Occidental Lisboa

Opened in 2015, this hotel is housed in an eight-story modern building with glass across the front. That somewhat impersonal first impression says volumes about the property -- it's a modern and functional place with just the necessities needed for a pleasant stay, especially for travelers who don't need to be right in the touristy heart of Lisbon. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the small lobby is airy and bright, and a couple of sectionals provide a place where guests can take a seat. A bar is adjacent. Although the hotel is a bit removed from the city center and its attractions, it's close enough to public transportation to provide an affordable option for both business and leisure travelers. All types of guests are seen here, but less mobile guests may find the hilltop location challenging. However, that will be the case almost anywhere in Lisbon. 

This hotel is situated in a quiet area between Parque Eduardo VII and the Amoreiras shopping center. Guests can walk to both in about 10 minutes. Otherwise, it's not exactly convenient for seeing the city's most famous neighborhoods: Bairro Alto, Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama. The Lisbon city center is about 10 minutes away by car, and the closest metro stop (Sao Sebastiao) can be reached in 11 minutes on foot, with direct service to the airport. Avenida da Liberdade, with its many high-end restaurants and hotels, is less than 10 minutes away by car, as is Rossio Square. Jeronimos Monastery is about 15 minutes away by car, or 30 minutes by public transportation. It will take about 25 minutes by public transit to reach Baixa and Chiado, which form the touristy heart of town. Plan on about 15 minutes to reach Lisbon Portela Airport by car, or about 40 minutes by metro. 

Rooms are modern, though the decor skews toward traditional hues and patterns, making this hotel feel a bit formal. Details include soothing neutral tones like beige and taupe, with mint green accent walls in some rooms adding just a touch of flair. Carpeting is boldly patterned with flower petals and arabesques, but there is no art on the walls. Instead, backlighting and oversized headboards are used to punch up the look at bit. Amenities include wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, desks, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Suites and Superior Rooms have kettles for tea and coffee, but these are unfortunately not available in lower-category Standard Rooms. Bathrooms are sleek and simple, with rainfall showers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Accessible rooms are available. Suites have separate sitting areas plus dining tables and chairs. Some rooms also add balconies furnished with chairs and a table. 

This hotel doesn't have much in the way of features, but it does include a restaurant and two bars. UQ Restaurant on the ground floor serves regional fare for all meals, including a breakfast buffet with hot and cold items (for a fee). The contemporary space has an open kitchen so guests can watch the chefs in action. There's also a small patio for alfresco dining when the weather is nice. Room service is available during select hours. Located next to the reception area, Bwana Bar serves drinks and light fare during the day. The Vicius Lounge Bar, on the sixth floor, offers indoor and outdoor seating with views of the city. The small, windowless fitness center has a few cardio and weight-training machines and is open 24/7. Meeting rooms can accommodate gatherings of various sizes, and a desk is set up with a computer for guests to use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.