The Imperial Guesthouse

The Imperial Guesthouse is a no-frills property that attracts travelers and tourists who don't mind trading amenities for a good price. The five-story building has a beautiful blue facade studded in balconies, though the interior is less distinctive. The inside feels a bit like a residential apartment building with wood-floored hallways and switchback stairs -- there's no elevator, so it's a hike to top-story rooms. Common areas are built for function: There's a small lounge area with a TV, couch, and wallpapered accent wall (but no windows) and a roomy and nicely equipped but dated kitchen with mint green tiling. The simple, sometimes tired, decor and limited amenities are more on par with a hostel than a hotel, though the private rooms and limited common spaces are ideal for budget-minded guests who prefer a less social atmosphere. 

The Imperial Guesthouse's main draw is its exceptional location in the heart of Lisbon with plenty of attractions right in the neighborhood. The hotel is situated at the tail end of the Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's tree-lined street filled with restaurants, shops, and bars, and it's just a three-minute walk from bustling Rossio Square. Theaters and entertainment venues are nearby, like Coliseu dos Recreios and Teatro Politeama, each of which can be reached on foot in less than three minutes. The Santa Justa Elevator is a five-minute walk. For sights farther out, there are plenty of public transit options nearby including Restauradores metro station (one-minute walk), Rossio Train Station (one-minute walk), and Rossio metro station (three-minute walk). The popular Alfama neighborhood can be reached in less than 15 minutes via public transit, and Rossio station has a train that heads directly to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in about 40 minutes. Lisbon Portela Airport can be reached in 25 minutes by public transit. 

Guest rooms are private though bathrooms are shared, and while most guests find rooms clean and comfortable for a budget property, decor is more on-par with a hostel than a hotel. Decor is simple with wood floors, white beds and walls, and pops of color in baby blue or pink. Economy Rooms have folding chairs, while upgraded rooms might have upholstered chairs. An entry-level room may feature a white-tiled corner with a sink, while an upgraded room may have a partition with a sink and tiny shower stall, though toilets are always shared. The shared facilities are individual bathrooms with toilets, sinks, and some configuration of a shower or combo shower and tub. They tend to be a little dated and show signs of wear and tear, like peeled wallpaper, but they're functional and adequately clean for most guests. 

Amenities are limited. Bed linens are provided and sinks have soap dispensers, and some upgraded rooms have bathrobes and a few individual toiletries, but rooms don't come with TVs, mini-fridges, or air-conditioning. Wi-Fi is free, though some guests complain it doesn't reach higher rooms. Twin, Double, and Triple Rooms are available. Those that face the main avenue tend to be brighter with better views, but they may get more street noise. Some rooms have small balconies with chairs.

The property has few extras. There's a small hangout area with a couch, coffee table, and TV, as well as a shared kitchen, which is dated but spacious with a stove, microwave, toaster, plenty of counter space, and supplies for making tea and coffee. Breakfast service isn't provided, though guests note that apples or oranges are kept out for a free snack. Wi-Fi is free, but guests sometimes note connectivity issues on higher floors. Note: The hotel has no air-conditioning or elevator.