Where to Stay in Lisbon: A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods and Accommodations
Lisbon Portugal is one of the most incredible cities you can visit in Europe. It has an enormous breadth of history and culture that is impossible to explore entirely, even over a year. It’s no wonder the city manages to capture the hearts of travelers worldwide year after year.
If you decide to visit Lisbon city, one of the most essential things is figuring out where to stay, which can be an intimidating task when you’ve never visited the city. In this article, you’ll find a complete guide to everything you need to know about Lisbon’s finest neighborhoods and accommodations, so you can make an informed decision on where to base yourself during your Lisbon vacation. Let’s get started!
Choosing the Best Neighborhood in Lisbon
Lisbon is the storied capital of Portugal. Known as a beloved tourist center and one of Europe’s great historic cities, it is the perfect introduction to Portugal for travelers worldwide. Visitors will be delighted with the fresh sea air and wonderfully Mediterranean climate gracing the city daily.
Exploring Lisbon is a delight. The city’s culture flourishes in the creative architecture and bustling squares found across the neighborhoods in Lisbon. There are many beautiful options that travelers can choose to visit, such as Baixa, Alfama, and Chiado. Each district has a distinct character and appeals to different types of visitors.
Baixa
Baixa is located deep in the heart of Lisbon. It is well-connected to Lisbon’s public transportation system and provides an appealing level of access to the rest of the city. Its history dates back to 1755 when Baixa was built over the rubble of the neighborhood that was destroyed in a tremendous earthquake.
Staying in Baixa means that you have easy to access popular areas like Rossio Square or the Santa Justa Lift by walking or using the various public transportation options available in Baixa. There’s also plenty to do in Baixa, as the neighborhood is filled with incredible commercial streets and historical monuments.
Many of the attractions within Baixa are popular with visitors. The Praça do Comércio is one of the most popular attractions in Baixa. This square is surrounded by beautiful restaurants and shops that could easily entertain tourists for days. Just a short distance from the square, the Tagus River and surrounding landmarks can be accessed by foot.
Another popular attraction near Baixa is the Rua Augusta Arch. The arch was built in the 18th century to commemorate the 1755 earthquake in Lisbon. This arch is a landmark of Baixa, and many people congregate each year to take a picture with it. While admiring the incredible architecture of the arch is already enjoyable enough, you’ll be delighted by learning about its history, too.
There are many other popular attractions in Baixa. You should visit the Jerónimos Monastery, Castelo de Saint George, and Belém Tower in Baixa. You should also visit nearby Alfama to visit the Lisbon Cathedral and the Carmo Convent if you have the opportunity. Touring these historic locations helps illustrate how old and beloved Lisbon truly is.
Baixa also has a wide variety of accommodation options to choose from. It’s easy to find a great place to stay on any budget. The neighborhood is popular with travelers seeking a budget-friendly option since many affordable hostels are in the area, but luxury options are also available.
Options like Browns Boutique Hotel and Dream Chiado Apartments are great for those looking to pay an average price for a quality room. Luxury options like Le Consulat and Portugal Boutique Hotel provide a nice view and numerous amenities to those willing to pay a higher nightly fee. Thrifty travelers can consider options like My Story Hotel Rossio and Norte Guest House.
Alfama
There’s no better place to immerse yourself in the history of Lisbon than Alfama, a famous Lisbon neighborhood constructed long ago. Alfama is the oldest surviving neighborhood in Lisbon, as the 1755 earthquake destroyed many surrounding areas and forced residents to rebuild.
Visitors to Alfama will enjoy a picturesque view of the city, as the neighborhood is situated on a hill that provides a complete perspective of the surrounding area. Alfama has a colorful Moorish style of architecture that gives its cobbled streets a truly distinct air. Historic landmarks like the Castelo de São Jorge and Igreja Santo Antonio provide further fascination.
If you decide to visit Alfama, you should first go to the Castelo de São Jorge, or St Georges Castle. This incredible castle has a long history from the 11th century. While the São Jorge Castle might have been initially constructed to protect the city, it continues to provide Alfama with value today as one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions.
The Lisbon Cathedral is also a lovely place to visit in Alfama. The Lisbon Cathedral was built slightly later than the Castelo de São Jorge, but its place in Alfama is just as historic as the latter. Once you’ve finished admiring the incredible Gothic architecture that adorns the exterior of the Lisbon Cathedral, you should wander inside and take your time admiring the beautiful works of art that line the entire building’s interior.
