Lisbon served as both our initial stop in Portugal, and was also our final stop in Europe a couple months later when our 89 days in Europe were up (that`s just shy of the 90 day maximum we can spend in the E.U. on a tourist visa).
We really enjoyed our time in Lisbon, spending much of a week wandering the neighborhoods, stopping here and there for coffee (be sure to check our guide to the best coffee options if you love quality brews) or a glass of the reasonably priced and tasty Portuguese wines, in our opinion offering the most appealing attributes for tasting.
Lisbon is a city not unlike San Francisco, our former home, in that each neighborhood possesses a distinct appearance, style, and overall atmosphere. As you stroll from the cosmopolitan grid layout that is Baixa, Lisbon`s downtown area, towards the narrow, winding streets paved with cobblestones in Alfama, the oldest-feeling part of the city, you’ll understand what we mean.
The areas are a few short blocks apart, but couldn`t look and feel more differing.
Once you start to learn about Lisbon`s history, you’ll begin to comprehend why. While we`re certainly not experts on Lisbon history, we did participate in a couple walking tours and connected with locals who are well-versed in the topic.
Our inebriated chronicle (if unfamiliar, it`s a television program where participants concurrently narrate a story concerning a historical incident and imbibe alcohol simultaneously – it`s genuinely fun!) interpretation of the rationale behind Lisbon’s neighborhoods appearing and feeling so divergent is that, after the earthquake in the 18th Century, the city brought in various architects from different places around the world to assist with reconstruction and urban planning.
As a result, you have parts of the city that feel like Paris, with grand boulevards lined with four story apartment buildings, and parts of the city that feel like Ancient Rome, with cobblestone streets and castles.
We realize that our view of the optimal place to lodge in Lisbon may not be identical to yours, so we set out to write a comprehensive guide that takes you through several of our top selections and assists you in determining whether or not each area is suitable for you.
In this guide to figuring out where to stay in Lisbon for your particular style and budget, we’ll go through our favorite neighborhoods, along with the pros and cons of staying there, some highlights that you probably shouldn’t miss (whether or not you choose to stay there), and some recommended hotels, apartments, and hostels to get you started on your search.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Table of Contents
A Quick Primer on Lisbon’s Geography
The most straightforward place to begin in regards to explaining the layout of Lisbon is the Tagus River. Which resembles the ocean, and is near the ocean, but is not actually the ocean. Generally, the closer you are to the river, the more tourists you’ll encounter.
Coming from San Francisco where hills are common, Lisbon`s elevated land might not seem so steep. However, the terrain is quite sloped compared to other locations.
No matter your route, tackling some inclines is inevitable during a trip to Lisbon.
From the river, Lisbon climbs straight up the hills to the north, where you`ll find neighborhoods like Chiado, Alfama, and Bairro Alto, which are excellent places to stay that are packed with bars, restaurants, shops, and hidden (and not-so-hidden) treasures.
Where to Stay in Lisbon: A Complete Guide to the 4 Best Places to Stay
Now that you’ve received a brief overview of Lisbon’s layout, let’s explore some specific places to stay in Lisbon that we recommend.
Of course, like most cities, where one should stay in Lisbon largely relies on one`s own preferences and what they seek.
There isn’t a single method that can give you an answer. This is why we look at the pros and cons of each area below to provide an idea of whether or not it fits your needs.
If time is limited but you want to quickly identify suitable accommodations in Lisbon, this section is tailored to your needs (though exploring the further details about the neighborhood you select, including pros and cons, highlights, and recommended hotels and apartments, is still highly advised).
- For travelers visiting Lisbon for the first time, you should lodge in Baixa or Chiado. We stayed in that region during our initial trip to the city, and it presents an excellent, central base for exploring the area. We resided at Porto do Mar Apartments in Baixa, which we suggest.
- If you prefer a more romantic and charming setting, stay in Alfama, which has narrow cobblestone streets ideal for getting lost in. But there`s a tradeoff – it`s up a hill, and there are only a few ways to get up and down that don`t involve walking.
- If you wish to experience nightlife and be at the center of all the evening activity, lodge in Bairro Alto, which is adjacent to Chiado atop the hill.
Where We Stayed in Lisbon
The best place to commence this guide is with our own personal experience. We found ourselves in Lisbon twice within the span of a couple months, and stayed in marginally diverse areas on each visit.
