Where To Stay In Lisbon In 2025 [By An Expert]
Knowing where to stay in Lisbon is crucial, as picking the best area to stay in Lisbon can make or break your trip. The city is a mix of historic charm, buzzing nightlife, stunning river views, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, hunting down the best restaurants, or just looking for a lively neighborhood, there’s a perfect place for you.
Lisbon is made up of diverse districts, each with its own personality. If you want to be right in the heart of the action, Baixa is the best area to stay for first-time visitors. Love nightlife? Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are where you’ll find the city’s best bars and clubs. Foodies will love Alfama for its traditional flavors and hidden fado restaurants, while families might prefer the modern waterfront of Parque das Nações. If you’re on a budget, check out Anjos or Intendente for affordable but trendy stays.
Lisbon is also a city of hills, meaning stunning viewpoints and hilly walks are part of the experience. Staying in a central and well-connected location is key to making the most of your trip. In this guide, I’ll break down the best neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon, the best hotels, and what to expect from each area—so you can find the perfect place to stay in Lisbon for your travel style.
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🚀 Need a full guide to planning your trip? Check out my Lisbon Travel Guide for everything you need to know before visiting!
Best Areas to Stay in Lisbon for First-Time Visitors
Finding the best area to stay in Lisbon can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in the city. Lisbon is a patchwork of unique neighborhoods, each offering something different. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, food, nightlife, or luxury, there’s a perfect place to stay in Lisbon that matches your travel style.
Here’s a breakdown of the best neighborhoods in Lisbon for first-time visitors, complete with pros and cons so you can make the best choice!
Baixa – The Heart of Lisbon
Baixa is hands down the best area to stay in Lisbon for first-time visitors. This is the city’s historic and commercial hub, packed with grand squares, elegant streets, and must-visit places in Lisbon like Praça do Comércio and Rua Augusta. Staying here means you’ll be within walking distance of the top sights to see in Lisbon, and the area is well connected by trams and metro.
✅ Pros:
- Unbeatable location – easy access to all the best places to visit in Lisbon.
- Great for sightseeing – you can walk to most attractions.
- Plenty of hotels for every budget.
❌ Cons:
- Touristy and busy, especially in peak season.
- Hotels can be pricey due to the central location.
🚀 Want to explore more? Check out my guide to Things to Do in Lisbon for First-Timers for all the top attractions near Baixa!
Chiado – Elegant & Cultural
If you want to stay somewhere stylish and soak up Lisbon’s cultural scene, Chiado is the place. This best neighborhood to stay in Lisbon is filled with historic cafés, boutique shops, theaters, and bookshops. It’s perfect for couples, culture lovers, and foodies who want to experience a blend of old and new Lisbon.
✅ Pros:
- Beautiful architecture and a refined atmosphere.
- Great mix of shopping, cafés, and theaters.
- More relaxed than Baixa, but still central.
❌ Cons:
- Hotels can be expensive.
- Not as lively at night as Bairro Alto.
☕ Chiado is famous for its historic cafés! Don’t miss a stop at A Brasileira!
Avenida da Liberdade – Luxury & Shopping
For those looking for 5-star hotels, high-end shopping, and a quieter stay, Avenida da Liberdade is the best place to stay in Lisbon. This grand boulevard is lined with designer stores, luxury hotels, and stylish rooftop bars. It’s perfect if you want a more relaxed and upscale stay while still being close to the action.
✅ Pros:
- Beautiful, tree-lined avenue with a Parisian feel.
- Luxury hotels and boutique stays.
- Great public transport connections.
❌ Cons:
- More expensive than in other areas.
- Lacks historic charm compared to neighborhoods like Alfama.
🎭 Avenida da Liberdade also hides some amazing spots! Read also my guide on Lisbon Hidden Gems!
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Where to Stay in Lisbon for Nightlife Lovers
If you’re coming to Lisbon for the nightlife, you’ll want to stay where the party doesn’t stop. Lisbon is famous for its lively bars, rooftop lounges, and buzzing streets, and there’s no shortage of good areas to stay in Lisbon if you’re looking for a fun night out. Whether you want trendy cocktail bars, live music, or clubs open until sunrise, these best neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon will put you right in the action.
Bairro Alto – Party Central 🎉
If you want nonstop nightlife, Bairro Alto is the best area to stay in Lisbon. After sunset, the streets transform into an open-air party, with locals and tourists bar-hopping until late. You’ll find cheap drinks, live music, and a buzzing atmosphere—perfect for those who want to stay in the heart of Lisbon’s nightlife.
