Where to Stay in Lisbon

Our Favorite Hotels in Lisbon

‧ 5-star: Avenida Palace
• 4-Several properties are located in Lisbon, Portugal, including a 4-star hotel called the Torel Palace, which can be found at this link: Torel Palace
• 3-star: LX Boutique Hotel
• For families: An apartment-style Lisbon accommodation
• The YHA London Central can be reached by phone at +44 345 371 9154
a large building with a plane flying over it

The Best Areas to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations, with its friendly residents, gorgeous historic district overlooking the Tagus estuary, rich history, and moderate climate – as well as those charming antiquated funiculars and yellow trams zooming up and down its many hills. Despite the growing number of visitors, Lisbon’s range of lodging is massive, from luxurious five-star and boutique hotels to family-friendly finds and some of the best and budget hostels on the continent.

Lisbon has many distinct areas that differ both in atmosphere and activity, so your experience will change depending on where you stay. There is no single best neighborhood for tourists; major sights are clustered in the city center – essentially the Baixa, Chiado and Alfama neighborhoods – but there are large attractions further out too, notably in Belém along the river. The city is large but the center is walkable, and there are good transport connections to other districts. Most of the top (expensive) hotels are in Chiado or along Avenida da Liberdade, though there are good luxury options a little further out too. Look for midrange and budget options in Baixa and Bairro Alto in particular.

Lisbon Neighborhoods

Baixa is Lisbon`s historic downtown area located in the valley between Alfama to the east and Bairro Alto to the west. After extensive destruction from an earthquake in 1755, its elegant streets were rebuilt arranged in Europe`s first grid-like formation. Just north is Rossio, with its busy plazas and traditional spots serving ginjinha (Portuguese liqueur). This region has many attractions and is very accommodating for tourists – it`s also good for both mainstream and alternative shopping options. There is a huge range of lodging available here, but the crowds (and consequently noise levels) can sometimes be problematic.

On a hill to the west of Baixa lies Chiado, sloping down to the riverside area of Cais do Sodré. While Chiado attracts culture aficionados with its old-world elegance, museums, and designer shopping, Cais do Sodré is edgier, a former red light district turned nightlife magnet. There are excellent high-end accommodations in Chiado and some good budget options in Cais do Sodré.

a yellow and blue bus on a city street

Two regions located north of Chiado that ascend the hills are Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real, both generally destinations for nightlife. Bairro Alto has a bohemian atmosphere, full of vintage shops and street art, and comes alive when the bars and clubs open at night. Príncipe Real conveys a more refined feel, with many new restaurant openings, designer boutiques, and art galleries present. Here one will find charming guest houses, trendy hostels, and some high-end hotels, though evenings in Bairro Alto can become quite rowdy.

Avenida da Liberdade is Lisbon’s premier boulevard, running northwest from Rossio. It caters to high-end shopping and refined dining, boasting upscale establishments and leafy surroundings. Those hoping to reside in a grand hotel during their stay would find this a fitting area, though more affordable accommodations can also be located here.

The picturesque Alfama neighborhood sits on the hilly area east of Baixa, looked over by the Castelo de São Jorge (the old fortress that controls the center of the city). This is Lisbon at its oldest and most charming, with medieval streets and stairways winding down to the waterway. The locale survived the 1755 earthquake and is one massive tourist attraction, with its scenic perspectives and conventional restaurants hosting evening fado shows. Locations usually incline toward boutique hotels, and though it can get intensely busy during the daytime, it’s relatively uncomplicated to escape the groups.

Mouraria and Graça to the north and east of Alfama share its historic charm yet do not share its touristy commotion. These areas comprise character; one can socialize with locals and newly-arrived immigrants at charming cafés in restful squares, discover traditional and international restaurants (generally affordable), and shop at markets and artisans’ workshops. Accommodations mainly encompass guest houses, with some exceptional hotels.

