Lisbon's BEST Kept Secret: Crow-tastic Suites You NEED to See!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea on Lisbon's BEST Kept Secret: Crow-tastic Suites You NEED to See! Forget the tourist traps, the cookie-cutter hotels. We're diving headfirst into something… different. Something… well, let’s just say "Crow-tastic" is the appropriate adjective.
(Important Note: I AM NOT BEING COMPENSATED BY ANYONE. This is my honest, unfiltered opinion based on my recent, hopefully-not-totally-lost-in-translation, trip to Lisbon. Fair warning: my experience was a mixed bag of brilliance and… let’s call it "Portuguese charm.")
Right, so, where do we begin? The Accessibility situation. Well, let's be real – Lisbon is a city built on seven hills. "Wheelchair accessible" is probably the most generous description of the city as a whole. However, I did see an elevator in the hotel, which is a HUGE win. The Facilities for disabled guests are… present, as far as I could tell. This is something you really, REALLY need to clarify with the hotel directly before booking if accessibility is paramount to you. Don’t just take my word for it, okay? Call them. I'm just a reviewer, not a mobility consultant.
Now, about the Rooms. Oh, the rooms. They’re… unique, alright. Think modern meets… well, I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say the “Crow-tastic” part is not just a clever name. Prepare for surprises. But good ones! The Air conditioning was a lifesaver (I visited in July, which is HOT). Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise the digital gods! And it actually worked. The Internet access – LAN was there, but let's be honest, who uses a LAN cable anymore? I spent the whole time on that beautiful Free Wi-Fi and sometimes it seemed faster than the very own Internet at home. Air conditioning and Blackout curtains were absolute game-changers. Plus, shoutout to Daily housekeeping! I even thought the Bathroom phone was kind of pointless, but hey, I'm not judging.
And the pieces de resistance…. the Additional toilet (always appreciated!), Bathtub AND Separate shower/bathtub! The Bed, for all the love and stars i give it, was ridiculously long; even by my standards – and I’m 6'4"! The Desk was perfect for scribbling notes and judging all those tourists from my High floor. The Mini bar? Well-stocked. The Mirror was strategically placed for maximum selfie potential (you know you want to). Non-smoking (thank heavens!). The Private bathroom was clean, and the Toiletries, well, they were… there! The Wake-up service actually worked. The Window that opens was a breath of fresh air.
But listen, let's get real: The Soundproofing? Not perfect. I heard the screech of a trolley at midnight, and it kinda reminded me of my grandma's cat. But I still loved it.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer: Definitely recommended. Lisbon airport is a bit of a zoo.
- Taxi service: Readily available, but use Uber too.
- Car park [free of charge] - SCORE! Parking in Lisbon can be a nightmare.
- Bicycle parking - Not sure about the hotel, or if they have it, but the city has a great biking lanes.
- Car power charging station - I didn't see any.
Services and Conveniences:
The hotel has a bunch, like a concierge that was actually helpful, unlike some I’ve encountered. Cash withdrawal available. I did use the Laundry service because, well, I can’t seem to pack light. Daily housekeeping again; I can't stress how necessary it is. They offer Dry cleaning, but I'm not quite fancy enough for that. The Elevator was a massive help! Luggage storage was handy because I got there early before check-ins, and later after check-out. They also have Safety deposit boxes, and the Front desk [24-hour] was a godsend after a late night. They have Facilities for disabled guests (see note above, double-check!). Invoice provided. Ironing service! Outdoor venue for special events. Smoking area. Terrace - AMAZING!
(Rambling interlude: You know, I once stayed in a hotel that charged extra for ice. ICE! Apparently, frozen water is a luxury in some places. I’m still scarred.)
Dining, drinking, and snacking
Okay, this is where things get interesting. I’m not gonna sugarcoat it: the Breakfast [buffet] was… a mixed bag. The Asian breakfast - actually quite good to my shock! The Coffee/tea in restaurant - Good enough to get the juices flowing. They do have Restaurants… more than one. The Poolside bar was a lifesaver during the scorching afternoons. They had Happy hour! Desserts in restaurant - Oh, yes, the desserts in Portugal are heavenly. The Snack bar was handy for a quick bite. They also have a Bar! If you’re looking for fine dining, there are a lot of the things here; the A la carte in restaurant is a must-try. The Soup in restaurant was simple and delicious.
