Aida’s place is a great place to begin your adventure from. Within easy walking distance are Mira Douro de Santa Catarina, the iconic Church of St. Catherine, Pink Street, Time Out Market, Carmo Convent, Igreja de Sao Ruque, Elevadour de Santa Justa and Praca de Comercio. If you are in relatively good shape or working towards it, Parque Edward VII, Castelo St. Jorge and other attractions are in striking distance. Or if you prefer public transportation is easily available and the famous Tram 28 passes within a few meters of the flat.
There are numerous local markets nearby and a little over a mile, larger chain stores (Pingo Doce, Auchan). Additionally, there are plenty of bakeries, restaurants and bars to enjoy close by.
Aida’s place itself is on the second floor of a century old building. As such there is plenty of charm. The furnishings were comfortable and there was enough space in the apartment for 3 people. The beds were comfy and though tight (only a double), the main room’s bed provided just enough of room for me and my spouse (5’11” and 6’5”). The second bedroom was ample space for our son (12 years old) to sleep and has a little desk where he was able to do his schoolwork.
The kitchen is galley style and provided descent prep room, stove top and oven to prepare meals. The stove is located inside of a nook that can be a little challenging if you are tall. I bumped my head twice.
Aida is a responsive host and committed to providing a comfortable stay. During our stay we inquired about a blender so that we could blend smoothies and soups, the next day she purchased a new one for use in the unit. The only unfortunate issue is that thorough out our month long stay we experienced excessive noise late evening into early morning. Sometimes it sounded like construction, other times it sounded like movement of furniture other times stomping. This negatively affected our stay because we work until 10PM Portugal time and homeschool our son we require a good night sleep. In the case of young adults still celebrating a few days after New Year, Aida came over to resolve the matter. If you are a night owl or only staying a few nights this might not matter to you.
Overall, great location, charming flat, the frequent late-night noise would be the only deterrent from selecting this flat again.