Seeing the ‘real Lisbon’ is a term that gets thrown about, but these charming studio apartments really encapsulate that experience. Set in the quiet, cobbled neighbourhood of Amoreiras, metres from a leafy square and just 20 minutes’ walk from downtown, Casa Amora pays homage to national culture by dedicating each of its 4 studios to a different Portuguese artist or iconic figure, such as movie director Manoel de Oliveira or the extraordinary Sao Tomean painter-cum-writer José de Almada Negreiros.
Owner Luis traded in a successful graphic-design business to set up this charismatic hideaway, and traces of his artistic flair are evident throughout, from silkscreen portraits by artist Leonel Moura to modern statement pieces that complement the vintage flea-market furniture. He and his partner are the perfect hosts, meeting you on arrival and sharing their personal recommendations of what to do in the city (all top-notch). A great option for those happy to skip hotel-style service and communal spaces, in return for an independent live-like-a-local ethos... and great value, too!
Highs
- Tranquil Amoreiras is away from the hustle and bustle, yet has easy access to the city centre by metro or foot
- The small team treats you like friends and is on hand at any time
- Plenty of privacy and independence, with sitting areas, sofabeds, kitchenettes and balconies
- We love the authentic neighbourhood eateries nearby
- Great value compared to a full-service hotel
Lows
- There are no common spaces, nor any food and drink provided
- Although the neighbourhood is quiet, light sleepers might find the street-facing rooms a little noisy
- The steep staircases aren’t suitable for very young children or the less mobile
- There have been some recent gripes about minor plumbing issues and musty smells in the bathrooms
Best time to go
Lisbon is lovely at any time of year. In June, the streets erupt in festivities to celebrate its patron saint, Santo Antonio. Free concerts, parades and stalls selling freshly grilled sardines abound. October is also a very pleasant month to visit, with fewer tourists and an average temperature of 19C.
Our top tips
- Have a drink at the quirky and romantically lit Bar Procópio next door. It’s one of Lisbon’s oldest
- Luis will give you a list of personal recommendations when you check in, covering everything from fado places to restaurants and bars. Follow the tips – they’re spot on
Location
Casa Amora is located in the lovely Amoreiras neighbourhood, a 5-minute walk from the Rato metro station and 20 minutes from the downtown Baixa district.
By Air:
Lisbon Portela Airport (8km away) is served by numerous flights from the UK, elsewhere in Europe and further afield - click on the links below for a list. From the airport, you can arrange a transfer, jump in a cab (an easy 15-minute ride) or take the metro.
Other Options
Lisbon is easily accessible by train from other places in Portugal and Europe - see Seat 61 for more information. We don’t recommend bringing a car into the city as the roads are congested and parking is tricky, but if you want to hire one to explore further afield then see our car rental suggestions.
Detailed directions will be provided when you confirm a booking through i-escape.com. 
More on getting to Portugal and getting around
Airports:
- Lisbon Portela 8.0 km LIS
Other:
- Beach 15.0 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 4 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape