Best places to stay in Lisbon
Lisbon is bursting with captivating neighbourhoods, making it hard to cover them all in just one article. Most first-time visitors begin their adventure in the romantic Alfama district. It's a hilly area steeped in history, with its charming cobbled streets, old buildings, and delightful wee eateries, plus some breathtaking sunset viewpoints. Not far behind, Bairro Alto offers an electric atmosphere. This lively part of the city truly never sleeps, with small bars and restaurants that stay open late, filling the pavement with tables and laughter. If you’re a foodie, you'll be in heaven here!
Chiado is another great spot, perfect for families. It’s known for its shopping, diverse international cuisine, and theatres. It's bustling yet feels very safe at night and is ideally placed for exploring all that the city has to offer. Other lovely areas to consider are the peaceful and upscale Príncipe Real, the hip and trendy Cais do Sodré (which was once a red-light district), and the revitalised docklands of Alcântara. If you’re after a serene vibe, Belém is a charming riverfront district that’s relaxed and low-rise.
Where to stay near the popular attractions in Lisbon
When you’re in the endlessly exciting city of Lisbon, there’s always a new sight or experience waiting just around the corner. Alfama is home to iconic attractions like the castle and cathedral, along with the fado museum and plenty of stunning viewpoints. Chiado boasts the famous hillside lift, museums, and beautiful street architecture. Barrio Alto is a treasure trove of stunning buildings and charming streets. Thankfully, these three districts are all quite close to one another, making it easy to choose where to stay. If you’re around the Santos tram stop and Green Street, you’ll find great convenience for accessing all the historic districts, as well as easy tram connections to Belém and Alcântara.
Where to stay with your family in Lisbon
Lisbon is a fantastic city for families. The Chiado area is particularly family-friendly, filled with hotels, restaurants, and a wide range of cuisines for those who may not want to dive into local dishes right away. For about €100 a night, you can stay right in the heart of Chiado at My Story Hotel Ouro, which features lovely interconnected family rooms. Alfama is also exciting for families exploring together, especially with the castle to discover, though keep in mind it can be a bit hilly and not the most pram-friendly. The area behind Santos station is another convenient option, or for something a bit quieter yet more upscale, check out Príncipe Real, where you’ll find lovely parks and the natural history museum.
Where to stay as a Solo Traveller
Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto are ideal for solo travellers keen to soak up the city’s lively vibe. Both areas are full of fantastic nightlife options and are very safe. Consider booking a stay at Dear Lisbon Gallery House, which offers a stylish and welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Prices range from €90 to €150 a night. For those seeking a tranquil escape, or if you’ve visited before and want to explore a different side of Lisbon, you might try Alcântara, serene Belém, or the newly revitalised Parque das Nações. In these areas, you can find options like the Ibis Lisboa Parque das Nações or the four-star VIP Executive Arts, both modern and right by the water, usually for under €100 a night.
Where to find cheap hotels in Lisbon
You can find some seriously cool budget hotels in Lisbon. Check out JAM Hotel, located near the Santos tram stop, which offers easy access to both the old town and Belém. This hotel-hostel hybrid boasts an industrial-chic design, with rooms accommodating up to six guests and prices ranging from €60 to €120 a night. One of the highlights is the rooftop pool and hangout area! Another budget-friendly option is Terrace Lisbon Hostel, available for under €50 a night. Situated in a trendy part of Belém, it has free parking and offers highly affordable dorms and private rooms, plus a lovely terrace area for summer lounging. For a great balance between Barrio Alto and Príncipe Real, consider the Independente Príncipe Real hostel. Rooms are generally under €100 a night, and you can opt for private suites or dorms in a beautifully grand old building that feels surprisingly elegant for the price.
