Fodor's Expert Review VIP Executive Suítes Éden

Cost-conscious travelers and architecture buffs would be wise to consider a stay at this centrally-located apart-hotel housed in a grand Art Deco building. While the accommodations are not high-end, the rooms and suites all have kitchenettes, and the location at the heart of Lisbon's Pombaline old town is excellent for sightseeing, shopping and nightlife. A rooftop bar and pool with great views further add to the appeal, and this lofty location is also the setting for breakfast. The hotel is located in the former Eden theater, and is one Lisbon's most striking examples of Art Deco design.

This hotel is a good option for families--meals can be prepared in the kitchenette, and most major sights are within walking distance.

room

The name of the hotel is a bit of a misnomer--the rooms and apartments here don't offer VIP-level luxury, but they are a good size and simply decorated, and the well-equipped kitchenettes will be a major boon for families and for budget-conscious guests looking to avoid paying restaurant prices every night. Free in-room Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs are standard, most rooms have city views, and the larger apartments have sofa-beds to make the most of the available space.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The rooms lack individual character or design flair, a stay here is more about location and Art Deco charm than luxurious lodgings.

bathroom

The bathrooms are simply-appointed but perfectly functional, with tubs, overhead showers, bidets, and plenty of towels.

lobby

The lobby feels a little simple in comparison with the grand exterior of the building, but it's clean and welcoming, with movie posters dotted around in homage to the building's past life as a theater. The reception is open 24/7, and the English-speaking staff are friendly.

pool

The hotel's rooftop pool is a major selling point. It's too small for proper swimming, but is a perfect spot to cool down in the water and admire the views of the city and its castle, or work on your tan on one of the sunloungers while sipping a drink from the terrace bar.

Lisbon sunsets are legendary--come up to the rooftop after a day's sightseeing for a dip and a drink as the sky turns orange.

dining

The rooftop terrace bar serves basic snacks--think hot dogs and fries rather than haute cuisine.

YOU SHOULD KNOW It's not worth trying to fill up on the snacks at the bar--there are many excellent dining options close to the hotel.

drinking

The hotel's terrace bar serves the usual range of mixed drinks and local favorite white sangria, but it's the view that makes drinking here a memorable experience. The terrace has views of the Old Town and the castle, and attracts non-guests as well as those staying at the hotel. It's not super-chic, but the vistas are terrific.