Review

Moms, listen up. If you have kids and you're moving to Lisbon, don't even look at the old town. You will curse those cobblestones and hills within a week. We picked Martinhal because they are 'serviced apartments.' You live in an apartment, but with hotel perks. The place is super bright, and the terraces are massive (we basically have a playground out there). One downside, and it's a big one — the bills. The condo fee here costs as much as renting a studio elsewhere. And yes, it is windy. Expo is basically a wind tunnel; sometimes chairs get blown across the balcony

Keycard access, reception. I feel totally fine letting my kid run in the lobby.

It’s a 'Moms Club.' Everyone has strollers, everyone gets the struggle. Lots of Americans and Brazilians.

Windows are great, can't hear the street. But we can hear the upstairs neighbors (kids running), since it's practically all families here.

Designer finishings, modern. Bulthaup kitchens (a dream to cook in).

Came furnished (developer package). Stylish but a bit impersonal, like a nice hotel suite.

Close to the river, so mosquitoes happen in the evening.

View of the Vasco da Gama bridge and the river is pure love.

There is a Kids Club! A legit Kids Club where you can drop off the little one for a couple of hours and drink coffee in silence. It’s a lifesaver. Two pools (indoor and outdoor). The indoor one is heated; the kids practically live there in winter. The concierge accepts all deliveries (Amazon, food couriers). The service is a solid 10/10.

Cleaning staff is working non-stop.

Security everywhere.

Not much of a private yard, but Parque das Nações starts right outside the door

Expo is a 'bubble.' No homeless people, no trash, no ruins. Just wide, FLAT sidewalks (parents will understand!). You can push a stroller for hours without getting a bicep workout from pushing uphill. The Oceanarium is right there (we have annual passes), the Science Museum, the cable car. Vasco da Gama mall is next door — it has everything from Zara to a huge Continente supermarket. But it lacks 'soul.' This isn't Portugal; it feels like Singapore or Miami. If you want Fado and history, this isn't the spot

CUF Descobertas (private hospital) is right in the neighborhood. Super convenient with kids.

I walk alone at night, totally chill.

Oriente Station nearby (metro, trains, buses). Airport is a 5-min taxi ride.

Quiet, just the wind howling.

Endless promenade along the river. Gardens, fountains.

Tons of restaurants on the waterfront. A bit pricey (tourist trap vibes), but tasty.

Continente Hypermarket, Mercadona (a bit further), SuperCor. Grocery heaven.