I should note that I, Matt, have Celiac Disease, which means we need to eat strictly gluten free. Obtaining access to a kitchen facility is essentially imperative for us, so we tend to prefer apartments.
Following a discussion with a local tour guide, Nuno, who led one of the remarkable walking excursions we undertook in Lisbon, we are unable to recommend Airbnb in good conscience.
Locals have witnessed Airbnb transform the fabric of Lisbon over the past decade as Lisbon has risen in popularity. At one point during our tour, he pointed to nearly every building on the square we were standing in and mentioned that each of them had units that were being rented on Airbnb.
Local residents are increasingly being priced out of the city center as apartments are converted into transient accommodations catering to visitors, a trend believed detrimental to the community overall.
Instead, we’ll focus on hotels and “aparthotels” or “serviced apartments,” which are a hybrid of a hotel and apartment complex.
First, we stayed in Baixa near the water at Porta Do Mar Apartments, which we really enjoyed.
The location is advantageous – near the Metro, within walking distance to Chiado and Alfama – though the area was crowded with tourists and felt a little more sterile than other areas we explored. The apartments themselves are also pleasant, with current appliances and plenty of space to spread out.
On our return trip, we stayed near the border of Lower Quarter and Chiado a block from Rossio Station. In our view, this is one of the finest areas to lodge in Lisbon, particularly uphill on the Chiado side.
This time, we stayed at Stay&Co Rossio, another serviced apartment that had ample space, an influx of natural light, and a pleasant vista overlooking Lisbon.
Chiado: Central and Bustling (Overall Best Location)
Chiado is about as central as you can get in Lisbon. It’s on the hill, which means you won’t have to walk UP the hill anytime you want to go anywhere (though you will if you head down the hill – what goes down must come back up in Lisbon).
Shopping, dining, and historic landmarks like the former Convento do Carmo, now a museum having been damaged in the 1755 earthquake, are in abundance within this bustling neighborhood.
Chiado lies at the heart of Lisbon`s history in many ways. Both the 1755 earthquake, which shaped modern Lisbon, and the 1974 Carnation Revolution that ended Portugal`s dictatorship occurred in Chiado (though obviously the quake impacted the entire city).
The architecture in Chiado contains a blend of old and new, mostly due to the fire in 1988 that burned through the main shopping area around the mall. The facades remained intact (thanks to being constructed out of stone), but the insides were gutted and replaced.
There are a couple ways to ascend (or descend) the hill from Chiado to places like Baixa or Rossio Station (which is where you catch the train to take a day trip to Sintra). You can walk, of course, which is our preferred mode of traversing Lisbon.
You can take the metro system. Or you can take the Elevador de Santa Justa, which was built in the early 1900s to connect Chiado to Baixa.
Queues for the elevator can be lengthy, and there is a cost to ride it. We recommend traversing the shopping centre on foot to descend (though you mustn`t skip seeing the panoramic views from the elevator tower atop the building!).
Pros and Cons of Chiado
Advantages: It occupies a central location nestled between Bairro Alto and Principe Real to the west, Alfama and Mouraria to the east, and Baixa facing the river. A metro station – Baixa-Chiado – resides at the heart of the neighborhood, allowing convenient access to other city regions. It contains a more charming atmosphere than the adjacent downtown area of Baixa, with its narrow alleys and winding roads presenting a stark contrast to Lisbon’s grid planned downtown core.
Disadvantages: The hilly terrain you`ll need to navigate and higher costs associated with the desirable central locale are the primary cons. Prices reflect the neighborhood`s premium location.
Chiado Highlights
Here are some of our favorite discoveries in Chiado.
- Grom Gelato: Our preferred gelato shop in Lisbon, and quite possibly the world. Everything is free of gluten, including the cones! And my brothers – who aren’t gluten free – and Alysha all confirmed that it was the finest gelato in Lisbon after trying it alongside other options.
- Convento do Carmo: A convent that was devastated by the earthquake and subsequent fires. The façade still largely stands, towering over the square where it is located. Today, it’s a museum.
- The view from the Santa Justa elevator platform: Is spectacular. The end. You can get to it by walking past the Convent and heading up the stairs straight ahead (rather than going down the stairs). We’d recommend skipping the elevator ride though, which is expensive and involves a long line, and instead walk down the hill.
