Olissippo Lapa Palace – The Leading Hotels of the World

Chose the Lapa Palace because of the ambience which didn't disappoint. Also near the cruise terminal and we wanted somewhere with local charm to stay the night before. Sadly too cold for the outside pool but the inside pool was perfect for an early morning dip. Lunch on the terrace in the winter sun was perfect with views over the water.

The staff at this hotel made us feel so welcome. I don't think that we have ever been to another hotel where the staff were so warm and friendly. The hotel itself is lovely but the folks on the staff are what make it so very special. From the front desk to room service to house keeping to bar and breakfast staff - everyone made us feel comfortable. The buffet breakfast was huge and creative. The food served in their bar was very good and plentiful. We would have liked to dine in their elegant looking restaurant but our jet lag always got the best of us so we had our dinner in their bar/cafe. Highly recommend this hotel - and we have traveled a lot.

Breakfast and bar

no outside under cover in bar area

Old school elegance

A little out of the way

We had a very enjoyable experience staying at the Olissippo Lapa Palace. A grand hotel. The room was very nice and the welcome bottle of port and cookies was a great touch. We had a good view of the river and the the outdoor pool and the gardens. The bar had great decor along with a piano player. They made an outstanding martini on the rocks. My wife and I were looked after extremely well by Patricia. Her outstanding service and help made our evening memorable. We were enjoying the bar so much that we were not sure whether to eat in the bar or the hotel restaurant where we had a reservation. Patricia spoke to the restaurant staff and arranged for us to be served from the main menu in the bar if we chose to stay there. We did end up eating in the restauarant. Wanted to try a Portuguese delicacy so had the suckling pig. It was outstanding. We used the indoor pool twice and liked it. Our card keys had stopped working. When I mentioned it to the spa attendant, Teresa, she said that she would take care of it. She went to reception and got us new keys while we were still in the pool. It is outstanding service like this that makes this hotel so special. The breakfast room was beautiful and the breakfast itself was just excellent. Just enjoyed taking our time with a couple of coffees and the good selection.