(Another rambling thought: I’m pretty sure I could write an entire book about hotel breakfasts. The good, the bad, and the "mystery meat"…)
Things to do, ways to relax:
Let's talk about that Swimming pool! It's beautiful and has an amazing Pool with view. There's a Fitness center! I tried it once but ended up exhausted from the hill-climb earlier on that day. There’s a Spa/sauna. They offer Massage. If I could only stay in the Sauna and Steamroom all day, I would!
(Opinion overload: the pool was my saving grace. After traipsing through Lisbon's hills, it was heaven. I'm a simple man.)
Cleanliness and safety
I was VERY impressed. With the whole Covid thing going on, the Sanitized kitchen and tableware items and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items were a relief. The Daily disinfection in common areas was visible. The Hand sanitizer was everywhere. The Staff trained in safety protocol. The Rooms sanitized between stays made a difference. They have CCTV in common areas, which I appreciate. The Fire extinguisher was very reassuring. The First aid kit was there, in case I needed it. Hygiene certification! Safety/security feature are all there. Smoke alarms. Non-smoking rooms.
For the kids:
I saw some Family/child friendly signs. I think they offer Babysitting service. I didn't really notice the Kids facilities; unfortunately, I didn't bring any.
Internet Access
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! It's fast and easy to connect, in every nook and cranny. Internet for regular use. Internet access – LAN.
Things to See and Do in Lisbon:
This hotel is perfectly positioned to explore EVERYTHING. Walk the Alfama, take a tram to Castelo de São Jorge, and sample the pastries – but prepare for crowds. Get lost in the narrow streets, and maybe, maybe, you'll stumble upon your own little secret. And don't skip the azulejos! If Lisbon is not Crow-tastic, what is?
Crow-tastic Suites: Is it for you?
YES. Absolutely yes. Especially if you're open-minded, a little adventurous, and appreciate a hotel that’s more than just a place to sleep. This is an experience! It’s not perfect, but it's real, it’s memorable, and it's unlike anything else you'll find in Lisbon.
Here's the emotional summary:
- The Good: Amazing location, super-friendly staff (often!), clean rooms, good Wi-Fi, THAT POOL.
- The "Meh": Accessibility could be better, breakfast can be hit-or-miss, some noise.
- The "Whoa!": The sheer, unique Crow-tastic-ness of it all. This place is an experience.
The Offer (Because You Deserve It):
Book your stay at Crow-tastic Suites today and get:
- 15% off your entire stay.
- A complimentary bottle of Portuguese wine in your room upon arrival.
- Free upgrade (if available).
- Guaranteed access to the pool during peak hours.
Don't just visit Lisbon. Experience it. Book your stay at Crow-tastic Suites now! Click here! (I wish I could actually put the link here, but you know the drill).
**(Disclaimer: My
Hammett's Hotel: Your Dream US Getaway Awaits (Unbelievable Deals Inside!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. This is LISBON, baby, and we're gonna get this city inside us. Forget those pristine, Instagram-perfect travel plans. This is the messy, the glorious, the "wait, did I really just eat that?" version. We're aiming for Famous Crows Lisbon Suites and beyond. Let's do this.
Day 1: Arrival - Oh.My.God. This City! & Pastel de Nata Pandemonium
- Morning (or, you know, whenever I manage to drag myself out of bed after that red-eye): Land at Lisbon Airport (LIS). Pray to the travel gods your luggage arrives. I’ve already got a mental image of me, desperately hunting for a pharmacy in my pajamas. Customs, done. (Hopefully.)
- Getting to Famous Crows: Taxi, Uber, whatever gets me there. The important thing is to arrive at my suite at Famous Crows Lisbon Suites. Google Maps says it's a 20-minute drive, but let's be honest, Portuguese traffic could add a whole new dimension to the meaning of "a little bit delayed". Sigh.
- Arrival & Initial Freakout: Okay, deep breath. I had to book this place months ago, and the pictures looked incredible. I hope it really is as good as it looks, which I'm finding hard to believe. This is where I'll probably lose it for a second… the "OMG I'M ACTUALLY HERE" moment. Unpack, shower (because airplane germs), and then… explore.
- Afternoon: Pastel de Nata Quest - The Holy Grail! This is the most important part of the day. I've researched, I've mapped, I've mentally rehearsed. We're going to Pastéis de Belém. The ORIGINAL. The one that started it all. I have this terrifying fear I'll be disappointed, but I'll keep going. Crowds be damned.
- Anecdote: Last time I tried a "famous" pastel de nata, it was… underwhelming. Like a tiny, overly ambitious custard tart. I'm scarred, I'm skeptical, but I'm also determined.
