Where To Stay In Lisbon: Best Areas And Hotels 2025

Wondering where to stay in Lisbon on your next trip? Read on to find all the best locations for every traveller, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth!

Lisbon is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Europe. When choosing accommodation in any city, location is one of the most important things to consider. On a map, Lisbon can appear to be a sprawling city, spread over a wide area, with so many things to see and do. This can make it a little tricky to know where to stay.

The good news is that the majority of Lisbon’s attractions are within walking distance of one another and the public transport system is excellent. No matter where you choose to stay, we guarantee you’ll have an incredible time.

In a hurry and don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s a summary of the best places to stay in Lisbon:

Baixa & Chiado: Best Area For First Timers & Families

Baixa and Chiado are located in the heart of city, making it the perfect place to stay in Lisbon for first timers, whether you’ve got one day or multiple. With all of the main attractions within walking distance, and plenty of restaurants and cafés to choose from, Baixa is a wonderful place to stay. These neighborhoods offer unparalleled accessibility, with fewer steep hills and excellent public transport links including metro, trams, and buses. This makes exploring Lisbon and its surroundings convenient, especially for families.

Baixa and Chiado are renowned for their historical significance, with landmarks such as Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square. By staying in this neighbourhood, you get the perfect mix of history, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Where To Stay In Baixa & Chiado

✅ Best Budget Option – Lisbon Lounge Hostel

Lisbon Lounge Hostel is one of the best-located hostels in Lisbon, within walking distance of all the main attractions. This hostel has both private and dorm rooms depending on your budget and travel preferences, both of which have plenty of space. There is a shared kitchen and lounge area for guests to relax in after a long day of exploring. It has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and the staff are super friendly.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – The 7 Hotel

In a prime location within the Baixa District, just minutes walk from many major attractions, The 7 Hotel offers guests a sleek and stylish stay. The rooms are thoughtfully laid out, with soundproofing to block out the sound of the street. Staff are kind and attentive, and there is the option of adding breakfast for a small additional charge.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Pousada de Lisboa

This hotel has to be one of the best in Lisbon, full stop. One of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this boutique hotel offers world-class service and celebrity treatment. The location is outstanding, just on the edge of Praça do Comércio, whilst the interior is elegant and luxurious. The staff are amazing and the breakfast buffet is delicious. You can’t get much better than this in Lisbon!

Best Things To Do In Baixa & Chiado

Bairro Alto: Where To Stay In Lisbon For Nightlife

Located next to both the Baixa and Chiado districts, Bairro Alto offers a central location to stay in Lisbon. Bairro Alto is well known for its vibrant nightlife, though it has a sleepy and charming atmosphere during the day. With narrow, cobblestone streets, lined with colourful buildings, there is a whole array of bars, restaurants, and fado houses to choose from.

Staying in Bairro Alto means you’ll be at the heart of Lisbon’s entertainment district, whilst still within easy reach of the main attractions. Bairro Alto also offers a sense of old-world charm and tranquility during the day, with quaint shops, local cafes, and beautiful viewpoints offering stunning panoramic views of the city. This is the perfect place to stay for those wanting a taste of Lisbon’s nightlife, whilst still being within easy reach of the main attractions.

Where To Stay In Bairro Alto

✅ Best Budget Option – Inn Bairro Alto BA Sweet

Inn Bairro Alto BA Sweet offers cozy and stylish rooms in the heart of the Bairro Alto district. The standard rooms are relatively small, but they’re comfortable and impeccably clean, making this a great option for exploring Lisbon on a budget. The staff go the extra mile and breakfast is available for a small additional charge.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Bairro House Lisbon Charming Suites

This is the perfect place to stay for those of you visiting Lisbon for its nightlife. Bairro House is situated in the heart of Bairro Alto, on a ‘party street’, though the noise is completely blocked out at night with the windows closed (there is aircon instead). There are several different rooms to choose from, all stylishly decorated, clean and comfortable. It is worth noting, there are no staff on site, though they are easily contactable if needed.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Bairro Alto Hotel

The Bairro Alto Hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Lisbon, topping the rankings by far within Bairro Alto. With warm, traditional decor, each room exudes luxury, whilst still being incredibly comfortable. The hotel boasts a terrace with the most amazing view, whilst all rooms have views of Bairro Alto and Chiado. Some rooms allow you to see down to the Tagus River. With breakfast served on the terrace, and an award-winning restaurant, every aspect of this hotel is perfect.

