Where to stay in Lisbon? The best areas and places to stay

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Where to Stay in Lisbon: My Selection of the Best Accommodations

Youre going to Lisbon and you’re looking for the best places to stay?

You’re at the right place!

Choosing accommodation in an unknown city isn’t always straightforward, and you may wonder in which area to stay in Lisbon?

Do you prefer the lively historic areas or a quiet residential neighborhood that’s a bit further out? Would you rather stay in youth hostels, comfortable hotels in the city center, or luxury hotels?

Thanks to my guide to the best hotels in Lisbon, sorted by neighborhood and for all budgets, you can easily make your choice based on your expectations and desires.

For families, solo travelers, or couples, there’s no doubt that there’s an ideal hotel for you in Lisbon, and we will find it together!

And at the end of the article, you’ll also find where to stay on a budget in Lisbon, and a section on where to stay with family. Always handy if you’re visiting the city with your children.

So, where to stay in Lisbon as a tourist?

Let’s find out!

My Favorite Hotels in Lisbon

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite hotels in Lisbon, if you don’t have time to read my detailed article.

You just need to click on the hotel name for more details and prices:

In Baixa / Chiado District

These two districts are located in the South of Lisbon, along the banks of the Tejo River. Both were rebuilt after the famous earthquake of 1755; Baixa was completely redesigned while Chiado was rebuilt almost identically, preserving the typical architecture.

These areas are some of the most touristic zones in Lisbon! You’ll find various shopping streets filled with small shops, cafes, and old signs, as well as trendier and more upscale boutiques.

This is the most central district to stay in Lisbon.

I recommend this neighborhood for accommodations in Lisbon:

  • If you like lively districts
  • For strolling around in traditional neighborhoods
  • If you enjoy shopping

This district is the perfect place to explore:

  • Commerce Square: the entrance to the Portuguese capital and one of the most beautiful squares in the city
  • The Santa Justa Elevator, which offers a breathtaking view from the top over the city, the Alfama district, and the Tejo River
  • The Carmo Convent Church in Lisbon
  • The National Museum of Contemporary Art and its collection of works dated from 1850 to the present day
  • The shopping streets Garett and Do Carmo
  • Rua das Flores, where you can taste wonderful wines
  • Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as “Pink Street,” opens doors to various bars and nightclubs

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Baixa / Chiado district of Lisbon

  • Inn Possible Lisbon Hostel: located only 5 minutes walk from Rossio Square and 7 minutes from Saint George’s Castle, this hostel offers double rooms with private bathrooms or dorms with shared bathrooms starting at €17 per night, with breakfast included in the room rate. Strong points: the location, cleanliness, proximity to the metro and train stations. This is the ideal budget-friendly accommodation in the center of Lisbon!
  • Dream Chiado Apartments: these apartments are located 300 meters from the Chiado Museum. The accommodation is modern and bright, and well equipped starting from €90. Strong points: the balcony, location, comfort of beds. This is my favorite for its value for money in the district!
  • Vincci Baixa: the hotel is only 150 meters away from the bus, tram, and metro stops of Commerce Square and just a 5-minute walk from Santa Maria Maior Cathedral. This 4-star hotel welcomes you to pleasant, elegant, and modern rooms starting at €151 per night. Strong points: the excellent breakfast with fresh products, friendliness of the staff, comfort.
  • Browns Central Hotel: located 2 minutes walk from the Chiado shopping district and 10 minutes from the Bairro Alto neighborhood. The rooms, designed by world-famous designers, are elegantly decorated with artworks, retro-style radio sets, and trendy armchairs. Double room rates start from €185 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the decoration, ambiance, location. This is my recommendation for a romantic stay in the center of Lisbon.
Baixa Chiado Browns Central Hotel
Baixa Chiado Browns Central Hotel

In Alfama District

Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon, consisting of an impressive labyrinth of narrow streets stretching from the Tagus estuary up to the Castle on the hilltop.