✅ Pros:
- Tons of bars, live music, and pubs within walking distance.
- Great for young travelers and partygoers.
- Short walk to Chiado and Baixa for sightseeing during the day.
❌ Cons:
- Can be very noisy at night—light sleepers, beware!
- Not ideal for families or those looking for a quiet stay.
Cais do Sodré & Pink Street – Trendy & Lively 🍸
For a trendy, hipster-friendly nightlife scene, Cais do Sodré and Pink Street are the places to be. Once a seedy port district, this area has transformed into one of Lisbon’s coolest spots, packed with cocktail bars, nightclubs, and stylish restaurants. Plus, it’s right by the river, giving it an extra laid-back vibe.
✅ Pros:
- Trendy bars and clubs with a more upscale vibe.
- Close to the waterfront for sunset drinks.
- Great transport connections—easy to get around Lisbon.
❌ Cons:
- Can be noisy at night, especially around Pink Street.
- More expensive than Bairro Alto.
Best Neighborhoods for Foodies 🍽️
If your idea of a perfect trip to Lisbon is eating your way through the city, you’ll want to stay in a neighborhood packed with authentic Portuguese restaurants, local cafés, and food markets.
Alfama – The Soul of Lisbon 🎶
If you want to eat traditional Portuguese food in a historic setting, Alfama is the best neighborhood to stay in Lisbon. This is the oldest part of the city, full of charming alleyways, hidden restaurants, and Fado music houses.
✅ Pros:
- Best place for authentic Portuguese food and Fado music.
- Full of history and culture.
- Stunning views from miradouros (viewpoints).
❌ Cons:
- Hilly and full of stairs—not the easiest area to walk around.
- Can feel a bit touristy in peak season.
🍷 Want to know what to eat in Alfama? Check out my Lisbon Food Guide for must-try dishes!
Mouraria – Underrated & Multicultural 🌍
For a more off-the-beaten-path foodie experience, Mouraria is the best area to stay in Lisbon. This underrated neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures, offering amazing international cuisine alongside traditional Portuguese flavors.
✅ Pros:
- A hidden gem for food lovers.
- Less touristy than Alfama.
- More affordable stays compared to the city center.
❌ Cons:
- Not as polished as other areas—a little more local and raw.
🚶 Exploring on a budget? Read my Things to Do in Lisbon for Free for hidden cultural gems in Mouraria!
Best Area to Stay in Lisbon for Families 👨👩👧👦
If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to stay somewhere safe, spacious, and family-friendly. Lisbon has great options for families, with parks, playgrounds, and quieter neighborhoods that are still close to major attractions.
Principe Real – Green & Family-Friendly 🌳
If you want a relaxed stay but still be close to the city center, Principe Real is the best area in Lisbon for families. This charming district has beautiful parks, kid-friendly restaurants, and a laid-back, local vibe.
✅ Pros:
- Safe, peaceful, and beautiful.
- Parks and green spaces for kids.
- Trendy restaurants and boutique shops for parents!
❌ Cons:
- More expensive than in some areas.
📸 Principe Real is full of scenic spots! Check out my Best Lisbon Photo Spots for where to snap the best shots!
Parque das Nações – Modern & Spacious 🌊
For a totally different side of Lisbon, Parque das Nações is perfect for families. This modern neighborhood has wide open spaces, a riverfront promenade, and family-friendly attractions like the Lisbon Oceanarium and the cable car rides.
✅ Pros:
- Super family-friendly with lots of space.
- Great for kids—Oceanarium, cable cars, and science museum.
- Modern hotels and apartment stays.
❌ Cons:
- Lacks the historic charm of central Lisbon.
Where to Stay in Lisbon on a Budget 💰
Lisbon is one of the best European cities for budget travelers, but some areas offer better value than others. If you’re looking for cheap places to stay in Lisbon, these neighborhoods offer affordable hotels, cool hostels, and great local experiences.
Anjos & Intendente – Affordable & Cool 🎨
If you’re looking for an affordable but stylish stay, Anjos and Intendente are the best areas to stay in Lisbon on a budget. These up-and-coming districts are full of hip cafés, boutique hostels, and street art.
✅ Pros:
- Budget-friendly with cool boutique stays.
