Martinhal Lisbon Chiado, Chiado, Lisbon, Portugal - Explore & Book
"We’d never thought of Lisbon as a particularly family-focused destination – we thought its cool, arty vibe better suited to an adult weekend away. But that was before Martinhal opened a hotel here. And as soon as we clocked its location in vibrant Chiado (pedestrianised areas, friendly restaurants), saw their gorgeous family-friendly studios and apartments and all their classic childcare ingredients, we knew it would be fabulous. Martinhal's previous opening, in Sagres, ticks all the boxes for superb family holidays, and Lisbon has way more to offer locally. Our toddler grinned from ear to ear while riding the trams and running around the ramparts of Castelo São Jorge. And all three of us loved the history (and custard tarts) at Bélem. When the sun shone, we headed for sandy beaches and Monsanto, where there's a giant playground and public outdoor pool. On rainy days, we’d visit the puppet museum and Europe's biggest aquarium. The hotel's brilliant kids club has everything from playmats to PlayStations, plus creative activities, story hours, even an indoor climbing wall. Every member of staff was exceptionally kind to our son, so much so that he didn’t want to leave (he still takes the cuddly fox from his welcome goody bag to bed every night). So give everyone a holiday – treat your children to an afternoon of supervised fun while you indulge at museums and hip boutiques, or let them loose at an evening 'pyjama party' while you check out the bars and gastro-restaurants nearby. Win win. Highs 37 beautifully decorated and spacious studios (31-42sqm) or apartments with 1-2 bedrooms, all with kitchens Exceptionally kind staff (even kind enough to provide breakfast boxes as we had to leave at 5am) For kids: imaginative play areas, space to run around, cool bedrooms, kid-friendly meals, activities nearby For parents: space to relax, stylish décor, cultural sights and family restaurants you can walk to, superlative childcare, great sound-proofing, good security features, equipment to borrow, and a cool gin bar on site Excellent location close to Lisbon's main sights; the Time Out Market is 5 mins' walk away Lows No formal restaurant in the hotel, just a café for breakfast and light meals, but the neighbourhood teems with eateries No pool or spa Bathrooms were looking a little dated on our last visit Kingsize beds are two beds pushed together Most apartments only have one bathroom, and they aren't especially large" - Anna Mullinder
