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Choosing a good area to stay in Lisbon is very important. Although you can explore this city on foot, having an accommodation in a good location is very convenient.
There are a lot of things to do in Lisbon, so I recommend choosing your accommodation very carefully so you can quickly get to any point in the city. Since Portugal is not an expensive country, you can find cheap hotels in Lisbon city center.
We have visited the city several times and we’ve always chosen different neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon, so I can give you a great guide to find the best accommodation in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal.
In this article you will find:
- Best areas to stay in Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon neighborhoods to avoid
- Best hotels in Lisbon
- Cheap accommodations in Lisbon
- Map of the Lisbon neighborhoods where to stay
Best areas to stay in Lisbon, Portugal
Below, I’ll explain which are the best neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon. I advise you to choose your accommodation based on your tourist interests, the number of days you’re going to spend in the city, and your budget. Don’t rush into booking any of the cheap hotels in Lisbon, and make sure you stay in a safe neighborhood like the ones I recommend in this section.
In addition to describing what each area or neighborhood is like, I’m going to mention the hotels in Lisbon, Portugal that I recommend and tell you about my experience staying in them.
1. Baixa, the best area to stay in Lisbon
Baixa is the best neighborhood to stay in Lisbon because it’s right in the center, so you can get anywhere by walking.
In addition, this city is one of the few that boasts affordable hotels in Lisbon downtown.
1. Baixa, the best area to stay in Lisbon
If you stay here, you’ll be very close to Avenida da Liberdade, Praça dos Restauradores, Praça do Rossio, Praça da Figueira, Praça do Comercio, and the Santa Justa Elevator.
We got a great Lisbon city center hotel deal during our first visit to this city, and we stayed at the Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa. We loved the hotel, and although we’ve since tried other accommodations, I think we’ll stay there the next time we go to Lisbon since it’s neat and cozy.
These are the hotels in Baixa, the best area to stay in Lisbon, that I recommend:
- Premium option: Hotel da Baixa
- Standard option: Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa
- Low-cost option: Home Lisbon Hostel
2. Chiado, the best hotels in Lisbon city center
Chiado is another ideal place to look for accommodation in Lisbon since it’s also in the city center.
This neighborhood is the most traditional and bohemian in the city, and is between Baixa and Barrio Alto. It’s an area full of cafes, shops, and museums, which is why it’s connected to the intellectual life of Lisbon.
2. Chiado, the best hotels in Lisbon city center
Chiado, for me, is also one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon.
These are the best hotels in Lisbon Chiado:
- Premium option: Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel
- Standard option: Feels Like Home Bica Prime Suites
- Low-cost option: Lost Inn Lisbon Hostel
3. Alfama, a traditional neighborhood to stay in Lisbon
Alfama is a neighborhood that doesn’t have many hotels, but if you’re looking for vacation apartments in Lisbon, this is a good place to stay.
3. Alfama, a traditional neighborhood to stay in Lisbon
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Lisbon that still retains a Portuguese essence, Alfama may be a good choice. You can enjoy fado, a genre of Portuguese popular music, and visit the Feira da Ladra, the Fado Museum, and the Sé cathedral here. In addition, in this neighborhood, there are lookout points from which you get beautiful views of the city, especially at sunset.
These are the best tourist apartments in Lisbon, Alfama:
- Premium option: Lisbon Best Choice Apartments Alfama
- Standard option: Hotel Convento do Salvador
- Low-cost option: Alfama – Lisbon Lounge Suites
4. Barrio Alto, cheap accommodation in Lisbon
Barrio Alto is an option for where to sleep in Lisbon if you’re looking for nightlife. I don’t recommend it if you’re looking for a quiet area to stay in Lisbon. The nights are noisy here.
4. Barrio Alto, cheap accommodation in Lisbon
We’ve stayed in this area twice because one of our friends lived here. If you’re not too bothered by noise, it’s one of the best places to find cheap hotels in Lisbon.
In this neighborhood, in addition to nightlife, you’ll also find restaurants where you can taste authentic Portuguese food and two outlooks that I recommend, one in San Pedro de Alcantara and the other in Santa Catalina.
The best hotels in Barrio Alto, Lisbon are:
- Premium option: Friendly Hills Bairro Alto
- Medium budget: Inn Bairro Alto B&B
- Low-cost option: Host Bell Rooms & Suites
5. Principe Real, luxury hotels in Lisbon
Principe Real is the most exclusive and fashionable area to stay in Lisbon. If you decide to stay here, in addition to steep streets, you’ll find luxury shops, cool restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. You’ll 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 you’re looking for boutique hotels in Lisbon.
