We had a great few days in Mário’s place. We arrived by train at Santa Apolónia station, which is only a short walk away. We left by plane, and we found it easy to get the metro to the airport (with one change) from the same station rather than taking a taxi/Uber.
The flat’s in a great location in the heart of the Alfama district, within walking distance of the metro and sights in both the new and old parts of the city. There’s a small supermarket (Pingo Doce) in Santa Apolónia station, and a local grocery store or two on the adjacent street Rua dos Remédios.
Lara welcomed us and explained all we needed to know about the flat and the area. The flat was clean comfortable and had everything we needed, including a powerful shower, washing machine and a large, comfortable double bed (even a dishwasher, which we didn’t use).
The flat has big windows on the street side with shutters and curtains, so you can make it as light/open or dark/private as you like. There are French doors onto a narrow balcony, just enough space to stand and take in some fresh air and the action in the street below (or see a section of the latest massive cruise ship to dock!).
The cobbled street can be quite lively with passers-by but quietens down as the evening draws on. I’m a light sleeper so we closed the windows on the street side just in case, leaving open just the bedroom window, which looks onto an internal courtyard. We slept very well.
In short, we had a very comfortable stay in Lisbon, and would definitely consider staying in this flat again.