Mouraria Graa & So Vicente
Joining Alfama on its hill are 3 more historic neighborhoods Mouraria on the northern slopes towards Martim Moniz, Graça to the northeast and São Vicente to the east. These are working-class areas, full of local color, relatively undisturbed by tourism. Graça and São Vicente are Alfamas more peaceful cousins, while Mouraria is both more multicultural and undergoing more regeneration. Landmarks include the church and convent of São Vicente de Fora, Miradouro da Graça, a scenic gathering place, and Portraits of Fado, a street exhibition of photos in Mouraria, fados birthplace. You can find contemporary art galleries like Hangar alongside the latest street art and shop for bargains at Feira da Ladra, the thieves market. There are great, affordable local restaurants Portuguese cuisine at Taberna Sal Grosso, Mozambican at Cantinho do Aziz, Goan at Tentações de Goa. At night, find a cool local bar, such as alternative Damas, or dance till late at supercool club Lux Frágil. Some lovely guesthouses, and a couple of high-end hotels.
The Best Area To Stay In Lisbon For You
- THE Best Place to Stay in Lisbon Portugal: Chiado
- Best Neighborhood to Stay in Lisbon for Families: Baixa
- Best Area to Stay in Lisbon Portugal for Nightlife: Bairro Alto
- Best Part of Lisbon to Stay for a Local Vibe: Alfama
- Best Area of Lisbon to Stay to Get Away from the Crowds: Príncipe Real
So there you have it, the answer to What are the best areas to stay in Lisbon?. If you want more info about each area including photos, best hotels and pros & cons, keep reading below!
Best Lisbon Hotels Around Avenida Da Liberdade
The 4-star Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel offers excellent value for money for gorgeous, eco-friendly upmarket accommodation. If you enjoy spending time in hotels and making use of their spa facilities, wine tasting and other activities, this is the place to come. Their Mediterranean restaurant caters well to vegetarians and a range of food intolerances. Check availability and prices.
For a more classical environment with historical touches and full modern comforts, you might prefer the Heritage Avenida Liberdade, a 4-star boutique hotel in an 18th century building that has an indoor pool. Choose a room to suit.
Of the 5-star hotels on Avenida Liberdade, I particularly like Valverde Hotel for its Art Deco style and beautiful architectural features and wooden floors. It has a patio area and outdoor pool, too, perfect for a dip after a day of sightseeing. Check latest prices.
Torel Palace is a short elevator ride from the Avenida da Liberdade and a world apart with stunning views. Accommodation is spread across 2 traditional 19th century mansions, surrounded by a lovely garden including a swimming pool. Staff are friendly and rooms are spacious. Check current availbaility and prices.
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Lumiar Quinta Das Conchas
- Pros: Lots of local commerce and local life, peaceful and quiet, neighborhood vibe
- Cons: Distance to the city center, prices are increasing
This area of Lisbon probably didnt deserve to be on this list 10 years ago, as it wasnt a particularly safe zone. But now the story is very different and there is nothing to worry about.
This neighborhood of Lisbon developed a lot last decade and earned a lot of life . Despite being the most distant option to the city center on this list, it is no longer than 20 minutes away on public transportation. And there are very good connections.
Together with Telheiras, it creates a sort of ecosystem and you might not even feel the need to leave the neighborhood. There are a lot of local shops, bakeries and restaurants. Plus the gigantic and beautiful Quinta das Conchas Park which is perfect for a morning run or a quick nap in the afternoon.
Best Hotel In Bairro Alto: Vip Executive Eden Aparthotel
Thanks to its spacious rooms and central location, this is one of the best places to stay in Lisbon. Not only does it offer modern, comfortable and well-equipped rooms, but it boasts a rooftop terrace swimming pool and more. Youll also find plenty of options for dining, nightlife and shopping on its doorstep.
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Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Lisbon
Much of the accommodation in Lisbon is found between the waterfront and Edward VII Park, and that central area is where most tourists want to stay. There are different neighborhoods, each with its unique feel:
Avenida da Liberdade
The cityâs central boulevard is the luxury shopping street, so its hotels are of the 4- and 5-star categories. If youâre looking for high-end accommodation, willing to splurge, or are lucky to find a deal, this is the best area to stay . Itâs within walking distance of the entire center, and has good links to the airport .
See the recommended hotels on Avenida da Liberdade.
Baixa
The downtown area, with a grid of flat streets connecting the cityâs grandest squares , is home to the largest number of hostels and boutique hotels. Theyâre all in renovated buildings from the late 1700s, so rooms vary in size, but are usually well decorated, often with Lisbon-related themes . From here, you can walk to many of the sights, and can reach other parts of the city and beyond on all kinds of public transportation .
See the recommended hotels in Baixa.
Chiado
Rising up the hill from Baixa, this is Lisbonâs most elegant district, with historic cafés, theaters, some of the most sophisticated restaurants and the best shops. Itâs also close to the nightlife districts of Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré , and has good transportation links. Nearly all accommodation is boutique hotels in renovated buildings, and many of them have rooftop bars .
