Fodor's Expert Review Avenida Palace

Built in 1892, Lisbon's first luxury hotel combines regal elegance with modern comfort. French architect Lucian Donnat breathed new life into the hotel in the 1990s, when he restored its original romantic Belle Époque style. Classically furnished rooms are completely soundproof despite a super-central location, and bathrooms are lined in the finest Portuguese marble. Sumptuously furnished suites, some with hydromassage tubs, are decked out in grand style. With twice-weekly afternoon teas and regular classical music recitals, the hotel will appeal to those looking for a taste of Lisbon's grand history, but modern amenities such as super-speedy Wi-Fi bring things up to speed. The location next to the similarly opulent Rossio railway station (the architect José Luís Monteiro designed both buildings) is right at the heart of the historic downtown.

YOU SHOULD KNOW This hotel is more about historic appeal than contemporary style--those looking for minimalist chic won't find it here.

room

The hotel's 82 rooms including a Presidential Suite, 3 Palace Suites, and 16 Junior Suites. All rooms have views--some look out over the city and the castle, while others look onto the pretty courtyard. Rooms on the upper floors are more expensive but have the most impressive views. Effective soundproofing means street noise is minimal despite the very central location, and there are some lovely touches such as fresh fruit and other sweet treats left at room turn down. All rooms and suites feature eye-catching pieces of period furniture, and beds are extremely comfortable.

The rooms are fully soundproofed, offer free connection to the Internet over Wi-fi and cable and feature bathrooms decorated in marble.

The Junior Suites consist of a bedroom and living room and can accommodate three people, which makes them the perfect solution for families with children. Optionally, rooms with connecting doors are available.

All rooms are no-smoking rooms.

The hotel website offers some good room promotions and occasional free room upgrades.

bathroom

The marble bathrooms have an opulent feel, and are immaculately maintained. Most rooms have tubs with showers, while some suites have separate stand up showers.

lobby

Forget minimalist chic, the lobby at Avenida Palace is a masterclass in ornate interiors. Think high ceilings, gilded mirrors, antique furniture, stained glass, and deep red walls.

gym

The small fifth-floor fitness center isn't flashy, but is well maintained and has the usual treadmills, step machines, and exercise bikes.

dining

There's no restaurant at the hotel, but the buffet breakfast--served in a dining room with magnificent chandeliers--is as lavish as one would expect in these grand surrounds. A range of snacks, drinks, and light meals can be ordered at the bar or through room service

From October-May, the hotel holds Palace Tea events at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, attracting tourists and locals keen to soak up the opulent surrounds over scones, pastries, and infusions from the extensive tea menu.

drinking

The bar and lounge is a cozy space that is well suited to hunkering down over a drink on a cool evening. The wooden bar, leather sofas, and deep armchairs are somewhat reminiscent of a traditional British pub, but the plates of cured meats, cheeses, and the like are thoroughly Portuguese.