Part of a renowned Portuguese hotel collection known for its high-end, family-friendly resorts, Martinhal Chiado is a luxury aparthotel set in the historic heart of Lisbon. It seamlessly combines refined elegance with thoughtful, modern touches designed for families, including daily supervised childcare – a true rarity amongst city hotels!
From the moment you step inside, the hotel’s warm, understated atmosphere makes a lasting impression. Housed in a beautifully restored building, it feels both polished and welcoming. The front desk team was incredibly accommodating, and our children were made to feel right at home straight away. Our little ones each received a cute backpack with a cuddly toy fox, a welcome surprise after our long journey!
The apartments at Martinhal are impressive - bright, spacious, and thoughtfully designed with families in mind. Whether you're booking a studio suitable for a couple and an infant, or a two-bedroom apartment accommodating up to six guests, each unit offers a practical yet stylish base for exploring Lisbon.
Having a fully equipped kitchen, in-room washer and dryer, and a dedicated dining area made it easy to settle in and experience the city with the comfort of home. A standout feature is the innovative fold-away bunk beds found in many of the apartments. These allow families to optimise living space during the day, and our children were especially delighted by them. Daily housekeeping is provided for the apartments, allowing families to fully relax during their stay without worrying about chores. For those travelling with younger children, the concierge service can arrange a range of baby essentials - including cots, bottle warmers, safety gates, highchairs, and baby baths - ensuring a seamless and stress-free stay for parents.
Martinhal's kids club is exceptional. Open to children from 6 months through to 9 years old, it offers separate zones for different age groups and is staffed by friendly, attentive carers. There’s a soft play area and sleeping room for the littlest guests, while older kids can enjoy crafts, games, and even a small indoor climbing wall. Some sessions are complimentary, while others attract a small fee - check with the hotel for full details.
In the evenings, the Pajama Club (for ages 3+) is a real treat. It includes dinner, a mini disco, and a movie night, giving parents the perfect opportunity to head out for a date night in one of Chiado’s many nearby restaurants or bars. There’s also a playroom that families can reserve for private use, perfect for some quiet downtime after exploring the city.
The onsite restaurant, Bar 1855, is excellent. Breakfast is a standout - fresh, generous, and beautifully presented, featuring with warm dishes made to order and a wide selection of options to satisfy every member of the family. The venue also offers an all-day brunch menu, and in the evening, it transitions into a cosy gin bar - perfect for an intimate night cap while the kids are entertained at the Pajama Club.
The hotel’s location couldn’t be better - set in the heart of Chiado, one of Lisbon’s most vibrant and picturesque neighbourhoods. This area is brimming with elegent, old-world charm, and is packed with shops, cafés, and restaurants. Everything is within easy walking distance, including the famous Time Out Market, with a vast number of eateries under one roof. Historic trams weave through the cobbled streets and are always a favourite with children, offering a fun and scenic way to explore the city. For family-friendly excursions, the nearby Science Museum and the renowned Lisbon Oceanarium make for excellent day trips.
One of the standout features of visiting Lisbon with kids is the warmth of Portuguese hospitality - children are genuinely welcomed almost everywhere, making dining out as a family a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Martinhal Lisbon is a rare gem amongst inner city accommodations. Offering daily childcare, it is luxurious, practical, and genuinely family-friendly. Whether you’re travelling with a baby, toddler, or teen, the hotel’s thoughtful amenities and central location make it a brilliant base for exploring one of Europe’s most charming capital cities.
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