Where to stay in Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant and passionate city with lively and friendly neighbourhoods. The city is a popular tourist destination for those in Europe to take a city break or for those from further afield looking to explore more of Portugal or the continent. There are hundreds of hotels in Lisbon to stay in, but knowing which hotels are perfect for your budget and which area will offer you the best stay before booking is crucial to a successful trip. Here’s our pick of where to stay in Lisbon: are five best neighbourhoods and best hotels for all travel budgets.

Where To Stay In Lisbon

Baixa

Baixa is the perfect base in Lisbon to be close to the city’s most famous landmarks.

The neighbourhood is often considered the most tourist friendly in the city as there are plenty of things to see and do, and lots of restaurants offering menus in a range of languages.

Baixa is the most central neighbourhood in Lisbon and was once the main centre of the city until a devastating earthquake in 1755 destroyed much of the area.

Thankfully, the Marquis of Pombal rebuilt this part of the city, transforming it back into one of the most popular neighbourhoods.

Many of the buildings in the neighbourhood are in the neo-classical Pombaline style, named after the Marquis.

While in Baixa be sure to visit the oldest bookshop in the world, Livraria Bertrand, a beautiful bookshop with wall-to-ceiling bookshelves.

Spend some time exploring the grand and imposing Praca do Comercio, a large plaza overlooking the River Tejo with many grand statues, archways and plenty of places to get a drink and watch the world go by.

Where To Stay In Baixa

Luxury: Lisboa Pessoa Hotel

One of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels to stay at in Baixa is the Lisboa Pessoa Hotel.

Named after Fernando Pessoa, a famous Portuguese poet, the hotel has a beautiful library and spectacular views over the city that inspired him.

The hotel includes an indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, and an intimate restaurant with a terrace offering yet more spectacular views over the city.

Chef Manuel Ferreira curates extensive and exquisite menus for the restaurant which specialises in traditional Portuguese dishes.

Rooms have free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, spacious walk-in showers, and air-conditioning.

The bedrooms are airy, clean and open, and offer a welcoming place to rest after a day exploring the city.

The hotel is located close to some of Portugal’s most famous landmarks including the National Theatre and many museums and galleries.

Mid-range: Hotel Santa Justa

The centrally located Hotel Santa Justa is the ideal hotel to book in Baixa for its location, facilities and comfort, all for a very good price per night.

The hotel is 4-stars and has a range of comfortable rooms to choose from.

Each bedroom is modern in its design, with large windows letting in plenty of light and creating an open and airy feeling.

The rooms include Nespresso coffee machines, mini bars, spacious bathrooms and free Wi-Fi access.

If you are hiring a car during your stay here there is also a car park on site, however if you are travelling from the airport on public transport the hotel offers a dedicated airport shuffle service to ease your journey.

Hotel Santa Justa is located close to a range of landmarks including the Santa Justa Lift, a unique 19th century tourist attraction that transports visitors to a height of 45m (147.63ft) for some of the best views across the city.

Budget: Hotel Gat Rossio

Despite its budget price, Hotel Gat Rossio is a great option for those on a tighter budget, or if you are just looking for somewhere to lay your head.

The hotel has modern and bright rooms, and fresh white linens on the beds.

Each bedroom has air conditioning and TVs as standard, however it is also possible to book a room with a balcony overlooking the city.

The hotel also has a garden area for guests to relax in, a terrace and a 24-hour front desk.

Hotel Gat Rossio is only a short walk from Avenida da Liberdade, the best shopping street in the city.

Bairro Alto/Chiado

Bairro Alto and Chiado are two of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the city and are separated only by a square; Praca Luis de Camoes.

Bairro Alto is a trendy and bohemian neighbourhood that offers some of the best restaurants in the city.

This neighbourhood is where Lisbon’s locals hang out on an evening for drinks or dinner with friends.

Its narrow streets are filled with restaurants, bars, cafes and shops.

Bairro Alto has a very local vibe to it, and is the perfect place to experience local cultures, practice your Portuguese, and to try some delicious local dishes.