Three miles westward of Baixa, the historic riverside region of Belém is famed as the location where the Portuguese launched their voyages of exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. It is dominated by UNESCO-designated sights and premier museums, such as the grandiose Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and iconic Torre de Belém, as well as several excellent collections like the Museu Coleção Berardo and Museu Nacional dos Coches. Here you will also discover restaurants and bars with river vistas. Some mid-priced lodgings are found here, alongside a couple luxury alternatives. Nestled between Belém and the city center are a cluster of neighborhoods with developing nightlife and a scattering of sights and hotels: Santo Amaro, riverside Alcântara, and leafy Lapa.

Locally, families enjoy spending time at the modern Parque das Nações, around 6 miles north of the city center, overlooking the massive Vasco da Gama Bridge along the Tagus estuary. Several upscale hotels are situated here along with attractions to amuse kids such as the colossal Oceanário de Lisboa aquarium, though it’s quite far from the historic areas of the city.

Getting Around Lisbon Without a Car

Exploring the city center on foot is the finest approach – everything in Baixa, Alfama and Chiado is conveniently organized, though there will be some steep inclines to negotiate. For more far-flung areas, public transportation is inexpensive and convenient in Lisbon, via subway, tram or bus – there’s also a helpful suburban train line along the Tagus estuary to Belém and beyond, paid funiculars and elevators up the steepest slopes, and ferries across the river. Uber is also accessible and usually low-priced within the city center.

Tourist`s favor Lisbon`s vintage tram, number 28E, for good reason – it travels through the city`s most picturesque neighborhoods, passing some of the main landmarks between Praça Martim Moniz and Campo Ourique. Trams run every 10-15 minutes, taking around 50 minutes for the full journey, but avoiding long lines necessitates going early (6-8am) or late (after 9pm). Otherwise, starting at the terminus in Campo Ourique is wise, where fewer people always wait. Riding costs €3 with a stored value card from metro stations just €1.50; and it`s free using a Lisboa Card (see below tips).

The Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

a patio area with tables, chairs and umbrellas

Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon for…

  • Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon for Sightseeing: Baixa and Rossio, Belém, Alfama
    As the historic city center, Baixa and Rossio are filled with attractions, such as the magnificent Praça do Comércio, the mini Tower resembling the Eiffel Tower called Elevador de Santa Justa, and the main street called Rua Augusta lined with restaurants and stores. Belém has an incredible concentration of historical sights and top museums designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Come here for the opulent Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, iconic Torre de Belém (from which Portuguese explorers set sail), fantastic contemporary art at Museu Coleção Berardo, and lavish carriages at Museu Nacional dos Coches. Alfama – Lisbon’s old town – is one large attraction, with its well-preserved MooriSh-era streets, stark 12th-century cathedral Sé de Lisboa, and access to the majestic Castelo de São Jorge.
  • Best Zones in Lisbon for Nightlife: Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real
    There is no lack of hip bars and loud clubs popping up in Lisbon – it’s quickly becoming one of Europe’s party destinations. Head to São Vicente for Lux Frágil, one of the top clubs in the city, and don’t miss the famous Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) in Cais do Sodré, a row of bars and restaurants that positively swells with nighttime crowds – Musicbox and Pensão Amor are solid choices. But for a eclectic mix of craft beer, fine wine, slick cocktail bars, and sweaty clubs, go straight to Bairro Alto or the classier Príncipe Real. Popular bars in the former include Suave and Park Rooftop, with Lisbon institution A Capela the best place for dancing. In Príncipe Real, try Pavilhão Chinês, or 5A Club for the best DJs and cocktails.

    Remember that the Portuguese tend to dine late and party even later, especially on weekends. Hip bars won’t start getting busy until midnight; they usually stay open till 3am or 4am (clubs usually till 6am at weekends).

