A few years ago the many things to do in Lisbon did not include much in the way of city spas. Fortunately, that has all changed.
The Portuguese capital is now regarded as a choice destination for lovers of wellbeing. Admittedly, the number of stand-alone day spas is low when compared with, say, London or Paris. But this is more than made up for in the wealth of upscale hotel spas that eagerly welcome non-residents as well as their own guests.
The first independent spa facility to open in Lisbon was Le Spa, and it's still up there in the Top 10, a favourite with busy citizens seeking a little R&R between a heavy work load.
Another enticing stand-alone is Float In Spa. This place specialises in flotation therapy, a very popular treatment. Long-haul visitors to Lisbon should also note that Float In offers a rejuvenating anti jet-lag massage!
The CitySpa is in fact west of the city centre, in Restelo, a quiet residential area. This, too, is a noted independent spa and offers a great selection of World Rituals, inspired by cultures from all over the globe.
Back in town, Spatitude is another hip, chic and fashionable urban stand-alone that is all about blissful recuperation.
Most visitors to Lisbon will check in to one of the city's splendid hotels, and if your personal requirements include a room with a spa then there are several 4- and 5-star properties worth considering.
The Spa Aquae at the Dome Pedro Hotel, and The Retreat (arguably the most eco-friendly of all Lisbon's spas) at Inspira Santa Marta Hotel are certainly worth experiencing. Likewise, if you're staying out in Belém, the Bspa at the Altis will keep you in all day.
But for the ultimate in style and luxury, the Sheraton's swish Spirito Spa, trendy Malo Spa at the Corinthia, and the lavish Ritz Spa in the hotel of the same name, are all seriously memorable.
Rua Goncalves Zarco 19A
West of city, world ritual programme, near historic sights...
Rua Silva Carvalho 234B
Local, competitively priced, fashionable and intimate...
Rua Rodrigo da Fonseca 88
Luxurious setting, specialist treatments, central location...
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro 105
Upscale spa, huge pool, specialist treatments, choices for men...
Rua Latino Coelho 1
Luxury spa, upscale facilities, global hotel brand...
Avenida 5 de Outubro 55B
Good reputation, lots of choice, options for men, central location...
Rua Santa Marta 48
Natural spa products, eco-friendly, welcomes children...
Avenida Eng. Duarte Pacheco 24
Five treatment rooms, toning and skin treatments, close to city centre...
Rua sao Filipe Neri 37A
Stand-alone spa specialising in flotation therapy...
Doca do Bom Sucesso
Oxygen therapy, personal training, riverside location...