Zenit Lisboa

The Zenit is housed in a classic-looking blue building with white trim and small metal balconies that can be accessed by the rooms. The interior is a contrast to the exterior, a modern mix of black, white, and gray, beginning in the somewhat stark reception area with its white marble floor and slick, black front desk. There’s a large seating area at the center of the lobby with cream-colored couches and chairs arranged near the glossy, metal elevator bank. The Marquês de Pombal Restaurant also has contemporary decor, with lots of dark wood and orange and gray fabrics, and the large bar area has armchairs covered in thick black fabric and modern paintings line the walls. The hotel is popular with business travelers, but tourists will also be comfortable here.

The hotel is located in a quiet area that’s a five-minute walk from the Saldanha metro stop. A restaurant and snack bar are next to the hotel, with more non-touristy eateries next to Saldanha Square. It’s less than 15 minutes' walk to Marquis of Pombal square and the luxury shops of Avenida da Liberdade. The the El Corte Inglés shopping center is a 10-minute walk, and the Eduardo VII Park is a 20-minute walk. It’s a lengthy 30-minute walk or 15 minutes by metro to Baixa de Lisboa, the historic center. The Aerobus to and from the Lisbon Portela Airport takes about 30 minutes and stops a five-minute walk from the hotel, while the metro takes 15 minutes and a taxi takes about 10 minutes. 

The 86 rooms are a combination of singles, doubles, and suites with plain but sophisticated decor, including beige- and white-striped walls, dark wood furniture, and laminate floors. Bathrooms are compact but bright, with floating sinks, large mirrors, and glass-walled stall showers or shower/tub combos, along with hairdryers and toiletries in colorful packaging. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, and small safes, and some rooms have small balconies. Suites have additional sitting areas, each with a TV, and spacious bathrooms. Light sleepers should note that walls are thin and sound travels. Corner rooms are larger and tend to have better views. 

The Marqués de Pombal Restaurant serves a buffet breakfast with a good choice of foods, as well as lunch and dinner, but breakfast isn't included with all bookings. Room service is available. There’s a small gym with a few cardio machines and weights, the wall painted to look like there’s a beach view. The hotel is geared toward business travelers, and it has five meeting rooms, some of which can be combined. Private parking is available for a daily fee, and small pets are allowed.