  • Best neighborhoods in Lisbon for dining and restaurants: Chiado, Cais do Sodré
    Lisbon comprises many remarkable dining choices; be wary of visitor traps in Baixa and Alfama. Príncipe Real has a cluster of hot restaurants, with cuisines extending from South Indian to Peruvian and Mexican. Avenida da Liberdade has some very stylish restaurants. However, Chiado and Cais do Sodré have slightly of everything: gourmet street food at Mercado da Ribeira, the most significant market in the city (integrating the exceptional Time Out Market Lisbon); customary Portuguese tascas, especially around Rua das Flores and Rua Nova do Carvalho; and exquisite fine dining at spots like Bistro 100 Maneiras and Michelin-starred heavyweights Belcanto and Alma.
  • Most Suitable Neighborhoods in Lisbon for Families with Children: Belém, Parque das Nações
    The innovative Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia (MAAT) and spectacular Museu Nacional dos Coches are among the significant attractions packed within a compact region in Belém. These are encircled by parks and scenic riverside pathways past romantic monuments dedicated to Portuguese explorers. A cycling route also extends along the river all the way to Cais do Sodré, and the coast at Cascais is attainable by a brief train ride. Another suitable area is Parque das Nações: modern and more residential, and less boisterous at night than some downtown regions. There are plenty of shops and family-friendly dining establishments (it`s extremely popular with local families on weekends), plus the futuristic Oceanário aquarium, cable car (Telecabine Lisboa), Pavilion of Knowledge science museum, and the observation platform atop Lisbon`s tallest building, Torre Vasco da Gama
  • Most Popular Neighborhoods in Lisbon for First-Time Visitors: Baixa and Rossio, Chiado, Alfama
    .

    • For newcomers, central Baixa and Rossio are great choices because both have many sights and atmosphere of their own while areas like Chiado, Bairro Alto, Alfama, and Avenida da Liberdade are within easy walking distance (or a short climb). Chiado and Alfama are also excellent picks – both centrally located with a good mix of culture, historic character, cool shopping, and quieter residential areas. Alfama is recommended if one wants to immerse themselves in the oldest part of the city – it’s the only part of Lisbon that wasn’t devastated by the 1755 earthquake, so its Moorish and medieval roots remain intact. people walking in front of a large building

  • Most Popular Shopping Destination: Avenida da Liberdade
    Lisbon’s Avenida da Liberdade is a designer paradise – this is where the city’s primary boutiques are all located, ranging from Gucci and Michael Kors to Louis Vuitton and Burberry. For indie stores, check out LxFactory in Santo Amaro, or the EmbaiXada mall in Príncipe Real. The best discounts can be had at the Feira da Ladra flea market at the eastern end of Alfama (held twice weekly). If you want to escape the tourists entirely, head out to the Feira do Relógio on Sunday mornings (via Chelas metro station), to browse Lisbon’s largest, no-frills market for cheap food, clothes, and local products.
  • Most Romantic Quarter in Lisbon: Alfama
    This comparison presents an unambiguous victor; while locations such as Chiado and Príncipe Real boast impressive vistas, refined boutiques, and fine fare, Alfama is Lisbon at its most captivating – and not solely owing to its steep, winding roads. Medieval alleys and staircases inspire exploration, views from high points overlook red-roofed dwellings sloping toward the waterway, and one can uncover trendy bars plus artisans` workshops in addition to gorgeous boutique lodgings. It sees larger numbers of sightseers during daylight hours but after dark, walls surrounding the fortress are beautifully illuminated and the sound of fado originates from numerous traditional eateries.
  • Prime Zones in Lisbon for a Local Vibe: Mouraria and Graça
    .

    • A few locals still reside in Alfama and there is a traditional atmosphere despite growing tourist crowds. Bairro Alto is Lisbon`s bohemian, uninhibited area, with vintage shops, tattoo parlors, small restaurants, and many unique bars packed into the narrow steep streets. However, Mouraria and Graça are historic, characterful regions north of Alfama clustered, which have somehow remained working-class, immigrant-friendly, and relatively untouristy. Unless you are willing to stay far out in north or west Lisbon, these are the best central neighborhoods to escape the tourist hordes. Mouraria is more diverse, drawing immigrants since its days as a Moorish ghetto in the 12th century, and has seen a little more urban renewal. Interact with locals in authentic Bangladeshi, Portuguese, Goan, or Mozambican restaurants to discover local crafts, artists’ studios, and street art celebrating fado, which originated in Mouraria.

