Where to Stay in Lisbon? The BEST Location to Stay in Lisbon for YOU!

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!

The Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Lisbon – Pros & Cons

In Lisbon, there are many different neighborhoods and a wide range of offers of apartments and boutique hotels. That’s why you can feel lost and it could be complicated for you to find where to stay in Lisbon Portugal.

You’ll get what you need on this post!

I’ll help you find the most appropriate place for you, according to what you want to do in Lisbon. 

THE Best Place to Stay in Lisbon Portugal: Chiado

I, Luca Galuzzi / CC BY-SA

Located right in the center, Chiado is a really nice neighborhood where you’ll experience the old Lisbon. It’s the best location to stay in Lisbon, especially if it’s your first time in the city as you can find many of the city’s main tourist attractions within walking distance.

You want to explore another part of the city? Don’t worry; from Chiado everything is pretty close thanks to an efficient public transportation, really convenient right?

In Chiado area, you’ll never be bored; you can find plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés and enjoy a walk in this charming district. In fact, most of the streets are pedestrian zones, this is the perfect spot to walk around and look at street performers during the day.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Chiado

Where to Stay in Chiado

Wondering where to stay in Chiado? Just in the middle of downtown, this neighborhood houses the capital’s most emblematic squares and streets, but also very good hotels to enjoy fully your stay.

Let’s discover which one is the best for you!

Best Hotel: Chiado 44

Perfectly located, very close to the sea front, Chiado 44 is a really nice hotel where you’d stay. The rooms are very comfortable and all very clean. It offers an amazing value for money with a really friendly and helpful staff. If you choose to stay in Chiado, this one is a definitely a great deal!

Luxury Choice: Casa do Barao

In the beautiful property, Casa do Barao, you’ll immediately feel good. With its central location and its amazing staff, this luxury place has a lot to offer. Last but not least, you’ll love the rooms that are very cosy and well decorated. Don’t hesitate too much, it would be a shame to miss their exquisite breakfast buffet!

Budget Pick: Lisbon Old Town Hostel

Lisbon Old Town hostel is a really good value for money. The staff is really friendly and convenient, most of the time you can check in earlier or at least leave your luggage. The hotel offers really comfortable rooms as well as a large variety of events at night to enjoy either with your family or your friends.   

Want to stay in the very center of Lisbon? You’ll find my selection of the best hotels in Lisbon city center here.  

Best Neighborhood to Stay in Lisbon for Families: Baixa

Where is the best neighborhood to stay in Lisbon with your family? It can be complicated to find the best place by yourself and please the whole family. 

Well, I recommend choosing Baixa, especially if you’re staying in Lisbon for the first time.

In the center of the town, it will be easier for you and your family to access to the main sights within walking distance. Your child is a bit tired? Don’t worry, this district is very convenient thanks to the public transportation.

You’ll also be close from all the shops and restaurants, so you don’t have to go far at the end of the day to eat, you’ll still have time to relax at the hotel. 

Pros & Cons of Staying in Baixa

Where to Stay in Baixa

Since Baixa is a very famous area, you’ll have plenty of choices. It could be complicated to choose the best one for your family, that’s the reason why I’ve selected some of them so you can pick your fav and fully enjoy your stay in this neighborhood. 

Best Hotel: Browns Boutique Hotel

In Browns Boutique Hotel, you’ll enjoy lovely rooms with a nice view and a tasty breakfast with lots of options. Located right in the center, just next to Baixa Chiado subway, this hotel is also really convenient when you arrive from the airport with your family. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy Lisbon.

Luxury Choice: Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel

Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel, is a fantastic hotel if you want to fully enjoy your stay. In this place, everything looks amazing, they thought about every little detail that makes a difference. Your family and you will love the delicious breakfast, the beautiful rooms and the staff, always on hand to help you. Don’t miss this place!

Budget Pick: Boho Guesthouse – Rooms & Apartments

This guesthouse is perfectly located in Baixa. All is very clean and comfortable so you can relax after a day visiting. Don’t worry, even with the shared space, your family and yourself will enjoy your privacy and feel at home. This place is definitely a great value for money!

Looking for more best neighborhoods in Lisbon to stay with your family? Check out this guide of the best places to stay in Lisbon Portugal with your family

Best Area to Stay in Lisbon Portugal for Nightlife : Bairro Alto

Wondering what area to stay in Lisbon to enjoy the nightlife? We’d recommend Bairro Alto for sure!

This central district is considered as the party district. Pretty calm during the day, it becomes a new place crowded with people of all ages at night. If you’re walking there by night, you’ll hear lots of music and see people catching their drinks everywhere in the street.