Best Things To Do In Bairro Alto

Alfama: Best Area To Stay In Lisbon For Couples

Alfama is a sleepy, romantic district in the central Lisbon area. Having survived the city’s devastating 1755 earthquake, Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon. Alfama’s winding cobblestone streets are steeped in history, lined with colourful houses adorned with beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles). It sometimes feels as if this area hasn’t changed much, with washing hanging overhead and streets so narrow it feels as though you could touch both sides.

The area boasts a vibrant local life, with traditional markets, family-owned shops, and cozy cafes where you can savor Portuguese pastries and coffee. Plus, Alfama is within walking distance of many major attractions, and is home to the amazing São Jorge Castle. With the famous tram 28 running through the streets, Alfama is a truly romantic place to stay in Lisbon.

Where To Stay In Alfama

✅ Best Budget Option – This Is Lisbon Hostel

This is Lisbon Hostel is located just above São Jorge Castle, on the northernmost part of Alfama. With both dorm and private rooms, there’s something to suit every type of traveller. The staff make you feel so welcome, and the rooms are comfortable and clean. There is a common room with computers and a kitchen for guests to use as and when they please, making this a really convenient stay for anyone on a budget.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Hotel Convento do Salvador

Hotel Convento do Salvador is conveniently located within minutes walk of all major attractions in Lisbon. This hotel is set in a former convent, though it has been converted to suit modern needs, with simple decor throughout. This hotel has everything you could need, including comfortable beds and aircon for those warm Portuguese days. Plus, there is a large courtyard area to relax in the sun, as well as a comfortable seating area to lounge in.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Tandem Palacio Alfama Suites

With the unmistakable dome of the National Pantheon towering above, the Tandem Palacio Alfama Suites is the best luxury place to stay in Alfama. Each guest suite is beautifully decorated, with private kitchenettes and comfortable seating areas. The highlight has to be the stunning garden, filled with orange and lemon trees, with a swimming pool and views over both the National Pantheon and the River Tagus.

Best Things To Do In Alfama

Avenida Da Liberdade: Best Area To Stay In Lisbon For A Luxurious Experience

Avenida da Liberdade is one of the most high-end, luxurious parts of Lisbon, whilst still being relatively centrally located. As one of the most prestigious avenues in Lisbon, Avenida da Liberdade is lined with upscale shops, designer boutiques, and elegant hotels. The avenue itself is a beautiful boulevard adorned with fountains, gardens, and wide pedestrian sidewalks, perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching.

Staying in Avenida da Liberdade will allow you to immerse yourself in Lisbon’s affluent atmosphere, with good public transport links to all the main attractions in Lisbon.

Where To Stay In Avenida Da Liberdade

✅ Best Budget Option – Inn-Chiado Restauradores Prime Suites

Whilst Avenida da Liberdade is certainly not known for being a budget-friendly area, Inn-Chiado Restauradores Prime Suites offers those on a slightly lower budget the chance to stay at the edge of this premium district. This small hotel offers cozy, comfortable rooms with a homely atmosphere, and guests have access to a shared kitchen and lounge area.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – TURIM Boulevard Hotel

Located directly on Avenida da Liberdade, Turim Boulevard Hotel offers guests a luxurious experience without the luxury price tag. The service is excellent, the design is incredible, and the views from the rooftop pool and terrace are simply stunning.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

A stay at the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade is a stay like no other. As one of the leading hotels in the world, the Tivoli offers guests world-class service. With a rooftop bar with stunning views over Lisbon, a pool, two restaurants, a spacious sun terrace surrounded by greenery, and even a spa, you may never want to leave!

