Lisbon is one of my favourite cities in Europe and a place i’ll always shout about! Choosing where to stay in Lisbon depends on your budget, preferred activities and proximity to attractions. Each neighbourhood offers a unique perspective of the city, but with Lisbon’s efficient transport system, you can easily explore multiple areas. I’ve put this list together to highlight some of the best places to stay in Lisbon.
Baixa
Baixa is Lisbon’s downtown area and serves as the central hub for tourists. Known for its grand plazas, neoclassical architecture, and wide pedestrian streets, Baixa is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to be in the middle of the action.
Key features:
- Landmarks: Rua Augusta, Rossio Square, and the Santa Justa Lift.
- Accommodation options: A mix of mid-range hotels, boutique guesthouses, and serviced apartments.
- Ambience: Bustling and lively, with a strong tourist presence.
Pros of Staying in Baixa:
The main pro of staying in Baixa is its central location. You’ll be within walking distance of some of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks, like Rua Augusta, Rossio Square, and the Santa Justa Lift. Public transport is easily accessible, with metro stations and trams nearby. The area is also packed with restaurants, cafés, and shops, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
Cons of Staying in Baixa:
I would say the biggest downside to staying in Baixa is that it can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. This can lead to higher accommodation prices and a less peaceful experience compared to other neighbourhoods. It’s also not the best choice for nightlife, as the area tends to quieten down in the evenings compared to districts like Bairro Alto.
Alfama
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district, known for its winding, narrow streets and rich historical atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to immerse themselves in the city’s authentic local culture. From traditional fado music echoing through the alleys to stunning views from São Jorge Castle, Alfama offers a deeply historical experience.
Key features:
- Landmarks: São Jorge Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, and the National Pantheon.
- Accommodation options: Primarily small guesthouses and short-term rentals.
- Ambience: Quiet, traditional, and steeped in history.
Pros of Staying in Alfama:
The main pro of staying in Alfama is its authentic charm and historical significance. You’ll be surrounded by traditional architecture, and major attractions like São Jorge Castle are just a short walk away. The area has a truly local atmosphere, making it ideal for travellers who want to experience the “real” Lisbon.
Cons of Staying in Alfama:
Alfama’s hilly streets can be challenging for some visitors, especially those not used to navigating steep, uneven terrain. Additionally, public transport options are more limited here compared to other districts, although trams and buses are available.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is known for its vibrant nightlife and is one of Lisbon’s main areas for bars and restaurants. During the day, it’s relatively quiet, but the area comes alive in the evening. This area is popular for young travellers and backpackers, so you’ll find lots of hostels and cheaper accommodation here, amongst more expensive options. The legendary Tram 28 can found be found here, along with several other transport routes.
Key features:
- Nightlife hub: Bars, clubs, and restaurants open until late.
- Accommodation options: Budget hostels, guesthouses, and a few boutique hotels.
- Access to public transport: Tram 28 and nearby metro stations provide easy connectivity.
Pros of Staying in Barrio Alto:
The main pro of staying in Barrio Alto is for the vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options! You’ll be spoilt for choice for going out options and for the shopping.
Cons of Staying in Barrio Alto
The main issue i’ve found when staying in Barrio Alto is it can be noisy at night. This might seem obvious, given it’s a nightlife hub. However, I found the few airbnbs I stayed in had really thin walls, barely keeping out the street noise. The noise was definitely worse Thursday-Saturday nights. I also found the accommodation can be more basic here than in other areas.
Chiado
Chiado is an elegant and sophisticated neighbourhood in Lisbon, known for its high-end shopping, theatres, and historic literary cafés. It’s a great place to stay for travellers who enjoy a more polished, upscale experience.
Key features:
- Landmarks: Theatres, museums, and historic cafés like A Brasileira.
- Accommodation options: Upscale hotels, boutique guesthouses, and serviced apartments.
- Ambience: Elegant, with a mix of locals and tourists.
Pros of Staying in Chiado:
The main pro of staying in Chiado is its sophisticated atmosphere. You’ll have access to excellent restaurants, cultural venues like theatres, and high-end shopping streets. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore Lisbon’s most iconic areas.
Cons of Staying in Chiado:
Chiado can be more expensive than other districts in Lisbon, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining. It also tends to get quite busy during peak tourist seasons, which can detract from its otherwise serene vibe.