  • Top Lisbon Locations for Walking: Avenida da Liberdade, Alfama
    The four most popular villages for travelers – Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira – all provide breathtaking views of the caldera. Accommodations, eateries, and shops in these villages are stacked in multiple levels hand-carved into the cliffside like a honeycomb, so that nearly every place has an excellent view of the caldera below. At the south end of the island, the heart of Akrotiri village sits inland from the caldera, but many lodgings are built along the caldera’s edge just a brief walk or drive away. The Akrotiri lighthouse at the farthest western point of the island is the most serene place to watch the sunset
  • Safety in Lisbon
    Generally, Lisbon presents a safe city with a low criminal offense rate. Specifically, the Chiado, Baixa, Rossio, and Avenida da Liberdade areas feel very secure. Travelers only need implement the usual precautionary measures, like monitoring personal belongings and restricting activities to bustling streets after nightfall.

    Busy regions and public transportation that attract tourists tend to be places where pickpockets pose a risk, so take care, particularly around sights in Baixa and on trams 28E and 15E to Belém. At night, Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto get loud and full of revelers, while Martim Moniz and Intendente, just north of Mouraria, can feel questionable.

The 8 Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon for Tourists

a car parked in front of a tall building

1. Baixa and Rossio

Baixa is Lisbon’s historic downtown and its elegant, busy center, with Rossio positioned just to the north. Levelled by the 1755 earthquake, it was rebuilt (now quake-proof) by the Marquês de Pombal, funded by gold from Portugal’s colony of Brazil – its orderly grid plan is a total reversal to the winding, narrow roads of Alfama, just a brief stroll away. Baixa’s active streets are filled with attractions, from the grand colonnades of Praça do Comércio in the south, where dignitaries to Lisbon used to land, to the cast iron filigree of Elevador de Santa Justa, built by Gustave Eiffel’s apprentice Raoul Mesnier – the ornamental elevator that whisks visitors (and locals) up to the slope to Chiado. There is plenty of shopping here, with higher-end and more avant-garde brands on offer, especially on Rua Augusta. Find great Portuguese restaurants and gourmet street food at Mercado da Baixa. Around Rossio (anchored by Praça Dom Pedro IV) is the best place to find tiny ginjinha bars, for a taste of Lisbon’s iconic sour-cherry liqueur.

This area has the widest range of lodgings, from high-end to hostels, for those who don’t mind the crowds. Baixa today is primarily a tourist region, though some businesses and government offices remain.

2. Chiado and Cais do Sodré

a large building with a clock on the front of it “West of Rua Áurea in Baixa rises the distinguished, historic Chiado district, with the edgier Cais do Sodré area to the south, along the river. Chiado provides plenty for sightseers, including its theatres and museums, such as the ghostly ruins of the Convento do Carmo and the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea do Chiado, and literary sights like the Livraria Bertrand (the oldest bookstore in the world, founded in 1732), and the 19th-century Café A Brasileira (which features a statue of writer Fernando Pessoa seated at a table).”

Remarkable shopping can be found here, particularly along Rua Garrett and central Praça Luís de Camões. The cuisine scene is also hard to outdo – Cais do Sodré’s main landmark is foodie magnet Mercado da Ribeira (home of Time Out Market Lisbon), while Chiado’s dining incorporates Belcanto, one of many restaurants by celebrated chef José Avillez, and Alma, both Michelin-starred. There are exceptional cocktail and wine bars such as Rove (in Le Consulat hotel) and Topo Chiado, but the undisputed nightlife destination is Cais do Sodré, on and around vibrant Rua Nova do Carvalho. Once a red-light district and now reborn as hipster Pink Street, unusual bars like Sol e Pesca and Pensão Amor party till dawn.

There are some top hotels here, but also several affordable options in the Cais do Sodré district (which tends to be noisier at night).

3. Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real

a pool of water surrounded by trees and shrubs

Bairro Alto, the ‘higher quarter’ north of Chiado’s Praça Luis de Camões, and Príncipe Real, further north from Rua Dom Pedro V and extending west, are young, trendy, and party-loving zones. The Bairro is alternative and graffiti-studded, while Príncipe Real is also artistic but more affluent. Check out the art galleries, road art, and repurposed palaces on Rua Dom Pedro V, and catch memorable scenery from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Other highlights include the Jesuit church of São Roque, with its stunning St John’s Chapel; the tropical Botanical Garden of Lisbon; and the family-friendly National Museum of Science & Natural History. Music fans might want to check out the Casa-Museu Amália Rodrigues, home and memorial to the renowned fado singer and “Voice of Portugal”.

