The Botanico Hotel hotel has been around since the '80s, and although it's generally well-maintained, some of its decor remains unchanged and could use an update. Furniture on dark stone-tiled floors have a dull shine under harsh halogen lights that don't help the garish lime green chairs and couches look their best. However, property has a cheery atmosphere, and past guests -- who tend to be older leisure travelers -- have commented that staff is friendly and accommodating, with a free glass of wine upon check-in setting the tone.

The hotel located in a quiet neighborhood close to Lisbon's posh Avenida da Liberdade, a six-minute walk from the Avenida Metro Station. Its closest neighbors are a few cafes, Indian, and vegetarian restaurants. More restaurants, upmarket hotels, and lots of luxury shopping line the bustling Avenida da Liberdade a few blocks away. Praca do Rossio, Restauradores, Ascensor da Gloria, and Palacio Foz, as well as the bustling narrow lanes of Chiado and Baixa, are also within walking distance of the hotel. It's a 12-minute trip on public transportation to Praca do Comercio and the Tagus Riverfront. Expect no more than a 30-minute drive (less depending on traffic) to Lisbon Portela Airport. 

Wood veneer replaced the old carpeting in all of the hotel's guest rooms, but they still look slightly dated, with light pink walls and mismatched wood furniture that shows some wear. Standard rooms have twin or double beds and small built-in vanities next to wardrobes. CD players with speakers are set on small tables and older flat-screen TVs are wall-mounted or hung precariously in corners. All units have minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi, but they lack kettles. Upgraded Double Rooms add free minibars, along with a welcome bottle of Champagne and fruit. The units on the third floor have the best views, particularly the corner ones, with city views toward the Castle of St. George. The tiled bathrooms have bidets, and either small walk-in showers, or average shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries.  

The lobby bar serves guests a free glass of Portuguese wine upon arrival in a space that has matching lime-green-and-navy couches and chairs, and a few bar stools at a counter. There's a small business corner on the opposite wall with a laptop for guests to use at no extra charge. A continental breakfast buffet is served downstairs in a basement dining room for a fee. Free self-parking is available, and there's free Wi-Fi throughout.