Maria’s Alfama apartment has everything going for it - location, location, location!!! Close to metro, great restaurants and little markets all within walking distance. The apartment is located in a nice quiet courtyard off the main small street where the cafes and restaurants can be found. The place was surprisingly a little bigger than the photos and very cosy. The whole apartment was clean with everything you’d need - we did pick up some extra toilet paper as we were there for 7 days, but didn’t mind as it was a small thing to ask of Maria. The bed is super comfortable and even though it was mid-September we had the windows open enjoying the cool night air as we slept. The shower has great water pressure which was refreshing after a long day of walking the 7 hills.
The restaurants in the neighbourhood offered up delicious options after a long day of walking around Lisbon. It was nice to be close to ‘home’ after a full belly. Our top recos: Pastelaria Alfacinha (great coffee, like everywhere in Lisbon), Taberna Sal Grosso, Alfama Cellar, Salmoura, Ginja d’Alfama (classic bar - be sure to have some really good snacks along with your drinks and sit in the small seating along the alleyway), and of course experiencing Fado music at Arcaz Velho - friendly staff.
About a 10 minute walk we found Cervejaria Amigo Antonio - a classic bar established in 1943 still run by the same family. And go a little outside of Alfama (by Metro or Tram 28) to find Lost In restaurant for a great rooftop view in a chill atmosphere - we had snacks and beverages but would have liked to try their dinner menu.
We know now why Maria has earned her super host status as she was quick with responses to all our initial questions. She was gracious to let us drop off our bags prior to our check-in as we arrived early morning. She even allowed us an early check-in, once her cleaner was done.