- Fábrica Coffee Roasters: Near the top of our list of the best coffee in Lisbon – great variety of espresso drinks and filter coffee made with beans freshly roasted in-house.
- Pastéis de Nata: Two of the three best places to try a pastel de nata are in Chiado right across the street from each other (according to Alysha and my brothers – I have Celiac Disease and need to eat gluten free, so none for me!). Aloma and Manteigaria are both worth a stop to try the custard-y tart.
The Best Places to Stay in Chiado
Here are some of the best places to lodge in Chiado, whether you’re looking for a charming hotel or a spacious apartment where you have a bit more room to spread out and unwind.
There are plenty of options in Chiado, so we’ve sifted through hundreds of places to stay to narrow the list down to a few choices that we’re enthusiastic about based on style, reviews, and location. All you need to do is select one of them and you’re ready to head to Lisbon!
Feeling Chiado 15: A Boutique Hotel in an Amazing Location
This aesthetically pleasing hotel is conveniently located on the square where the Convento do Carmo can be found, which might be one of Lisbon’s singularly ideal places. From there, you’ll be a brief stroll away from the heart of Chiado, and within walking distance of Barrio Alto, Principe Real, and Baixa.
Spacious, comfortable rooms are the priority here. Even the standard suites are larger than most hotel rooms you’ll find elsewhere, but the deluxe suites are even bigger, some of which have a nice terrace with spectacular views of the city.
Chiado 44: A Mid-Range Guesthouse
This comfortable guesthouse is a few streets from the Baixa-Chiado metro station, which means you’ll be well-connected to the rest of the urban center if you decide to stay here.
Though originally constructed in the 19th century, the building`s interior has since been renovated with beautifully stylish rooms and common areas.
Again, this isn’t your average mega-hotel chain. There are only 12 rooms here, which means you’re going to get personalized attention.
Half of the rooms have views of the river and balconies, while the other half face the property’s garden (and two of those include balconies as well). The rooms are relatively compact, but sufficiently comfortable if visitors intend to spend most of their time exploring the attractions of Lisbon outside.
Lost Lisbon – Chiado House: A Nice Budget-Friendly Option
This guesthousewas on our list of lodgings to consider, but the timing and dates did not completely align. This is another intimate place to remain in Lisbon, with just a few rooms, exceptionally friendly service, and a beautifully decorated interior.
Your room comes with a continental breakfast, and you’ll have access to the shared kitchen to cook lunch or dinner, if you wish to cook. Which makes this a combination of a hostel and a hotel. They have smaller rooms outfitted with a pair of twin beds, and larger rooms that have a comfortable double bed.
The decor employs impeccably stylish details – blue tile accents featured throughout stand out – and it`s noteworthy that some rooms include private external bathrooms (rather than inside the rooms).
The same company also has a location on Avenida da Liberdade (see here here), which also provides a pleasant locale (though not quite as central to Lisbon’s major attractions).
Casa do Barao: A Nice Boutique Hotel with a Pool
A note at the top: the hotel is closed for renovations until fall of 2022. There are some other amazing places below if you’re traveling in the spring/summer.
This boutique hotel is located in a 19th century building that oozes charm, features a library room, and boasts a great outdoor pool. Moreover, it rests in one of the best areas in our favorite district in Lisbon, merely a brief stroll away from all of the action. The hotel can be found at this link.
Regretfully, we weren`t aware of this location during our initial visit, and when we attempted to reserve accommodations there for our return trip, they were renovating the building. So staying at this property didn`t quite work out for us, but that shouldn`t discourage you!
It`s an establishment with only 12 rooms, so the level of service provided (compared to huge hotels accommodating over 100 guests) is more akin to a bed and breakfast. The owners went into the hospitality industry particularly wanting to offer a smaller, intimate setting as an alternative to massive corporate chains.
In terms of rooms, they have options for varying budgets, ranging from their smaller (yet still fairly spacious) standard rooms to their enormous premium rooms with terraces. Breakfast is served on their lovely garden patio. And did we mention the pool?
Baixa: As Central as it Gets in Lisbon
The Baixa neighborhood in Lisbon is nestled along the Tagus River between Alfama and Chiado up the hill, and the nightlife hub that is Cais de Sodre further north. It’s one of the most central – and thus busy with tourists – areas in Lisbon.
