For some reason, Lisbon has never been on my ‘top places to visit’ list, but when it was time to choose my first solo travel destination, it got recommended to me right, left and centre, and so the decision has been made – Sandra is going to Lisbon! Why I hadn’t thought about paying it a visit sooner is beyond me, because it’s honestly one of the best (and most affordable) European weekend getaways, combining old Mediterranean charm and what I describe as San Francisco vibes. Long story short, I loved it! You can expect lots of tips and guides coming your way in the following few months, but today let me introduce you to the hotel I stayed at on my last night in the city.
Hotel Lisboa Plaza, a charming boutique hotel run by the same family since the 1950’s, had me at hello with its location, before I even set foot inside. It’s an ideal starting point to explore the city, right around the corner from the nearest metro station, just off the famous designer shopping avenue Avenida da Liberdade, and a stone throw away from all major sights. Having everything on the doorstep was such a nice change after my 20-minute uphill battles to get from the nearest metro station to the hotel I previously stayed at, haha! But it’s not just the central location that impressed me. The double room in a traditional style with modern touches was incredibly spacious, had the comfiest bed, a proper sofa and a beautiful tiled study desk I fell head over heels with the moment I spotted it – I love unique little details like this!
Another thing I need to mention are the communal areas. I’m not the one to rave about reception lobbies, but the lounge area at Hotel Lisboa Plaza is on another level. I wouldn’t mind waiting there all day for my check-in. There’s a TV, a library section, refreshments (tea and coffee), and even an internet point with computers and a printer for guests to use when they please. Not what you normally see in a four-star hotel! Speaking of the internet, you’ll be happy to hear the wi-fi is free of charge, fast, and available throughout the hotel.
The roof terrace with loungers and a bar section is a nice addition as well! It was a bit too chilly for me back in March to take advantage of it, but in the summertime I bet it’s an amazing spot to rest your feet and enjoy a drink after a long day of sightseeing. I did a quick tour of it here in my vlog, where you can also see how my room looked like in detail.
Last but not least, let’s have a word about the hotel breakfast. I’m not too picky when it comes to it – a slice of bread with some cheese and tomatoes or a jam croissant normally does it for me – but I was seriously impressed with the extensive buffet selection. There was everything from pastries, jams, eggs and yoghurts to fruits, cheese, salami and even desserts for those with a morning sweet tooth – chocolate fountain included. Yes, really, there was an actual chocolate fountain. Good thing you also get access to the gym!
Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a better night’s stay, and if I visit Lisbon again (or should I say when, because I’m definitely coming back for more sightseeing and octopus), Hotel Lisboa Plaza or another one of the charming Lisbon Heritage Hotels will be my number one choice for my home away from home.
My stay at Hotel Lisboa Plaza was complimentary in exchange for my honest review.
As always, all opinions are my own.
em.me.ma
I have heard about great thing as well in lisbon. I can't wait to visit for myself!www.emmemablog.blogspot.com