Morpheus Guest House

For an old shared apartment, €50 a night felt far too expensive. It was dirty and shabby: broken blinds, gaps under the doors, a fabric wardrobe, old mismatched furniture that looked salvaged, a filthy freezer, peeling paint, and a bedroom balcony that looked like it hadn’t been swept in years. The one good thing was the man looking after the apartment. He spent all day cleaning up what people left in the kitchen and bathroom.

The rooms are roomy, there’s a kitchen, and the bathrooms are fine, though they could be cleaned more often. For the price, it’s good value, and the location works well for seeing the city, about a 15-minute walk from Rossio. Joao was very friendly when we arrived, but the guesthouse feels neglected when he isn’t around. They should have more reception staff. Early Saturday, someone couldn’t get the front door open, and after ten minutes of knocking, someone, I think another guest, had to get up and let them in. The window insulation also needs replacing. It’s old and lets in cold air and street noise.

Friendly hosts and an adequate hostel if you’re not after much comfort. The beds are triple bunks, there are mirrors in the bathrooms, and breakfast is either toast or cornflakes with milk.

Comfortable, really clean, and the kitchen is well equipped. It can get a little noisy from traffic because of where it is.