Hotel Florida

I had to try two different rooms, and both had constant noise, probably from ventilation or nearby facilities. I couldn't sleep properly for two nights. The staff were friendly and the location was good, but the room was one of my worst hotel experiences. It was small, dated, and badly maintained, with too little light in the bathroom and shower. Cleanliness was a problem too. There was hair on the bed and the bedding smelled unpleasant. This was very disappointing and nowhere near a four-star standard.

We'd definitely stay again because it was inexpensive, clean, and in a great location. The room was lovely and large, the reception area was nice, and the staff were really nice. It was fairly noisy, but manageable. The TV was tiny and looked about 50 years old, the internet crawled at 8 Mbps, and everything needs updating.

This is nowhere near a four-star hotel, and it feels like whoever awarded the stars is scamming international travelers who expect those standards. I spent a week at a four-star Disneyland hotel in Anaheim just before flying to Portugal, so comparing them is unfair. Still, I'd give this place no more than one star, two at the very most. The room was clean, the lobby had a nice renovation, and the rooms seem to have had a moderate update a few years ago. The fitness area is very minimal. The elevator is only 1*1 and barely fits two people with luggage, so imagine the wait at check-in or checkout. It's near hop-on hop-off bus station 1, but 2km from the main city activities and 2.6KM from the ocean, up a steep route. The AC is noisy and outdated, impossible to sleep with. The restroom fan doesn't work and looks as if it hasn't been cleaned in ages, see photo. Good luck showering without flooding the room. There's no electric plug near the bed, only one behind the so-called TV, which is more like a monitor. And they charged 8 extra euros per night at check-in, even though booking clearly says taxes and fees included with no exception.

Hotel Florida has a playful cinema theme, with film posters and artwork throughout, and each room has its own personality. It feels creative and memorable rather than like an impersonal chain. The location is fantastic, beside Marquês de Pombal square and Avenida da Liberdade. The metro is a couple of steps away, taxis are easy to find, and you can walk to the historic center in about 15-20 minutes along an elegant boulevard. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well equipped. The large beds are very comfortable after walking Lisbon's hills. Some rooms have lovely city views, while interior rooms are quiet and restful. Wi-Fi is reliable and strong, and the coffee machines and other thoughtful amenities add comfort. Breakfast was a highlight, with a generous buffet of fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, cold cuts, and local specialties. Everything was fresh and replenished regularly, and the bright breakfast area was a nice way to start the day. The staff were friendly, professional, and helpful, whether giving advice about getting around or just making us feel welcome. That warm service made a real difference while away from home.