Wonderful place!
Date Submitted: December 18, 2009
My Husband and I travelled to Lisbon/Spain/Morocco from our home in San Diego for our Honeymoon. We couldn't have chosen a better destination or a better place as the Alfama House for the first leg of our trip.
Francois was gracious even from the beginning/planning stages answering our questions and giving some great advice.
After a 17 hours of flight/lay overs it was so comforting to know that we'd be picked up when we arrived and sure enough Francois was there waiting for us and even was good enough to make the room for my husbands surfboard. He gave us great tips/advice and guidance and got us settled in at the house. The house was perfect, ideal location in the history filled, cobble stoned streets of Lisbon, the decor was lovely, the size was perfect for the two of us and the fact that there was a laptop for us to use (boy did we put it to use coordinating rental cars, finding train schedules )along with a washing machine was the icing on the cake. We felt so comfortable and at home and would stay again and again and again and recommend it highly to anyone who is considering a trip to Lisbon!
Cromford, Carlsbad, CA
Do Lisbon like a local, stay at Alfama House!
Date Submitted: December 17, 2009
We were attracted to Alfama House by other traveller reviews and we can confirm that couples or a solo wanderer wanting a romantic, rustic break from the hotel or B&B routine will be impressed.
The personable Francois, himself a traveller, met us on arrival in Lisbon, and shared practical tips on Alfama life and living, en route (pick-up is free and an indispensable part of the service).
The final 200 metres to the apt. is only accessible by foot, but fear not. Francois will escort you and your bags there (and away if you ask nicely) wheeled bags are ESSENTIAL if you bring suitcases! This should not discourage travellers who are reasonably fit and able, if you have a hard time just in an Airport concourse this is not for you!
Once there, you'll find getting around Lisbon easy and cheap, with trams buses and trains all nearby.
Some of the locals may look a little careworn, gazing silently from their doorways at first, but we only met with genuine warmth and civility during our stay. In Alfama, you get back what you give, smile and say hello to the elderly Portuguese lady leaning from her window near the entrance door, she's your neighbour!
At night, the area is well-lit and populated with a lively mix of locals and sightseers late into the evening, but of course, as in any big city, take sensible precautions.
The apartment itself is a wee gem! Housed in an old building, the stairs are steep and narrow as you'd expect in Europe. A sturdy communal entry door that is always locked, and a triple locking steel 'T bar' on the apartment door itself means you and your belongings will be safe indoors.
Francois ensures you'll want for nothing, from the Free internet, washing machine (powder included) cable TV, CD player, fully equipped kitchen -stroll a picturesque ten minutes to the supermarket 'hidden' in the train station. Browse the donated guide books, or leave yours behind and share the love.
Breakfast on pastries baked a few doors away, sweet or savoury, the array is delicious!
The cosy bedroom has great darkening shutters solid brick walls and double glazing, there's even a bidet in the bathroom!
The pictures on the website are a true reflection of the apartment and surrounds. Step onto your balcony at sunset and soak up the atmosphere, wine in hand. Alfama is Lisbon 'unplugged'!
Will & Felicia, Sydney Australia
Wonderful stay
Date Submitted: November 25, 2009
A great holiday in the middle of Alfama, one of the oldest area of the city. The apartment was great, very clean and well decorated. It had everything we wanted. The PC and the internet were great to have access to. The owner took a lot of time answering all our questions and the airport pick-up was a great start to the holiday. Really, I recommend the apartment and staying in the Alfama. We have no regrets and hope to go back.
MDELRO, Sevilla
Alfama is the best area by far
Date Submitted: November 16, 2009
We stayed a week in this very clean and cozy apartment. Located in the Alfama area of Lisbon, we loved the relaxed atmosphere and the feeling of being part of the community. We felt right at home, although a few thousand kilometers away from home. The owner was very friendly and the airport pick-up was certainly a plus. Having a computer and the internet in the place helped us plan better our days out. Really, one of the best area and a very nice apartment. Would recommend to anyone. Don't hesitate!
