Hotel Avenida Palace

While its 19th-century facade -- complete with ornate columns, carved stone arches, and wrought iron balconies -- certainly projects a stately grandeur, it pales somewhat in comparison with the hotel's superbly elegant interiors. Stepping into the reception area, checkered floor tiles reflect marble-clad walls, polished wood paneling, and an elegant chandelier. Farther inside, the Palace Living Room is a genuinely stunning combination of neoclassical embellishments, rich tasseled drapery, gilded detailing, and a beautiful Belle Epoque stained-glass skylight. Built in 1892 by renowned Portuguese architect Jose Luis Monteiro, the property was considered one of the finest hotels in Europe. It's clear the owners have made every effort to live up to the hotel's glamorous reputation -- even hallways are awash with ornate flourishes and antique pieces -- while rarely feeling stuffy or old-fashioned (in the hotel's common areas, at least). The hotel draws a predictably well-heeled clientele, as well as more than its fair share of dignitaries, VIPs, and celebrities.

The hotel sits in a prime location set overlooking a cobbled main street in Lisbon's historic city center. The setting means numerous restaurants, shops, and bars are within easy walking distance, many of which can be found around Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's tree-lined main artery that's about two minutes away on foot. Rossio Station, the city's central train station, is also right next to the hotel, while the Restauradores Metro station is a minutes' walk away. The Gloria Funicular to the bustling and trendy Bairro Alto neighborhood can be reached in seven minutes, while the Santa Justa Elevator -- a tourist attraction in its own right -- is five minutes away on foot. Lisbon Portela Airport will take 20 minutes to reach by car or cab.

The hotel's 82 rooms are decorated in Old World style that includes floral and striped fabrics and wallpaper alongside ornate antique furniture and gilded detailing. The overall effect can feel fussy and a little old fashioned, though the majority of guests don't seem to mind. Cream yellow walls are hung with classic landscape prints. Junior Suites include separate living rooms set with velvet armchairs and sofas with traditional silhouettes. Standard amenities cover what would be expected at this category of hotel and all rooms have free Wi-Fi, well-stocked minibars, and flat-screen cable TVs, though there are no tea- or coffee-making facilities. High-end touches come in the form of marble bathrooms with fluffy robes and quality bath products. While many rooms overlook a busy road, soundproofing is excellent.

An extensive and particularly good quality breakfast buffet is served in the dining room within ornate surrounds under chandeliers. The buffet is part of the room rate and offerings include smoked salmon, meats, crepes, sparkling wine, and a wide selection of other items. While there's no restaurant, the hotel does have a swish, English-style bar that serves a range of drinks and cocktails, often accompanied by live music held in the lounge next door. There's also a fitness room that, while spacious, is equipped with only a handful of machines. A library provides a peaceful spot to relax as well as Internet terminals. The hotel has a dedicated concierge and dry cleaning services can be arranged. Wi-Fi and parking are available free of charge, though the hotel lacks a pool or spa area.