Reviewed by
Clemmy Manzo
It’s not often you can stumble out of bed and be at a major medieval site in less than a minute. But that’s completely possible when staying at Casa Saint Jorge. You’re right in the thick of it here: the entrance to the castle, which dates back to at least the 8th Century BC, is just one narrow cobblestone street away, in the perfectly preserved medieval quarter that overlooks the city and the Alfama neighbourhood. It's the picture-perfect Lisbon you’ve seen on postcards, where the iconic yellow Tram 28 rattles by, and where people gather at the Santa Luzia mirador at sunset to soak up River Tagus views.
Casa Saint Jorge sits atop a hill in a historic – yet recently renovated – whitewashed building, its borders painted blue in traditional Portuguese style. Once inside (via a self-check-in code system), a wooden staircase leads to the seven fully-serviced one-bedroom apartments. Each is decorated in a classic contemporary style in a palette of creams. Designed for maximum comfort, they are kitted out with fully-equipped kitchens and living rooms with sofabeds for kids. Outside the windows, the Tagus glistens in the distance.
Casa Saint Jorge sits atop a hill in a historic – yet recently renovated – whitewashed building, its borders painted blue in traditional Portuguese style. Once inside (via a self-check-in code system), a wooden staircase leads to the seven fully-serviced one-bedroom apartments. Each is decorated in a classic contemporary style in a palette of creams. Designed for maximum comfort, they are kitted out with fully-equipped kitchens and living rooms with sofabeds for kids. Outside the windows, the Tagus glistens in the distance.
Highs
- You’re right in the medieval quarter, above the famous Alfama district, Lisbon’s most visited neighbourhood
- These are fully-equipped apartments: you have everything you need for a comfortable stay (including kitchen, dishwasher and washing machine)
- Breakfast boxes are delivered to your door every morning - a rare treat for a self-catering property
- All but two apartments have glorious River Tagus views; one has a private patio
- Great value for money, considering the central location
Lows
- There’s no parking on the historic streets by the apartments, though there is a car park 10 minutes away, or you can request an airport transfer service
- Because of its landmark location, there are lots of tourists around, but the apartments are set in a quiet spot a few steps away from the bustle
- There’s no formal restaurant for dinner, but plans are afoot for a new gourmet shop where breakfast and light meals will be served, plus there are plenty of places to eat nearby
Best time to go
We love Lisbon all year round, but particularly in September, when nearby beaches are less crowded and the weather is still warm. Mid-June is another great time to visit: this is when Lisbon hosts a city-wide festival in honour of patron Saint Anthony – locals of all ages take to the streets to celebrate, eat barbecued sardines and dance.
Our top tips
Don't miss the stunning vista from the Miradouro do Recolhimento, located next to the apartments. There's arguably no better view of Lisbon and the River Tagus.