Alfama
Where To Stay In Lisbon For Families
Also in the Chiado neighborhood, the Corpo Santo Lisbon sits just a few blocks from the Tagus River near the ferry terminals, close to landmarks like the Arco de Trifunal and Palácio Chiado, as well as tourist attractions like the Puppet Museum and the Museo do Chiado.
Family-friendly amenities include a restaurant with kid-friendly meals and a special diet menu, a variety of complimentary snacks and beverages in the lobby , and vouchers for a free ice-cream per day at a local shop.
The hotel also has a fitness center, spa, and coffee shop. Rooms have lovely views of the city and feature blackout curtains, soundproofing, and laptop safes big enough for everyone’s tech equipment.
Parents may also enjoy the unique Tings Lisbon, which has kitchenettes in its individually decorated concept suites, many of which are inspired by sister-hotel Tings Nepal. The atmosphere here is warm and peaceful, encouraging families to relax and enjoy the terraced gardens and appreciate what Lisbon has to offer-in keeping with this philosophy there are no TVs, but there is free Wi-Fi for those who need a technology fix.
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Where To Stay In Lisbon
Find the best accommodation in Lisbon – Comprehensive Guide
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Wondering where to stay in Lisbon? From Alfama’s beautiful quarters through the vibrant sights of Chiado to the historical streets of Belém, Lisbon is one of the most interesting and colourful cities in Europe. Immerse yourself in a laid-back atmosphere, learn about Portugal’s maritime history and eat your way around its picturesque capital city. Here is your comprehensive guide on where to stay in Lisbon.
Best Hotel In Cais Do Sodre: Vintage House Santa Catarina
Thanks to its great location, this is a fantastic option for Lisbon accommodation. It is set at the centre of the city and is within walking distance of popular tourist attractions, historic landmarks, great shops and excellent restaurants. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms with a range of modern amenities.
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Where To Stay In Campo De Ourique For Food Lovers
Dom Dinis Studios Mid-Range Accommodation
Dom Dinis Studios offers cozy studios conveniently located next to the metro station. A delicious breakfast is served in the rooms every morning.
The studios are beautifully decorated and some have balconies to enjoy the views of Campo de Ourique.
You will be welcomed by the wonderful hospitality of the host with local Portuguese treats.
Prices start at $112 a night for the entire studio.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar options check: Booking.com
Principe Real Luxury Hotels In Lisbon
Principe Realis the most exclusive and fashionable area to stay in Lisbon. If you decide to stay here, in addition to steep streets, youll find luxury shops, cool restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Youll also be close to the Principe Real garden.
5. Principe Real, luxury hotels in Lisbon
The downside of staying in this area of Lisbon is that after spending all day walking, you may need to use public transport to get to your hotel, although it is a good option if youre looking for boutique hotels in Lisbon.
If you want to sleep in this area, these are the hotels that I recommend:
- Low-cost option: Casa Oliver Boutique B& B
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Best Places To Stay In Alfama
budget
Alfama Lisbon Lounge Suites Another elegant Lisbon offering, this hotel is 10 minutes walk from St Georges Castle. Some of the apartments here have views over the Tagus River, but the whole building is surrounding by old, charming parts of the city. Set in an old building itself, theres a relaxing lounge in the lobby and a helpful front desk. The rooms vary in design, but in general, are all contemporary and comfortable. All rooms come equipped with a kitchen and living area for extra convenience.
Hotel Convento do Salvador With its simple whitewashed rooms equipped with crisp linen, this 3-star hotel is set inside a former convent that has been converted to suit various guests needs. Many of the rooms boast views of the Tagus River. The famous Tram 28 passes right outside the door of the hotel, making getting around the city easy. There are also a lot of sights on the doorstep, including the National Pantheon and the Se Cathedral all in walking distance.
Where To Stay In Lisbon: Alfama And Mouraria Are Charming And Historic
The oldest parts of Lisbon spread across the hill below St. Georges Castle , to the east of Baixa.
Here, youll find a maze of narrow cobbled lanes, colorful doorways, and steep steps that are definitely not suited for driving! Youll also find a fado bar on almost every street, and a crop of touristy shops near the main attractions.
Certainly the main attraction in Alfama/Mouraria is St. Georges Castle, an imposing fortress at the top of the hill that offers spectacular views of the city below. On your way up to the Castle, be sure to also stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia, another great spot for views . Also be sure to check out Fado Vadio, a street art installation on the Escadinhas de São Cristóvão.
If you find yourself falling in love with azulejos, the colorful Portuguese tiles, Alfama is also a great place to spot them and buy some souvenirs tiles!
A few final notes about Alfama: It truly is hilly and steep, and youll need strong legs to cope with inevitable hills, despite public elevators, or rely on the crowded tram #28.
Also be aware theres a long-standing community here which is currently under threat from an influx of AirBnB tourists, which means locals are being priced out of the market and the neighbourhoods are in danger of losing their authenticity. Its a fine balance, living like a local and disrupting local communities, and wed suggest you think twice before renting a holiday apartment in this area.
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Things To See And Do In Cais Do Sodre
Snack and sample your way through the Mercado da Ribeira.