It’s also here where you can take the iconic yellow tram for a 40-minute tour of Lisbon.

This is undoubtedly the most authentic district to stay in Lisbon.

I recommend this neighborhood for your stay if:

  • You enjoy the picturesque atmosphere of old towns
  • You are a fan of architecture

Things to visit in the district:

  • Sé Cathedral, the former religious center of Portugal, built in the 12th century
  • Saint George’s Castle, whose walls and ramparts offer a fantastic vantage point for observing the surrounding area
  • The National Pantheon: the burial place of many Portuguese figures such as explorers Vasco de Gama and Henry the Navigator
  • Saint Anthony’s Church: the patron saint of Lisbon, this church was built on his birthplace
  • Santa Luzia Belvedere for a stunning view over the rooftops of Alfama and the Tagus estuary
  • The Fado Museum, recounting the history of this music originating in Alfama

Where to stay in Lisbon in the Alfama district?

  • Alfama The Heart of Lisbon: located less than 900 meters from the Dona Maria II National Theater and 900 meters from Rossio. Two charming and well-decorated one-bedroom apartments are available, featuring a seating area, equipped kitchen, and a balcony starting at €85 per night. Perfect if you’re looking for an apartment in the heart of Lisbon without overspending!
  • Dama Old Town Suites: located in the heart of Alfama’s historic center, just a two-minute walk from Sao Jorge Castle and 5 minutes from Lisbon Cathedral. Luxury apartments equipped with a dishwasher, oven, and microwave, starting at €100. Strong points: the balcony with city or river views, included breakfast, facilities. A great choice of accommodation in Lisbon for a weekend or even 3-4 days.
  • Stunning apartment with Yard in Alfama: situated just 1.1km from the Dona Maria II National Theater and 1.2 km from Rossio. Very large apartments with 3 bedrooms and an equipped kitchen that can accommodate up to 8 people, starting at €150 per night. Strong points: the space, the patio. If you’re wondering where to stay in Lisbon with friends, this is a great choice.
  • Solar do Castelo: built around an inner courtyard, this establishment is located within the walls of St Jorge Castle, just ten minutes’ walk from downtown and 1 km from Praça do Comercio. It offers classically and typically decorated rooms starting at €270 per night. Strong points: the garden, the fabulous breakfast, the complimentary carafe of port, access to drinks and pastries at any time.
  • Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel: this five-star hotel is located 8 minutes from the castle and 10 minutes from Baixa. Spacious and bright double rooms start from €300 per night with breakfast included. Strong points: the warm atmosphere, the standards, top-notch service, quietness. A luxury hotel to enjoy a good night’s sleep in Lisbon.

Alfama Santiago de Alfama Boutique Hotel
Alfama Santiago de Alfama Boutique Hotel

In Bairro Alto district

It’s one of the oldest districts in Lisbon that has gradually transformed into the capital’s trendy hotspot.

During the day, it’s quite peaceful and quiet: one can wander around to shop, dine on the terraces, and observe the architecture. At night, everything changes, and it becomes a centerpiece of Lisbon’s nightlife. Both young and old, locals and tourists, gather to have a drink and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

You should stay in this Lisbon district:

  • If you’re looking for a quiet area during the day
  • To immerse yourself in the typical neighborhood life of Portugal
  • If you like to go out and party in the evening

Here are spots you should visit:

  • The Bica Funicular, which connects Sao Paulo street and Loreto street. Inaugurated in 1892, it allows easy ascent of the 245 meters of Rua da Bica
  • The São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint and its emblematic view over Lisbon
  • The Miradouro and the Church of Santa Catarina offer a breathtaking view over the Tagus and the Bairro Alto district
  • Praça do Príncipe Real, a square where Lisboan artisans sell and showcase their products

