Porto, or Oporto as the city is also called in Portuguese, is a charming city in northwestern Portugal.

With its 2.1 million inhabitants, Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon.

It is located right on the Douro River and stretches out towards the Atlantic Ocean, so even if there are no beaches inside the city (as we otherwise know it from cities like Nice, Barcelona and Naples), there are good opportunities to combine a city break with beach trips.

Let’s get started with the guide: where to stay in Porto?

Best Areas in Porto

If you’re in a hurry or just want a quick overview, here it is:

• Ribeira – best area for first-time travellers & families with children
• Baixa – the city centre with lots of life & bars
• Bonfim – stay close to the locals without so many tourists
• Cais de Gaia – quiet surroundings & luxury hotels with a view

Click on the name of the area and see the best hotels.

The guide on where to stay in Porto continues below with a walk-through of the areas and the hotels I recommend.

1. Ribeira – historic & cozy area in the center

Ribeira is the heart of Porto and the best place to stay for most tourists, especially first-time travellers and families with children.

Located along the Douro River, the historic quarter offers colourful buildings, charming cobbled streets and a great atmosphere.

The area is full of small cafes, restaurants and shops where you can enjoy local specialities and find souvenirs.

See the best hotels in Ribeira here.

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Ribeira is its central location.

You can easily walk to many of the city’s main attractions, such as the Dom Luís I Bridge, the Sé Cathedral and the famous Port Wine Museum.

There are also plenty of options for boat trips on the river, which the kids will love.

On the downside, Ribeira can be pretty touristy and a bit more expensive than other Porto areas.

In the evening, there can also be a bit of noise from the many restaurants and bars, which may not be ideal for everyone.

But if you want to stay in the city centre and experience the Porto atmosphere, Ribeira is undoubtedly the best place to stay in Porto.

Places to stay in Ribeira

With its perfect location right down to the river and with the centre itself just behind, it is clear that it is not here in Ribeira that you will find the cheapest hotels in Porto.

On the other hand, there are some excellent hotels – let me show you a few places in different price ranges.

Exmo Hotel by Olivia is a gem on the Douro River in Porto.

The hotel offers modern, stylishly furnished rooms, several of which have spectacular views over the water – perfect for enjoying a quiet morning or a romantic evening.

Previous guests highlight the friendly and welcoming service that makes them feel at home.

The hotel also has an excellent location that makes it easy to explore the city’s attractions, restaurants and shops.

See more photos & book here.

Located in the heart of Ribeira, Porto River offers a unique blend of comfort and historic charm.

The hotel has tastefully decorated rooms and apartments, many with magnificent views of the Douro River.

Past guests especially praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the fantastic location that makes it easy to explore Porto’s most iconic sights.

Breakfast is served in a cozy atmosphere with fresh, local products.

See more photos & book here.

Oca Ribeira do Porto Hotel is an excellent choice for travellers on a budget without compromising quality. This hotel is affordable and is praised for its clean and comfortable rooms.

Guests highlight the central location in Ribeira, close to the Douro River and the city’s main attractions, making it easy to explore Porto on foot.

The staff are known for their friendly and welcoming service, contributing to a pleasant experience.

See more photos & book here.

2. Baixa – best area for Cafes and Bars

Baixa (also called Sé) is the vibrant centre of Porto and a mecca for those who love cafes and bars.

Baixa means city centre/downtown in Portuguese.

The area is packed with beautiful squares, historic buildings and an energetic atmosphere that makes it perfect for those who want to be in the middle of city life.

See the best hotels in Baixa here.

Baixa is home to some of Porto’s most iconic cafes, such as the famous Café Majestic, where you can enjoy coffee in elegant surroundings.

There is also a large selection of bars, from cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars that stay open until late at night.

The advantage of staying in Baixa is that you have everything close at hand. It’s easy to walk to most of the city’s attractions, and there’s always something to do no matter the time of day.

On the other hand, the area can be quite busy and noisy, especially in the evenings and on weekends.

If you thrive in a lively environment and love to have many options for entertainment, Baixa is the perfect place to stay in Porto.

Places to stay in Porto city centre

As the centre of Porto, there are naturally many good hotels to choose from in Baixa. Let me introduce some of my favourites – we’ll start with a proper luxury hotel in the heart of Porto.

Wine & Books Porto Hotel is a first-class luxury hotel located in the heart of Baixa.

The hotel offers a range of luxurious facilities, including an indoor pool and an elegant rooftop bar where you can enjoy a drink overlooking the city.

