Moon & Sun Porto: between the baroque and modernism of the Invicta city
Moon & Sun Porto's location allows you to discover the city at your leisure, walking just a few minutes to find authentic architectural gems. Just outside, Avenida dos Aliados rises, the heart of Porto's urban life. Built in the early 20th century, the avenue is lined with imposing granite buildings with neoclassical and art deco-inspired facades, reflecting the city's prosperity during the Belle Époque. A ten-minute walk will take you to the imposing Torre dos Clérigos, designed by Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century. This masterpiece of Portuguese Baroque, 75 meters high and with 225 steps, offers one of Porto's most iconic views, overlooking the cityscape all the way to the Douro River. Right next door is Livraria Lello, opened in 1906. Its interior is a feast for the eyes: colorful stained-glass windows, a carved wooden staircase, and shelves filled with rare editions. Considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, it became even more famous for its alleged links to the inspiration behind the Harry Potter universe, although its true richness lies in its architectural heritage. Another must-see is São Bento Station, opened in 1916 on the ruins of a former Benedictine convent. The more than 20,000 tiles painted by Jorge Colaço depict episodes from Portuguese history, such as King John I's entry into Porto or the conquest of Ceuta. Entering this station is like leafing through a history book illustrated in ceramics.
Moon & Sun Braga: medieval heritage and baroque splendor
Staying at Moon & Sun Braga means being just steps away from centuries of history. Braga Cathedral, built in the 11th century, is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and combines styles ranging from Romanesque to Manueline and Baroque. Inside, you can visit the Cathedral Treasury-Museum, which houses unique liturgical pieces, including the cross that, according to tradition, was used in the first Mass celebrated in Brazil. The walking tour continues along Avenida da Liberdade, a spacious space marked by flower gardens and elegant buildings. This is where you can feel the symbiosis between the city's tradition and modernity, with historic cafés side by side with contemporary shops. Also just a few minutes away is the Theatro Circo, opened in 1915 and considered one of the most beautiful performance venues in the Iberian Peninsula. Its eclectic façade and richly ornamented main hall transport us to the cultural elegance of the early 20th century. Finally, Praça da República is the quintessential meeting point. Surrounded by historic buildings and the iconic Castelo Fountain, this square reflects the identity of Braga, where the daily lives of its residents blend with the architectural charm. At night, the lights and terraces give it a special life, making it the ideal place to experience the city's soul.
Moon & Sun Lisbon: tradition, viewpoints and streets full of history
At Moon & Sun Lisboa, every step paves the way for a new discovery. Just minutes away is the Elevador da Glória, opened in 1885 and still in operation, connecting Baixa to Bairro Alto. The journey may be short, but the funicular ride is an authentic experience, transporting us to a Lisbon of another time. At the top, the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara (São Pedro de Alcântara) reveals itself as one of the most beautiful in the city. The romantic-style garden, with statues and tiles representing the city, offers one of the most privileged views of Lisbon, from São Jorge Castle to the Tagus River. Avenida da Liberdade, in turn, is a remarkable example of 19th-century urbanism. Inspired by Parisian boulevards, it combines centuries-old trees, kiosks, and terraces with luxury shops and historic theaters. It is one of Lisbon's most elegant avenues, perfect for a relaxed stroll. Art lovers will find the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Chiado, founded in 1911, just minutes away. It preserves the history of Portuguese artistic production from the 19th century to the present day. Strolling the streets of Chiado and Bairro Alto is, in fact, a journey through centuries of history, with tiled facades, discreet churches, and literary cafés where writers like Fernando Pessoa gathered.
Where hospitality meets history
Moon & Sun are not just places to rest, but open doors to discovery. Each property is strategically located in areas that encapsulate centuries of culture, architecture, and history. Whether in Porto, with its imposing buildings and baroque churches, in Braga, where medieval tradition blends with the cultural elegance of the early 20th century, or in Lisbon, where every street reveals a new perspective of the city, our hotels place guests at the center of the experience. In less than ten minutes on foot, you can travel back in time, exploring Portugal's history through its streets, monuments, and urban landscapes. And it is this proximity, combined with Moon & Sun's comfort and hospitality, that makes every stay unforgettable.
