By the Palace – Ajuda Apartments

By the Palace – Ajuda Apartments Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to By the Palace – Ajuda Apartments, you immediately understand why this four-star property has such devoted fans. The building sits quietly on Rua Augusto Gomes Ferreira, and honestly, the name isn’t just marketing speak — you’re literally a stone’s throw from the Ajuda National Palace. I mean, when you can see royal grounds from your window, you know you’ve found something special. The entrance has that understated Portuguese elegance that doesn’t scream for attention but definitely commands respect.

Location & Neighborhood

Ajuda is one of those Lisbon neighborhoods that locals love but tourists often overlook, which actually works in your favor. You’re far enough from the crowds in Chiado and Bairro Alto to feel like you’re living in real Lisbon, but close enough that a quick tram ride gets you anywhere you want to go. The area around By the Palace – Ajuda Apartments has this residential charm — there’s a fantastic little café about two blocks down where locals grab their morning coffee, and the nearby Jardim Botânico da Ajuda is perfect for evening walks. Plus, and this is huge for Lisbon, you get free parking here, which is basically like finding gold in this city.

The Apartments

These aren’t your typical hotel rooms — they’re proper apartments with kitchens, living areas, and enough space to actually unpack your suitcase. The interiors strike that perfect balance between modern comfort and Portuguese character, with tile work that nods to local traditions without feeling like a museum. You know what I really appreciated? The kitchens are actually functional, not just decorative. After weeks of restaurant meals, being able to make a simple breakfast or store leftovers from that amazing dinner in Belém feels like such a relief. The beds are genuinely comfortable too, which isn’t always a given even in upscale places.

Practical Perks

Let’s talk about what actually matters when you’re traveling. The free parking situation is incredible — I can’t stress this enough if you’re planning to rent a car and explore beyond Lisbon. The staff genuinely knows the area and can point you toward things you won’t find in guidebooks. They’re also refreshingly honest about timing — like, they’ll tell you that yes, you can walk to Belém, but it’s actually easier to take the tram, especially if it’s hot. The apartments come with washing machines, which is perfect for longer stays or if you’re the type who packs light and does laundry on the road.

Why Guests Love It

There’s something about this place that just works, especially for couples — the location rating of 8.4 from pairs tells you everything you need to know. It’s romantic without being overly fussy, comfortable without being boring. You get the independence of an apartment with the reliability of a well-run hotel. The neighborhood feels authentically Portuguese, the palace views add a touch of grandeur to your morning coffee, and you’re still connected to everything that makes Lisbon magical. It’s the kind of place where you start planning your return visit before you’ve even checked out.

Lisbon hotels keep guests close to Time Out Market tastings, Fado lounges, and ferry rides across the Tagus.

Facilities