Following the earthquake in 1755 that influenced the shaping of contemporary Lisbon, Baixa was reconstructed under the guidance of Marquês de Pombal, who envisioned a grid-like blueprint in downtown Lisbon.
For the most part, Baixa follows that grid layout from Praça do Comércio all the way to Rossio Train Station at it’s northern edge. The layout is noticeably different compared to other neighborhoods in Lisbon, which generally feature narrow, winding streets and unexpected plazas.
We stayed in Baixa for our initial stint in Lisbon, and it really is a perfect place for exploring the city. It’s well connected to public transportation – both via Tram 28, which basically takes you to 95% of the attractions in central Lisbon, and the metro stations along the river.
Additionally, both Rossio Station and Santa Apolónia Station – the two primary train terminals in Lisbon – are within walking distance.
This location has multiple dining and drinking options – including the home of what our unofficial tasting test and guide`s viewpoint deemed the best pastel de nata in Lisbon on our private self-guided excursion (we strongly propose it – it`s this tour, and if able you should select Isabel as your guide).
Overall, it’s a great locale to reside, though we would propose that you dedicate most of your day outside of Baixa exploring the less touristy and, frankly, more intriguing parts of Lisbon.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Baixa
Benefits: You`ll be hard pressed to find a more central location. It has excellent connections to public transportation. The terrain is flat. And you`ll be able to easily access the train station for trips to Porto (or elsewhere in Portugal) as well as day trips to the beautifully scenic town of Sintra, which is highly recommended.
Disadvantages: It’s not the most authentic area in the city, but you can just plan on spending most of your time exploring the more interesting parts of Lisbon. It’s a great location, which means it’s going to be relatively expensive compared to some of the less central neighborhoods below. It’s at the bottom of the hill, which means you’ll be heading uphill to go basically anywhere else in Lisbon. And I’d probably plan on eating elsewhere – the restaurants, particularly on Praça do Comércio, are classic tourist traps.
Baixa Highlights
Here are some of our favorite spots in Baixa.
- Wines of Portugal: Situated directly on Praça do Comércio (which is usually not ideal, truthfully told), we truly savored trying some Portuguese wines while relaxing under the sun on their terrace. It’s the sort of establishment where you load money onto a card, and scan the card to receive 1.5oz samples of the different wines they have available. We had a lovely rose (among other things) that the friendly bartender overheard us discussing and ultimately provided us the remainder of the bottle when replacing it became necessary. They also offer more formal guided tastings if wanting additional background on the wines.
- Pastel de Nata at Manteigaria: Through an informal methodology that essentially consisted of trying a pastel de nata at three different places – including pastel de Belem, reputedly both the original recipe and finest example of this pastry and thus a world-famous example – my brothers and Alysha decided that this place offered the best pastel de nata in Lisbon. Or at minimum, it was their favorite. The crispy texture of the crust gave it the top ranking in their assessment, and the creamy filling possessed an ideal flavor profile. Additionally, our local guide for the walking tour, Isabel, had taken us there on our tour since it`s also her preferred source. So with four recommendations, Manteigaria seemed well worth a visit.
- Zarzuela: As someone with Celiac Disease, I unfortunately could not participate in the tasting of traditional Portuguese pastries we did in Lisbon. Fear not! You can obtain a gluten-free version of the popular pastel de nata at Zarzuela, also located in Baixa. The crust is noticeably less satisfactory due to the constraints of baking with gluten-free flour, but the custard flavor and texture are fairly good. I have a whole guide to gluten-free dining in Lisbon, if you also need to eat without gluten.
- Time Out Market: Technically, one could debate if this locale fully qualifies as Baixa. However, it borders the neighborhood if not indeed situated within it. It showcases several of Lisbon`s finest cuisine selections (though it certainly does not hold a monopoly on quality eating options), essentially operating as a refined food court. It serves as a excellent choice for groups since each person can select something different or choices can be shared spanning various vendors. A bar is located at the core supplying beverages alongside a noteworthy wine shop. A produce marketplace next door containing spectacular fruits almost akin to a farmers market is an additional feature.
- Rossio Square: There isn`t truly an attraction here, per se, but the square itself is gorgeous, with waves of tiles and fountains. The Rossio Train Station at the far end of the square is where you catch the train for a day trip to Sintra.