Finally, let yourself explore some other attractions in Alfama and the areas surrounding Lisbon. Many people enjoy wandering Alfama’s commercial streets because it exposes them to authentic foods, products, and aesthetics. You should also consider visiting the various museums located in Alfama and the surrounding areas.
As you look for accommodations in Alfama, you’ll find various options. Options like the Almamater Lisbon Apartments and Alfama Lisbon Lounge Suites provide affordable stays and proximity to the neighborhood.
Some people prefer to stay at themed apartments. For example, the LoveLisbonApartments Alfama rooms offer a few fun options, including Portuguese tile-themed and bright pink apartments.
Other stays in the city are particularly luxurious. For example, Pousada Alfama and Sao Vicente Alfama Hotel both feature exquisite interiors and spectacular locations right in the heart of Alfama. Others, like Tandem Palacio Alfama Suites, also feature incredible architecture that will take your breath away.
Options below $100 per night are rare, but they can be found if you book your trip well in advance. These options are typically studio-sized or smaller and may not be in a prime location. With that being noted, these stays still have a spectacular reputation amongst tourists for their budget-friendly comfort.
Some of the most luxurious options include a private garden patio or an incredible river view. Others provide guests with services like breakfast. You should consider what qualities you prioritize before looking for accommodations that best suit your preferences.
Chiado
Finally, consider staying in Chiado if you decide to visit Lisbon. This upscale neighborhood is a delight for its incredible shopping and dining options, but that isn’t the only appeal. Chiado is also one of the best areas for viewing gorgeous architecture and scenic surroundings.
If you decide to stay in Chiado, you won’t have any trouble finding authentic or fascinating places to dine. Many authentic Portuguese restaurants call Chiado home, as do several interesting artisan eateries and luxurious Michelin-starred restaurants.
The shopping in Chiado is also incredible. You can find a healthy mixture of local businesses and luxurious outlets scattered across the busy streets of Chiado. Whether you want to shop for jewelry or authentic Portuguese crafts, you’ll find everything you need right in this neighborhood.
As you explore Chiado, you’ll be delighted with the neighborhood’s ambiance. Chiado is an incredibly well-maintained neighborhood with many lovely parks and gardens. You can enjoy the scenic surroundings by dining or drinking coffee at one of the neighborhood’s delightful outdoor cafes.
After you’ve taken in the neighborhood, you can spend an afternoon exploring the cultural attractions scattered around Chiado to learn more about Lisbon or Portuguese culture. Many museums and historical sights can be found just a short walk away.
One of the most popular places in Chiado is the National Museum of Contemporary Art. This museum is affordable to visit and houses several incredible pieces. Admiring all of the artwork and exhibits in the museum makes for a fantastic day trip.
You will also enjoy seeing a show at the São Carlos Theatre. This theatre is considered a landmark within Chiado. The theatre was first inaugurated by Queen Maria I in 1793 as a replacement for the former theatre that was destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
The interior of the São Carlos Theatre is a masterpiece. Gorgeous fresco works adorn the walls, and luxurious materials like wood and velvet are used to construct the incredible work of architecture within. The sheer beauty of the São Carlos Theatre will take your breath away.
Much like the aforementioned Lisbon neighborhoods, you won’t have trouble finding a great place to stay in Chiado. Numerous options can match any budget, and plenty of great locations and amenities are available to choose from, too.
Some of the most affordable stays in Chiado are the 262 Baixa Guesthouse and the Lisbon Hostel. These stays can cost as little as $60 or $70 a night, with the only requirement being that you will share a room or dormitory with other guests.
Many accommodations within Chiado range from $100 to $150 per night. The Rossio Apartments and Pensao Praca Da Figueira offer guests private bedrooms. Hostels in this price range typically have excellent amenities and locations.
Tons of exciting options are available to choose from. Specific accommodations, like the Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge and the 262 Boutique Hotel, are known for having particularly luxurious interiors and prime locations within Lisbon.
If you want to live in luxury while in the city, there are options for that, too. Options like Pousada de Lisboa and Camoes by Central Hill Apartments offer delightfully large and comfortable apartments for those willing to pay a premium nightly fee.
Finding the Best Accommodations in Lisbon
If you’re looking for the best hotel and other accommodations in Lisbon, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s take a look at some of the most highly rated stays in downtown Lisbon and its surrounding areas.
Lisbon Hotels
Many fantastic five-star hotels are present in Lisbon. While they might not be the ideal option for anyone keeping a budget, it’s safe to say that options like the Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon and InterContinental Lisbon offer guests more than their money’s worth with spectacular luxury.
One of the Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon qualities that immediately stands out to guests is its proximity to other exciting locations. This luxury hotel is located right in the heart of the city and has easy access to many of Lisbon’s public transportation stations nearby.