Avenidas Novas
Avenidas Novas is a modern, upper-middle-class district known for its wide boulevards, modern architecture, and business centres. It’s a great area for those who prefer a more contemporary side of Lisbon, with easy access to shopping, dining, and transportation.
Key features:
- Landmarks: Gulbenkian Museum, Eduardo VII Park, and El Corte Inglés shopping centre.
- Accommodation options: Modern hotels, serviced apartments, and upscale rentals.
- Ambience: Modern, spacious, and business-focused.
Pros of Staying in Avenidas Novas:
The area offers modern amenities and plenty of shopping opportunities, such as El Corte Inglés. It’s also well-connected to other parts of Lisbon via metro and bus routes, making it convenient for getting around. The neighbourhood’s wide streets and modern buildings provide a clean, spacious feel.
Cons of Staying in Avenidas Novas:
While Avenidas Novas is convenient and modern, it lacks the historic charm found in Lisbon’s older neighbourhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto. If you’re looking for a more traditional Lisbon experience, this may not be the best area for you.
Belém
Belém is located west of Lisbon’s city centre, along the Tagus River, and is known for its maritime history and stunning landmarks. It’s a quieter, more relaxed area compared to the bustling downtown neighbourhoods, but still filled with historical significance.
Key features:
- Famous landmarks: Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries.
- Accommodation options: Primarily higher-end hotels.
- Ambience: Quieter than central Lisbon, with large green spaces and riverside views.
Pros of Staying in Belém:
Belém is ideal for visitors interested in Lisbon’s maritime history and major landmarks. It’s home to attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, with a peaceful riverside setting. The area is also famous for the iconic pastéis de nata from the original Pastéis de Belém bakery.
Cons of Staying in Belém:
The main con of staying in Belém is its distance from the city centre. While it’s easy to get into town by tram or train, it does take more time. The nightlife here is also quite limited compared to more central districts.
Príncipe Real
Príncipe Real is one of Lisbon’s most fashionable districts, known for its gardens, antique shops, and upscale dining options. It’s a great place to stay for those looking for a trendy yet peaceful neighbourhood. This would be ideal for travellers seeking a chic, residential area with plenty of upscale dining and shopping options.
Key features:
- Landmarks: Jardim do Príncipe Real, antique shops, and art galleries.
- Accommodation options: Luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and serviced apartments.
- Ambience: Upscale and trendy, with a mix of locals and visitors.
Pros of Staying in Príncipe Real
The biggest pro of staying in Príncipe Real is the area’s stylish, upscale vibe. It’s quieter than central areas, with plenty of green spaces, trendy bars, and boutique shops. The neighbourhood feels both elegant and local, with a charming, laid-back atmosphere.
Cons of Staying in Príncipe Real
Accommodation in Príncipe Real tends to be more expensive due to its high-end appeal. Public transport options are also somewhat limited, so you may need to rely on walking or taxis to get around.
Parque das Nações
Parque das Nações is Lisbon’s most modern district, developed for the 1998 World Expo. It’s located near the airport and offers a completely different vibe from Lisbon’s older, historical neighbourhoods. This area is ideal for families, those seeking modern amenities and easy airport access.
Key features:
- Modern amenities: Vasco da Gama shopping centre, Lisbon Oceanarium, and cable cars.
- Accommodation options: Mid- to high-end hotels and serviced apartments.
- Family-friendly: With its modern infrastructure, it’s suitable for families with children.
Pros of Staying in Parque das Nações:
The modern infrastructure is the main pro of staying in Parque das Nações. You’ll find family-friendly attractions, like the Lisbon Oceanarium, along with shopping centres and cable cars. It’s also conveniently located for those who need easy access to the airport.
Cons of Staying in Parque das Nações:
The area lacks the traditional charm and history that other districts like Alfama or Bairro Alto offer. If you’re after an authentic Lisbon experience, this may not be the best option.
Campo do Ourique
Campo do Ourique is a middle- to upper-class residential neighbourhood, known for its relaxed atmosphere and local charm. It’s slightly outside the tourist-heavy areas, making it ideal for those who want a more authentic Lisbon experience while still being close to the city centre. I would say this is the perfect place to stay if you want a more relaxed, residential area with a more local feel.
Key features:
- Landmarks: Amoreiras Shopping Centre, Mercado de Campo de Ourique, and Jardim da Parada.
- Accommodation options: Primarily short-term rentals, boutique guesthouses, and mid-range hotels.
- Ambience: Quiet, with a strong local and family-friendly atmosphere.