The Best Places to Stay in Baixa
Baixa has a nice blend of lodging options, generally hotels and apartments, with a few hostels thrown in, which are perfect if you’re heading to Lisbon on a tight budget.
After considering various options, we narrowed it down to these five choices that we particularly liked.
My Story Hotel Figueira: A Stylish Boutique Hotel on a Nice Square
We walked past this charming hotel numerous times during our time in Lisbon, and every time I turned to Alysha and said something to the effect of “I need to investigate that location.”
This is a Portuguese hotel conglomerate with locations in Lisbon, Porto, and the Azores, and all of their properties are gorgeously appointed.
The hotel is precisely on Figueira Square, which is basically adjacent to Rossio Square in the heart of Baixa, central to Alfama, Chiado, the Rossio Train Station, and more.
The colorful rooms are relatively spacious (over 200 square feet!), and beds are reported as very comfortable. Some spaces have a perspective out onto the square (which we’d imagine comes with a little bit more noise).
Staff are available 24 hours a day who are happy to assist with any needs, breakfast is included, and there’s an Italian restaurant on the ground level.
Be Poet Baixa: A Modern Mid-Range Hotel + Great Location
The situation of this modern hotel is nearly equal distance between Alfama, Rossio Train Station, and Praça do Comércio. With that central location, you`ll be able to walk or use public transportation to practically anywhere in Lisbon or beyond.
Accommodations here aren’t the most expansive, but they’ll be comfortable and affordable, a tradeoff certainly worthwhile. Decor embraces a very current style, lacking some of the charm of older structures we somewhat appreciate regarding Lisbon, but that’s only our view.
Accommodations are outfitted with coffee makers and reviews consistently call out the beds as extremely comfortable, which makes this place an excellent home base for exploring Lisbon.
Porta Do Mar: Nice, Cozy Apartments (+ Where We Stayed)
We spent time at these cozy lodgings during our initial stint in Lisbon, and it was conveniently situated for getting acquainted with the city. It’s within walking distance to both the underground, Rossio train station (where you board the train for a day outing to Sintra), and the streetcar that transports you out to Belém.
One thing you should know – the pictures make it seem like there is a TON of natural light, and in some cases that’s probably true, but in our apartment there was only really natural light in the bedroom (which was great), while the kitchen area faced an internal courtyard with far less light going on. Not a deal breaker, just something to keep in mind.
With our group consisting of three people, we lodged in a split-level apartment with my younger brother sleeping upstairs and us downstairs in the bedroom—an ideal configuration for our specific composition.
We used the kitchen to prepare breakfasts, and it was stocked with everything we required to do that.
Casas da Baixa Jules & Madeleine: Spacious Serviced Apartments for Different Group Sizes
This collection of spacious apartments is located nearby Porta Do Mar, so we know from experience that it provides a solid place to stay
The serviced lodgings here – which combine qualities of a hotel and apartment building for advantages of both – have an array of sizes. Studios for traveling couples or pairs of friends, up to two bedroom apartments fitting five.
The building has been restored to its 18th Century structure, and the interiors of the apartments blend that historic character with more modern design and appliances. Rooms contain small but totally practical kitchens, if cooking is an interest.
They have an alternative set of apartments – Casas da Baixa Lighthouse – nearby, if your dates do not coordinate with the other lodging options.
Home Lisbon Hostel: A Family-Run, Intimate Boutique Hostel
Home Lisbon Hostel is precisely in the heart of Baixa, a few blocks away from the Lisbon Cathedral and the route up to Alfama, and a few blocks away from the Elevador de Santa Justa, which takes you up to Chiado.
It’s a family-operated establishment, which is part of the reason we selected it, as you know because they provide something called “Mamma’s Dinner” where the mother of the hostel’s owner cooks a meal full of Portuguese classics.
The small size of the hostel, at least compared to others in Lisbon, is part of its charm and often leads to a more personal and intimate experience.
They have both private rooms and dorms (max 8 people per room) available. The private rooms are cozy and well-decorated (I love the rooms with the rich green walls and dark brown furniture), and they’re basically hotel rooms. Some even have a balcony with city views!
Nicolau, a hipster brunch restaurant is right on the ground floor.