If you want to sleep in this area, these are the hotels that I recommend:
- Premium option: Memmo Principe Real
- Standard option: 1869 Principe Real
- Low-cost option: Casa Oliver Boutique B&B
6. Avenida da Liberdade, one of the best places to stay in Lisbon
Avenida da Liberdade is an excellent option for where to stay in Lisbon since it’s one of the most exclusive areas of the city; however, it’s also one of the most expensive ones. In fact, here you will find many luxury hotels in Lisbon.
6. Avenida da Liberdade, one of the best places to stay in Lisbon
The most exclusive shops in the city, haute cuisine restaurants, embassies, and consulates are grouped in this area. Also, there are numerous green spaces here, making it a perfect area for walking. This is, without a doubt, the best area to stay in Lisbon if you don’t care about the price of your accommodation.
The hotels in Lisbon city center that I recommend on Avenida da Liberdade are:
- Premium option: Maxime Hotel Lisbon
- Standard option: Rossio Garden Hotel
- Low-cost option: Liv’in Lisbon Hostel
7. Belem, the best place to stay around Lisbon
Belem is one of the most beautiful areas of Lisbon, but it’s also the furthest one from the center. It can be a good option to stay in Lisbon if you don’t mind using public transport to get downtown.
7. Belem, the best place to stay around Lisbon
This neighborhood is the most historic in the city, so if you stay here, you’ll be close to the Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Tower, as well as the Pastéis de Belém Confectionery, which is where they make the original Belem pastries.
The hotels in Lisbon, Belém, that I recommend are:
- Premium option: Altis Belem Hotel & Spa
- Standard option: Palacio do Governador
- Low-cost option: Famous Crows Lisbon Suites
8. Park of the Nations, the coolest hotels in Lisbon
Park of Nations is the last area I recommend for looking for hotels in Lisbon. If you’re looking for a cool place to stay in Lisbon, this is a good option, although it’s far from the center.
8. Park of the Nations, the coolest hotels in Lisbon
Here, you can visit the Vasco da Gama Shopping Center, the FIL (Feira Internacional de Lisboa), and several buildings that are characterized by their modern architecture, which is very different from what is in the rest of the city. You can also go up to the funicular and get fantastic views. This area is also a very good option if you’re looking for hotels in Lisbon with parking.
The accommodations in Lisbon, in the Park of the Nations area, that I recommend are:
- Premium option: MYRIAD by SANA Hotels
- Standard option: VIP Executive Arts Hotel
- Low-cost option: Ibis Lisboa Parque das Nações Hotel
Lisbon Neighborhoods to avoid
Sometimes, if you’re traveling on a budget or didn’t plan your trip in advance, most of the hotels are full and you have to choose a different area than the one you want. This is something that has happened to us and probably to every traveler at some point.
In case this happens to you, I’ll tell you which Lisbon neighborhoods you should avoid because they are violent or have a high crime rate, although I have to say that, in general, Lisbon is a very safe city.
Mouraria
Although Lisbon is quite safe, the area by Martim Moniz Square, at the foot of São Jorge Castle, is usually quite deserted at night. This has given it a bad reputation among both locals and tourists.
I advise you to avoid staying in this area of Lisbon because you might arrive back at your hotel late at night, and it is not pleasant to walk around the area at night.
Anjos
The Anjos area is also quite deserted and poorly lit, so it can be quite dangerous at night. It is an area in Lisbon to avoid if you don’t want to run into trouble when you return to your hotel.
Best hotels in Lisbon
If you don’t care about the area where you stay because you’re looking for the best hotels in Lisbon and you’re not concerned about the price, in this section you will find the most luxurious accommodations in Lisbon.
These are the best hotels in Lisbon:
- Memmo Príncipe Real, one of the best hotels with pool in Lisbon
- Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel, 5-star hotel in Lisbon city center
- EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel, the best hotel in Lisbon for couples
- The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, one of the best spa hotels in Lisbon
- Martinhal Lisbon Chiado, one of the best places to stay in Lisbon with family
- Eurostars Museum, one of the best luxury accommodation in Lisbon
Cheap accommodations in Lisbon
If you’re traveling on a budget, in this section you’ll find the best cheap accommodations in Lisbon. There are many nice options for where to stay in Lisbon on a budget, but please avoid the neighborhoods we’ve advised you to avoid.
These are the cheap hotels in Lisbon that are well located:
- Lisbon Destination Hostel, one of the best hostels in Lisbon
- Host Bell Rooms & Suites, best low-cost hostel in central Lisbon
- Hub New Lisbon Hostel, budget hotel in Lisbon
- Home Lisbon Hostel, nice and neat hotel in Lisbon
- Surf in Chiado, the best option for cheap accommodation in Lisbon
- Goodmorning Solo Traveler Hostel, one of the best cheap hostels in Lisbon
- Lost Inn Lisbon Hostel, another good option for where to stay in Lisbon for cheap
You may also be interested in our article on how to get cheap rates at hotels.
