Where to Stay in Lisbon – A Local’s Neighborhood Guide
The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is one of the most popular cities in Europe. In the recent years, it has been steadily attracting millions of holidaymakers with its irresistible charm. But, one of the most important things that a traveller thinks about while planning a visit to this delightful place is this – where to stay in Lisbon Portugal?
Here’s a fact that may surprise you – the Lisbon ranks amongst the oldest European cities. However, a 1755 earthquake nearly destroyed most of the place.
But, a magical thing happens during such times. A beautiful and popular neighbourhood that you may hear about – the Alfama survives. On the other hand, many other places in the Lisbon were carefully rebuilt. In addition to that, constant makeovers and adding modern elements offer Lisbon an amazing ambience.
Why talk about all of these things? Well, you are looking for best places to stay in Lisbon where you can enjoy an amazing stay. This guide will take you through some of the best ones that you will fall in love with. So, go through this guide and after completing it, you can grab a Portugal visa UK and book an accommodation at the best neighbourhoods of Lisbon!
Where to Stay Lisbon Portugal – The Top Neighborhoods
1). Baixa & Chiado – Top Places to Stay in Lisbon Portugal for First-Timers
A central location is what a first-time traveller should always go for while visiting the Lisbon.
With the Baixa & Chiado, you are very close to the central area of the Lisbon. Now, after reading the name of the neighbourhood, you may be wondering – why two names?
Well, technically, they are two neighbourhoods. However, they beautifully combine together. That is why the locals refer to them jointly.
The best part about this place – The convenience of going sightseeing on your holiday. How convenient exactly?
Well, on the east side there is Belem and Estrela. On the west side there is the Alfama neighbourhood (more on this later). Then there is the north side where you will find Bairro Alto. The south side of the Baixa & Chiado has the river. This makes the place a prominent central location for all your adventures!
As for the public transport, you can easily get the buses, metros and the trams. In addition to this there are the Rossio train stations. All you need is a Portugal Schengen visa to travel to these amazing neighbourhoods of Lisbon!
How to Differentiate Between Baixa and Chiado?
Well, this is pretty easy – even for first-time holidaymakers. Now, here is the trick!
The area that is near to the river is the Baixa neighbourhood. This place is quite commercial. On the other hand, the place that leans more into the west or into the town is the Chiado.
If you want the hustle and bustle of the city – go for the Baixa. If you prefer a calm ambience, go for the Chiado.
Remember the 1755 earthquake? This place got destroyed during the time. However, after years of effort and rebuilding, this place became a hub of commercial activities.
Also check, Portugal visit visa application form | Portuguese tourist visa UK
Where to Stay in Baixa and Chiado?
- Hotel da Baixa – This is a classy boutique hotel that boasts the spacious rooms. Additionally, you will get balconies and a chic restaurant.
- Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel – This luxurious hotel in Chiado lisbon boasts fascinating designs that combine the modern and traditional elements.
- Palacio Das Especiarias – This hotel boasts the charm of historic Portugal and you will find it very close to the metro stop of Baixa & Chiado.
2). Príncipe Real – One of the Best Neighborhood to stay in Lisbon
Craving for that residential ambience of the Lisbon? Then you must choose the Príncipe Real.
The Baixa & Chiado is a great place but it is kind of touristy. On the other hand, this place is sort of a hidden gem. If you are planning a stay in the Lisbon for 2+ days, then you should not skip the Príncipe Real.
You will find this neighbourhood near the Botanical Garden of the Lisbon. While the eastern border of this area is the Avenida da Liberdade, to the north side is the Bairro Alto (another amazing neighbourhood).
Coming back to the Avenida da Liberdade, you will all sorts of amazing things. These include the restaurants, bars, boutiques and clothing shops. Thanks to the big trees and its shade, you can enjoy delicious snack or a quick meal in cafés nearby.
If you are wondering about “Where to stay Lisbon Portugal” then is the area where you will find most of the hotels. So, plan to book your stay here!
Where to Stay in Príncipe Real?
- The Alegria Boutique Hotel – Want amazing views? Then book a stay here. You will get to witness the stunning Praça da Alegria square. The stay features amazing amenities with dash of traditional and modern elements.
- Memmo Principe Real – A popular 5 star hotel in Lisbon city, you will find this place close to the gardens of the neighbourhood. With an outdoor pool, amazing rooms and gorgeous views, you cannot get a better place to stay than this!
3). Alfama – A Popular Neighborhood in Lisbon Portugal
Looking for a place that screams “Portugal” right from the moment you step in?
Then, you must plan your stay in the Alfama – one of the best areas to stay in Lisbon. It is one of the oldest districts of the Lisbon city.
Now, time to remind you about the 1755 earthquake again – why?
Alfama was one of the neighbourhoods that got impacted. However, the rebuilding efforts give Alfama an amazing feel. You will come across the well-designed city blocks and the broad streets.
When you first explore Alfama, you will be blown away by its charm. This picturesque neighbourhood boasts a ton of attractions like the Sé Cathedral, Tram 28, Castelo de São Jorge and much more!
But, this does make the Alfama quite busy and touristy. If you do not mind all these, these Alfama is a fantastic neighbourhood to stay with 5 and 4 star hotels in Lisbon Portugal.