LPCh, Portugal
Great flat, perfect location
Date Submitted: November 8, 2009
The hassle-free airport pick-up was the start of a memorable sunny holiday in Lisbon. The flat is perfectly located right in the heart of the Alfama district, about five minutes' walk from the Se cathedral. It's cosy, clean and comfortable and perfect for two. The flat is in a narrow cobbled street, so the neighbourly chatting of the locals can seem quite loud. However it was all very friendly and never loud at night. There's a perfect cake and coffee shop (with fab freshly squeezed o-j) less than a minute's walk away. The centre of town is twenty minutes' walk. Try 'A Baiuca' near San Miguel down the road for great fado.
Vic2, Oxfordshire, UK
Great place to stay - Lisbon is an interesting city
Date Submitted: October 21, 2009
We (mature couple) booked in for a week. The flat is not huge but very clean and well laid out. It is in a very interesting area of Lisbon. This area is still very much a neighbourhood/street life community. Appliances etc. were all modern and worked well including the computer and internet. Flat was well stocked with soap, toilet paper etc etc. on arrival. Francois was great about the pick up and showing us everything. It is a nice stroll uphill to the castle and close to easy transport to other areas or a (longish but interesting) walk downtown.. Price was good. We really enjoyed our time here.
NB it is in an area of town where there are no cars allowed and it is a few floors up steep stairs to the flat so do not bring big suitcases!
MLM Hal, Halifax, Canada
Wonderfull apartment in unbeatable location
Date Submitted: October 11, 2009
We stayed for 4 nights in September. The apartment is very well kept,
and has all modern conveniences, including the Internet.
We were very grateful to Francois for picking us up at the airport
and taking us to the apartment; not sure if we could find it ourselves
in the maze of Alfama's narrow streets.
At Francois suggestion we went to the Dragão de Alfama for dinner and fado;
just a few steps from the apartment. Highly recommend it.
One thing to keep in mind: you are in the area where people consider the streets to be part of their living rooms, so expect to hear neighbors talking, children crying and music playing - late at night, and early in the morning.
It is all part of the experience.
Irina & Harry, Chicago, USA
Exactly as described on the web
Date Submitted: October 9, 2009
My husband and I travelled to Spain in September and made a side trip to Lisbon, we stayed at Alfama House for 4 nights. From the beginning inquiring about the apartment to the time he picked us up at the airport, explaining everything to us and finally on our last day walked us to the taxi for the airport —François was friendly, he made us feel welcome and put us at ease in that part of the world.
The apartment is perfect for two people with everything that one would need; it was wonderful to have internet and a PC at our disposal; kitchenware, towels, soap even laundry detergent. We had rented other self-catering apartments during this trip, some of them did not supply soap, and one did not even supply toilet paper!
With its cobble stones and narrow streets, Alfama is really a special place. It is also very convenient as there are shops, bakery (just a few houses down) and restaurants close by.
Overall, we felt that the Alfama House had really good value for the money and would highly recommend it.
Thanks again François, it was a pleasure meeting you.
Susannia & Walter, Quebec/Canada
Central location
Date Submitted: 1 September 2009
The area of Alfama House is very charming. It felt like old Europe and we were very happy with the atmosphere. Local shops provide what one needs and restaurants are all over the area. The price quality ratio was great considering free internet access - with a PC - and the airport pick-up. The apartment is small but more than adequate for two people. It was cosy and comfortable. One of the best we have rented so far. It was also great to use all the conveniences found in a normal house - washing machine, etc.
The check-in was great as we got in with the owner and he explained us all the little secrets of Alfama and gave us numerous valuable tips. I strongly recommend this apartment, without any hesitations.
L.K. New York, NY, USA
Excellent souvenir de Lisbonne!