The best accommodations in Bairro Alto

  • Hub New Lisbon Hostel: this hostel is situated 200 meters from the Main Real Garden and 2 km from Saint George’s Castle. It welcomes you in a restored building from the 18th century. Private double rooms or dormitory beds, from €10 per night. Strong points: the huge ball pool, the terrace, breakfast included. Less than €10 a night, a record to beat!
  • The Independente Suites & Terrace: located in a historic 19th-century palace, this establishment is 700 meters from Avenue of Liberty offering comfortable rooms starting at €100 per night. Strong points: vintage decor with period furniture, the ideal location for exploring Lisbon, the rooftop bar.
  • Dear Lisbon – Charming House: this establishment is located 500 meters from Bairro and a 12-minute walk from the Chiado shopping district. It offers themed rooms with panoramic views of the city, starting at €135 per night. Strong points: the outdoor pool, breakfast included, the private terrace, and garden. An ideal charming hotel in Lisbon for a quiet romantic stay.
  • The Lumiares Hotel & SPA: this luxurious 5-star establishment is located 400 meters from Chiado and Rossio, as well as 900 meters from the Avenue of Liberty. It offers apartments and lofts with a living room and a dining area with kitchenette, starting at €210 per night. Strong points: the balcony with view, the terrace, the onsite bar to enjoy good drinks, the spa, and wellness services.
Bairro Alto The Lumiares Hotel & Spa
Bairro Alto – The Lumiares Hotel & Spa

In Príncipe Real district

This is the district that has changed the most over the last few years in Lisbon. This tourist district welcomes affluent people coming to shop in various trendy stores and palaces refurbished into upscale boutiques.

It’s Lisbon’s chic district.

You should choose this district:

  • If you’re looking for a lively spot
  • To shop in luxury stores

In Príncipe Real district, you can discover:

  • Embaixada: a shopping gallery located in a former palace
  • The Botanical Garden to enjoy a diverse and beautiful flora
  • Claudio Corallo, a shop reportedly selling the world’s best chocolates, for you to sample!

Accommodation in Príncipe Real district

  • Casa Oliver Boutique B&B – Principe Real: located just a 10-minute walk from the Bairro Alto district and 12 minutes from the Chiado district, this place welcomes you in pleasant rooms decorated in a personalized retro style. Double rooms starting at €100 per night. Strong points: the great breakfast, warm welcome. An excellent value for money B&B in Lisbon.
  • 1869 Principe Real: just 700 meters from Chiado and 600 from Bairro Alto, this charming place offers contemporary and sophisticated rooms from €138. Strong points: attentive staff, central location, chic setting, quiet atmosphere.
  • Altis Grand Hotel – Luxury Collection Hotel: A 5-star hotel located 200 meters from the botanical garden. Spacious and sophisticated rooms from €180 per night. Strong points: the heated indoor pool, generous and varied breakfast, free mini bar. A reasonable price for this upscale Lisbon hotel.
  • Memmo Principe Real: this 5-star hotel is situated just a 10-minute walk from the Bairro Alto and 1.8 km from Commerce Square. It offers luxurious, very comfortable rooms with Hermès premium products. Most rooms also have a terrace with panoramic views of Lisbon, starting at €280 per night. Strong points: the outdoor pool, the sun terrace, the stunning view over the city. The perfect luxury hotel for a romantic weekend in Lisbon.
Principe Real Memmo Principe Real
Principe Real Memmo Principe Real

In Santos / Lapa / Estrela district

Lapa and Estrela are considered the most noble districts of Lisbon. They are home to numerous houses where, over time, old and noble families of the city have settled.

Predominantly residential, you will still find several shops as well as very good restaurants.

Santos on the other hand, has a bit more of a focus on design and fashion with trendy decoration brands and several spaces and schools dedicated to artistic creation in all its forms.

The Santos / Lapa / Estrela district is ideal:

  • If you like quiet places
  • If you have a comfortable budget
  • To find yourself immersed in a chic and elegant neighborhood

In Santos / Lapa / Estrela district, you can explore:

  • The São Bento Palace, the Seat of the Portuguese Government
  • The official residence of the Prime Minister of Portugal
  • The Estrela Garden, a romantic garden with small lakes, a music kiosk, and a terrace café
  • The Estrela Basilica in neoclassical and baroque style

Where to Stay in Lisbon in Santos/Lapa/Estrela District?