The offerings at the Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon are also incredible. The Royal Suite is particularly elegant and spacious, while the Almada Negreiros Suite provides a contemporary and quiet space with all the necessary amenities to travel comfortably with children.
The InterContinental Lisbon Hotel is also quite lovely. This luxurious hotel is located closest to the Avenida da Liberdade, and many rooms within the hotel provide an excellent view of the Tagus River. It proves extremely popular with travelers year after year.
The rooms at the InterContinental Lisbon Hotel are perfect for those who want affordable luxury, as every bit of the nightly fee is returned tenfold in comfort. Amenities and services like dry cleaning, club lounge, and even aerobics classes are available if booked in advance.
Of course, luxury hotels aren’t the only option in Lisbon. This remarkable city has many hotels that can keep your wallet full and your contentment high. The best budget options include the Ibis Lisboa Liberdade and the Hotel Ibis Lisboa Parque das Nações.
This Lisboa hotel is known for its prime location, as it is situated just beside Alfama and Bairro Alto. Every room in the Ibis Lisboa Liberdade features gorgeous contemporary decor, a comfortable bed, and a luxurious private bathroom.
For numerous reasons, Ibis Lisboa Liberdade is popular with guests seeking a private room on a budget. It is incredibly close to several public transportation stations and within walking distance of many incredible restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars.
The ibis Lisboa Parque das Naçoes proves just as popular with travelers on a budget. The lovely rooms in this hotel feature an incredible view of this quiet neighborhood of Lisbon. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and consider dining at one of the restaurants within the Hotel Ibis Lisboa Parque das Nações for dinner.
The amenities at the Hotel Ibis Lisboa Parque das Nações are excellent. A sauna, fitness center, bar, and lounge are available to guests. And while the hotel is about a 15-minute drive away from Lisbon city centre, traveling to and from the hotel is easy, thanks to Lisbon’s excellent public transportation.
Lisbon Hostels
Hostels are an excellent option for any traveler looking to save money. Staying at a hostel does come with a bit of compromise since you typically have to dorm alongside other travelers and share the home. The great thing about hostels, however, is that the enormous amount of money you save can be used to make the best of your Lisbon vacation.
One favorite hostel among backpackers is the Yes! Lisbon Hotel has a spectacular location just a few minutes away from Rossio Square. Guests are provided with comfortable beds in double rooms and shared bathroom facilities.
The communal space at Yes! Lisbon Hotel provides plenty to love. For example, guests can enjoy watching cable or DVDs on a large flat-screen TV in the lounge area or even sip a refreshing drink they purchased from the bar. Social butterflies will love meeting the other friendly travelers who decided to stay at Yes! Lisbon Hostel.
Lisbon Destination Hostel is also an excellent option. Aside from its gorgeous interior and fun activities, one of the favorite qualities of the Lisbon Destination Hostel among guests is its location right in the heart of Lisbon.
Also, consider staying at a luxury hostel to save money while still enjoying the city’s most luxury. Many tourists like We Love F Tourists for the hostel’s incredible sense of community. While you might be across the world in Lisbon, you’ll find yourself at home in this hostel.
Home Lisbon Hostels is another popular luxury hostel. It stands out for its incredibly friendly staff. Every member of the team, including the well-known Mamma, is dedicated to providing delicious meals, comfortable conditions, and a warm welcome to each guest who decides to stay at the hostel.
Several types of rooms are available at Home Lisbon Hostel. You can book a private room if you prefer some space while enjoying the communal environment. Shared rooms are also available at a much lower cost.
No matter what accommodation you decide to book, hostels are worth considering. Rather than viewing the shared living space as a compromise, a fun way to look at hostels is that you can save money while meeting new people and making unforgettable memories. Often, those experiences are priceless.
Vacation Rentals
One of the best ways to stay in Lisbon during a vacation is to get a short-term apartment rental. These apartments will allow you to live in Lisbon as comfortably as you do at home, offering you a convenient lease and affordable rent.
137 LuxResidence is among the nicest short-term apartment rentals in Lisbon. Aside from the attractive location of the apartments — which are just 1.1 miles away from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte — these rentals are also favored for their comfortable accommodations by couples.
Of course, that isn’t your only option. Residentas Aurea offers guests high luxury, while Grape Harbor Prata Apartments provides guests with a gorgeous seaside view. Many of these apartments are located in prime locations in Lisbon.