Best Things To Do In Avenida Da Liberdade

Belém: Best Area To Stay In Lisbon For History & Culture

Whilst Belém is located a little way out of the city centre, this district is home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic attractions, including two UNESCO sites – the Belém tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Belém is known for its rich maritime history which is reflected through its riverside location and fresh fish delicacies.

Belém is completely unique compared to the rest of the city, and exudes a warm and serene atmosphere, welcoming every visitor. The Jardim de Belém and the Jardim Botânico Tropical provide lush green spaces for relaxation. With so many historical sites and museums to explore, Belém is the perfect place to stay to immerse yourself in culture and history.

Despite it’s location a little further out of the city centre, Belém has good public transport links, including trams and buses, making accessing the other districts super straightforward.

Where To Stay In Belém

✅ Best Budget Option – Geronimo Guest House Belém

Located within a few minutes walk of all Belém attractions, Geronimo Guest House offers a home away from home. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with plenty of storage, and some even have terraces and balconies. The best thing about this guest house has to be its stunning garden. With plenty of spaces to sit and relax in the sun, surrounded by nature, as well as a hot tub to enjoy, this is the best budget-friendly stay in Belém.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Embaixador Apartments & Suites

Embaixador Apartments & Suites offers spacious, well equipped, modern and comfortable apartments in the centre of Belém. The apartments are thoughtfully decorated and have everything you need to enjoy your stay. Each apartment comes with a comfortable seating area and a kitchenette, making it ideal for both short and long stays in Lisbon.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Altis Belém Hotel & Spa

If you choose to stay at Altis Belém Hotel & Spa, be prepared to never want to leave! This hotel sits right on the riverfront, between Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, offering spectacular views, especially from the rooftop pool. Each room has a huge glass wall, meaning you’re never without a view. The decor is modern and luxurious, and the staff are kind and attentive. There is no better place to stay in Belém.

Best Things To Do In Belém

Príncipe Real: Trendiest Area To Stay In Lisbon

Príncipe Real is one of Lisbon’s most exclusive districts, once known for it’s quaint townhouses which have now been turned into million-dollar apartments. The streets are lined with boutique shops and fine-dining restaurants, making a stay here a real experience.

Whilst Príncipe Real offers an exclusive experience, it is worth noting that it is built on some very steep hills, so may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It is also slightly further from the city centre and main attractions meaning you may need to use public transport a little more often.

Where To Stay In Príncipe Real

✅ Best Budget Option – The Hygge Lisbon Suites

The Hygge Lisbon Suites offer comfortable and stylishly furnished rooms, with a good breakfast included in the price. Located just on the edge of the Jardim de Estrela, this is a peaceful location to spend a few nights. With extra touches like a coffee machine and cakes, this feels like a home away from home.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Casa do Principe

Hotel, or royal palace? It’s hard to tell at Casa do Principe! The hotel is decorated exactly like a traditional manor house, with high ceilings, real hardwood floors, and incredibly spacious rooms. The price includes a delicious breakfast, and the location in Príncipe Real is right next a lovely little park.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Hotel das Amoreiras

Located on the edge of a leafy square, Hotel das Amoreiras offers tastefully and traditionally decorated suites, with comfortable beds and beautiful views. An exceptional à la carte breakfast is offered in the hotel garden, with a serene atmosphere to start your day. The staff are attentive and friendly, really making your stay into something special.

Best Things To Do In Príncipe Real

Cais do Sodré: Best Area To Stay In Lisbon On A Budget

Staying in Cais do Sodré offers a vibrant and dynamic experience in Lisbon, perfect for those looking to be at the heart of the city’s nightlife and cultural scene. Whilst once a rough and sleezy neighbourhood, Cais do Sodré has transformed over the years into a vibrant and trendy district with a distinct character. The district is home to the famous Pink Street, known for its lively bars, nightclubs, and music venues that come alive after dark.

