Rossio Hostel is located in Rossio Square, a central point for exploring Lisbon. The hostel is small, giving it a more personal feel.
The Location
The hostel doesn't have a sign outside and is located on the second floor, so be sure to bring the address! A currency exchange outlet is located at the bottom. The hostel is located at the bottom of a hill at Rossio Square, providing easy access to Baixa or Chaido. The location is ideal for transportation links -- there is a metro station, Aerobus stop (across the square, for airport accesss), tram stop (for going to Belem), and the Rossio train station (for day trips to Sintra). The street is a bit difficult to locate, but it branches off the side of the square opposite to the McDonald's. A full grocery store, Pingo Doce, is located just around the corner.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The four- and six-bed dorm rooms are nice and secure. Twin and double-bed privates are also available. A code is required to enter the dorm area, then a card key to enter the dorm. Lockers and a safe are provided. Each bunk also has a convenient punch for storing items as you sleep, as well as reading lights. The dorms are very noisy, even in the middle of the night, with all the traffic in the area, and the windows need to be left open as there is only a fan and no AC -- so don't expect a lot of sleep!
The male and female washrooms are located just outside the dorms. There are three sinks, two toilets, and three showers. Hooks are provided outside of shower doors for clothing, but this area is not private and is cramped for changing. The washroom lacks ventilation, making it feel very hot. The handheld showers are ok, but water temperature is inconsistent and the shower hook is not at a proper height. There is a ledge for keeping soap, and towels are provided.
Common Spaces
The hostel features three free internet computers, free Wi-Fi, a separate TV room, a lounge area, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Luggage storage is available. A shelf of books is available as well. The hostel can be good for meeting people, but since it is small, it depends on the guests at the time. Many of the guests are couples and small groups, so it can be quiet at times. Alcohol is permitted in the common spaces, and refreshments (including beer) are sold. The hostel also runs an excellent pub crawl, which is a great way to meet other guests if there is sufficient interest. Full-service laundry is available for a price. The breakfast is excellent, with a choice of eggs and toast or crepes with Nutella served to you at the table.
Summary
Rossio Hostel is a very good hostel, but keep in mind that Lisbon has many of the world's top-rated hostels so any comparisons need to be made with the competition. A small hostel provides a more intimate feel, but can also make it more difficult to meet people.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2009
Location/Contact
