Wonderful studio flat, lovely area, helpful owner
Review Submitted: September 23, 2008
Date of Stay: September 2008
We just came back from three nights in Lisbon, the city is fantastic and we could not have chosen a better place to stay to celebrate our wedding anniversary.
Maria's first floor apartment is full of character, it's tiny and beautifully furnished, mostly new IKEA stuff, and is in the lovely historic district of Alfama with views across the city's red-tiled rooftops. You have to walk a little way from the nearest road - Alfama is mostly fairly steep pedestrian streets - and the apartment, which is in the traditional style, is located very centrally within the Alfama district, a short walk (c. 20 min) or atmospheric tram ride into the city centre. You can get to the castle, cathedral and a dozen typical restaurants and Fado bars within 10 minutes - the castle in particular is worth a visit if only for the breathtaking views over the city and river.
Maria is probably the most helpful owner we have ever met - and we have had only good experiences with Holiday Rentals owners over the last 10 years; she met us personally, made sure we were stocked with coffee, local bread, vinho verde and even the local custard tarts (which are to die for) and could not have done more. On the last day, she not only met us to collect the keys but drove us to the airport - and then on to the fantastic Expo 98 area, which has riverside walkways, a cable car ride (fun!), loads of shops, restaurants and bars.
The other highlight of our visit was a trip to the Gulbenkian Museum of Modern Art, near Sao Sebastian metro station (cross the road and walk up on the left, it's not signposted until you are almost at the entrance) - a small and interesting collection in an ultra-modern building, lots of light and space, a lovely garden outside. Entrance is free on Sundays - this did mean a bit of a queue for the cafe which was worth it. After the museum, we sauntered back into the city through the Edward VII park and avenues, which was only about half an hour.
Lisbon is safe, friendly and fascinating: we were extremely fortunate to find this apartment and to meet Maria and can not recommend it highly enough.
Owner's Response: Thank you for your appreciation and your sympathy, you are both very welcome :-)
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Helpful votes: 7/7