- Trendy, artsy vibe.
- Close to the city center.
❌ Cons:
- Still a bit gritty in some areas.
🚶 Love to explore on foot? Read my Lisbon Walking Routes for great walks starting from Intendente!
Alameda & Areeiro – Local & Affordable 🏡
For a quiet, budget-friendly stay, Alameda and Areeiro are great options. These residential areas have cheaper hotels and apartments but are well-connected to the city center by metro.
✅ Pros:
- More affordable than central Lisbon.
- Safe, quiet, and local vibe.
- Easy metro access to main attractions.
❌ Cons:
- Not as lively as other neighborhoods.
No matter your travel style, there’s a perfect place to stay in Lisbon. Whether you’re here for nightlife, food, family travel, or a budget trip, you’ll find a Lisbon neighborhood that fits your needs! 🚀
Best Hotels in Lisbon (By Budget) – Where to Stay in Lisbon in 2025
Finding the best place to stay in Lisbon depends on your budget and travel style. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels with rooftop views, stylish boutique stays, or affordable yet comfortable hostels, Lisbon has something for everyone. Below, I’ve rounded up the best hotels in Lisbon by budget, so you can find the perfect spot, no matter how much you want to spend.
Luxury Hotels in Lisbon – 5-Star Stays with a View ✨
If you’re looking for high-end comfort, Lisbon has some of the best luxury hotels in Europe. These 5-star hotels in Lisbon offer stunning rooftop terraces, world-class dining, and unbeatable service. Plus, they’re in the best areas to stay in Lisbon, whether you want to be near historic landmarks or the trendiest restaurants.
📍 Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon (Avenida da Liberdade) – Ultimate Luxury
✔️ Why stay here? One of the most luxurious hotels in Lisbon, known for incredible service, Michelin-starred dining, and panoramic city views. Perfect if you want to stay in the best neighborhood in Lisbon for high-end shopping and elegance.
💰 Price range: $$$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Avenida da Liberdade
🍽️ Nearby: Fine-dining restaurants, designer boutiques, and hidden rooftop bars.
📌 Secure your perfect Lisbon stay at Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon – Wake up in the heart of the city!
📍 Verride Palácio Santa Catarina (Chiado) – Boutique Palace Stay
✔️ Why stay here? If you want a romantic boutique hotel in one of the best places to stay in Lisbon for first-time visitors, this renovated palace is a dream. Rooftop pool, amazing breakfast, and breathtaking views over the Tagus River.
💰 Price range: $$$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Chiado
📍 Nearby: Bairro Alto nightlife, historic cafés, and scenic viewpoints.
📌Craving a one-of-a-kind stay that captures Lisbon’s old-world charm? Book a room at Verride Palácio Santa Catarina and indulge in a true boutique getaway!
Mid-Range Hotels in Lisbon – Best Boutique & Comfortable Stays
If you want a stylish and comfortable stay without breaking the bank, these mid-range hotels offer a great balance between affordability and luxury. They’re located in some of the best Lisbon neighborhoods, making it easy to explore the city.
📍 Figueira by The Beautique Hotels (Baixa) – Elegant & Central
✔️ Why stay here? One of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon, Figueira offers sophisticated design, a fantastic location in Baixa, and easy access to major attractions. The rooms have a stylish, modern touch, and the rooftop terrace offers stunning views over the city. If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Lisbon for first-time visitors, this is an excellent choice!
💰 Price range: $$-$$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Baixa
🗺️ Nearby: Praça da Figueira, Rossio Square, Tram 28, and Rua Augusta shopping street.
📌Ready for the coolest Lisbon experience? Lock in your room at Figueira by The Beautique Hotels—the perfect blend of chic design and a prime location.
📍 LX Boutique Hotel (Cais do Sodré) – Chic & Trendy
✔️ Why stay here? A stylish boutique hotel located steps from Pink Street, making it one of the best places to stay in Lisbon for nightlife lovers. It has a cozy yet modern design, and some rooms have river views!
💰 Price range: $$-$$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Cais do Sodré
🎉 Nearby: Pink Street, riverside restaurants, and great transport connections.
📌Stay stylish in the heart of the city—secure your room at LX Boutique Hotel and experience Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods right at your doorstep.
Budget-Friendly Hotels & Hostels in Lisbon – Affordable & Stylish 💸
Traveling on a budget? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort or location. These budget-friendly hotels and stylish hostels in Lisbon are perfect for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking to save money while staying in a great area.