  • Guest House Foreign Friend Lisbon: Located in the heart of Estrela, 15 minutes’ walk from Bairro Alto and Chiado, this guesthouse offers double rooms or modern and colorful suites with a shared bathroom and kitchen from €55 per night. Strong points: cleanliness, decor, peace and quiet.
  • Le Garam Lisboa: Situated 300 meters from the Oriente Museum and 2.4 km from Chiado district, the property offers zen and minimalist style accommodations with pleasant bedding from €99 per night. Strong points: breakfast included, fresh orange juice in the morning, helpful staff, close to public transport. A charming hotel to stay in Lisbon.
  • York House Hotel: Formerly a Carmelite Convent, this establishment is located 10 minutes from the center of Lisbon and 800 meters from Estrela Basilica. It offers elegant and charming rooms from €166 per night. Strong points: the garden and terrace, the friendliness of the staff, the surrounding calm, the quality of the meals.
  • Olissipo Lapa Palace: This magnificent 5-star establishment in Lisbon is set in a large garden just 700 meters from the Oriente Museum and 1 km from Estrela Garden. It offers spacious and bright rooms with traditional decor, a seating area, and most rooms feature a balcony with views of the pool or the Tagus River. Overnight stay from €370 with breakfast included. Strong points: indoor and outdoor pools, spa with sauna and Turkish bath, service quality, free private parking. An exquisite luxury hotel to stay in Lapa/Estrela district.
Lapa Estrela Olissipo Lapa Palace
Lapa Estrela Olissipo Lapa Palace

In Belém District

Located west of Lisbon’s city center, it is home to many of the capital’s most famous monuments and attractions.

It offers the chance to visit numerous museums while enjoying beautiful views of the Tagus River and the city.

It’s Lisbon’s cultural quarter.

I recommend this area for your stay if you are:

  • Looking for an intellectual getaway
  • Interested in enriching your knowledge
  • Passionate about history

Must-see attractions in Belém district:

  • The Jerónimos Monastery, the most popular monument in Belém
  • The Monument to the Discoveries, built to pay homage to the Portuguese explorers
  • The Belém Tower, an emblem of Lisbon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • The Belém Cultural Center (CCB) with its concert and exhibition halls
  • The National Coach Museum and its collection of royal coaches
  • The Pastéis de Belém bakery where you can taste the traditional Portuguese pastry, Pastel de Nata
  • The Belém Palace, the official residence of the President of Portugal
  • The Maritime Museum that tells the maritime story of Portugal
  • The Empire Square Garden

The Best Accommodations in Belém District of Lisbon

  • Sutabalense: Located within a renovated 17th-century building and just 100 meters from Pastéis de Belém, and a 10-minute walk from several museums. It offers fairly basic rooms with city or garden views, starting from €64 per night. Strong points: proximity to the tower and monastery, welcoming service.
  • Palacio do Governador: Treat yourself in this 5-star palace located just 400 meters from the Cultural Center and 1 km from the famous café Pastéis de Belém. The spacious and luxurious rooms will welcome you in the utmost comfort from €176 per night. Strong points: indoor and outdoor pool, hammam, Spa, champagne breakfast. This superb luxury hotel in Lisbon is waiting just for you!
  • Altis Belem Hotel & Spa: Located by the Tagus River, 7 minutes’ walk from the Jerónimos Monastery and 1.5 km from the MAAT Museum. The ultra-design rooms come with large windows overlooking the waterfront and Belém tower. Some even have a jacuzzi on the balcony. Nightly rates start from €200. Strong points: excellent breakfast, rooftop pool, views, attentive staff. One of my top choices for 5-star hotels to stay in Lisbon.
Belem Altis Belem Hotel & Spa
Belem – Altis Belem Hotel & Spa

In Parque das Nações District

This district is located to the northeast of the Tagus estuary and is a total contrast to the more historical and traditional districts of Lisbon.

