Visiting Lisbon and not sure where to stay?

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own vibe and personality. Whether you’re into culture and history, or just want to relax and enjoy the nightlife, there’s a spot that’s perfect for you.

I’ve put together a guide to help you choose the best area to stay in Lisbon. For each neighbourhood, you’ll find a list of top attractions, best eateries, and other tips.

So, let’s dive right in!

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Baixa (best for first-time visitors)

Completely rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake, Baixa is a masterpiece of urban planning, with wide avenues and neoclassical buildings.

It’s the most central area in Lisbon, connecting other key neighborhoods like Alfama, Chiado, and Bairro Alto. It’s also a great starting point for exploring the city on foot.

Baixa is the best area to stay in Lisbon for first time visitors, especially if you want to be close to major landmarks and surrounded by shops and restaurants.

Main attractions in Baixa

Praça do Comércio

This enormous waterfront square is the gateway to Baixa and a great spot to soak in Lisbon’s history.

Don’t miss the Arco da Rua Augusta for panoramic views!

Elevador de Santa Justa

This is an iconic wrought-iron elevator that connects Baixa with the higher district of Chiado, offering fantastic city views.

It was opened in 1902 and remains in operation up to this day.

Rossio Square (Praça Dom Pedro IV)

This a lively square with wave-patterned paving and two beautiful fountains. It’s a popular meeting point among locals.

Rua Augusta

This pedestrian street in the heart of Baixa is lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. It leads from Rossio to Praça do Comércio.

Where to eat in Baixa

As with any city, you find a lot of overpriced restaurants in the centre, as well as a few tourist traps.

Here are some restaurants in Baixa that serve top-quality food:

• Cervejaria Ramiro: A legendary seafood joint where locals and tourists alike line up for their famous garlic shrimp, clams, and giant tiger prawns.
• Nicolau Lisboa: A trendy spot popular for brunch, offering a mix of healthy and indulgent options.
• Taberna da Baixa: A cozy spot known for its traditional Portuguese dishes, including octopus rice and grilled sardines.
• Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau: This place serves breaded codfish stuffed with Serra cheese, which you can enjoy with a glass of Port wine.

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Alfama (best for an authentic experience)

As Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, Alfama is a maze of steep cobbled lanes. The area survived the 1755 earthquake relatively intact, preserving its medieval character.

This is the best area to stay in Lisbon for sightseeing, as well as to experience local culture. Here, Fado music drifts from local taverns at night.

Alfama is a bit hilly, but it offers some of the best views of Lisbon.

Main attractions in Alfama

São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)

This hilltop fortress is steeped in history. It also rewards visitors with panoramic vistas of the city. The castle grounds are perfect for wandering around and learning about Lisbon’s past.

Fado Museum (Museu do Fado)

Dedicated to the traditional Portuguese music genre, this museum provides an immersive look into Fado’s history and significance.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

This is a picturesque viewpoint with a stunning panorama over Alfama and the Tagus River. The surrounding area is full of vibrant azulejos (ceramic tiles).

Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)

The city’s oldest church, this Romanesque cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.

Panteão Nacional

This is a grand domed church that serves as a national pantheon, housing the tombs of many notable Portuguese figures.

Where to eat in Alfama

If you want an authentic Lisbon experience, try to have dinner at a Fado house. Alfama is also home to some quirky cafes.

Here are my top recommendations:

• Tasca do Chico: A beloved Fado house where you can enjoy traditional music with your meal. The food is hearty and the atmosphere is authentically Portuguese.
• A Baiuca: Another intimate spot for Fado, where the music and the flavors of traditional dishes like codfish and grilled meats come together perfectly.
• Alfama Cellar: A cozy restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Portuguese dishes, with an excellent wine selection.
• Break: This is a lovely brunch and lunch spot, with lots of healthy options and mouth-watering desserts.

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Chiado (best for shopping and culture)

Chiado is where artistic and literary history meets modern elegance.

This sophisticated district is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with theaters, galleries, historic cafes, and a wide range of shops, from international brands to local boutiques.

Chiado was largely destroyed by a fire in 1988 but has been beautifully restored, blending the old with the new.

It’s a lively area during the day and has a more relaxed vibe at night, making it a great base for those who want to explore Lisbon’s cultural side.

Main attractions in Chiado

Livraria Bertrand

Officially recognized as the oldest bookstore in the world, this charming shop has been a meeting place for writers and intellectuals for centuries.

They have a huge selection of books, including novels in English and local titles.

Convento do Carmo

The hauntingly beautiful ruins of this 14th-century convent are a reminder of the 1755 earthquake.

The on-site archaeological museum is worth a visit – it’s home to some lovely azulejos and other medieval artefacts.

Café A Brasileira

A must-visit for literature lovers, this historic café was a favorite of the famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa.

They make some delicious cakes here!

Chiado Museum (Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea)

Featuring a collection of Portuguese contemporary art, this museum is a great stop for art enthusiasts.

Where to eat in Chiado

When it comes to eating out in Chiado, you’re spoilt for choice. This neighbourhood is home to some of the best dishes in Lisbon.

Here are some recommendations:

• Taberna da Rua das Flores: A tiny, always-packed restaurant known for its creative takes on Portuguese tapas. It’s a bit of a wait, but worth it.
• Sea Me: A modern seafood restaurant that offers fresh fish and seafood with a contemporary twist. Sushi lovers will find something to their taste here as well.
• Cervejaria Trindade: Located in a former monastery, this historic beer hall serves up hearty Portuguese dishes in a unique setting.
• Tapas N Friends: Ideal if you just want something light for dinner, or want to share dishes with friends or family.
• Bairro do Avillez: A great place to try local delicacies, including cheeses and smoked meats.

