Hotel Borges Chiado

The Hotel Borges, a basic three-star situated near the Largo do Chiado at the base of the hot Bairro Alto scene, offers rooms at moderate rates, with a dose of "grand hotel" nostalgia thrown in.

Having opened its doors in 1886, the Borges is one of Lisbon's oldest hotels. It still retains a few old-fashioned touches, most notably the gorgeous green fluorescent marquis. And the lobby sports a touch of '70s flair.

The hotel’s rooms are simple affairs, with hardwood floors, wooden furniture and recessed lighting. All 96 are equipped with air conditioning, soundproof windows, a satellite television and telephone.

Old-fashioned hotels often feature generous-sized rooms, and the Borges is no exception—a couple rooms we saw were quite spacious, and some on the front have balconies overlooking the square (ask ahead). Baths come with bright tiled floors and new fixtures.

The hotel’s neighbor, the landmark Café Bernard, serves drinks to a trendy and touristy clientele at outdoor tables. And Lisbon’s Bairro Alto bar and restaurant scene gets bumping about a block away. If you’ll be taking advantage of Lisbon’s nightlife, the Borges would make a very convenient home base.

Wi-Fi is available for free, and breakfast is included in the room rate.