Residencial Astoria, Lisbon

Author's product rating:   

Value for Money	Excellent
Quality of Rooms	Good
Standard of Service	Good
Quality of Facilities	Good

Advantages:	Central Location, Transportation Links, Shopping District, Old Town
Disadvantages:	Lift - better use the stairs

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Residencial Astoria is a traditional building, admist a road of charm and history. The employers are very welcoming, and always have a smile on their face, as you see them. This makes you feel right at home, as they like to suit your every need. If you are unsure of the area, than feel free to ask at Reception as they will provide you with excellent help, and point you to the leaflets on their entrance. There is a Bureau Du Change about a couple of blocks from the hotel, which is very handy. Make sure to ask at reception for the address, before you decide to go down there.

I stayed at the Hotel, back in 2006 on a trip part of University. At the time, there were quite a large group of us, and the room door were transparent, as trying to get to sleep was a mission, as I could hear every noise out the door. Young people, having fun out on the terrace, did not help the situation, but it was an experience nonetheless.

The Hotel is simple, and minimalistic comprimising of bedrooms which are basic and functional for an everyday passing tourist. Each room contains, Air Conditioning, Satellite Television, Direct Dial, Telephone, Private Bathroom, Mini Bar, Hairdryer, Safe Deposit Box and Wireless Internet Access. The smaller rooms are usually the single beds near the corners of the hotel, so if you want extra space, just ask for a larger bed and you will gain that additional room space. During the Winter, the rooms can get cold, therefore it is wise to switch on your heater before you go out, so that when you return you'll have a nice warm room.

There is a small breakfast room with continental buffet, and a lounge area. The breakfast is usually included in the price, and is your typical Portuguese breakfast consisting of croissants ham and cheese. There are juices and hot beverages, and also cereal for those less inclined to eat croissants. The lounge is a nice area to relax. The Lounge is situated on your entrance down through the hall, and the breakfast room is above the stairs. The lift is a weakness especially, for disabled visitors as it keeps breaking down every so often, and it becomes wiser to use the stairs in the end.

The Hotel is situated in a central location, a few minutes away from the Marques de Pombal Square and Metro Station. It is also right in the centre of the Old Lisbon and it is worthy of a walk down to further explore, the surrounding areas including the Parque Eduardo IIV.
There are taxis and buses on the same road worth a catch, if a tourist is not inclined to the everyday metro.

There are a couple of stores located near the hotel, as you leave on your right, if you feel you'd like to get additional supplements for your evening or breakfast. Also there is a coffee shop on your right, to acquire the fresh delicassy of Lisbon. If you are more inclined to shopping, there is also a large multi-store mall as you leave the hotel, and turn right and walk until the road ends.

If your planning on staying in central Lisbon, on a low budget with basic services/functions, than this is the perfect place for you. I found out that prices started at £25 at the time nearing £50 per night, depending what room you asked for. I find that to be reasonably moderate, especially in the centre of Lisbon, inbetween the old town and the commercial areas. The reception and friendliness of the workers is a bonus.