Hyatt Hotels has entered into a franchise and related agreements with Realtejo - Hotelaria e Turismo to develop the first Hyatt branded hotel in Portugal: Hyatt Regency Lisbon.

Expected to open in late 2020, the hotel will feature 200 hotel rooms and apartments and will be located between Rua Guerra Junqueiro and Avenida da Índia, a stunning waterfront location facing Tejo River.

Realtejo - Hotelaria e Turismo is a subsidiary of United Investments Portugal and Fibeira.

The foray into Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital city, is an important milestone for Hyatt, signifying its growing brand presence in increasingly competitive markets across Europe.

The number of tourists visiting Portugal has increased for eight consecutive years, with 12.8 million travellers visiting in 2018 alone.

The hotel will be situated just a five-minute drive from Lisbon’s historic city centre and within easy reach of many major attractions, including the two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Bélem Tower and the Jéronimos Monastery.

“We are delighted by the announcement of plans for the first Hyatt hotel in Portugal as Lisbon is one of Europe’s leading cities in overnight stays and has quickly established itself as a prime destination not only for leisure travellers, but also for larger conventions and events,” said Nuno Galvão-Pinto, regional vice president development at Hyatt.

“We look forward to working with United Investments Portugal on this exciting project in Lisbon.

“This is an important step for Hyatt as we look to expand our brand presence throughout Portugal.”

Hyatt Regency Lisbon will offer a wide range of intuitive facilities, including a luxurious spa, a swimming pool, a rooftop terrace bar with views over the river, as well as a beautiful courtyard and garden.

Carlos Leal, general manager of United Investments Portugal, added: “We are thrilled to be working with Hyatt on our first development in Lisbon in a premier riverside location in one of the world’s leading cities.

“With its warm climate, culture, history, gastronomy and beaches, Lisbon truly has it all.”