Chiado on the other hand is a must-visit neighbourhood if you want to go shopping and experience history in equal measure.

Chiado is at the heart of Lisbon’s shopping district and is filled with popular clothing shops as well as independent boutiques.

There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants that are packed with tourists and locals alike during the day.

When in Bairro Alto and Chiado visit Jardim de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, a quiet hillside plaza filled with trees, fountains, benches and of course beautiful views across the city.

One of the most significant sights here is the Igreja do Carmo, a ruined religious building devastated by the 1755 earthquake, and left in its ruined state to serve as a memorial.

After exploring the area, enjoy a drink at Pavilhao Chines, a bar that has an extensive collection of antiques creating a unique and quirky vibe.

Where To Stay In Bairro Alto/Chiado

Luxury : Bairro Alto Hotel

Lay your head at the traditional and luxurious Bairro Alto Hotel, located in the centre of the city.

This popular hotel is inside an 18th century building with many of its original design features still present both externally, and in its rooms.

The hotel has a range of rooms on offer including 2 spacious signature suites.

The bedrooms in Bairro Alto Hotel seamlessly combine modern touches with the traditional, as each has been carefully designed to incorporate traditional patterns and materials from the city.

The variety of rooms offered by the hotel allows guests to tailor their bedroom to their needs, with some rooms boasting a desirable corner location offering unrivalled views across the historical centre of the city.

The hotel adds to its luxury appeal by offering a range of drinking and dining options, including a trendy cocktail bar, rooftop terrace overlooking the Tagus River, and even a patisserie on the ground floor.

Mid-range: Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel

The beautiful blue building of Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel offers 5-star luxury without the high price tag.

Every bedroom has air conditioning, access to free WiFi, private bathrooms, a desk, flat screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

Montebelo Vista Alegre is a relatively new hotel and is small in size with only 58 rooms.

Each bedroom, and the wider hotel, is designed to reflect the art of Vista Alegre, a luxury store dating from 1824 selling fine china and crystal.

Throughout the hotel are rich colours of emerald greens and scarlets, with many of its fixtures and furnishings finished in brushed gold.

The hotel is within walking distance of Dona Maria II National Theatre and the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

Budget: Selina Secret Garden Lisbon

Selina Secret Garden Lisbon is one of the coolest hotels in the city and has an appealing price range to match.

The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and deck area that is perfect for cooling off or relaxing in the sun.

Inside each room is brightly decorated with accent walls, modern furniture and colourful throw cushions on the beds.

The bedrooms also have several green and leafy houseplants bringing in clean air and a touch of nature, as well as free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk.

Some of the rooms do have shared bathroom facilities, however rooms with private bathrooms are available.

All bedrooms have access to the communal kitchen area which is well-stocked with a range of snacks and drinks.

The hotel also has a guest house with a pool table and table tennis table which is the perfect place for solo travellers to socialise, or for guests to make new friends.

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade is the most luxurious neighbourhoods in Lisbon.

The wide and sprawling boulevard was inspired by the Champs-Elysees in Paris and is lined with leafy green trees and luxury stores.

At each end of the boulevard are large squares lined with restaurants and bars.

The street itself is a work of art, as its cobblestone pavements draw inspiration from Roman mosaics, and were artistically designed, and carefully restored, following the 1755 earthquake.

Avenida da Liberdada is also a must-visit neighbourhood for those looking to experience live theatrical performances.

There are many impressive architectural buildings in the area, including the spectacular art nouveau buildings that currently house Prada.

After shopping and enjoying the luxury vibes of Avenida da Liberdade, immerse yourself in history at Casa do Alentejo.

This 1600s palatial home was transformed into a social club for locals, however it its Moorish revival architecture and Rococo design that draws visitors today.

Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal on its top floor restaurant set inside a luxuriously designed dining room lined with 19th century tiles in bold colours and designs.

Where To Stay In Avenida da Liberdade

Luxury: Altis Grand Hotel

Spend your stay in Avenida da Liberdade in luxury equal to your surroundings at Altis Grand Hotel, a 5-star hotel with everything you need to make your stay opulent.

