it was cool being in alfama/castelo de S Jorge for the first few days but i much preferred my stay in chiado. it was inconvenient for going to the gym or any restaurants outside of alfama. it is on the top of a steep hill so prepare for a workout anytime you want to go out. it is also in the castle so food delivery drivers get very confused, take longer, and many cancel.
the shower intermittently has hot water, soaks the whole floor/sink and doesn’t drain properly so you need to dry all your belongings and the bathroom after every use. there are no closets to put your suitcase or hang clothes, and virtually no pantry space in the kitchen so any groceries besides cans/jars have to sit on the counter. the apartment feels much less spacious than the listing photos.
the host gave many recommendations for things to do in the area and was very polite during check-in. i was charged $75 extra cleaning fee for not doing the dishes or taking out the garbage before checkout so just make sure to do that if you don’t want any surcharges.