Date Submitted: 31 August 2009
Nous avons passé une formidable semaine dans un appartement calme, confortable et très propre, en plein coeur de l'Alfama. Ce quartier ressemble à un grand village et l'on s'y sent vite chez soi. Vous trouverez des petits commerces et des restaurants à proximité ainsi qu'une délicieuse patisserie dans laquelle vous pourrez déguster votre petit déjeuner. Vous ne trouverez aucune difficulté à vous déplacer dans Lisbonne, à pied ou en transports en communs (tramways, bus et gare sont à 5 min). Vous prendrez plaisir à arpenter ses ruelles étroites et à vous y perdre. Le soir, la lumière du coucher du soleil est superbe vue des belvédères. Merci encore à François pour son accueil très chaleureux. Il vient vous chercher à l'aéroport et n'hésite pas à vous conseiller sur les lieux à visiter. Lisbonne est une capitale pleine de charme et nous y reviendrions avec plaisir !
Sophie & Seyla, France.
An excellent place to stay - highly recommended
Date Submitted: 31 August 2009
My husband and I stayed here for a week at the end of July. Although I think it's quite easy to get from the airport to the apartment, the pick-up service was wonderful. Francois was waiting for us, he's a very friendly and helpful person and it was a pleasure to meet him. The apartment is in a beautiful location: situated in a residential area in Alfama, the old part of the city. Lovely narrow, cobbled streets with little shops, restaurants, and a bakery just steps away from the apartment. There is also a small supermarket in the Apollonia train station just a short walk away.
The apartment is very nicely decorated with more than enough space for 2 people. It has a very spacious kitchen with everything you need should you wish to cook. The bathroom is a bit narrow but fully functional and with an excellent supply of towels. The double bedroom has shelving and a wardrobe and a very comfortable double bed and very good lighting.
Having the computer with internet access was a great bonus. There is also a good collection of books, music, maps and information about Lisbon in the apartment.
We loved staying in this apartment and will definitely go back again. It was our first time in Lisbon and we have to say that everyone we met: people in shops, train stations, restaurants, trams, Fado clubs etc., were so very helpful and friendly. We've travelled a lot and have had lots of good experiences but we were amazed that every single person we encountered was wonderful! I can't stress this enough.
So, don't hesitate to go to Lisbon and to stay in this apartment. We fully recommend it. Many thanks Francois, it was a pleasure
Marie & Declan, Ireland.
What an amazing place!
Date Submitted: 22 August 2009
My husband and I stayed for 4 nights at the Alfama House. It was wonderful! It is very clean and comfortable.Small but cozy. We were close to the metro and many small stores and resturants.Fado singing and good food was just a few steps away. We felt very safe and did not have any worries about walking around at night or when we got lost(we did a lot of that).Francois was very kind and helpful. It's great to have the internet so we could keep in touch with him, if needed, and our family. Wish we could have stayed longer.
B & G, Estacada, Oregon, USA
The perfect start to a wonderful vacation
Date Submitted: July 30, 2009
We stayed at the Alfama House for a week early this June. The apartment was exactly as described, and it was a wonderful base to explore Lisbon from. We enjoyed breakfasting on fresh rolls from the pastry shop a few doors away; listening to neighbors calling out to each other across the street, and the occasional aroma of fish grilling on a small fire next door.
I knew that the Alfama is an important area for tourism, but wasn't expecting it to be such a vibrant, and basically ungentrified neighborhood where real people live real lives. Apart from the comfort of having space to spread out in, internet access, a washing machine and a very viable kitchen, it was wonderful to be outside the tourist loop. Francois made very helpful suggestions about places to go and restaurants to try.
Other people have listed some of the activities they enjoyed most. One I haven't seen mentioned is the Museum of Fado, which is only a few blocks from the Alfama House. It is fairly new, and is a wonderful introduction to Portugal's national music.
