Sofitel Lisboa

Av. da Liberdade 127, Portugal, Lisbon, Lisbon 1269-038,, Portugal
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Why We Like It

Sofitel Lisboa has a plum location, the service is excellent, and business facilities are top notch. It's a solid business hotel, but also caters well for families (babysitting services can be arranged) and leisure travelers. While it's no longer the most elegant street in Lisbon (having arguably been usurped by Principe Real), the tree-lined Avenida still offers ample opportunity for shopping in luxury stores, or just sipping a coffee or cocktail at one of the kiosks that line the street.

Fodor's Expert Review

This smart, contemporary hotel occupies a prime spot on Lisbon's handsome Avenida da Liberdade, and appeals to business travelers and holidaymakers alike. Service is friendly and attentive, the decor is slick and modern, and the beds are ultra-comfortable. Plus, business facilities are excellent and there's a Metro stop just steps away. Children and parents alike appreciate the kids' area--with toys, DVDs and other distractions, in the downstairs breakfast room, and the highly-rated AdLib restaurant has sidewalk tables that are ideal for people-watching. Children aged up to 12 stay for free in their parents' room.

You Should Know There's no pool, and the gym is on the small side.

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Room

Room decor is smart, with splashes of color, but some are a little small and lacking in modern flair. Guests are sure of a good night's sleep thanks to the Sofitel chain's trademark MyBed mattresses, which are supremely comfortable. Small edible treats and fresh flowers are often left for guests during room turn-down. Most rooms have Illy coffee machines. Most rooms have city views, some suites have views of the famous Saint George Castle. There's free in-room WIFI and LCD TVs, with many English-language channels. Suites have terraces, Hermès lotions, and Bose sound systems.

You Should Know Minibars are well stocked (at the usual inflated hotel prices).

Bathroom

Powerful showers, deep bathtubs, soft robes, and Lanvin toiletries come as standard at Sofitel Lisboa.

Lobby

With its chandeliers, dark wood, marbles sculptures, and gold tones, the lobby feels grand but welcoming--stepping in from the busy Avenida da Liberdade, guests are met with a smile at reception, and can relax in comfy chairs or head straight to the bar for a reviving drink before heading to their rooms. The overall look is of understated luxury.

Dining

The AdLib restaurant takes in pan-European influences and serves French-Portuguese fusion cuisine prepared by a German chef. The decor has an indulgent feel, with twinkling lights and ornate vases, and tables by the windows offer great people-watching opportunities. On warm evenings, the sidewalk tables and chairs allow al-fresco dining. Chef Daniel Schlaipfer has created separate lunch and dinner menus--lunches offer the likes of salads, sandwiches, and seafood, while dinner runs to more elaborate fare. Of the Portuguese dishes, the Cataplana (seafood stew) for two is a standout.

Tip Guests can pre-order their meals, and there's a dedicated menu for group dining.

Drinking

Overlooking the lobby, the slick bar offers cocktails, coffee, light meals and Portuguese wines. Original Asian artworks hung on the walls lend a contemporary feel, and the seating is extremely comfortable--relaxing with a glass of Port wine and a pastel de nata is a wonderful way to recover from a long journey.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

The Metro stop is literally in front of the hotel, and the major tourist sights are all within walking distance. Taxis can be found in abundance, and tuktuk drivers offer sightseeing tours.

Restaurants

Gambrinus (8-minute walk) has exquisite Portuguese cuisine. Restaurante Olivier Avenida (5-minute walk) is located in a glitzy hotel setting and serves fine Portuguese and Japanese dining options.

Bars

There are plenty of bar options nearby. The Corner Irish Pub Lisbon is a nice little Irish pub and is about a 12-minute walk away. Foxtrot (15-minute walk) is an artsy watering hole with a lovely garden.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 21-322–8300