Alfama: Cobblestone Streets & Amazing Views
Alfama is probably the most romantic neighborhood in Lisbon. It’s charming and atmospherically warm, with its winding roads descending the hill from Castelo de São Jorge, and its many plazas and nooks, filled with people casually dining outside in the evenings and with the sad-sounding melodies of fado drifting through its streets.
We found ourselves in Alfama on multiple events during our time in Lisbon, and it brings to mind a lot of Trastevere in Rome, which is our most loved location to stay in Rome, or Montmartre in Paris, one of the most romantic locations to stay in Paris.
Whether or not you choose to remain in Alfama, an evening stroll through the neighborhood (and potentially a dinner and some fado) should absolutely be included in your travel itinerary for Lisbon.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Alfama
Benefits: The atmosphere is appealing. Narrow alleyways that double as streets combined with walking on cobblestones exudes a certain romance that Alfama has in abundance. There are several superb vantage points from which to take in sweeping views of Lisbon (particularly striking in the evenings). Additionally, the northeast section near the castle offers many quality bars and eateries.
Cons: It’s considered one of the harder areas in Lisbon to access. Wherever you’re traveling, you’re likely to either need to walk up or down a hill or take Tram 28, which tends to be crowded with visitors between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
Attempting transport via taxi or ridesharing will likely prove difficult with those tight roads. Additional walking is advised. If that is an issue, looking elsewhere and evening visits to Alfama are suggested instead. Accommodations there also tend toward premium rates as the area is desirable though options are limited.
Another potential downside worth exploring here pertains to gentrification. As Alfama (and Lisbon overall) has firmly established itself on the tourist map, more and more of the historic buildings in the area are being acquired to convert into hotels and apartments catering to tourist demand.
Which means less inventory for locals, and higher prices, pushing long-time residents out of the homes they’ve lived in for decades.
We will not solve that problem here, but it is worthwhile considering it as a factor when making your decision about where to stay. Frankly, it is an issue throughout the entire city, but it is most emphasized in Alfama.
Alfama Highlights
Here are some spots not to miss in Alfama.
- Miss Can: When travelling to Portugal, trying some tinned fish is recommended. Numerous locations offer this, such as prestigious shops in Baixa and Chiado, but we suggest choosing the more modest Miss Can. Focused on product quality and industry sustainability, Miss Can was started by a woman descended from many generations of fishermen. Nestled on a residential street near the castle, their storefront can be found where cans of sardines, bacalhau (cod), squid, and other items in various sauces may be purchased. We particularly enjoyed the bacalhau in garlic olive oil, which was easily our favorite (and the least fishy of all, for those not too fond of seafood). A few cans can be acquired as souvenirs or enjoyed in the small storefront with a glass of vinho verde.
- Château de São Jorge: Though the structure overlooking the city (similar to the hit tune by Ed Sheeran) has been redesigned in the twentieth century to invoke civic pride, it retains interest as a site to explore. Visitors gain panoramic views of Lisbon including the bridge by ascending the ersatz fortress walls. It symbolizes the twelfth century Portuguese conquest from the Moors, when reinforcements from the Second Crusade helped take the city. Soon after, Lisbon became the capital of the Kingdom, serving intermittently as a royal residence and detention center. The earthquake severely impaired the castle, leaving it in disrepair until Salazar`s restoration initiatives in the interwar period.
- Sé de Lisboa: At the base of Alfama, this signifies the border with Baixa and the start of the ascent up the narrow alleyways to the castelo at the top of the hill. It was constructed way back in 1147, but like most old buildings in Lisbon, it has been rebuilt and modified numerous times over the years. Down the street in front of the cathedral, you can obtain a pleasant vista of the front with the Tram 28 out front (though you’ll have to wait for the tram to pass by).
- Viewpoints: Due to its elevated position, there are several excellent views that can be enjoyed from Alfama. The first is the Viewpoint of Portas do Sol, which is an excellent locale to visit at sunset for drinks on the patio near the viewpoint. From there, you`ll have a northeastern view up the coastline, with the ability to see prominent structures like the National Pantheon and the Church of São Vicente de Fora that dominate the skyline. A statue of Saint Vincent, Lisbon`s patron, also stands there holding what we learned represents Lisbon—a ship with two ravens. The other is the Viewpoint of Santa Luzia, reachable within a short three-minute walk and offering a similar vista overlooking Lisbon`s northern quarter.
