Fodor's Expert Review Lisboa Tejo Hotel

Just a few steps away from the busy Praça da Figueira at the heart of Lisbon, this funky three-star occupies a handsome historic building, impressively re-imagined as a contemporary hotel with plenty of designer flair. The 58 rooms and suites are spacious, with plenty of light and color, and some have views up to the Saint George Castle. Service is friendly and attentive, the breakfast buffet is generous, and many of Lisbon's big-ticket tourist attractions are within walking distance. Fixtures and fittings are modern, but many original features have been preserved--look out for the tiled drinking fountain, which dates back to Roman times

YOU SHOULD KNOW At the time of writing (June 17) ongoing refurbishment was in operation at the hotel, limiting the use of some of the common areas.

room

Guests at this 58-room hotel can choose from single, double or twin rooms, or upgrade to a junior suite or suite. All the accommodations are light and bright, with bold blocks of color, contemporary fixtures and fittings, and mod cons such as A/C, in-room Wi-Fi, cable TV, and minibars. Some rooms have impressive views of the castle, others look onto the busy street scene below. Suites have living areas.

This is one of the busiest parts of Lisbon, so expect some street noise. The rooms are spread over six floors, those on the higher floors are the quietest.

bathroom

The bathrooms at Lisboa Tejo are impressive for this price category, with powerful walk-in showers (something of a rarity in Portugal) and some rooms also have tubs. Hairdryers and toiletries area also provided.

lobby

The lobby area is stylishly kitted out, with exposed brick walls and low-level lighting, and a bar which, like the reception, is open 24/7. Staff are friendly, and happy to store luggage for those wanting to explore Lisbon before check-in or after checkout.

drinking

Guests can grab a drink any time of day or night at the hotel's stylish bar, which is handily open round the clock. There's a vast range of cocktails, Portuguese wines and traditional liqueurs on offer, and a large lounge in which to enjoy them.