We had good communication with Maria & Luigi but not knowing Lisbon we booked their apartment in the hope it was well located. We could not have chosen better. It is a lovely light and airy apartment with all you need for a comfortable stay in the city. We are particularly fussy about noise at night so worried about the hussle and bustle of the city at night. By closing the windows and shutters at the front at night we heard nothing of the trams and traffic on the cobbled road outside and slept well.
Our mornings consisted of a stroll - mostly downhill - from Graca through Alfama, taking in coffee and breakfast at one of the many cafes on our way to downtown Lisbon. We chose an electric TukTuk tour over an open top bus to give us our initial impression and feel for the city. Although more expensive than the bus we felt it was more personal having a one to one guide. Of course we took a good long ride on Tram 28 in both directions. The secret is not to board at Martin Moniz where the queues of fellow tourists are long and to buy the 24hr ticket to use multiple times on trams, buses and metro.
We ate well wherever we went but in particular we recommend the Time Out Market for its wonderful atmosphere and choice of menus - but get a seat before you buy your food. For a great and unusual fish experience try A Cevicheria.
A city with great charm and character. We will visit again and hopefully return to stay in Maria & Luigi's well located apartment.