The Best Places to Stay in Alfama
There are various lodging options in Alfama, ranging from upscale hotels to cozy apartments.
Fortunately for you, we`ve explored and come across (by looking at countless pictures and reviews until our eyes tired) a collection of highly reviewed places we personally enjoy and would suggest.
Alfama`s narrow, winding roads can make arriving at and departing from lodging somewhat inconvenient. However, what may be lacking in ease is more than compensated for in atmosphere.
Three places to spend the night in Alfama that caught our attention are highlighted here.
Hotel Convento do Salvador
Near one of Lisbon`s finest scenic lookouts, the hotel here boasts an exceptional outdoor lounge and bar region. Despite exuding refinement, pricing is fairly prudent, which was unexpected.
The hotel itself was built into a former convent and is located within walking distance of the castle, a couple of really nice viewpoints, and some great bars and restaurants (do not miss the canned fish at Miss Can!).
This place of accommodation prioritizes protection of the environment, which I appreciate particularly because they transfer normal tap water into distinct bottles to prevent people from obtaining huge amounts of disposable plastic water containers over the duration of their journey. DRINK THE TAP WATER, it’s entirely risk-free (we drank gallons of it, and we’re still going strong).
Accommodations are relatively compact, but well thought out with modern conveniences. You will have to pay a bit extra for a vista of the river Tejo from your lodging, but you can always head outside to the terrace if wanting a spectacular panorama.
Casas do Bairro Conqvistador: Nice Apartments in Alfama
The Big Beehive Loop(6.7 miles, 2,552 feet elevation gain): Not far behind the first, this hike takes you past lovely Lake Agnes (and the teahouse of the same name) to the top of the Big Beehive, which offers a commanding perspective over Lake Louise and the Bow River Valley. It’s a great hike, notably in autumn when the Larches along Lake Agnes turn bright gold.
They only have one size of apartment – one bedroom with a sofa bed that can sleep two more – which may not work for larger groups wanting to stay together in the same apartment.
As we delved further into it, we recognized that this complex signifies more than meets the eye. It’s in fact a group of different enterprises – the apartments, a wine shop, a coffee shop, etc – that are owned by a single Portuguese family. You obtain 20% discounts on those other businesses when you stay here, which is somewhat interesting.
Archi-Pelago Alfama Design Suites: Gorgeous Boutique Guesthouse
Another Portuguese-owned hospitality brand, we think this appealing lodging has done a great job combining modern, minimalist design with the historical charm that makes Alfama unique and romantic. For instance, the terraces that some of the rooms have has a small nook under a stone arch that appears to have been built centuries ago.
Specifically, we admire the design of the flooring in some of the rooms and common areas.”
Guest rooms have a minimal design and are compact in size, but the focus is on exploring Lisbon during the day rather than being confined to your room, with inviting common spaces to spend time in.
There’s also a shared kitchen, which we appreciate because we generally cook for ourselves, at minimum for some meals.
Bairro Alto: For Foodies and Nightlife
Initially, note the spelling (it’s “Bairro” not “Barrio”). Bairro Alto is straightaway adjacent to Chiado, and has origins dating all the way back to the 16th Century, when the grid was first laid out and structures started to be built.
This area of Lisbon experienced lesser consequences from the earthquake than other parts of the city, but Pombal and the Portuguese administration seized the chance while reconstruction efforts were underway elsewhere in Lisbon to modernize infrastructure in Bairro Alto.
Today, Bairro Alto is a nighttime hub, full of bars, clubs, and eateries of all kinds. We walked through in the morning, when you wouldn`t know of its liveliest nature (unless you count the glass bottles and vague beer smell).
But when darkness falls and the sun disappears, the area is transformed and you’ll do a double take, saying to yourself “is this really the same street?”
Packed nearly wall to wall with tourists and locals alike enjoying their drinks in the middle of the street (at least in the warm and mild months…so, about 10 months of the year?), Bairro Alto comes alive when the sun goes down.
From wine lounges to hidden cocktail bars to nightclubs open until the early morning, you’ll find the best nightlife in the city located here.
There are naturally tradeoffs to being right in the heart of all the action. It’s loud, so don’t expect to stick to your 9:00 pm bedtime (honestly, that’s the sole reason why we wouldn’t personally stay here – one of us needs their beauty sleep!).