In Bairro Alto, you’ll enjoy plenty of clubs and bars open all night. It’s definitely the place to be if you want to experience the nightlife and the festive spirit of Lisbon.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Bairro Alto

Where to Stay in Bairro Alto

You want to stay in Bairro Alto, but you don’t know yet which hotel you’d choose?

Here’s my hotel selection to help you find the best accommodation so you can enjoy this festive district!

Best Hotel: Camões à Vista Suites

Camões à Vista Suites is the best hotel you could chose in Bairro Alto. Perfectly located in the heat of the city, you’ll love the neighborhood and the vibe there. Really close from many attractions it’s really convenient during the day. The rooms are also perfect: cosy and really comfortable, it’s the perfect spot to relax while spending time in Lisbon.

Luxury Choice: The Lumiares Hotel & Spa – Small Luxury Hotels Of The World

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa – Small Luxury Hotels Of The World, has a really good location, just in the center and very close to the underground station. On the top of the hotel you’ll enjoy a wonderful view across the city. You’ll also love the spacious, clean and comfortable rooms. Definitely a good spot to have a good time.

Budget Pick: Bairro Alto Alternative Guesthouse

In Bairro Alto Alternative Guesthouse, you’ll feel immediately at home thanks to Fabio, the host and his lovely cat Scotland. Perfectly located in the middle of the old town, this place is really convenient for you especially if you want to visit. At the end of the day or after enjoying the nightlife, you’ll be happy to find their nice and comfortable rooms. Definitely a great value for money!

Not satisfied with the selection above? Discover all the best Lisbon hotels here. 

Best Part of Lisbon to Stay for a Local Vibe: Alfama

The best part of Lisbon to stay if you’re looking for a local vibe would be Alfama. This lively district located between the Sao Jorge Castle and the Tagus river is the perfect spot to attempt the traditional “fado show” of Lisbon.

In this oldest neighborhood of Lisbon, you can discover some of the main historical sights such as the iconic Tram 28. You’ll also find plenty of bars and restaurants. In this neighborhood, you can enjoy the local vibe, but it’s also easy to access to the center; either by foot or by using public transportation.

Another advantage of Alfama? Being close to the center, but a bit far from the crowded and crazy atmosphere to relax and rest.

Don’t miss this place if you want to discover the local vibe!

Pros & Cons of Staying in Alfama

Where to Stay in Alfama

Looking for an accommodation in Alfama to get the best of Lisbon, but you don’t know yet which one to choose? 

Here are some options, all pretty convenient, so you can choose your favorite. 

Best Hotel: Apartamentos Tandem Palacio Alfama

This place is absolutely gorgeous, definitely the best option in Alfama. The rooms are huge and amazing, all very clean, comfortable and modern. You’ll love the wonderful view of the river and the big swimming pool. If you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend time in Alfama, don’t miss it. It’s safe and has a friendly environment adapted for children. You can also pick up amazing vegetables from their organic garden.

Luxury Choice: ON/SET Alfama – Lisbon Cinema Apartments

In ON/SET Alfama – Lisbon Cinema Apartments, you’ll immediately enjoy an amazing and careful reception, they’ll take care of every detail. This place is also perfectly located next to the tram which is really convenient. At the end of the day, you’ll be happy to go back to your room, very comfortable and very-well equipped. It’s a really good option for anyone wishing to stay in Lisbon.

Budget Pick: Alfama studios

Alfama studios is a really great deal to spend a few days in Alfama. Be aware of the stairs that are steep to reach the apartment. Otherwise, you’ll enjoy this fully renovated studio which provides all you’ll need. Very well located, you’ll be within walking distance from many main sights. Alfama studio is a great value for money!

Couldn’t find the perfect hotel in Alfama? No worries, here are more cool places to stay in Alfama.

Best Area of Lisbon to Stay to Get Away from the Crowds: Príncipe Real

Alatryste / CC BY-SA

Principe Real is the best area you could find if you want to stay a bit more outside from the crowds. The main advantage in Principe Real is to stay within distance from the center, while avoiding the touristic atmosphere and the crazy prices.

Don’t worry, in this area, you’ll also have a lot to do. In fact, along the main road you can find lots of small shops, good restaurants, bars and the main tourist attractions.

If you’re looking for spots to get amazing panoramic views of the city, this is also the place to be. We’d recommend staying there especially if you’re spending a lot of time in Lisbon!

Pros & Cons of Staying in Príncipe Real

Where to Stay in Príncipe Real

If you’re looking for a cool and relaxing atmosphere in Principe Real, far from the crowds, this hotel list will help you.

Here’s my top 3 best hotels in Príncipe Real!