The scenic riverside location provides stunning views, and the area’s central train and ferry stations make it an excellent base for exploring other parts of Lisbon and beyond. Cais do Sodré is generally a cheaper place to stay, making it popular with backpackers and those on a tighter budget.

Where To Stay In Cais do Sodré

✅ Best Budget Option – Boho Guesthouse

Boho Guesthouse is in an amazing location, just metres from the Tagus River and train station, and walking distance to all the main attractions. The rooms are simple but comfortable, offering everything you need for a stay in Cais do Sodré.

✅ Best Mid-Range Option – Alecrim ao Chiado

Alecrim ao Chiado sits right on the edge of Cais do Sodré, making it an ideal location for those wanting a taste of nightlife whilst still being within walking distance of all major attractions. Alecrim ao Chiado is a beautiful guesthouse with the loveliest staff. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and well-decorated, and the included breakfast is delicious.

✅ Best Luxury Option – Independente Bica

On the edge of Cais do Sodré, Independente Bica offers a unique stay within walking distance of all the bars, clubs, and main attractions of Lisbon. The rooms are of a modern design, with amazing views over the surrounding streets. The price includes an amazing breakfast, making this an ideal stay.

Best Things To Do In Cais do Sodré

FAQs

If you’re still unsure of the best area to stay in Lisbon, or have some other questions about this beautiful city, we’ve rounded up the most frequently asked questions. We’ve answered with our honest opinions after exploring Lisbon extensively.

Where Should I Not Stay In Lisbon?

There are very few places that you should avoid in Lisbon. However, we would advise avoiding districts which are on the outskirts of the city (other than Belém) as it would make seeing the main attractions more difficult.

That being said, there are a few areas where some tourists may feel uncomfortable and should be avoided after dark. These include Intendente, Martim Moniz, Chelas, Mouraria, and Anjos. There have been reported to be higher street crime rates within these areas.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is such a beautiful city to visit year-round. Our personal favourite time to visit is Spring, around May to June, when the Jacarandas are in blossom. The city is stunning this time of year, the weather is warm and sunny, and there are fewer tourists than in peak season. Alternatively, September to October is a great time to visit during shoulder season. However, anytime that you visit, we know you’ll have a great time.

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How Long Should I Spend In Lisbon?

For a first-timer, we’d recommend spending three to five days in Lisbon. Five days will allow you to see all the main attractions and take a day trip to Sintra, whilst three will allow you to see most of the main attractions.

What Is There To Do In Lisbon?

Lisbon is a vibrant city with so much to do. We’d highly recommend booking onto a walking tour to get the best understanding of everything that you can do. Some must-visit spots include Praça do Comércio, São Jorge Castle, Alfama, Belém Tower, and LX Factory.

Is Lisbon Safe For Travellers?

Lisbon is a very safe city for travellers, with low crime rates. We never felt unsafe during our extended time in the city. As with any city, we’d recommend exercising caution after dark and being aware of pick-pockets and petty theft. We’d also recommend making sure you have good travel insurance in case of any issues. That being said, we’ve never heard of anyone having any issues in Lisbon.

Wrap Up: Where To Stay In Lisbon

Lisbon is a wide and sprawling city, with so much to do and see. For first-timers, it can be a little overwhelming choosing where to stay. However, with this guide, we know you’ll find somewhere you love that’s perfect for you.

If you’re a first-timer, we’d highly recommend staying in Baixa and Chiado, the most central location for exploring. Couples will love Alfama for it’s romantic atmosphere, with cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. Or, if you want to experience high-end Lisbon, Avenida da Liberdade is the place for you.

With a whole range of apartments, guesthouses, hostels and hotels, there is something for every budget. You will not be short for choice when deciding where to stay in Lisbon. Our personal favourite, for it’s incredible location and luxurious design, has to be Pousada de Lisboa, though Lisbon has so many stunning places for you to stay. And don’t forget, if you’ve found somewhere you like, book it now before it’s too late!

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