where to stay in Lisbon in May

Hey - my husband and I are giong to be in Lisbon for 6 nights in may. We are planning to rent an apartment so we can do laundry and fix some light meals/snacks for ourselves, although most of our eating will be out. We have narrowed things down to two apartments in our price range, one near Barrio Alto on Travessa da Condessa do Rio and one just north of Rossio Square. Any suggestions or comments on the two locations? We really want to be able to walk out our door and find good, inexpensive and local places to eat. We know we're going to be in touristy areas much of the time, but prefer to experience a more local flavor of the places we visit. Will post later to ask about recommendations for restaurants and things to do - right now just want to find the right place to base our visit.

Thanks!

oops, typo - first apt is in bairro alto :)

I'd second Barrio Alto too. That neighborhood is the hub of nightlife in Lisboa, so it would be easier for you two to get back after long night out. Lisbon doesn't have the touristy feel of other major cities so you will get local flavor pretty much throughout the city.

Compare to Barrio Alto, North of Rossio Square is bit more sterile because it is more modern (major international hotels are along here too). On north right corner of the Square is the immigrant neighborhood.

Lisbon folks are easy going so you'll enjoy the experience. Do make time to see Sintra (day trip is fine).

http://www.flickr.com/photos/youngadventure/sets/72157632246049955/

Barrio Alto for sure.....esp. for the small,local restaurants.

Not knowing the exact location closer to Rossio, I'd say the one by Bairro Alto is a better option. That street is just down the hill from the main area of bars and restaurants meaning it's much more quiet but still just a short walk away.
As the previous comment says, Lisbon doesn't have that tourist theme park feel of all other European capitals and the older areas still feel like an authentic Mediterranean port city (although it's on the Atlantic).

With six days, be sure not to miss a daytrip to Sintra! May is also a nice time for a day by the sea, in Cascais and Estoril. You may want to check out this suggested itinerary: Lisbon Itinerary