Pros of Staying in Campo do Ourique:
The main pro of staying in Campo do Ourique is its quiet, residential vibe. You’ll enjoy a more local feel, with plenty of parks, bakeries, and traditional markets like the Mercado de Campo de Ourique. It’s also near the Amoreiras Shopping Centre, offering easy access to shopping.
Cons of Staying in Campo do Ourique:
The downside is that it’s a bit further from the main tourist attractions, meaning you’ll likely need to rely on public transport or taxis to get around. However, Lisbon’s transport system is efficient, so this shouldn’t be a major issue.
Other Areas to Stay Nearby Lisbon
If it’s your first time visiting Portugal, or its capital, I would recommend staying in Lisbon itself. However, there are a few other notable places to consider staying that are nearby Lisbon.
Cascais
Although not in Lisbon, Cascais is a popular coastal town located just 30 minutes away by train. This coastal escape is best known for its beaches and more relaxed pace of life. Cascais is a popular spot for those looking to combine a city break with a beach holiday. It’s an excellent option for travellers who want to stay near the coast while having easy access to Lisbon.
Key features:
- Beaches: Praia da Rainha and Praia de Carcavelos.
- Accommodation options: Primarily resort hotels and holiday rentals.
- Transport: A direct train service connects Cascais to Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station.
Pros of Staying in Cascais::
The main pro of staying in Cascais is its beachside location. You’ll have access to stunning beaches like Praia da Rainha and Praia de Carcavelos, making it perfect for sunbathing and watersports. Cascais also offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of seafood restaurants, cafés, and scenic spots to enjoy, all while being a short train ride away from Lisbon.
Cons of Staying in Cascais:
- Staying here requires commuting to Lisbon. Although this is easy to do, via driving or public transport, it might get tedious if you’re planning to do multiple trips into Lisbon.
- Cascais can get crowded in summer!
Sintra
Like Cascais, Sintra isn’t located in Lisbon itself, but it does make for a great place to stay and visit Lisbon for day trips. Sintra is a historic town in the mountains, about 30km northwest of Lisbon. This could be a good option for those wanting to primarily explore Sintra during their time in Portugal. Then do a day trip to Lisbon. There’s a number of things to do in Sintra – you could easily spend a few days here exploring all the incredible castles, palaces, ruins, and hikes! Although the days can get crowded, the evenings are often less crowded.
Key features:
- Landmarks: Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle.
- Accommodation options: Charming guesthouses, boutique hotels, and historic estates.
- Ambience: Romantic, historical, and surrounded by nature.
Pros of Staying in Sintra:
The main pro of staying in Sintra is the abundance of palaces, castles, and hiking trails right on your doorstep. You can easily spend a few days exploring iconic sites like the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle. The cooler climate and scenic surroundings also provide a welcome break from the summer heat of Lisbon.
Cons of Staying in Sintra:
The biggest con is that it’s a bit further from Lisbon, meaning you’ll need to commute if you’re planning to visit the capital frequently. While public transport is available, the commute can feel long if you’re doing it often. Therefore, I would only recommend this option if you’re planning on doing a day trip to Lisbon from Sintra. Additionally, Sintra gets crowded during the day with tourists, though it tends to quiet down in the evenings.
How to Choose Where to Stay in Lisbon
Lisbon offers a range of diverse neighbourhoods for you to enjoy during you stay. Choosing where to stay in Lisbon will largely depend on what you’re planning to do, budget and your travel style. A solo backpacker will have different needs to a honeymoon couple or a family. Baixa and Chiado are best for those who want central access, while Alfama and Belém offer a quieter, more historic feel. Bairro Alto, my personal favourite, caters to those interested in nightlife, while Parque das Nações is family-friendly and modern. Finally, Cascais provides a coastal retreat near the city. There are so many incredible places to stay in Lisbon, with all sorts of accommodation types. From cheap backpacker hostels, to luxury, boutique hotels, there’s something to suit all budgets and travel styles.
I will add that Lisbon is easy to travel around, meaning it doesn’t matter too much where you stay. You’ll be able to visit the neighbouring districts, and notable areas, easily!! Check out my other guides on how to get from Lisbon to Porto and Porto Itinerary.
Portugal Blogs
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Porto City Break – Best Way to Spend a Weekend!
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Sintra
Best Things To Do In Cascais – Day Trips from Lisbon
How to travel between Porto and Lisbon – Bus, Train and Car