The hotel recently underwent an extensive refurbishment which has left all areas of the hotel glistening and immaculate.

The hotel has a fantastic indoor heated swimming pool as well as a gym and spa offering a range of treatments including facials and massages.

In your room, expect to find this elegant décor continuing, with ebony wood detailing, light colours and plenty of natural light to open the space.

Each bedroom is soundproofed to ensure the best night’s sleep possible.

If you are planning to dine at the hotel, enjoy a range of vibrant and tasty traditional Portuguese dishes served at Grill D Fernando, which also offers excellent views across the city, the river and out towards the castle.

The Avenida metro station is a short walk away allowing for easy access to the rest of the city and its attractions.

Close to the hotel is of course Avenida da Liberdade, where you can continue your luxury stay by exploring a range of designer shops, incredible meals in beautifully designed restaurants, or enjoy sipping champagne from a rooftop bar.

Mid-range: Turim Marques Hotel

A short walk from the main shopping street of Avenida da Liberdade is Turim Marques Hotel, a mid-range hotel that offers everything you need to make your stay perfect.

Each bedroom is tastefully designed with a warm colour palette and large windows to let in lots of light.

Guests have access to free WiFi throughout the hotel, and there is an excellent onsite bar and restaurant.

Parking is offered at the hotel, however if you have not pre-booked a rental car from the airport and still want to explore further afield, Turim Marques Hotel offers a car hire service.

There’s a free airport shuttle service and the hotel is only a short walk away from the nearest metro station.

Budget: Vincci Liberdade

For a great budget option in an area of luxury, Vincci Liberdade is the perfect hotel to book.

The hotel has a low price per night however is by no means budget in its design.

Each room is elegant, light and airy, and features plenty of natural wood in the finishings and flooring, all accented with teal hits in the décor.

Bathrooms are spacious with walk-in showers and beautiful views from the windows.

Vincci Liberdade’s onsite restaurant provides a delicious and varied breakfast each day and is open on an evening to those wishing to dine on traditional Portuguese dishes.

The hotel is perfectly placed for the shops on Avenida da Liberdade, as well as St Georges Castle which is only a short walk away.

Alfama

Alfama is a must-visit neighbourhood in Lisbon if you love history.

Alfama is the oldest district in the city and one that is steeped in history and tradition.

The streets of the neighbourhood are medieval and are therefore, narrow and winding, often described in travel guides as a labyrinth.

This labyrinth-like street layout has its benefits however, as many beautiful squares, historical landmarks or cosy restaurants can be accidentally stumbled upon.

Wander the streets to discover many shops selling local souvenirs, crafts and foods.

While in Alfama, be sure to visit some of the city’s most important historical sites including the Castelo de Sao Jorge.

For the best views across the neighbourhood and out towards the port be sure to ascend to the lookout point at Portas do Sol, which offers particularly beautiful views during sunset.

Other excellent views can be found at Miradouro de Graca terrace.

Where To Stay In Alfama

Luxury: Sao Vicente Alfama Hotel by TRUIS Hotels

The beautifully finished Sao Vicente Alfama Hotel is the ideal destination to stay if you want to combine access to history and modern luxury.

The hotel is only a short walk away from the major historical sights in Alfama including St George’s Castle and Rossio.

Each bedroom is finished in soft greys and dusty pinks, with large windows and bright lighting.

The bathroom is equally beautiful and include golden his and hers sinks, large mirrors and a walk in shower.

Rated at 4-stars, this hotel also includes a pleasant terrace area, bar and restaurant, as well as room service and a 24-hour reception.

Mid-range: Pousada Alfama

For views across the water, book a room at Pousada Alfama, a trendy mid-range hotel offering everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Pousada Alfama offers its guests free WiFi throughout the hotel and a bar with a range of drinks and expertly crafted cocktails.

The hotel is close to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Commerce Square.

Its positioning by the river allows some of Pousada Alfama’s rooms to have spacious terraces looking out over the water.

Rooms are bright and airy, and are finished in greys and vibrant yellows for a welcome splash of colour.

Each bedroom has a private and spacious bathroom, air conditioning and mini bar.