Shop in Bairro Alto`s eclectic boutiques and Príncipe Real`s high-end designer stores like Kolovrat, and unique shopping malls like EmbaiXada. Some of the most acclaimed chefs in the city have opened restaurants here, including Ljubomir Stanisic at 100 Maneiras, and Francisco “Kiko” Martins at A Cevicheria. At night, Bairro Alto comes alive, attracting crowds from all over the city to cozy bars, lively dance floors, and terraces with stunning views. Meanwhile, Príncipe Real offers cool craft beer, wine, and cocktail hangouts to explore.

Accommodations in this area tend to be elegant guest houses, with some outstanding hotels in Príncipe Real, but stay clear of Bairro Alto if you value peaceful nights.

4. Avenida da Liberdade

a city filled with lots of colorful umbrellas

Avenida da Liberdade is a prestigious area in the northwest section of Rossio and to the east of Príncipe Real. More contemporary and residential, its central feature is the broad, leafy avenue lined with plane trees and a glittering array of luxury shops, from major brands like Miu Miu and Armani to art galleries and boutiques like 39a Concept Store (on the nearby Rua Alexandre Herculano). There are fewer large attractions in this area, but the avenue leads to the massive Marquês de Pombal traffic circle and Parque Eduardo VII, a pleasant green space home to the huge Estufa Fria greenhouse, modernist Monumento ao 25 de Abril, and the Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII, a viewpoint with spectacular views of the city center. The avenue also hosts the most luxurious flea market in town, Feira na Avenida, held every second weekend of each month. You can find superb fine dining here at venues like JNcQUOI Avenida, as well as some of Lisbon’s best cocktail bars, including Red Frog and Monkey Mash.

This location is suitable for luxury hotels, though various boutique, mid-range, and budget choices also exist. It lacks the atmosphere of older city center neighborhoods but offers the benefit of feeling somewhat isolated from tourist crowds.

a garden filled with lots of plants next to a building

5. Alfama

As individuals ascend the hill from Baixa to Alfama, it feels as though they’ve entered an entirely different nation. Distinct from Baixa`s post-1755 earthquake reconstruction, Alfama has kept its slim, medieval streets and buildings. As the oldest and most atmospheric area in Lisbon, Alfama’s charms have not gone unnoticed, attracting crowds of tourists throughout the year. However, quiet streets and cozy cafés can still be spotted hidden away from the busy groups, inviting visitors to wander through the winding lanes and delight in becoming lost.

Some of the main attractions in this area include the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), the Fado Museum, and the towering old Moorish castle, the Castelo de San Jorge – you can see the best views of Alfama from the battlements. History enthusiasts should check out the Museu do Aljube Resistênciae Liberdade, chronicling the rise and fall of Portugal`s 20th-century dictatorship, housed in an old jail for political prisoners. There is also the Panteão Nacional (National Pantheon) at the eastern end of the neighborhood, a shrine to notable Portuguese such as president Manuel de Arriaga, fado singer Amália Rodrigues, and soccer player Eusébio. Nearby are the Feira da Ladra and Mercado de Santa Clara (no-frills flea markets), and the Church of São Vicente de Fora, final resting place of Portuguese royalty.

You may also shop for traditional handicrafts and socialize with locals at the various scenic lookouts and neighborhood cafes; fortunately, tourism has not yet entirely modernized the area. Enjoy traditional homestyle cooking where fado singers perform, or seek out more contemporary versions of Portuguese cuisine at Boi-Cavalo,Chapitô à Mesa, and Prado.

Lodgings in Alfama tend to be charming boutique hotels, with some guest houses and low-cost options. Though compact, the neighborhood’s sloping terrain can require a strenuous hike.