Some rentals offer affordable options for any type of guest. For example, Dream Chiado Apartments offer options like studios much cheaper than many competing apartments. You can also seek apartments offering specific vibes, such as the eye-catching Chiado Arty Flats.
You can even get a short-term penthouse rental in Lisbon if you can pay the price. Apartments like Look Living and Lisbon Design Apartments offer elegant options ranging from small lofts to enormous two-bedroom apartments with balconies.
You can also consider booking a stay in a villa while you’re visiting Lisbon. These are easily some of the most luxurious options on the market, as the suitable villa can make you feel like you’re in your own home across the world.
One of the most famous villas in Lisbon is the Casa das Boganvilias, located just a short distance from the beach in a comfortable and lush area. While staying at this lovely villa might feel like a splurge, it quickly pays for itself in convenience, privacy, and luxury. Many users online applaud the Casa das Boganvillas for its adherence to cleanliness and comfort.
Those who enjoy countryside estates may find the Villa Domnigues appealing. While it’s hard to feel right out in the country in a big city like Lisbon, those who prefer rural living will adore the comfortable garden and farmhouse-style decoration in Villa Domnigues. This villa is a short distance from many other popular areas, including Rossio Square.
Finally, to enjoy plenty of space to get outside, you should consider staying at the Quinta do Boição. This comfortable villa is located on the outskirts of Lisbon. While you might have to travel a long distance to reach Lisbon, you won’t regret staying at the Quinta do Boição if you take the opportunity to wander the lovely fields and trails surrounding this comfortable villa.
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Lisbon?
Lisbon is an incredible city to visit. If you decide to take a vacation to Lisbon, one of the first steps you should take is determining what neighborhood you might like to see. Each district has its atmosphere and amenities that may appeal to you more or less depending on your unique personality. As long as you research thoroughly and pick a nice place to stay, there’s no doubt that you will cherish your vacation to Lisbon for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lisbon?
The best time of year to visit Lisbon depends on your preferences, but many people enjoy visiting Lisbon in the summer during the high season. Lisbon is known for being incredibly warm and sunny from June until September. If you decide to visit the city during this season, you can expect that tons of fun attractions will be available and that the beach and outdoor activities will remain alluring throughout your entire vacation.
If you decide to visit Lisbon during the low season, you’ll find that your vacation is incredibly cheap and easy. The least busy season in Lisbon occurs in January and February, right after the holiday celebrations have finished. International travel drops considerably, so you can expect to enjoy reduced fares to and from Lisbon and plenty of convenience within the city itself. The main disadvantage of visiting during the low season is that the weather is very cold and rainy.
It’s worth visiting during one of the shoulder seasons if you’re not immediately drawn to Lisbon’s low and high seasons. If you visit during the fall or spring, you can expect to enjoy mild weather and plenty of attractions, all while paying much less than you would during the busiest seasons. As an added benefit, Lisbon is much less crowded during the shoulder seasons, and you will have a much easier time going to shops and restaurants around the city.
Is It Safe to Walk Around Lisbon at Night?
It’s usually safe to walk around Lisbon at night. Lisbon is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for various reasons, but the city’s safety is certainly among the most significant reasons. Crimes like petty theft and pickpocketing are common in Lisbon, but tourists seldom encounter violent crimes and other terrifying situations.
You can make it safer to walk around Lisbon at night by taking the right approach. You should always stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking anywhere that appears to be dark, desolate, or sketchy. You should avoid carrying around valuable items, and you should never flash what valuables you are carrying.
You should always remain alert when you’re traveling around Lisbon. If you will be distracted by the fantastic sights or experience a bit of intoxication after a fun night out, you should travel with friends to deter criminals from targeting you. You should always contact the local police if a crime is committed against you while visiting Lisbon.
How Do I Get Around Lisbon?
There are various ways that you can get around Lisbon. One of the best ways to explore is to go around the area on foot. Lisbon is very easily walkable due to its historical construction, and you will find it easy to cross the pebbled streets to anywhere you need to go. Likewise, biking around the city is just as simple — and plenty of bike rental companies around Lisbon are ready to help you get started.
To enjoy the most flexible option for getting around Lisbon, consider renting a car or calling a taxi. This will allow you to go directly to your destination at high speeds without worrying about a long walk or an inefficient public transportation route. It’s important to note that driving around Lisbon can get quite expensive, however.
Lastly, you can always use public transportation to get around Lisbon. The bus system is the city’s most well-connected system, which has over 9,000 stops all around Lisbon. The trams and metros don’t stop everywhere in Lisbon but allow travelers to quickly get between neighborhoods. The train is the fastest option for travel and can be used to get from one distant place to another very quickly.