Eat traditional Portuguese dishes at PapAcorda.
Dance the night away at Musicbox.
Sip a glass of Portuguese wine at the Pink Wine Point.
Spend a night at the lively, vibrant and hard to find Pensao Amor.
Excite your sense with a selection of tapas at Sol e Pesca.
Drink great cocktails at Espumantaria do Cais.
Try the incredible cocktails at 4 Caravelas Cocktail Bar.
Enjoy an afternoon of people watching in Praca de Sao Paulo.
Sit on the terrace and enjoy panoramic views and great food at Vestigius.
Where To Stay In Lisbon: The Ultimate Neighborhood Guide
Are you planning a trip to Lisbon? Do you have places like Castelo de São Jorge or Parque Eduardo VII on your list? Many people say when visiting Lisbon you want to stay within a mile or so of Praca do Comercio. The Baixa and Alto Alfama neighborhoods are also excellent places to explore and stay. They can be a bit pricey though, so if you are on a budget you will want to find a neighborhood a little further out.
The neighborhoods that are in or near the city center are some of the more popular places to find accommodation in Lisbon, but does this mean they are the best? Depending on why you are visiting Lisbon and who is traveling with you, you may find different areas better suit your needs.
Some of the neighborhoods that are further from downtown Lisbon are just a short metro ride from the central area. If you stay in a neighborhood that is uphill, you can have unobstructed views of the area. If you are staying in one of these hilly neighborhoods, take advantage of the tram or funicular services offered in Lisbon.
Finding where to stay in Lisbon is not a hard thing when you have a better understanding of the neighborhoods in the city. First, locate a Lisbon luggage storage service nearby to keep your things safe and sound while you explore and choose your accommodation. Deciding where to stay in Lisbon is half the fun!
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Where To Stay In Lisbon: Bairro Alto
High District Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s boho quarter. It’s a grid of densely packed streets. Expect a mix of shops, bars, restaurants and houses. Quiet by day, the district comes alive after midnight. In summer it can seem like a permanent street party until dawn. Not the district for early nights. But perfect for nightlife. Stay on the fringes to avoid noisiest streets.
- Best for stellar views? BookThe Independente. Part hostel, part boutique hotel in a fantastic old building.
- Best for foodies? Go forBairro Alto Hotel. 18th century building now a boutique hotel. Award winning restaurant.
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Why Stay In Prncipe Real
Príncipe Real is perfect for travellers looking to stay outside the tourist bubble, yet still within easy reach of it. It also offers a great way to see a slightly more alternative and local side to Lisbon as well as stunning views of the city.
Flores Guest House
Each unit has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and guests will find a coffee machine and a kettle in the accommodation. All feature a private bathroom, fitted with a shower. The apartments and studios are self-catering. Prices start at £54 per night.
Hotel Botanico
Botânicos guest rooms have air conditioning, minibars and flat-screen TVs. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom with bath or shower. Guests can enjoy a wholesome breakfast in the breakfast room in the morning. It includes different types of bread, cereals, yoghurt and fruits. Prices start at £134 per night.
Memmo Príncipe Real – Design Hotels
Each room at this hotel is air conditioned and is equipped with a modern Bang & Olufsen TV. A terrace is featured in certain rooms. For guests comfort, there are bathrobes and slippers. The private bathroom comes with premium Hermés amenities and with professional quality hair dryers. Prices start at £260 per night.
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Dear Lisbon Charming House
Dear Lisbon has themed rooms offering panoramic views over the city. Each room has its own private bathroom, air-conditioning and heating. Guests can enjoy a garden with pool and a private terrace. This charming hotel provides a unique experience in a traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon.
Bairro Altos nightlife is a few metres away, and the commercial streets of Chiado are within walking distance. From close-by Cais do Sodré, you can catch the train to Cascais or to one of Lisbons beaches.
What To See And Do In Baixa And Chiado Lisbon
If you start exploring from the Baixa-Chiado metro station, you will have two choices. You can walk up and explore the hilly Chiado district or stay on flat ground and discover the Baixa district first.
Things to Do in Chiado Lisbon
Starting from the top of Chiado hill gives you a nice vantage point of the city. This is perfect for getting oriented!
Walk up to Carmo Square and get a full view of the Carmo Convent. The Convents main attraction is the roofless church-ruin. Besides being photogenic, it houses the Carmo Archaeological Museum.
From the Convent, walk to the Elevador Santa Justa, a 19th-century lift. The lift can transport you right down to the center of Baixa.
Things to Do in Baixa Lisbon
From the bottom of the Elevador Santa Justa, stroll and window-shop your way toward the Praça do Comércio and Arco da Rua Augusta.
Lisbon Baixa has thrived since it was rebuilt following the Great Lisbon Earthquake. All the streets bear the names of merchants who used to have businesses here.
Nowadays its more of an eatery type district, with some interesting shops as well. The vintage shop A Outra Face Da Lua is worth visiting. So is the smallest bookshop in the world, Livraria São Cristovão.
At the end of the day, head to Ribeira das Naus, just beyond Praça do Comércio. From there, take a stroll on the embankment overlooking the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril and the Tagus River.
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