6. Mouraria and Graça

Adjoining the hillside neighborhood of Alfama are two additional historic areas worth exploring on foot – Mouraria on the northern slopes towards Martim Moniz, and Graça to the northeast. These tend to be working class neighborhoods, full of local flavor and relatively unaffected by tourism. Graça is Alfama’s more serene relative, while Mouraria is both more multicultural and undergoing more regeneration. This former “Moorish Quarter” is where Muslims defeated in the Siege of Lisbon in 1147 were permitted to establish residences (outside the city walls); today you’ll find grocery stores and eateries run by residents of Bangladesh, China, Cape Verde, Mozambique, and many others, predominantly on Rua do Benformoso. Things to see here include the scenic lookouts of Miradouro da Graça and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, in addition to contemporary art galleries such as Hangar. There are great, budget-friendly local dining establishments – Mozambican cuisine at Cantinho do Aziz, Goan at Tentações de Goa, and Bangladeshi fare at Spicy. At night, locate a trendy neighborhood bar, like the alternative Damas.

These neighborhoods allow for escaping much of the tourist crowds in the neighboring Alfama area. There are some gorgeous guesthouses and boutiques here, a couple of high-end hotels, and a selection of hip hostels offering atmospheric settings.

7. Along the Tagus (Tejo): Belém, Lapa, Santa Amaro and Alcântara

Located a fair distance (around 3 miles or a 30-minute tram ride) west along the river from Baixa, Belém attracts many visitors due to its notable sights, scenic parks, and river perspectives. It packs a good deal into a small area, ranging from the UNESCO-listed historically significant Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (a masterwork of Manueline architecture) to one of Lisbon’s coolest museums, the Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia (aka “MAAT”). Belém is iconic Portugal – Torre de Belém is the site from where Portuguese explorers set sail, while Pastéis de Belém is the birthplace of the pastel de nata, the tasty custard tart (be prepared to wait in line for a table). The massive Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to Discoveries) on the waterfront is another Lisbon icon. Museum visitors will find contemporary art at Museu Coleção Berardo, maritime history at Museu de Marinha, folk art at the Museu de Arte Popular, the home of the Portuguese President (with a small museum) at Palácio Nacional de Belém, and the modern Museu Nacional dos Coches, packed with ornate horse carriages from the 16th century onwards. Stroll along the river to discover bars with a view, excellent seafood restaurants, and Michelin-starred dining at Feitoria.

Given additional time, it`s worth exploring the neighborhoods located between the present location and the city center, starting with Santo Amaro, where the Doca de Santo Amaro, a small marina, features eateries and bars providing spectacular views of the towering Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. Further inland, the LxFactory houses galleries, stores, and restaurants. The neighboring region of Alcântara is home to the Asian art collections at the Museu do Oriente, while wealthy Lapa is Lisbon’s diplomatic quarter, housing classical art at the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga and Portuguese puppets at Museu da Marioneta. Along the riverfront, one will find additional bars and eateries in the regenerated district of Santos, along with venues like Barrio Latino.

Some upscale luxury hotels are located out here along with hip hostels and mid-range options, all somewhat distanced from the core tourist zones, though Belém can become extremely crowded during the day.

8. Parque das Nações

The former site of Expo 98, located 6 miles north along the Tagus estuary (or “Mar da Palha”) from downtown, has transformed into the modern Parque das Nações district, a slick neighborhood of tall buildings, futuristic shopping centers, and a handful of primarily family-friendly attractions, as well as a long, breezy promenade overlooking the Vasco de Gama Bridge, the second longest bridge in Europe (over 10 miles long). The prime highlight is the stylish Oceanário aquarium, housing around 8,000 fish and marine animals; other draws include a riverside cable car ( Telecabine Lisboa), Jardins da Água (Water Gardens) and the Pavilion of Knowledge science museum, to numerous bars and restaurants and many important event venues for example the Altice Arena and Pavilhão de Portugal. It’s also possible to ride up to the observation platform at the top of Torre Vasco da Gama, Lisbon’s tallest building. The key transport hub here, the Estação do Oriente, was designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.

