The Independente Suites and Terrace

The former residence of the Swiss ambassador - all high ceilings, shuttered windows and parquet flooring - this hotel has glorious views over downtown Lisbon and across to the Moorish castle. The downside is that it’s an unrelenting uphill walk to reach it (though there are plenty of trams and buses). Rooms, spread over three floors accessible with an old-fashioned lift, are decorated with a mix of vintage and recycled pieces: 1950s wardrobes and old-fashioned radiograms, cane-backed chairs and lights made out of old piping. Bedside tables might even be a pile of books. All rooms are comfortable though they can be dark. Bathrooms, on the other hand, are bright and modern. Staircases and dining-room are similarly quirkily decorated, with perhaps a row of squash racquets or clutch of old-fashioned typewriters. The top-floor restaurant, Insólito, with its roof terrace, serves traditional Portuguese dishes with an inventive, modern style. Breakfast up here - fruit salad, cheeses, home-made cakes - and with those breezy views, is a cracking way to start the day.

Why do people love staying in your hotel?
Our guest love the building. The Independente Suites & Terrace is located in an early 20thC palace, which has kept most of its original fittings and structure. The 22 rooms are all different, decorated with unique vintage pieces that surprise and delight our guests.
Our staff are also one of our stronger points, as we strive to create a welcoming and familiar atmosphere providing assistance and local tips about the city whenever necessary.

What is there to do in the area?
We are located in a very central area, right in the historic centre of Lisbon. You can easily reach some of the main sights on foot, and you can enjoy a wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars. We invite you to enjoy the stunning view overlooking the city and the river from the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint.

What kind of breakfast do you offer?
We offer a buffet breakfast, with a variety of breads, cereal, fruit, eggs and bacon and homemade cakes and pastries. Breakfast is available from 7.30 am until 11.00 am

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally?
We have two in house restaurants, The Decadente and The Insólito. Both restaurants are based on classic ingredients of Portuguese gastronomy offering different interpretations.
The Decadente offers straightforward Portuguese food with a modern twist, in a laid back environment, in a room decorated with vintage furniture and a private terrace, enjoying some of that Lisbon sun. It’s perfect for a night out with friends or an alfresco lunch in our terrace.
The Insólito has a more experimental take on Portuguese food, mixing ingredients and flavor in unusual but delicious combinations, in innovative dishes and cocktails that will surprise you. Going to The Insólito is a whole experience on itself, as you step into one to the oldest lifts in Lisbon to a room extravagantly decorated and with one of the best views over Lisbon and the river.

Which are your most popular room types, and why?
People usually prefer our rooms with a view. Being able to wake up and admiring the unique Lisbon scenery, with an overhead view over the downtown area and the river, is set to get anyone in the best of moods.

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ?
No, we do not accommodate children in our property. We can fit an extra bed upon request on certain rooms, please check with our reservations team beforehand.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers?
Dive into the soul of Lisbon and discover in this palace in Príncipe Real a unique creative hospitality experience. The Independente Suites & Terrace includes 22 all different suites, elegantly decorated with vintage pieces and equipped with TV, AC and private bathroom. Discover a different side of Lisbon, in an authentic and indulgent experience.