Palácio Ramalhete, opposite the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, is one of of the city's many little converted palácios. Immaculate, with an unexpected, lushly planted courtyard, it’s full of welcome surprises, from an old kitchen converted into a bedroom to hand-painted Portuguese tiles.

While a pool isn’t a necessary addition to a city break, it’s often a welcome one, and those who opt to stay in the pool suite will have their very own private balcony one to enjoy some peace and quiet above the winding streets.