We hope to return to Lisbon before too long, and will definitely stay at the Alfama House when we do
Eggiweg, New York, NY, USA
Holiday Alfama
Date Submitted: 20 July 2009
In a world of plastic realities, to live for even a week in a small village "feel" of tiny bakeries, butchers, bars and cafes (mainly frequented by local people who belong to a vibrant lively community that is both friendly and yet respects your privacy ) this was a balm for the soul. To walk narrow streets that do not have a cappucino tourist stamp on every pavement stone and yet hum with real life and activity is a gift and, in a traditional community like this, I think we all can see our own parents and grandparents on every corner and, perhaps mourn those community values they lived by .Yet, modern as we are the joys of the touristy Baixa are only a short walk away while a short 40 min (and cheap 7.40 euro return ) train ride takes you into the world of tourist beaches that is Cascais from where you can return to soothe your sunburn and your soul in the warmth of alfama. To anyone blind to my joyful superlatives, succinctly put: this is a wonderful place and the apartment and Francois help can not be faulted.
Kevin and Monica, Ireland.
Romantic Alfama Apartment
Date Submitted: 4 July 2009
We can't say enough positive things about this apartment as a place to stay in Lisbon! If you are tired of institutional hotels in abandoned commercial districts, if you want atmosphere plus cleanliness and all the comforts of home (kitchen, internet access, TV, CD player, and more), if you like the idea of making your own coffee in the morning when and how you want, and if you relish the adventure of staying in a living Lisbon community where you step out your door onto narrow, cobbled medieval streets dotted with marvelous little restaurants, terraces for drinks and conversation, bakeries, plus venues for Lisbon's famous fado....well, this is the place to stay. Our landlord was warm and gracious and met us at the airport and took us directly to our little apartment. He had very interesting things to say about Lisbon and the Portuguese and gave us excellent tips on what to do and where to go for music and meals. The fado and dining places he recommended were fabulous. The apartment was fresh and clean with two floor-to-ceiling double windows and balconies offering breezes and views down onto the street. Because it is on the second floor of one of the apartment buildings that line the streets in the Alfama, it would not be so suited to people with disabilities. We particularly enjoyed the neighbors who greeted us as we arrived and left and asked us how our days went. Although the neighborhood was alive with people and conversation in the day and early evening, it was quiet and easy to sleep at night and in the morning. We would give this property our highest rating to friends.
M. Wells, California, USA
Great Apartment in Perfect Location!
Date Submitted: 20 May 2009
My daughter and I stayed at Alfama House in late April to early May 2009 for seven nights and loved it. Being picked up at the airport by Francois was a wonderful bonus. We appreciated all the information and recommendations about the neighbourhood and Lisbon that he gave us - and the map! The apartment is perfect for two people, clean and well equipped for self catering. The owner has thought of everything including a computer with free internet and a washing machine. The location is excellent with only a short walk to Tram 28, metro (Santa Apolonia station), Castle Sao Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral and Fiera da Ladra. There are restaurants,markets and a bakery nearby and the neighbourhood adds to the experience. We definitely recommend this apartment and would stay again.
B & K, NWT, Canada
Wonderful Vacation!
Date Submitted: 11 May 2009
My husband and I spent 7 days at the Alfama House late March into early April this year, 2009. We LOVED the experience and location! There is no better location for feeling truly plugged into the Portuguese culture and old world living. We found a fruit stand a few streets away and paid close to nothing for enough fresh oranges to use the juicer at the apartment for a large glass a piece each morning. Francois, the owner, was incredibly helpful with the pickup at the airport as well as LOADS of information and instruction on where to go and what to do. Lisbon was the BEST trip we have been on together and my personal best, which says a lot, as I have been to most major cities in Europe. Alfama house put us where we wanted to be and allowed us to venture around the greatest area in Lisbon, as well as allowed access to the 28 Tram, which will take you to anywhere you need to go etc. I would recommend the Alfama House to my friends as well as stay again when we most definitely return! Cozy, but everything you would need for a fantastic trip to Lisbon!