Best Hotel: Flores Guest House

In Flores Guest House, everything is nice and clean. In this spacious house, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet a very friendly and helpful staff. The rooms are all very clean and comfortable, exactly like on the pictures. Definitely a place we’d recommend for your stay in Principe Real!

Luxury Choice: Memmo Príncipe Real – Design Hotels

Everything is really nice in this place. The staff is amazing and very welcoming, they’ll give you some good tips for your stay. The rooms are beautiful, well-equipped with lots of great details and the beds are very comfortable. By choosing this hotel, you’ll enjoy for sure a very pleasant experience in Lisbon!

Budget Pick: The Loft Lisbon Hostel

You’ll be charmed by The Loft Lisbon Hostel. In this loft, very well located, close to the city center, the staff is super friendly and helpful. The rooms are really comfortable and clean. The must: you can enjoy a beautiful view from the rooftop of the bar and a tasty breakfast in the morning. Definitely a great value for money! 

Did you know Lisbon is a costal city? You can find my top Lisbon hotels on the beach on this post.   

Where NOT to Stay in Lisbon

When you’re discovering a new city, you’re sometimes wondering: where are the dangerous areas that you should avoid?

Honestly, the neighborhoods in Lisbon center are all fine. As a city, Lisbon is considered as a safe one. The problems over there are not very high. Most of the time the main danger would be pickpockets, especially around the most touristic areas such as Tram 28. However, this is a something you could experiment in most of the touristic cities in the world.

If you’re an outsider and you don’t want to stay in the center, or if you just want to discover other places outside of the center, it’s better to know that you should avoid Rio de Mouro or Cacém. Indeed, both towns are known for higher criminality rates.

But don’t worry too much, Lisbon is definitely not a city where you’ll feel unsafe!

FAQ About Staying in Lisbon

How many days do you need in Lisbon?

There’s a lot to see in Lisbon. If you want to fully enjoy the city, I would recommend spending at least 3 days. It’s be perfect minimum time to discover all the main tourist sights without a rush.

If you also want to visit Sintra, an old tow with beautiful palaces, ancient castles and stunning views located at only 25km from Lisbon, it would be better to plan a 4 day trip. 

What is the best area of Lisbon to stay?

If you’re looking for the best district to stay in Lisbon, Chiado is definitely the one. Located right in the center, it’s the perfect place to experiment everything Lisbon has to offer. Thanks to a very convenient public transportation there, it’s really easy to access most of the other areas of Lisbon. There are also lots of shops and restaurants, which is really useful.

However, keep in mind that it depends on what you’re looking for: if you want avoid the crowded tourist places, Chiado may not be the best option.

Where is the most central place to stay in Lisbon?

If you’re looking for the most central place in Lisbon, I would say Baixa. If you’re staying there, you’ll be close from lots of the main sights within walking distances, which is really convenient. You can easily go outside Baixa thanks to the public transportation which is very well developed in the area. Definitely the place to be if you want to enjoy the city center advantages.

What’s the best place to stay in Lisbon for solo traveler?

Bairro Alto is the best place for solo travelers who are looking for parties and late nights. It’s a very festive place so you’ll definitely meet people there. It’s also a nice spot to explore the city during the day.

But if you want to fully visit Lisbon and sleep at night, you better stay in Baixa, which is in the very center and much more convenient to quickly access Lisbon main sights.
 

Other Hotels in Lisbon

Looking for more hotel options in Lisbon?

Well, I have some suggestions for you.

Check out my Lisbon hotels guide: The Very Best Hotels in Lisbon 

Lisbon Travel Guides

Ok, now that you’ve booked your trip & your hotel, it’s time to get to the fun part: planning your trip!

This is one of my favorite parts of traveling: looking up the best things to do in the area, and planning everything so that I have the best experience when I get there.

I’ve made it easy for you to plan your trip to Lisbon with these travel guides:

• Lisbon Itinerary Travel Guide: The BEST Lisbon Itinerary for 1, 2 or 3 Days in Lisbon [+Free Maps]
  
• Lisbon Tour Guide: Lisbon Free Walking Tours with free map
• Sunrise in Lisbon: 5 Best Spots for Sunrise in Lisbon
• Sunset in Lisbon: 30 Best Spots for Sunset in Lisbon
• Lisbon in Winter Guide: The Best Things to Do in Lisbon in Winter

Or check out all my Lisbon guides.

Final Thoughts

As we saw above, the best place to stay is Chiado because it’s a very charming central place with a lot to do. If you have to choose one spot in Lisbon, I would definitely recommend that one.

However, be aware that it depends on what you’re looking for. In all cases, I hope you’ll spend a very nice time in Lisbon!

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. If you book your hotel by using one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the site free & filled with useful information!

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