Pensao Royal

The intimate Pensão Royal, situated on the third floor of an apartment building, provides seven bright rooms two blocks from the bustling Chiado metro stop. It's an agreeable place, run by Juan and Cielo, a winning brother-and-sister duo.

Rooms, most of which have been renovated by the owners themselves, are colorfully painted or papered in bright red, pink or blue. Big old windows open to some great neighborhood views (a benefit of hoofing it up three flights of stairs). All rooms are equipped with a TV and a few have air conditioning. Furnishings are rather basic, and all rooms have modest private baths with shower.

The Royal prides itself on the large breakfast spread they lay out every morning (included in the room rate). We were tempted to check in just to test it out: pancakes, fruit, eggs, cheeses... even apple pie!

Even if you don't stay here, chances are you'll pass by often, as the Rua do Crucifixo is a major shopping street, and the Chiado shopping center, offering local boutiques and international chains, is two blocks away.

Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the pension. An Internet station in the pension's brightly decorated TV lounge is free for guests to use.