Recommended hotel in Chiado

My husband and I stayed at Hotel Pessoa in the heart of Chiado, right next to the Carmo Convent.

This four-star hotel is located on a cobbled street, and has bright and cosy rooms. The terrace restaurant offers some lovely views of Lisbon.

There’s also an indoor pool and spa. And the train station is just a 10-minute walk from the hotel!

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Bairro Alto (best for nightlife)

Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s bohemian district, famous for its vibrant nightlife and artistic flair.

During the day, the narrow streets are relatively quiet, with quaint shops, tattoo parlors, and traditional grocery stores.

But as night falls, the area transforms into a lively scene of bars, restaurants, and music venues.

If you’re looking for a place where the night never seems to end, Bairro Alto is the spot. It’s the best area to stay in Lisbon for nightlife.

And if you’re planning a romantic trip to Lisbon, this would be a great base. There are lots of little restaurants and taverns for your date nights.

Main attractions in Bairro Alto

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

This is a stunning viewpoint overlooking the city, perfect for catching the sunset before heading out for the night. There’s also a nice garden with kiosks serving hot and cold drinks.

Rua da Atalaia

This is one of the main arteries of Bairro Alto’s nightlife, lined with bars and clubs where the party often spills out onto the street.

Bica Funicular (Elevador da Bica)

This charming tram connects Bairro Alto with the lower part of the city and offers a picture-perfect photo opportunity.

Church of São Roque (Igreja de São Roque)

This is one of Lisbon’s most richly decorated churches, with a surprisingly plain exterior that belies the opulence inside.

Galeria Zé dos Bois

This place is a cultural hub and contemporary art gallery hosting exhibitions, performances, and live music.

Where to eat

You’ll find several traditional restaurants in Bairro Alto. Since most of these are small and popular, you might want to book a table at least a day in advance.

If you’re visiting Lisbon in winter, you don’t need to worry – the area is a lot quieter during the week.

Here are some lovely restaurants in Bairro Alto:

• Bota Alta: A traditional Portuguese restaurant known for its comfort food and homey atmosphere. Try the bacalhau à Brás (shredded codfish with potatoes and eggs).
• O Faia: A classic Fado house where you can enjoy a full evening of music and food. The experience is authentic, and the setting is intimate.
• Café Luso: Another excellent spot for dinner and Fado, with a slightly more upscale vibe.
• Antonia Petiscos: A cozy little restaurant with vintage decor, serving a lot of traditional dishes to share, including cheeses and chorizos.

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Belém (best for the sea views and custard tarts)

Belém is a riverside district that’s synonymous with Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

It’s a bit removed from the city center, but it’s well worth the trip for its rich history, grand monuments, and beautiful green spaces.

Belém is where you’ll find some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, including the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The area is more laid-back compared to central Lisbon, making it a great spot for those who want to combine sightseeing with relaxation. The riverside location also provides a refreshing breeze and stunning views.

Main attractions in Belém

Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

This iconic fortress once guarded the entrance to the city’s harbor. Climb to the top for fantastic views of the river and beyond.

Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

A masterpiece of Manueline architecture, this monastery is a symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage. The adjacent cloisters are particularly stunning.

Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)

This striking monument celebrates Portugal’s explorers. You can climb to the top for another great viewpoint.

Belém Cultural Center (Centro Cultural de Belém)

This is a large cultural complex hosting exhibitions, concerts, and performances. The modern architecture contrasts sharply with the historic surroundings.

Where to eat in Belém

If you’ve decided that Belém is the best area to stay in Lisbon, you’ll be pleased to know that this neighbourhood is home to the most delicious pastéis de nata in the city.

Here are some of the best cafes and restaurants in Belém:

• O Navegador: A maritime-themed restaurant that’s perfect for sampling traditional Portuguese seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• Pastéis de Belém: The birthplace of the famous Pastéis de Nata, these custard tarts are a must-try. The bakery has been serving them since 1837.

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Príncipe Real (best for a relaxed, stylish stay)

Príncipe Real is one of Lisbon’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and trendy boutiques.

It’s a more upscale area, offering a quieter alternative to the bustling streets of Baixa or Bairro Alto.

The neighborhood has a reputation for being chic and laid-back, with a thriving LGBTQ+ community and a growing number of gourmet restaurants, bars, and concept stores.

Príncipe Real is also close to some of Lisbon’s best green spaces, making it a perfect choice for those who want a peaceful stay. It’s also the best area to stay in Lisbon if you want easy access to boutique shopping, beautiful parks, and some of Lisbon’s best modern dining.

Main attractions in Príncipe Real

Jardim do Príncipe Real

This is a beautiful park at the center of the neighborhood, famous for its massive cedar tree. It’s a lovely place to relax with a coffee or stroll through the weekend organic market.

Embaixada

A concept store housed in a 19th-century palace, this place offers a curated selection of local designers, artists, and gourmet products.

Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico)

Just a short walk away, this garden is a hidden oasis of exotic plants and trees, ideal for a peaceful afternoon.

National Museum of Natural History and Science

Located near the Botanical Garden, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on the natural world, geology, and science.

Palácio de São Bento

This is the official residence of Portugal’s Prime Minister and home to the Assembly of the Republic. The building’s neoclassical architecture is impressive.

Where to eat in Príncipe Real

• Pavilhão Chinês: A quirky, eccentric bar filled with vintage collectibles, perfect for an unusual drink experience. The atmosphere is as much a draw as the drinks themselves.
• Tasca da Esquina: A contemporary Portuguese restaurant offering a modern take on classic dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
• Jamie’s Italian: This Jamie Oliver restaurant servers a variety of dishes at very reasonable prices. Make sure you try the fried ravioli!

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Frequently asked questions

Still not sure about the the best area to stay in Lisbon? Let’s answer some common questions!