Altis Belém Hotel & Spa

"So, can you tell us a little about this place?This five-star riverfront hotel draws upmarket travelers with its posh spa, roof deck, and striking architecture. It’s tough to beat the rooftop pool, which has views of the Tagus, and the swank décor. The only downside? How hard it is to leave. Sounds great! How's the crowd?A stark but elegant palette—leather furniture and black-and-white marble throughout—sets the tone for the clientele: well-traveled hotel geeks with a knack for class. Excellent. How was check in?The lobby can get busy at peak check-in and check-out times, so plan accordingly. Got it—and thanks for the heads-up. Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.Rooms have either river or garden views. Each room is decorated to evoke the regions once explored by the Portuguese, such as Brazil and West Africa. Sounds lovely. How about the little things, like the mini bar, or the shower goodies? Was there anything that made your stay more comfortable?Rooms have all the perks you'd expect, including Nespresso machines, free wifi, and minibars. Suites have balconies and whirlpool tubs; some have separate living areas. Perfect. How about room service and the dining options? Worth it?At Feitoria Restaurant & Wine Bar, Lisbon’s only Michelin-starred hotel restaurant, chefs cooks with spices meant to evoke the ones Portuguese explorers brought back from their travels during the Age of Discovery era. If that’s not your speed, there are several other dining options on site. Great. How about the staff?The staff here operates at the top of their game—so tip accordingly. Noted. Any other services or features you'd like to call out? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Half the reason to stay here is the exclusive BSpa by Karin Herzog, offering everything from oxygen therapy to massages. And if the weather calls for it, the rooftop pool is the best place in town to forget your cares. We'll have to check it out. So, at the end of the day, why are we booking a room here?Come here for a styled-out getaway—especially if it’s a special occasion." - Jenna Scatena