If you're not super eager to be in Belem or near a train to Cascais, I wouldn't necessarily go out of my way to stay here. The night life and restaurant choices are a little slim, and it takes a long time to get into Lisbon or to any of the train or bus stations. I did, however, like that it gave us an excuse to visit the most famous of the Pasteis bakeries and try them fresh from the source, as the Setubalense is right down the street. And one added bonus is that there is a Coke machine right in the hotel... perfect for Coke Light addicts like myself!

We were given a choice of rooms: 45 euros for a small twin room with not much of a view or 60 euros for a larger room with a queen-sized bed and a twin-sized bed and an amazing view from the terrace (see photos). The decision was easy.

The small hotel is located in Belem, which is about a 20-minute tram ride from the center of Lisbon. Breakfast is not available at Pensao Setubalense, but the world-famous cafe, Confeitaria de Belem, is just a few doors away. Belem is home to a number of excellent sites and is a pleasant neighborhood to stroll during the day or evening. Among the sites are the Tower of Belem, the Monument to the Discoveries, the Jeronimos monastery, and the Maritime Museum.

The room was sufficient in space, and the bathroom was large by European standards. The shower was strong and hot water was immediate. Unfortunately, a mildly bad odor was evident at times (not of our making!--we dealt with it by buying a 1-euro room freshener). Also, one of us suffered bed bug bites.

The staff was friendly and helpful in answering any question or concern.

A few yards/meters away is a quiet pedestrian street--Rua Veira Portuense--with several restaurants. We tried two of them: Floresta (excellent pork and grilled squid dishes) and Montenegro (superb seafood rice).

All things considered, Pensao Setubalense is an excellent value.

Me and my boyfriend stayed three nights here. The building is very old, the staff is very nice, but the rooms were not the cleanest I've seen! Do not get me wrong, you can stay here for a few nights, it is bearable, but do not expect 5-star conditions!! On the other hand, the location is the best in Lisbon (in my opinion, at least) - many of the greatest attractions of Lisbon are just a few minutes away, the neighborhood is very peaceful and lovely (not as noisy and crowded as Alfama or Baixa), and... let's not forget the delicious Pastéis de Belém (found on the same street as the Pensão). Of course, you can even catch a train to Estoril from the train station in Belém! It's really worth it - I already miss the ocean.

Had always heard that Belem was the place to stay when you go to lisbon and the stories were true - couldn't have asked for a better location - close to the river/trains/trams/buses and all the sights that lisbon has to offer - and right at your doorstep are some fabulous eateries with melt in the mouth local delicacies especially the seafood and the pork dishes - the price was 50 Euros per night which gives you a double bed in a very quiet location, a nice hot shower, breakfast but nil a/c - but hey it doesn't get that hot in lisbon anyway - you could do worse.