Areca

Areca is around the corner from Praça da Alegria, which is a nice square to sit and have a drink, and only a block away from Avenida da Liberdade – Lisbon's prime shopping destination. This home is consistently designed with a mixture of boho luxe and elegance, which mostly comes out in the intricately corniced ceiling and the sophisticated breakfast bar. The bedrooms don't get a lot of natural light, but they're cosy and quiet, which is key to a good night's rest.

Home truths:
* Unlike the insides of this home, the entrance to this building could use some attention
* A bit of a pet peeve, but - neither the crockery and cutlery have enough matching items for all guests to eat with the same ones
* There is no elevator to this first-floor home – those with limited mobility or heavy suitcases beware