;ll</strong> <strong>also push the limits of their knowledge and imagination. </strong>This place expresses the essence of the city: traditional yet cutting edge, surprising yet classical. These dichotomies are what make <strong>Lisbon&rsquo;s luxury truly inspiring.</strong></p>

A JOURNEY INTO THE UNKNOWN AT CHAMPALIMAUD

It’s not a museum, nor a UFO, though its futuristic design evokes a sense of science fiction. This is the Champalimaud Foundation, a world-renowned research center housed in a striking modernist building designed by Charles Correa. Several areas are open for exclusive visits, offering a glimpse into both its avant-garde architecture and the spirit of innovation it represents.
The experience is more than scientific—it’s a journey to the limits of imagination and understanding. Lisbon, with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, makes exploring its most luxurious and inspiring experiences an absolute delight.