This was once the emblematic Hotel Bragança, a favorite hang-out of Portugal's literary set in the 1870s. It features prominently in José Saramago's novel "The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis." The Bragança fell on hard times and eventually closed, but was reborn in 2010 as this cool boutique hotel. Beyond the sky-blue exterior, the LX (it stands for Lisbon eXperience) maintains the historic ambience of the 18th-century townhouse it occupies. Each floor is themed—one is decorated with guitars and dedicated to Lisbon's bluesy fado music; another has book-lined rooms to evoke poet Fernando Pessoa. The decor throughout is sober, classic-but-modern with an emphasis on pastel shades and abundant natural light. Standard rooms can be a bit small and the transparent bathrooms will leave some feeling uncomfortably exposed. More attractive views can be had from upper-room windows that look out over the city or the nearby River Tagus. For more space, and even more sweeping panoramas, get one of the superior rooms, or the spectacular penthouse suite with its private balcony overlooking the river. LX has a great location in the heart of the rejuvenated Cais do Sodré nightlife district and is a short walk to the Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto. Breakfast is served in the elegant coffee bar and the restaurant is renowned for some of the city's best sushi.