Budget: Hotel Convento do Salvador

Hotel Convento do Salvador is a great hotel to book in Alfama to experience a little of the area’s history first hand.

Set inside a former convent, the hotel is also surrounded by many historical sites such as the National Pantheon and the Se Cathedral.

The bedrooms are minimal with white walls and furniture; however paintings add colour to the overall design.

Each bedroom is spacious and incudes a desk, flat-screen TV and safety deposit box, as well as private bathrooms and free toiletries.

Hotel Convento is also well placed for access to Lisbon’s excellent public transport network, with the number 28 tram passing its door.

There are several bars and restaurants serving local dishes within walking distance, and a number of tourist attractions beyond historical sites including many museums.

Cais do Sodre

Even if you choose to stay elsewhere in Lisbon, a visit to Cais do Sodre is a must.

This neighbourhood is famous for its Instagram famous Pink Street, a street which has been painted bright pink, a stark contrast to the older architecture either side.

Along Pink Street are many restaurants and bars with outdoor seating.

This neighbourhood is close to the coast and the ferry port, making it the ideal destination if you are heading further afield.

While there are no beaches in the neighbourhood Ribeira das Naus, the promenade, transforms into an urban beach each summer with access to the water, spaces to sit back and enjoy the sunshine, and a kiosk serving cold drinks and snacks.

Many visitors to Cais do Sodre have one thing in mind; clubbing!
This area of Lisbon is lively on an evening and has a variety of nightclubs and bars including those with regular live music, dance clubs and discos.

Aside from nightclubs, Cais do Sodre is also a popular destination for great food.

Head to the Mercado da Ribeira, the main food market in the city, for an incredible variety of local and international dishes freshly prepared, and a range of stalls selling ingredients to make your own delicious meals.

Where To Stay In Cais do Sodre

Luxury: Look Living, Lisbon Design Apartments

For a sleek, minimal and elegant stay book your accommodation at Look Living, Lisbon Design Apartments.

The aparthotel is a sustainable hotel offering guests luxury accommodation with a conscious.

Each room is spacious and finished in calming muted tones with accents of sage green.

The rooms vary in size, from cosy studios to spacious lofts and 2-bedroom apartments with a balcony.

Despite their varying sizes, each apartment includes a seating area with sofa, flat screen TVs, kitchenettes, safety deposit boxes and private bathrooms.

If you like the appeal of their rooms but don’t want to cook, breakfast at the apartments is available with American and vegetarian options.

Look Living offers a car rental service, airport shuttle and a luggage store to help you make the most of your first or final day in the city.

The apartments are located close to many of the city’s top attractions including the Museu do Centro Cientifico e Cultural and Jardim Docas da Ponte.

Mid-range: Browns Central Hotel

Browns Central Hotel is a 4-star destination that is perfect for a hint of luxury without the price tag during your stay in Lisbon.

The hotel offers 84 bedrooms of varying sizes, each with unique design touches from famous designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, and Arne Jacobsen.

Each bedroom features wooden floors, spacious marble bathrooms, Nespresso coffee machines and an all-round boutique vibe.

The hotel is housed inside an 18th century building painted a light green with cream accents.

Within walking distance of the hotel is the Baixa/Chiado metro station, allowing for easy access to the city’s excellent public transportation network.

Browns Central Hotel also offers an airport shuttle service to help you continue your travels.

Budget : LX Boutique Hotel

Set inside a stunning blue townhouse, LX Boutique Hotel is a perfect and central location for not one but three must-visit neighbourhoods in Lisbon; Cais do Sodre, Chiado and Baixa.

Each bedroom has access to free WiFi, air conditioning, TV and iPod docking station to allow you to feel at home during your stay.

The rooms are immaculately presented with carefully designed in cool blue and cream tones reflecting the exterior of the hotel.

There is an excellent sushi restaurant within the hotel serving a variety of tasty dishes prepared freshly.

Within walking distance of the hotel are popular tourist attractions such as Lisbon Cathedral and the Chiado Museum.

The hotel offers an airport shuttle to ease your journey to and from the airport.