📍 Home Lisbon Hostel (Baixa) – Best Hostel in Lisbon
✔️ Why stay here? One of the best-rated hostels in Lisbon, offering friendly vibes, clean dorms, and even home-cooked dinners with the owner’s mom! Located in the best area to stay in Lisbon for solo travelers.
💰 Price range: $
🏙️ Best area to stay: Baixa
💃 Nearby: Tram 28, local markets, and nightlife in Bairro Alto.
📌Traveling on a budget? Make Home Lisbon Hostel your cozy home base and see all that Lisbon has to offer without overspending.
📍 The Lift Boutique Hotel – Budget-Friendly Boutique Stay
✔️ Why stay here? A cozy and stylish 3-star hotel in the heart of Lisbon, offering great value for money. Perfect for budget travelers who want a hotel experience instead of a hostel.
💰 Price range: $-$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Baixa
🍷 Nearby: Alfama’s Fado bars, Praça do Comércio, and the Santa Justa Lift.
📌Don’t let a tight budget hold you back! Grab an affordable room at The Lift Boutique Hotel and explore Lisbon your way.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels
Traveling with kids? Lisbon has amazing family-friendly hotels that go beyond just a kid’s menu. Some, like Martinhal Lisbon Chiado, even offer childcare services so parents can sneak in a fado night or a romantic dinner. If you prefer spacious rooms and parks nearby, check out Santiago de Alfama or the InterContinental Lisbon. Best part? Many of these hotels have play areas and even kid-friendly pools. So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Lisbon with little ones, these spots make it easy.
📍 Martinhal Lisbon Chiado – The Ultimate Family-Friendly Haven
✔️ Why stay here?
This modern boutique hotel offers on-site childcare, letting parents sneak out for a romantic dinner or a late-night fado show. The bright, spacious apartments and kids’ club ensure everyone has room to relax and play.
💰 Price range: $$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Chiado
🍷 Nearby: Time Out Market, Bairro Alto’s nightlife, and iconic tram routes.
📌 Need a stress-free Lisbon trip with the kids? Book Martinhal Lisbon Chiado and enjoy peace of mind while exploring the city!
📍 Santiago de Alfama – Historic Charm for Families
✔️ Why stay here?
Set in the heart of Alfama, this hotel combines Old-World elegance with child-friendly perks. Spacious rooms and proximity to local parks make it an ideal base for families seeking a quiet retreat.
💰 Price range: $$–$$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Alfama
🍷 Nearby: São Jorge Castle, Fado bars, and panoramic viewpoints.
📌 Looking for a unique family stay? Book Santiago de Alfama to immerse yourselves in Lisbon’s captivating history and culture!
📍 InterContinental Lisbon – Luxe Family Escape
✔️ Why stay here?
Perfect for travelers who want a taste of luxury without leaving the kids behind. Enjoy large family suites, a kid-friendly pool, and an easy stroll to parks so little ones can run around.
💰 Price range: $$–$$$
🏙️ Best area to stay: Near Eduardo VII Park
🍷 Nearby: Marquis of Pombal Square, upscale restaurants, and designer shopping districts.
📌 Craving comfort and convenience? Reserve your spot at the InterContinental Lisbon and treat your family to a stylish city break!
To Wrap It Up
No matter your budget, Lisbon has the perfect hotel for you. Whether you want a luxurious rooftop stay, a stylish boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel in a great location, there’s something for everyone.
Still not sure where to stay in Lisbon? Check out my:
📍 Lisbon Itinerary 3 Days – To plan your perfect trip!
Choosing where to stay in Lisbon is key to making the most of your trip, whether you’re here for sightseeing, nightlife, food, or a family-friendly escape.
If it’s your first time in Lisbon, Baixa or Chiado are the best areas to stay for a central and walkable experience. Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are perfect for nightlife lovers, while Alfama is ideal for those looking for authentic charm and traditional Fado music.
Families will love the green spaces and relaxed vibe of Principe Real, or the modern comforts of Parque das Nações. Budget travelers should check out Anjos & Intendente, where affordable stays meet a cool, bohemian vibe.
If you’re still wondering where to stay in Lisbon, go with Baixa for convenience, Cais do Sodré for nightlife, or Mouraria for a more local feel. No matter where you stay, Lisbon’s neighborhoods all have something special to offer.
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