- Pacing: Expect me to buy at least six. (For "research" purposes, obviously.) Expect me to eat them standing up, covered in sugar and cinnamon, with a blissful, slightly insane expression on my face.
- Evening: Exploring Alfama - Lost & Loving It! After that pastry pilgrimage, we're gonna wander the Alfama. This is where I want to get lost in the narrow, winding streets. I can already feel myself getting disoriented. I fully intend to embrace it.
- Quirky Observation: The laundry hung out to dry. It is incredible how much a laundry line can tell you about a neighborhood.
- Rambling: Trying and failing to speak Portuguese should be my favorite pastime in every foreign city. A lot of hand gestures, a lot of blushing, and a whole lot of laughter.
- Dinner: Finding a Fado restaurant in Alfama. (Book in advance, you idiot!) Get ready for moody music, a slightly boozy haze, and probably some tears. (I'm a sucker for a good sad song.)
Day 2: Tile Obsession & Market Frenzy
- Morning: Okay, so I woke up with sugar dust and still craving those pastries. First: breakfast at the suite. Then: Time to start the tile hunt at the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo).
- Emotional Reaction: The tiles are EVERYTHING. I almost lost my mind when I saw them. I've been a fan of tiles since childhood and I went totally gaga.
- Messy Note: I may buy a million tiles. And then have no idea how to get them home.
- Afternoon: Time Out Market & Tram 28 Ride of Doom
- Food Frenzy: I've heard about Time Out Market. It's a gourmet food hall with everything. Seafood, burgers, steak… I'm going to have a field day. I suspect I'll be there for hours, sampling everything.
- Dilemma: Do I get another Pastel de Nata? YES.
- The Infamous Tram 28: I'm not going to lie, I'm slightly terrified. This is another must-do. I've heard it's packed, slow, and a potential pickpocket paradise. But the views! I'm willing to risk it.
- Evening: Drinks & Sunset – The Lisbon Light
- Opinionated Language: I want a rooftop bar. I want to drink something overpriced and look at the sunset over Lisbon. Damn it, I deserve this. Then, food at an authentic (hopefully) restaurant in Bairro Alto.
Day 3: Day Trip, Regrets, and a River Dance
- Morning: Day Trip to Sintra – Castles & Fairy Tales (and Crowds): I'm going to take a train to Sintra. I'm sure it'll be beautiful, but I'm also bracing myself for a crush of tourists. The colourful Pena Palace on top of the hill is not meant to be missed.
- Rambling: Hopefully, I don't get lost in a castle. I am easily disoriented in new places.
- Imperfection: I am sure that I don't get enough time to see everything.
- Afternoon: Regretting My Life Choices (Maybe): More Pastel de Nata? Is this even a question?
- Evening: Food Tour – (Or Maybe Just Eating More…) I'm tempted by a food tour. Then I want to try some Fado.
Day 4: "The Hangover Day" & Goodbye (For Now)
- Morning: Waking up. Nursing the slight headache. Probably a lot of coffee.
- Shopping: Stroll through the shops, and be mindful of souvenirs.
- Messy note: I was warned to save room for this part.
- Afternoon: Relaxation: After the shopping, it's time to get back to the suite.
- Evening: Last supper: Last-minute explorations.
- Goodbye (For Now): Airport, tears, and a promise to return.
And, of course, there will be some "must-dos" that get missed, some detours, unexpected discoveries, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect pastel de nata. But that's the fun, right? Lisbon, you beautiful mess. I'm ready for you.
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Lisbon's Crow-tastic Suites FAQ: Get Ready to Squawk!
Alright, alright, settle down you bunch of curious cats! You’ve heard the whispers, seen the cryptic hints. You're here for the *Crow-tastic Suites* – Lisbon's...well, let's just say *unique* accommodation. Buckle up, because this isn't your grandma's brochure.
1. What *IS* this "Crow-tastic" business, anyway? Is it, like, a murder of crows in a hotel room? (Please say no!)
Okay, deep breaths. NO, it's not literally a flock of feathered fiends taking over your slumber spot (though... that would be a story, wouldn't it?). Crow-tastic Suites are, generally speaking, a collection of… well, eclectic and often gloriously quirky apartments and suites peppered around Lisbon, curated by… let's call him "Mr. C" for now. He has a *thing* for crows. Specifically, their intelligence, their mystique, and, let's face it, their sheer *drama*. The apartments usually will have some sort of crow-themed artwork, design elements or even real-life crow sightings nearby. It's all about embracing the underdog, the unusual, the perfectly imperfect side of Lisbon.
