Hotel Review: Tivoli Avenida Liberdade, Lisbon, Portugal

The Tivoli Avenida Liberdade and her huge and imposing facade could justifiably be called the Grande Dame of Lisbon. Afterall she has been there since 1933 lording it over her superb location on the leafy Avenida Liberdade – right in the city’s heart. And conveniently it’s just a 15-minute drive from the airport.

And now is a great time to stay as the entire hotel looks pristine after a €15 million overhaul.

There’s no doubt that this is a classy hotel. It’s imposing facade with its gold canopy leads into a an open-plan lobby and reception that is bright with natural light, thanks to a glass dome with delicately woven golden trellis that let in whatever the sun has to offer. There’s lots of space too with comfy chairs in rich mahogany and turquoise tones.

Who for

City breakers, families, those on business and anyone looking for a centrally located plush hotel.

Accommodation

The hotel offers 285 rooms that comprise Superior Rooms – these are the ones that come with panoramic views over the city skyline and Deluxe Rooms that offer courtyard views. The new Deluxe Family Rooms are the newcomers and four people can stay in those. Top of the accommodation tree are the various suites. These come with access to the plush Executive Lounge.

The decor is mostly calm muted tones, soft carpets, large comfy beds with marble bathrooms. If you upgrade to a suite you will also have a bath and walk-in shower and top notch Bulgari or Hermès toiletries. Those supplied in the standard rooms are of the Portus Cale brand.

Food and Drink

Terraço Rui Paula, has taken a new twist with talented Michelin-starred Chef Rui Paula. Born and bred in Oporto, in the north of Portugal, he offers traditional Portuguese cuisine such as the classic Clam Xerém, razor clams, sea bass or Alentejo style pork. The bonus is that you get to savour fantastic views of Lisbon’s seven hills.

A splendid breakfast is served in Terraço Rui Paula. There’s a top notch buffet and an à la carte menu serving traditional breakfasts from around the world.

Cervejaria Liberdade offers a vast selection of fresh fish, seafood, sushi and ceviche presented on a traditional long bar, with flavours reinventing the spirit of a traditional cervejaria (brewery). The fresh fish and seafood come from the rich Portuguese coast.

Sky Bar is a go-to place with snacks, cocktails and live music, as well as far reaching views – you can even spot the River Tagus.

There’s also the Café Liberdade where cakes, doughnuts and other traditional delicacies, including those famously creamy pasteis de nata (custard tarts) beckon.

Facilities

There’s a 24-hour room service available. For relaxation there is probably no better place to be. There’s a fully equipped gym, an outdoor rooftop swimming pool located in a tropical garden which comes with a pool bar and sun lounger service.

There are plenty of treatments in the spa too including massages where you get to choose your oil and your aromas.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, free throughout

How much?

Rooms are available from £183 per night.

Booking.com

What’s nearby?

To go shopping just step out of the hotel. There are plenty of international designer shops along the stretch of Avenida da Liberdade. A few minutes walk leads to Baixa, Chiado and Príncipe Real neighbourhoods.

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