Once an industrial area redeveloped to host the 1998 international exhibition, it’s now the most modern quarter of the Portuguese capital.

I suggest staying in Parque das Nações if you:

  • Like modern quarters
  • Are urban architecture enthusiasts
  • Enjoy walking in different parks and gardens
  • Want to try your luck at the Lisbon Casino

Highlights of Parque das Nações:

  • Parque das Nações: Ideal for families, featuring the Oceanarium, Pavilhao do Conhecimento (modern science museum), and Vasco da Gama shopping center
  • Vasco de Gama Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Lisbon
  • Vasco de Gama Bridge, once among Europe’s longest bridges
  • The gardens of Garcia d’Orta
  • Ride the cable car to enjoy the view

Our Selection of the Best Accommodations in Parque das Nações District

  • Hotel Ibis Lisboa Parque das Nações: Located in Parque das Nações, 10 minutes from the casino. Very clean and modern rooms typical of the Ibis chain, starting at €85 with breakfast available for an additional €6.90. Strong points: proximity to the train station and public transport, bed comfort.
  • Olissippo Orientes: Located in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações, 300 meters from Vasco da Gama Shopping Center and 500 meters from the Oceanarium. This 4-star hotel offers modern and spacious rooms decorated with wooden furniture from €120 per night. Strong points: parking at the hotel, valet and luggage service, location.
  • Trivoli Oriente Hotel: This hotel is located 100 meters from Vasco da Gama Shopping Center and 600 meters from the Oceanarium. The tastefully decorated rooms offer views of the Tagus or Lisbon, available from €170 per night. Strong points: private parking at the hotel, indoor pool, spa, fitness center, sky bar with an unbeatable view. A great choice to stay in Lisbon to explore the neighborhood and do some shopping.
  • Myriad by Sana Hotels: This luxurious 5-star hotel is situated on the banks of the Tagus River, 1.2 km from Lisbon Casino and 1.3 km from the Oceanarium. It offers spacious and contemporary rooms and suites with spectacular views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the Vasco da Gama Bridge, from €229 per night. Strong points: indoor pool, Spa, Turkish bath, friendly staff. Our top recommendation for luxury accommodation near Lisbon’s city center.
Parc des Nations Myriad by Sana Hotels
Parc des Nations Myriad by Sana Hotels

Where to Stay in Lisbon on a Budget

If you’re on a tighter budget but still want to fully enjoy Lisbon, here’s a selection of quality accommodations where you can stay in Lisbon without breaking the bank:

  • Hub New Lisbon Hotel: previously mentioned, this hostel is THE budget-friendly place to stay in Lisbon! Located only 600 meters from Bairro Alto and Chiado, dorms or private rooms start at 10€ per night, breakfast included. Personally, I couldn’t find anything cheaper!
  • Surf in Chiado: Hostel situated just 200 meters from Chiado and 500 meters from Bairro Alto. Dorm bed starts at 15€ per night. You can also choose to stay in a double room for only 35€. Thanks to its exceptional location, it’s a great place to stay in the center of Lisbon for less.
  • Lisbon Check-In Guesthouse: Guesthouse located in Estrela district. Bright and well-appointed double room with shared bathroom starting at 40€ per night. 
  • Estrela de Arganil: Hotel close to a metro station and 1 km from Avenida da Liberdade. Double room that’s quite basic but impeccably clean from 50€ per night. A good choice for affordable accommodation in Lisbon.
Lisbon Check In Guesthouse
Lisbon Check In Guesthouse