Kristen & John, Mass. USA
Enjoyable Stay at Alfama House
Date Submitted: 17 March 2009 Date of Stay: February 2009
We stayed at the apartment for 11 days in Feb 2009. The place is small, very clean and comfortable...perfect for 2 people. The aptartment is within walking distance of all public transport.The small local shops carry everything you need to fix breakfast or even a complete meal.Having a washing machine is a real plus. We also got hooked on the little pastries, perfect after a long day of sightseeing. Bring comfortable shoes!! We felt very safe in the Alfama area, but be aware of pick-pockets on the #28 and #15 trams. Being picked up at the airport is great. We found Lisbon easy to navigate, only got lost once on the first day.
M & J, Florida, USA
Great Alfama Apartment
Date Submitted: 24 January, 2009 Date of Stay: January 2009
This remodeled, clean apartment is very conveniently located in the Alfama area of Lisbon. Public transportation is nearby and easy to use, markets and restaurants just around the corner.The apartment is small but had everything we needed during our 4 night stay. Free internet was an added bonus as typically internet is very expensive in Portugal. The atmosphere in the Alfama really gives you a sense of life in old Portugal. Although some guide books mention safety in the Alfama, we are two traveling mid aged women who felt completely safe in this area. We couldn't have been happier with communications with Francois and were both picked up at the train station upon arrival and dropped off at the airport upon departure. This apartment in the Alfama is highly recommended. Thanks for a great stay Francois.
BJ & Liz, Alabama, USA
The New Year in Lisbon
Date Submitted: 7 January, 2009 Date of Stay: December 2008
We spent the New Year’s in this idyllic apartment in Alfama. It provided everything we needed; a bed, a shower, and a roof to protect us from the rain : ) The location is great and the atmosphere in Alfama is nice. The apartment is equipped with everything you need; including a PC and an Internet connection. The pick-up from the airport was also very handy. We recommend!
Katri P., Helsinki, Finland
Highly Recommended Apartment!
Date Submitted: 5 December, 2008 Date of Stay: November 2008
We were more than delighted with the apartment, it exceeded all our expectations. The apartment was very tastefully decorated and incredibly well maintained. The location was absolutely superb, we could walk to the centre of the city or hop on the tram (a daily 24hr pass gave access to bus-tram-train and was incredible value). What we really loved about the apartment and its location was its authenticity, we were living amongst the locals. We loved the old world charm with shops and eating places dotted inbetween apartments in the narrow winding streets - this all came alive in the evening. Being picked up at the airport by Francois on our arrival made it stressfree for us. He was incredibly helpful. We would recommend the apartment and location to anyone coming to Lisbon.
Les & Glenys, Melbourne, Australia
Great place to stay
Date Submitted: November 30, 2008 Date of Stay: November 2008
There is no better way to discover a new culture than to immerse in local atmosphere. The Alfama House apartment is an ideal place to do that. It is a modern, comfortable apartment located in the heart of Alfama - the place full of history, most charming area in Lisbon. Everything is within walking distance - sightseeing, metro, historical tram 28, Fado places. But the most valuable experience is to observe and listen to everyday life the way it has been for centuries. A BIG plus is that Francois met us at the airport, a lot of thanks. Another requirement, very important for us, was that we had to have access to Internet. Of course, you can use Internet cafes to check your mail, but we had to do more than that and having a computer at hand was a huge advantage.
N. & Y., Maryland, USA
Memorable Portugal Holiday!
Date Submitted: November 20, 2008 Date of Stay: November 2008
This is the best apartment I have ever stayed at! It includes everything you need. It is located in the oldest area of Lisbon and the apartment is very well renovated. It’s the best of both worlds with a lot of history narrow streets…cobble stone roads yet a warm and nice apartment. Francois is a great friendly guy who takes great pride in making your stay the best possible one. Even one of our flight’s was cancelled and he did everything he could to accommodate us. If ever you have any questions about anything during your stay you can always reach him by email from the apartment. He will tell you of good places to go see or what not to miss in order to get the whole taste of Lisbon. This home is cosy and close to everything….castle, good shopping, local bakeries, churches, tram (28), markets…you name it! We definitely know where we are staying when we go back to Lisbon. If it’s available, don’t hesitate to stay there!
