VIP Executive Marquês Aparthotel

The VIP Executive Marquês Aparthotel is situated in a simple concrete and glass, 12-story building that was originally constructed in 1993. A large lobby features white marbled tiling and white walls, and black leather couches and armchairs are set near a flat-screen TV. Red lamps, rugs, and other accents add a little color to the mostly neutral space. The restaurant is a bit more elegant with tiled floors and wood paneled walls, along with a long wood bar. The decor throughout is dated and mostly uninspired, so guests don't tend to choose this hotel for the atmosphere. It's a popular spot for families, business travelers, and other guests who are planning longer stays and want apartment-style rooms in a convenient location. 

This Aparthotel is situated on the busy Duque de Loulé avenue in a fairly quiet, residential area of Marquês de Pombal, just north of Lisbon's historic center. The hotel shares the street with a pharmacy, supermarket, strip club, and tattoo shop. Though guests sometimes encounter prostitutes in the area, most find it fairly safe. There are plenty of restaurants in easy walking distance, including around Marque de Pombal Square, which is about a five-minute walk and is also home to the nearest metro station. The historic center is about a 20-minute walk, though guests can get there in as little in 12 minutes via public transportation. Lisbon Portela Airport is a 10- to 20-minute drive or taxi ride from the hotel, depending on traffic, or about 30 to 40 minutes via public transportation.

The hotel has 84 spacious, apartment-style studios that measure about 560 square feet. Rooms have sitting areas with couches and armchairs, tables and chairs, desks, and kitchenettes. There are two-person (double or twin beds), three-person, and family rooms available. Family rooms have both double and twin beds to accommodate up to four guests. Decor is dated and furniture shows some wear-and-tear. Gray carpets meet white walls, and rooms may have floral curtains, striped couches, and tube-style TVs. Despite the outdated decor, rooms are comfortable with air-conditioning, plush mattresses, and kitchenettes. The kitchenettes are convenient but somewhat limited; each has a sink, two burners, a mini-fridge, an electric kettle, a few pots and pans, and some dishware. No coffee or tea is provided, and not all rooms have microwaves. Rooms also include safes and free Wi-Fi, though it's spotty. Bathrooms are compact with beige tiling and white fixtures, and include toilets, bidets, and combo showers and tubs. All are stocked with hairdryers and free individual toiletries. 

The hotel has a mix of amenities aimed at relaxation and convenience, though on the whole they're all just adequate. There's a restaurant and bar, which serve a limited selection of decent dishes. The daily breakfast buffet costs a reasonable fee, and a wide array of standards -- like cereal, eggs, and pastries -- are offered. The hotel has a sauna, which is open during the day and must be turned on in advance of use. There's also a small, seasonal rooftop pool that's open in the spring and summer. Though the rooftop is a little sparse, it provides nice city views from up there. There's a small business center with a desk, computer, and printer, plus a meeting room that can accommodate up to 50 guests. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though some guests say it's spotty. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk. Parking is available, but it costs an extra fee.