Pros and Cons of Bairro Alto
Advantages: Bars, restaurants, and clubs abound in Bairro Alto. No matter what style of bar, pub, or club you seek, you will find it. If staying near the nightlife so one can easily return home afterward is important, this location fits the bill. Also, it is less questionable than another nightlife center, Cais do Sodre, so the number of times drugs are offered may be only two or three rather than ten or more.
Downsides: It`s loud. Boisterous. Debauched. All the things you`d expect a nightlife district to be. If you want a good night`s sleep, look elsewhere.
Bairro Alto Highlights
Here are some highlights of Bairro Alto.
- Igreja de São Roque: This huge, lavishly decorated Jesuit church is well worth a visit. Go inside and observe the various biblical scenes depicted in the intricate dioramas (these accurately portray narrative events from scripture). Admire also the exquisite stonework, tiles, and abundant gold ornamentation (though some parts are merely painted gold). Be sure not to overlook the magnificent altar.
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara: Offering one of the finest views of the entire city.
- Garrafeira Alfaia: Excellent destination to sample Portuguese wines, like port, which is crafted in Porto. Staff have comprehensive understanding of wines and will assist finding something tailored to your preferences. They also offer traditional Portuguese snacks to nibble as working through their extensive list of options served by the glass.
- Vegan Nata: If happening to be vegan, nata in Lisbon here can still be tried!
- A Nossa Casa: This dining experience was recommended to me by an acquaintance, and is considered one of the greatest culinary encounters they have ever experienced. However, I did not feel entirely comfortable with their approach to being gluten free, so we decided against it. That is not to say you should as well, though!
The Best Places to Stay in Bairro Alto
The following captures several highly rated lodging options in Bairro Alto for varying budgets and travel preferences. We evaluated hundreds of accommodations to identify a few that suit our tastes and where we`d appreciate spending time in Bairro Alto on future Lisbon visits.
Stylish Accommodation: Casa das Janelas com Vista
Style on a Restricted Budget (Hostel with Charm): The Independente Hostel and Suites
Spacious Apartments: Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments
Bed & Breakfast: Dear Lisbon – Charming House
Where NOT to Stay in Lisbon
Generally, we’d suggest remaining near the city core, particularly if you have a brief trip (4 days or less). That way, you’ll be within walking distance (or public transportation, but Lisbon is an awesome walking city regardless of the hills) of most of the primary attractions in Lisbon.
That means you should immediately eliminate anything further north than Rua do Salitre (ish), which is at the northern edge of Principe Real, anything east of Alfama, and anything further west than Principe Real.
Within that area, you’ll have an ample variety of places to stay, whether you prefer a peaceful, more residential neighborhood, or a trendy area with lively nightlife. Or pretty much anything in between.
We would avoid Cais de Sodre, which is the area immediately around the Time Out Market closest to the river. While we walked through the area at all times of the day and felt completely safe, it was the place where we were offered drugs most frequently. Like, every block. At minimum once per block.
It’s a nice place to pass an evening eating and drinking at your leisure, full of bars and eateries, but we’d advise staying elsewhere if possible. It’s an affordable place to reside on a budget, but there are plenty of low-cost options in each of the other neighborhoods we recommend below, like hostels.
That’s all we’ve got – we hope we assisted you in finding an amazing place to stay in Lisbon and that the information in this guide was helpful for planning your trip.
Planning a visit to Portugal?
Here are our other Portugal travel guides to help plan an incredible trip (even if gluten must be avoided!).
If there isn’t a connection noted below, it signifies we’re still working diligently on compiling it – thorough, in-depth guides require time and care. However, rest assured we are dedicating effort to the task.
Portugal:
Lisbon
- 25 Remarkable Activities to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide
- 3 Days in Lisbon: Planning the Perfect Itinerary for Lisbon
- Experiencing Lisbon in One Day: The Top Sites in 24 Hours
- Gluten Free Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Lisbon’s Best Gluten Free Eateries
- Outstanding Coffee Establishments in Lisbon: 9 Remarkable Lisbon Coffee Houses to Add to Your List
Porto:
- Spending a Day Exploring Porto.
- Where to Reside in Porto, Portugal: The 3 Best Places to Reside
Gluten Free Options in Seattle, Washington
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The Algarve:
