Tivoli Marina Vilamoura

Tivoli Marina Vilamoura stands out right away with its newer-than-usual architecture. Many hotels in the area are repurposed buildings that have trouble hiding the fact they were built in the late '60s or early '70s, but from the front, the tall and domineering Tivoli Marina looks almost futuristic. Guests are greeted in the closed-atrium lobby by a bright-orange reception area with frosted glass, polished marble floors, and large potted plants. A journey up a wide double staircase reveals a light-soaked atrium with slanted glass windows, several contemporary couches made of black wicker, and white cushions. The hotel's decor is contemporary, stylish, and just a few steps up from IKEA quality. 

Several guests have reported being disappointed with the quality of furniture, especially in the rooms, as well as feeling nickel-and-dimed due to several extra fees (in-room coffee machines, Wi-Fi, and beach loungers). However, this doesn't stop a majority of people from wanting to return or agreeing that the hotel has an overall relaxing and cool vibe. Compared to sister property Tivoli Victoria - Vilamoura, it has a much hipper and brighter feel, though if you are looking for something a little more elegant, it's good to know they're both in the same price point.

This hotel has a privileged location set between central Vilamoura's beautiful marina and the beach, giving guests great access and spectacular views of both. The large property dominates the area, so there's no real neighbors or much outside noise -- except for rooms facing the often-noisy marina bars. Vilamoura Beach, restaurants, and several seasonal beach bars are all within direct access a few minutes' walk from the back of the hotel. Casino Vilamoura is a five-minute walk and there are nine golf courses within about a 20-minute drive of the hotel. Faro Airport can be reached in under 30 minutes by car. 

Tivoli Marina Vilamoura's rooms get mixed reviews from guests who often report that they were the most disappointing aspect of their stay due to underwhelming decor and furniture, plus extra fees for Wi-Fi (except in the Presidential Suite) and Nespresso machine capsules. Regardless, all 383 rooms are clean, spacious, and contemporary with earth tones of blue or orange, dark-wood furniture, and tan carpet. Furnished balconies or terraces have pretty views of the marina or sea -- those facing the marina often suffer from bar noise. Also standard are air-conditioning, desks, armchairs, large flat-screen TVs, safes, and minibars. Bathrooms have rainfall showers or shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and decent toiletry kits, plus bathrobes and slippers. Some, but not all, have bidets. 

Upgrades to premium categories means discounts on spa treatments, higher-floor positioning, and priority check-in. Deluxe Family Rooms have large decks and a sleeper sofa; Junior Suites include a separate living area; Executive Suites are on the top floor and come with free internet and both a shower and separate tub; Presidential Suites have two full bathrooms and an in-mirror bathroom TV. 

Tivoli Marina's seven on-site restaurants and bars are excellent (if expensive), driving home the fact that they take dining seriously enough to make it the standout feature of the hotel. Chilli Restaurant serves an international and Portuguese breakfast buffet, plus champagne. Oregano is a casual Roman-style, all-day Italian spot, while Peppers Steakhouse serves up carnivore cuisine. Healthy snacks can be found at the laid-back beach bar. Other bar options include the open-air, marina-facing Side Bar, the Acucar pool bar, and the Canela Bar in the hotel's atrium where drinks are served up with live music until late. Guests on half- or full-board have to choose from specific meal plan menus. 

Guests have direct access to a wide beach, but the cushioned loungers and daybeds require a fee. Guests tend to hang around the circular outdoor pool and adjacent kiddy pool, surrounded by lots of loungers and umbrellas. An indoor pool is also available. The Angsana Spa treatments are a favorite among guests, though several have reported the facilities drop the ball with a lukewarm outdoor hot tub and sauna. A small gym is slightly disappointing with old machines in need of an update. The resort prides itself on being family-friendly, offering a teen and kids' club and playground by the pool. 

Wi-Fi requires a fee.