I met Mr. C once. Let's just say the man is a character. He greeted me with a "Caw!" and a wink. I wasn't ready. But okay, I kinda like it!
2. Okay, I'm intrigued (and slightly terrified). Where are these suites located? Are they safe?
The locations are part of the charm... and sometimes, the potential for a little bit of a scavenger hunt. They're scattered throughout the historic districts of Lisbon: Alfama, Bairro Alto, Graça… basically, the places you *want* to be. Safety? Lisbon is generally pretty safe, but always use common sense. Some areas are a bit more… lively, shall we say? Especially at night.
I once stayed in a Crow-tastic Suite in Alfama. Loved it! Okay, I had to climb a *serious* hill to get there with my suitcase, and the cobblestone streets were brutal, but the view from the balcony? *Chef's kiss*. And the apartment smelled faintly of cinnamon and old books. Pure magic.
3. What’s the vibe of the suites? Are we talking luxury or more... rustic? (Because I'm not afraid of a little "rustic" but I draw the line at spiders)
It varies! Mr. C seems to have a penchant for mixing old and new, with a generous dash of "found object" aesthetic. Some are seriously stylish, with modern amenities and crow-themed art that's actually cool. Others… well, they lean more towards "charmingly vintage." Think exposed brick, maybe a slightly wonky door, and definitely not necessarily the latest in kitchen appliances. But all are absolutely chock-full of character.
Spiders? Okay, look, I'm with you. I'm not a fan. Generally, places are well-maintained, but in an older city like Lisbon, you might encounter a small spider or two. Just… embrace it? (I'm kidding! Call Mr. C! He'll probably find a cool way to get rid of it.)
4. Are they expensive? Will my bank account survive this experience?
That depends! Mr. C’s portfolio offers something for most budgets. Some suites are on the pricier side, reflecting their prime locations and stylish interiors. Others are surprisingly affordable, especially considering the unique experience. I've seen some fantastic deals, and then, yeah, some that made my wallet weep. Do your research! Look at reviews. Compare prices. And be prepared to pay for *authenticity*. That's really what you're getting here.
I remember one suite I wanted, it was called "The Corvid's Nest." The photos were stunning – panoramic views, a fireplace, a giant golden crow statue! But, by the end of reading the reviews, I found out it was so loud because the tram went by every 5 minutes. Yikes. I dodged a bullet (and probably a sleepless night).
5. How do I book one of these secretive spots? Is there a secret handshake? A password?
No secret handshake (thank goodness!). You can usually find the Crow-tastic Suites on the usual suspects: booking sites like Airbnb or Booking.com. Search for apartments in Lisbon with the keywords "quirky," "unique," "historic," and then, maybe, "crow-themed" (or just cross your fingers!). Mr. C has a website, I think. Let me see... *scrolling furiously* ... Nope. No website. See? Secretive! Just be patient, read the reviews carefully (they're often the best source of truth), and be ready for the unexpected. It's part of the fun, right?
Pro-tip: sometimes, the photos don't do the suites justice. Trust me. They're usually *way* cooler in person.
6. Ugh. What if things go wrong? What if the promised "breathtaking views" turn out to be the back of a dumpster?
Okay, breathe. It's Lisbon, not the apocalypse. First, always read the reviews! They're your best defense against disappointment. Next, if something's truly amiss, contact the booking platform. They usually have a good system for dealing with issues. As for the "dumpster view," well, embrace the chaos! (Just kidding, hopefully, it doesn't come to that.)
I had an issue once! My suite had an amazing balcony, but someone had forgotten to mention that it overlooked a very loud, very enthusiastic karaoke bar. My first night? I had a sing-along. My second? I bought earplugs. Problem solved! You're in Lisbon, people! Things happen.
7. Okay, I'm sold! But… give me a *real* Crow-tastic Suite story. Something that solidifies this "must-see" feeling.
Alright, alright, here's one for you. I was staying in a suite called "The Alchemist's Perch" in the Alfama district. It was tiny. Seriously tiny. But the view... oh, the view! Overlooking the Tagus River, the red rooftops, the whole damn city. It was breathtaking.
The first night, I had a bottle of Vinho Verde, the best in the world, sat on the balcony, and watched the sunset, absolutely speechless. The next morning, I woke up to a cawing! (There were actual crows!) But, the most wonderfulHotel Near Airport
