Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel, Lisbon

Live in the former home of Frederico Ludovice, the architect behind the 18th-century Mafra National Palace outside of Lisbon, and the University of Coimbra, one of the world's oldest universities in continuous operation. Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel is in the hilly neighborhood of Bairro Alto, the most recent of the city's old quarters, which has turned into Lisbon's bohemian hub of cafés, restaurants, and nightlife. Alfama, the Old Town, is a 20-minute walk, while the vibrant riverside neighborhood Cais do Sodre is 15 minutes away.

Behind this historic building's recognizable yellow facade are around 60 chic and modern rooms that blend a contemporary aesthetic with Portuguese designs and motifs. Yellow and blue accents evoke the colors of the city, while painted blue tiles, known as azulejos, tie in Lisbon's medieval Moorish history. Views differ between the city and the courtyard. Suites have sofa beds, ideal for families or larger parties, and bathrooms mix marble with colorful tiles, and some options include free-standing bathtubs. The highest-tier option is the Prestige Suite, which includes a balcony view of the Castle of São Jorge.

Indulge in the hotel's different facilities and amenities, some of which are focused on Portugal's wine culture. There's a gym available and a boutique Caudalie spa offering massages, scrubs, and facials. The lush courtyard is a great place to have a drink or bite, while the restaurant, Frederico, is located in an old wine cellar and blends local Portuguese dishes with French cuisine. The "wine experience" of the hotel name includes different activities, such as wine-tasting sessions, a five-course wine dinner, and even a Cabernet scrub at the spa.