Patrice & Jocelyn, Regina, Canada.
An excellent choice!
Date Submitted: November 09, 2008 Date of Stay: October 2008
We highly recommend this apartment if you're looking for a convenient, clean and comfortable location to spend your holidays in Lisbon. The Airport pick-up was a great start to our vacation. The owner is very friendly and he gave us a lot of useful information about the city. The apartment is cosy and well-equiped. A bakery, restaurants and little grocery stores can be found nearby. An excellent choice for a Lisbon holiday!
Catherina and Olivier, Lyon, France
Hidden Gem
Date Submitted: October 28, 2008 Date of Stay: October 2008
Alfama House was the best surprise in Lisbon. The apartment is like new and is located in the Alfama area which is the most interesting neighbourhood in Lisbon. Alfama House was way better than a hotel because of the space and ability to prepare food that you can pick up at the bakery, butcher or the store just down the alley. Francois the owner takes great care of you and makes great reommendations for local restaruants and hangouts. He even picked us up at the airport! No question we'll stay here again.
T.G., Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Perfect Location
Date Submitted: October 20, 2008 Date of Stay: October 2008
I was in Portugal in the beginning of October 2008 and stayed in this apartment for the first part of our trip. The location was perfect and really gave you a feel for Lisbon. It was a great apartment with all of the amenities including a washing machine and a computer with free internet. The owner went above and beyond to ensure that we were well taken care of and was very informative on the area, the attractions, restaurants, etc. I would recommend this apartment to anyone.
Jode, Canada
“THE” place to stay in Lisboa
Date Submitted: October 14, 2008 Date of Stay: September 2008
We stayed in Alfama House in September 2008 and would highly recommend it as THE place to stay for stylish yet reasonable priced accommodation. Situated in the old town, the location was perfect as it allowed us to experience living like the locals whilst all the local attractions/sights were within short walking distance. The apartment itself is in a lovely area with restaurants, bars and shops and even a local bakery on your doorstep - where you simply must sample the yummy local treats pastel de nata (custard tarts). We were keen to stay in an apartment rather than a hotel and this was exactly what we were looking for - a modern furnished apartment. What's more, the owner provided excellent and friendly customer service by picking us up from the train station (we arrived from Faro) and offering top tips on where to eat, what to do etc. There was also a range of guidebooks in different languages available in the apartment, which we thought was a nice touch. The apartment was very well-maintained, clean and stylish - the free internet access is a bonus. We loved Lisbon and will definitely go back and stay at Alfama house too. Excellent city break and apartment if you are looking for history, culture and entertainment.
Nadine R., Edinburgh.
No Complications
Date Submitted: September 29, 2008 Date of Stay: August 2008
Cosy, clean, comfortable, central. No frills, just what I wanted. No hesitation in recommending Alfama House.
R. Scharf, Vermont, US
Local Feeling
Date Submitted: September 28, 2008 Date of Stay: August 2008
The place was comfortable and clean and the whole package made me feel like a local resident. Many thanks for a great stay.
A. Kirk, Santiago, Chile
Easy Arrival
Date Submitted: September 28, 2008 Date of Stay: August 2008
Being picked-up at the airport was a great start to the holiday. The location atmosphere was typical of an old town within the city and we enjoyed every minute. Strongly recommended.
L. Ebacher, Sherbrooke, Canada
Great location
Date Submitted: September 23, 2008 Date of Stay: July 2008
The location was perfect. Right in the middle of the narrow streets of Lisboa’s old quarters. Simple, comfortable and good value. Would recommend Alfama House to anyone.
L. T. , Dublin.