Map of the Lisbon neighborhoods to stay in
Now that you have all the information to find good hotels in Lisbon, you can check where the best tourist attractions are on the map of Lisbon below. On it, you can find the main tourist places to visit in Lisbon. I advise you to check which places interest you the most and to choose the best area to stay in Lisbon accordingly.
If you have any questions about where to stay in Lisbon, don’t hesitate to ask me and I will try to help you. Safe travels!
Hello I’m travelling with a friend and feeling undecided about wether to choose hotel or apartment. In regards to better value and experience which do you think? If you’re familiar with any of these spots, I’d really appreciate you’re input.
1. Hola Lisbon Suites (San Antonio)
2. Portugal Soul apartment (Alfama-rua de marinha) –
3. Browns Downtown Hotel
Hi Mel,
I’m not too familiar with these places, but they’re all well-located, so I would go with whichever has availability for your travel dates!
Hi Ascen ,
We are going to Lisbon in June 1st week and looking for beach front hotels / resorts for couples . We would like a relaxing vacation at beach and a day or two to tour the city .
Can you please recommend a good place to stay ?
Thanks
Hi Nidhi,
I like the Belem neighborhood since it’s close to downtown Lisbon and the beach. However, there are hotels in Caxias if you’re set on a beachfront hotel.
Hi Ascen,
Thank you for you article, very helpful and informative.
We are a group of friends that will be staying at the Radisson and WC by the beautique hotels in Lisbon this coming July, are these a good options? we also want to go to nice hang out spots with music and good restaurants.. Can you recommend something close to us, where we can walk or take public transport?
Hi Selma,
I like the WC, as it’s close to the Anjos subway station, so you can get to Barrio Alto in 12 minutes (this area has lots of great bars and places to eat in Lisbon.) You’ll also be within walking distance of a few bars and cafes, so I think you’ll have a great time!
Me and my daughter and her two girls age 12 and 10 are going to Lisbon for 4 nights. We are looking at hotels with a pool or near the beach. I was thinking of booking Palacios Dos Arcos can you tell me anything about the area.
Hi Adrianne,
That is a beautiful area where you can enjoy the beach. However, you’ll be about 30-45 minutes from Lisbon, so just keep that in mind.
Hi we are going to lisbon in august and are looking to stay in either Hotel Fenix Garden close to Marquis de Pombal square or Hotel Aleagria close to barrio Alto , have you any thoughts on either? Kind regards, ann k.
Hi Ann,
I would stay closer to Barrio Alto since it’s closer to the main tourist attractions.
Hello, We are visiting Lisbon in May and someone is staying Rua Domingos Segueira and we want to stay close to this area. What neighborhood is this?
Also How close is it to Palacio Da Rocha Do venue? Thank you
Hi Sonia,
It’s in the Jardim da Burra neighborhood, which is near the Principe Real and Barrio Alto areas. Also, Palacio Da Rocha Do is about 15 minutes away by public transit.
thank you for your recommendations. I’ll be in Lisbon with my daughters for a 24 hour layover late next week, then three days at the end of May. Can you recommend any Apart-hotels in Baixa or close by with access to public transport? Much appreciation!
What are your favorite places and hidden gems in the area?
Hi Maria,
I like the Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa! Also, I recommend checking out our guide on things to do in Lisbon for some itinerary ideas 🙂
Hi,
I am visiting Lisbon for 7 days in May – part holiday part conference attendance. I can’t chose between Avenida Palace Hotel or the Corpo Santo Hotel. Do you have any recommendation or points of consideration between these 2 hotels? Thanks
Hi Cate,
Both hotels are beautiful and well-located, but I would go with the Corpo Santo Hotel for its historical value!
Hello ,
Getting nervous about a booking at Casas de Baixa –vila intendente. Saw a couple of recent poor reviews about the area and the state of disrepair of building. Do you know anything about this accommodation?
Hi Wendy,
I don’t know about that accommodation, but if you want an alternative, consider the Hotel da Baixa.
Hello! Thank you in advance for your recommendation. I plan on visiting with my wife, 2 children (2 and 4), along with my mom. We are looking for a safe hotel with the beach close by but not a must. I would say our wish list would contain the best local food, good wine, and local music and friendly local bars. We plan on visiting in August. Thanks again!
Hi Raycham,
Consider staying in Lisbon’s Chiado neighborhood. Lots of places to eat and local culture in that area!
