Lisbon Poets Inn

Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, since some doors and floors creak. We spent three evenings in Lisbon and found the neighborhood interesting and very walkable, with everything we needed close by. The location was wonderful and the price was great. A mirror in each room or in the hallway would be a helpful addition for the owners.

The room smelled mouldy, the lighting was poor, and the furniture was stained. The plastic-wrapped mattresses and pillows weren’t pleasant, and the curtains didn’t cover the whole window, so there was no privacy. There are old books tucked into corners of the staircase to make the place feel arty, but to me it’s just a glorified backpackers. The website should make that clearer. The price doesn’t match how substandard the place is.

We were sent here by someone who’d stayed more than five years ago, but it seems management has changed and things have got worse. With a group of friends, we saw several rooms. Some with large windows didn’t seem mouldy, while others, especially the one outside the building, had mould on the ceiling and a terrible mildew smell, with no ventilation at all. The beds weren’t good either. The stairs felt treacherous and the rooms were noisy. There are much better places for the same price, so I wouldn’t recommend it.

The rooms were very clean and well looked after, and the staff were amazing. It felt extremely safe, and there’s a beautiful terrace with a view over the city. Public transport is close too. For the price, it exceeded my expectations. A rare 5/5 from me.