Situated between Parque das Nações and Alfama lies the developing riverside neighborhood of Beato, where popular seafood and Portuguese dining spots like Casa do Bacalhau, along with galleries such as Manicómio Lisboa and the illuminating Museu Nacional do Azulejo, a museum dedicated to Portugal’s beautiful painted tiles, can be discovered.

There are plenty of excellent, newly constructed hotels in this vicinity, and the metro connection is fairly convenient, but it`s not an especially lively locale to lodge unless your primary focus is the aquarium and related child-friendly sights.

More Lisbon Neighborhoods

We were extremely fortunate with the weather – it was clear and calm – but keep in mind it’s often rainy and windy in the Sound. Pack and plan accordingly.

  • North Lisbon: There are several sights worth exploring north of Parque Eduardo VII, with the standout attraction being the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, which is a must for art lovers. Located northwest is the family-friendly Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa, commonly known as Lisbon Zoo, and the Estádio da Luz, the soccer stadium of Benfica, one of Europe’s most renowned football clubs. The club offers stadium tours and has a museum honoring legendary former players like Eusebio. Rivals Sporting Lisbon (officially Sporting Clube de Portugal) play at Estádio José Alvalade, approximately one-and-a-half miles away, with their own museum and store. You can reach most of these places easily via public transportation so there`s no need to stay the night up here, even if you get tickets for an evening match. If you do plan to spend the night, we recommend Chalet d’Ávila Guest House
  • West Lisbon: Located west of the Bairro Alto is the upscale district of Estrela, best known for its expansive gardens and the enormous Basílica da Estrela (home to Queen Maria I`s tomb and Joaquim Machado de Castro`s renowned 18th century nativity sculpture crafted from cork and terra cotta). Adjacent to Campo de Ourique is an attractive, less busy neighborhood housing an excellent indoor marketplace and the Casa Fernando Pessoa, a museum focused on Portugal’s beloved writer and poet (this house is where Pessoa lived from 1920 until his death in 1935). The further inland neighborhoods to the west contain a couple sights that might interest long-stay or repeat visitors: the stately Palácio Nacional da Ajuda (a beautifully restored 19th century royal palace) and the Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz, a former royal summer palace surrounded by picturesque gardens.
  • South of the River: Aside from a string of sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, there isn`t much to see south of the Tagus River. However, it`s worthwhile to take a ferry or bus over the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge to visit the Christ the King statue, which was inspired by Rio de Janeiro`s famous Statue of Christ the Redeemer. It`s possible to ride an elevator 269 feet up to the base for spectacular views across the city.
  • Remaining close to Lisbon Airport in the northeast section of the city would only make sense if you had a very early flight, since it is an easy and affordable taxi ride or metro journey from downtown. If the need does arise to stay near the airport, the pricey yet convenient Melia Lisboa Aeroporto would be the best choice, with the more affordable (and nearby) Star Inn being a solid lower-cost alternative.

Lisbon Travel Tips

  • Lisbon Airport is only about 4 miles (7km) north of the city center, making it a relatively economical taxi ride from most hotels. Being the largest airport in Portugal, it’s well linked to cities across the globe. The airport has its own metro station, with trains running to the São Sebastião station in around 20 minutes, where one can change trains for destinations within the city center.
  • Almost everyone you are likely to interact with in cosmopolitan Lisbon will be able to speak (or at least understand some) English, except perhaps for a few taxi motorists and owners of small cafés/stores. Try to learn a few words and numbers in Portuguese anyway, before you go. Day-trippers should note that once you head out of the city, things change dramatically – very few people in rural Portugal speak English, particularly the older generation, though it’s possible to get by with Spanish.
  • A Michelin-starred, designer chic restaurant located in San Niccolò – which provides farm-to-table cuisine with locally sourced ingredients to enhance the flavors – vegetables come from just outside Florence and meat from nearby farms. Guests can sample a 4-course tasting menu for €80 during lunch. (1 mile).
  • Free wi-fi is available at Lisbon Airport, and at every metro station (with the exception of Baixa-Chiado) – look for “ON-FI.” Otherwise, free wi-fi is becoming standard in cafes and restaurants in the city center, though don’t expect every location to offer it.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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