What do you think of the Santo Antonia area. Is that considered a good area? We found a good hotel, so we want the men to hang out in the pool whist the women go on their adventures. The other nicer hotels in other areas were double the price.
Hi Anita,
The Santo Antonia area is more luxurious. It’s a fine place to stay, but you’ll be further from the main tourist attractions.
We are going to be in Lisbon in mid-October for 4 nights. I was focusing on Baixa as a location and we had friends just return from there who stayed at the Brown hotel and really enjoyed it, but I happened upon the Hotel Le Consulat and booked a fully refundable large room with breakfast for $800… looks like a nice place and location. Reviews were very positive. Any thoughts on this property?
Hi There – looking for the best part of Lisbon for viewing the churches and architecture and getting a feel for the history – what area is best
Hi Mo,
I recommend staying in the Bairro Alto or Alfama neighborhood if you want to go church hopping and check out the impressive buildings!
Hi
Where would be best place to stay in Lisbon? We are only overnighting in order to catch our cruise hoping to stay near the cruise terminal
Thank you
Brenda
Hi Brenda,
The Bairro and Alfama neighborhoods are good places to stay in Lisbon since they’re close to the port.
Hi Ascen, we are going to Lisbon soon. Wonder if VIP Grand Lisboa locates in a safe neighborhood? Is it convenient? Can we access the city Center or historical point if interests easily? Please kindly advise. Thanks.
Hi Sandy,
The VIP Grand Lisboa is in the Camp Pequeno neighborhood, which is a good area to stay in Lisbon. It’s further away from downtown, so it’ll be safe and quiet, and you can easily take public transit to the downtown attractions.
Hi
we would like to visit Lisbon with our 11 year old son,which hotel will be nice and our budget is 1500 pounds max for 4 nights from London.
Thank you
Hi Reshma,
The Hotel da Baixa is a beautiful 4-star hotel and it’s within your budget. It’s also within walking distance of many attractions, so it should be good for your family!
Hi Ascen
I noticed that you recommended staying in Faro. Is there a reason Albufeira wasn’t recommended? My friend and I (in our early 60s – young at heart 😉 ) are planning to visit the Algarve May 3-6 and then fly to Casablanca from Faro. We were initially going to stay in Albufeira but now wondering if Faro would be better? Thank you.
Hi Joan,
I’m a bit confused because Faro and Albufeira are in the southern part of Portugal, not in Lisbon. If you’re looking for places to stay in Lisbon, I recommend the Baixa neighborhood.
Hello,
We are travelling to Portugal in August and on an organized tour, however we plan on staying a few extra days in Lisbon. The tour ends at the Neya Lisboa, however we were considering moving to the Inspira Liberdade. Is this a good choice? Do you have other suggestion? We want to be walking distance to most attractions.
Thank you,
Hi Linda,
For me, Baixa is the best area to stay in Lisbon since it’s close to many of the main attractions. The Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa is a good accommodation with a similar price to the hotels you mentioned, and it’s only about a 15-minute walk away.
going to Lisbon this April and the Corpo Santo hotel has been recommended. I believe it is in the bias do sotre district and you do not mention that as a recommended place to stay.
we are looking for a good, safe location where we can walk to restaurants and shops
what are your thoughts?
Hi Lesley,
The Corpo Santo hotel is very well located. I think you will be in a safe location and close to many restaurants and shops.
Let me know if you have any questions,
Ascen
Hello Ascen,
We’ve booked the Jupiter Hotel in Lisbon on June 5-8 this year.
Can you tell me what area it is located in and reviews?
We are also planning to visit the Algarve for 2 days on June 9 & !0
Can you recommend 4 star accommodations which include a full breakfast?
Our budget is around $250 Canadian
We are deciding on a train or renting a car. Thoughts?
Thank you
Jodi
Hi Jodi,
Jupiter Hotel is out of Lisbon downtown. Why did you decide to stay in that area of Lisbon? If you can still switch, I recommend staying at Lisboa Carmo Hotel. It’s a 4 star hotels that include breakfast and is under €200.
For the Algarve, I recommend the AP Eva Senses.
Let me know if you have any questions,
Ascen
We are going to lisbon in March and June this year, and are looking for a not too quiet area ( we are in our sixties and active) we want café and restaurants and some entertainment, also not too far from transit. We found a nice arbnb in the real principle district. Do you have any suggestions other that the one I gave.
Thanks for the article. Very informative.
Hi Peter,
Principe Real district is fine but there are more vivid areas if that is what you’re going after. Check out Baixa. For me is the best place to stay in Lisbon.
Ascen