Staying in Lisbon with Family

  • Residencial Joao XXI: Located just 15 minutes from the historic center, this hotel offers family rooms with a double bed and 2 single beds starting at 70€ per night. An excellent value for money for family stay in Lisbon.
  • Hotel Expo Astoria: This hotel is situated 300 meters from Avenida da Liberdade and features rooms with 2 single beds and one double bed starting at 140€ per night, with breakfast for 10€. The strong points: the tasty breakfast, location, and comfortable bedding. A great choice for families staying in Lisbon.
  • City Stays Sé Apartments: located 800 meters from Rossio and 900 from Chiado. Modern and spacious 3-bedroom apartment that can accommodate up to 8 people, starting at 170€ per night. One of the best places to stay in Lisbon with family. Book now, there’s only one available!
  • Jupiter Lisboa Hotel: this stunning 4-star establishment is located halfway between Saldanha and Campo Pequeno, and 15 minutes by metro from Chiado and Baixa Pombalina. It’s the top choice for families with children! It offers a Junior suite from 240€, breakfast included, and gives access to two outdoor pools, a spa, a fitness center, and babysitting services.
  • Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites: this 5-star hotel provides everything to satisfy families. Located 200 meters from Chiado and 600 meters from Bairro Alto, it can accommodate up to six people in apartments with equipped kitchen and a balcony, starting at 538€ per night, breakfast included. It offers strollers, indoor play areas, day and night children’s clubs, and board games. Definitely the best hotel in Lisbon for families!

What is the Best Hotel in Lisbon?

If you’re looking to stay at the best hotel in Lisbon, I highly recommended the Memmo Principe Real. It’s clearly the best luxury hotel in Lisbon.

Altis Belem Hotel & Spa is also an excellent choice for its location and the views it offers over the Tagus River.

Where to Stay in Lisbon: The Summary Table of the Best Hotels

To give you a better idea of the hotels where you can stay in Lisbon, whether in downtown area or elsewhere, I’ve put together a summary table of all the ones I talk about in this article. You can sort them by price or by neighborhood!

HotelDistrictPrice
Inn Possible Lisbon HotelBaixa / Chiado17€
Dream Chiado ApartmentsBaixa / Chiado90€
Vincci BaixaBaixa / Chiado151€
Browns Central HotelBaixa / Chiado185€
Alfama The Heart of LisbonAlfama85€
Dama Old Town SuitesAlfama100€
Stunning apatment with yard in AlfamaAlfama150€
Solar do CasteloAlfama270€
Santiago de Alfama - Boutique HotelAlfama300€
Hub New Lisbon HostelBairro Alto10€
The Independente Suites & TerraceBairro Alto100€
Dear Lisbon - Charming HouseBairro Alto135€
The Lumiares Hotel & SpaBairro Alto210€
Casa Oliver Boutique B&B - Principe RealPrincipe Real100€
1869 Principe RealPrincipe Real138€
Altis Grand Hotel - Luxury Collection HotelPrincipe Real180€
Memmo Principe RealPrincipe Real280€
Guest House Foreign Friend LisbonSantos / Lapa / Estrela55€
Le Garam LisboaSantos / Lapa / Estrela99€
York House HotelSantos / Lapa / Estrela166€
Olissipo Lapa PalaceSantos / Lapa / Estrela370€
SutabalenseBelém64€
Palacio do GovernadorBelém176€
Altis Belem Hotel & SpaBelém200€
Hotel Ibis Lisboa Parque das NacoesParc des Nations85€
Olissipo OrientesParc des Nations120€
Trivoli Oriente HotelParc des Nations170€
Myriad by Sana HotelsParc des Nations229€
Hub New Lisbon HotelCheap Hotel10€
Surf in ChiadoCheap Hotel15€
Lisbon Check In GuesthouseCheap Hotel40€
Estrela de ArganilCheap Hotel50€
Residencial Joao XXIFor Families70€
Hotel Expo AstoriaFor Families140€
City Stays Sé ApartmentsFor Families170€
Jupiter Lisboa HotelFor Families240€
Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family SuitesFor Families538€
Book your trip now and save money!

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Best area to stay in Lisbon
Best area to stay in Lisbon
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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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