Another amazing thing that you will love is the wandering across the Alfama district in Lisbon. No matter where you are, you can simply head out and check the wonderful attractions. This rea boasts a collection of narrow streets that will fascinate you. In fact, these will make you take out your camera or smartphone to click pictures!
If you want to visit Long Stay in Portugal then you must read – Type D National Visa and Resident Permit from UK
Alfama Accommodations in Portugal Lisbon
- The Memmo Alfama – This 4 star hotel offers amazing rooms that provide incredible views of the Panteão Nacional and the river.
- Pousada de Alfama – This is another 4-star hotel that is known for providing great views and delightful rooms.
- Santiago de Alfama – You will come across this hotel near the São Jorge Castle. Although on the upscale side, this 15th century property features wonderful rooms and excellent views of the red tile houses of Alfama!
4). Avenidas Novas – Perfect for Family Lisbon Holiday 2025
This amazing neighbourhood is not in the central part of the Lisbon. However, it is a pleasant place popular for the incredible architecture, the fascinating boulevards and the well-crafted parks.
In fact, the Avenidas Novas is a relatively new area of the Lisbon. This is why, you may not come across many historical attractions here. However, this place is the perfect area for families and couples – thanks to its functional aspects!
The first thing that you will notice is the area is quite flat. So, this is great for people who prefer walking, couples, children and even elder people. The second thing is the options for public transit. You can easily catch a metro to go to major places. Travelling by the car? You can easily park the car in the neighbourhood.
You will also come across many hotels that have competitive prices compared to the other neighbourhoods. During the peak season i.e., from the months of April to November, hotels usually get pricey. However, this place has lower priced hotels and boasts a pleasant ambience too!
The top attractions of the good area to stay in Lisbon are the Gulbenkian museum and the Marques de Pombal park. Apart from this, the cafés, restaurants and the daily life of Avenidas Novas will make you feel right at home. So, when are you booking the Portugal visa appointment?
Where to Stay in Avenidas Novas?
- The H10 Duque de Loulé – This is an 18th century property that is popular for its cosy rooms from where you can soak in the views of the city.
- Sublime Lisboa – This mansion of the 1900s has only 15 rooms. But, each one is carefully designed to offer you the ultimate comfort in the Lisbon!
- Hotel White Lisboa – Want minimalist vibes? This is nice hotel in Lisbon featuring the airy rooms along with other amenities is the ideal choice for you!
5). Bairro Alto – Good Areas to Stay in Lisbon for Nightlife
Are you a young couple or prefer the nightlife for your holidays in Lisbon Portugal?
Then choose the Bairro Alto which literally translates to “high neighbourhood”. That is because this place is actually on a high area of the Lisbon. In addition to this, you will come across a variety of architectural attractions along with the cobblestone streets.
Although, you may not find many tourist spots here, the nightlife is pretty great!
Each street in the area is full of amazing cafés and bars. They get alive during every night. So, if you are ready to dive into the Lisbon nightlife, this is just perfect.
Planning to go shopping? Head over to the independent boutiques. You can also go for the art ateliers. If dining is what you are after, then you can check out the nearby restaurants and the trendy cafés. Here, you will get both international and Portuguese cuisines!
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Please note that as the area is on high ground, you may need to climb stairs or go on slopes. If you are comfortable with this, then Bairro Alto may be the perfect choice for you!
Where to Stay in Bairro Alto?
- Avenida Palace – This is a charming 19th century 5 star hotel in Lisbon city that offer luxurious stays.
- The Lumiares Hotel & Spa – This is another 5-star luxury hotels Lisbon Portugal that features wonderful suites as well as apartments with kitchens. In addition to this, you can enjoy the spa facilities or go to the bar or restaurant for a great time.
- LX Hotel – Located at the border, this hotel is the intersection point for the nightlife of the Bairro Alto and the Cais do Sodre neighborhoods!
Conclusion
If you are thinking about where to stay Lisbon Portugal, then you cannot go wrong with these amazing neighborhoods.
While some offer a peaceful time, others are popular for their nightlife. Then, there are those neighbourhoods that boast functional amenities perfect for families and couples.
Whichever areas you choose, you are bound to have a wonderful time with your near and dear in Lisbon.
So, why wait any longer? Apply for Portugal Visa from UK today. Go on a delightful vacation and enjoy the best stays in the Lisbon!
Also check, Best Places Near Lisbon – Top Picks of 2025
FAQs
For a first-time visitor, the Baixa and Chiado neighborhood is the perfect place to stay. It is located in the heart of the Lisbon and you will find most of the essentials like the attractions, restaurants and transportations readily available!
Undoubtedly, the Bairro Alto is famous for its exciting nightlife . This is thanks to its many bars, clubs and venues where you can enjoy the live music.
Yes, you can go for the neighborhoods like the Almirantes Reis and Arroios . Here, you will find lower prices for stays and a delightful ambience !
For digital nomads, an amazing place to stay in the Cais do Sodré. This place is popular for its cafés, the co-working spaces and the vibrant atmosphere.
To land the perfect neighborhood to stay, you need to truly understand your preferences. These can be sightseeing (Alfama), Shopping or Dining (Chiado), Nightlife (Bairro Alto) etc. After understanding your choices, you can proceed to choose the neighborhood to stay in the Lisbon during your trip.