The rooms are beautifully decorated with modern comfort and classic style, creating a genuinely lovely atmosphere.

Previous guests often emphasise the hotel’s high level of service and the many amenities that make their stay extra unique.

Wine & Books Porto Hotel is the perfect place to stay in Porto for those looking for a luxurious experience in the middle of Porto’s vibrant centre.

See more photos & book here.

Mercure Porto Centro Aliados is a beautiful 4-star hotel in the centre of Porto.

The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, which is ideal for cooling off in the hot summer months – and that’s actually hard to find here in the centre of town.

The rooms are modern and comfortable, and the hotel is praised for its friendly service and good facilities.

Guests often mention the excellent location, which makes it easy to explore the city’s many attractions on foot.

Although the Mercure Porto Centro Aliados is a luxury hotel, it is surprisingly affordable, making it an excellent choice for travellers who want quality without breaking the bank.

See more photos & book here.

Decanting Porto House is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for a simple and comfortable place to stay in the centre of Porto.

This hotel offers clean and functional rooms without too much luxury but with everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Previous guests especially praise the super helpful staff who go to great lengths to ensure you have a good stay.

The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the city’s many sights on foot.

A really good hotel in the centre of Porto for those who don’t need a lot of luxury but want to stay close to everything.

See more photos & book here.

3. Bonfim – stay with the locals without that many tourists

Bonfim is the perfect area for those who want to experience authentic Porto without being overwhelmed by tourists.

This neighbourhood is a little more secluded and offers an authentic local atmosphere with lots of charm.

Bonfim is known for its beautiful, old buildings and cozy streets.

Here, you will find local markets, small shops and authentic cafes where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and taste daily life in Porto.

See the best hotels in Bonfim here.

The area also has several green areas and parks where you can relax and enjoy a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

A significant advantage of staying in Bonfim is that the prices, both in hotels and restaurants, are generally lower here than in the more touristy areas such as Ribeira and Baixa.

On the downside, Bonfim is a bit further away from some of the main tourist attractions, so be prepared to take public transport or walk a bit further to reach them.

But if you are looking for an authentic stay with the opportunity to mingle with the locals, Bonfim is an excellent choice.

Places to stay in Bonfim

Bonfim is not an area with a hotel on every street corner. On the other hand, some charming small hotels are perhaps a little nicer than the larger places in the centre.

At least I have a few pretty cute favourites.

Outsite Porto Mouco is, for example, a rather wonderful boutique hotel.

The hotel is known for its unique decor and cosy atmosphere. One of the highlights is the small but lovely pool where guests can relax after exploring Porto.

The rooms are tastefully decorated with a focus on comfort and style, and many guests praise the hotel’s intimate atmosphere and excellent service.

If you are looking for a unique and cosy place to stay that combines luxury with a homely feel, Outsite Porto Mouco is a perfect choice.

See more photos & book here.

Acta The Avenue is a slightly larger hotel known for its fine details and modern facilities.

The hotel has a really lovely rooftop with an impressive view of Porto, perfect for enjoying a drink and relaxing.

The rooms are spacious and stylishly furnished with a focus on comfort.

Guests often highlight the high standard of service and the cosy atmosphere.

See more photos and book here.

Palácio Fenizia Lux Apartments is the place to stay in Porto for those who would like to have a bit of a homely environment or perhaps need to be in Porto for a more extended period – here, there is a fully equipped kitchen in each holiday apartment.

I love staying in vacation apartments on city breaks, but honestly, I’m tired of all the hassle of booking an Airbnb. A place like this in Porto is the perfect middle ground.

The rooms are tastefully decorated with modern facilities and plenty of space to relax.

Guests appreciate the personal service and the homely atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home.

See more photos and book here.

4. Cais de Gaia – quiet surroundings & luxury hotels with a view

Cais de Gaia offers some of the most spectacular views, especially at sunset.

Here, you will also find the beautiful park, Jardim do Morro, where you can relax and enjoy the panoramic view of Porto.

The area is known for its cosy cafes and restaurants, which are mainly frequented by locals, and provide an authentic experience away from the large tourist crowds.

See the best hotels in Cais de Gaia here.

I always think this is incredible to experience on city-breaks – when you find these little pockets outside the centre, where it’s cosy and not so much English is spoken at the neighbouring tables.

On the downside, it may require some transportation to get to some of the major attractions in Porto. You don’t stay right there where it all happens.

Places to stay in Cais de Gaia

Over on this side of the river, there are some charming luxury hotels!

And my research shows that you get significantly more value for money on this side of the river than in the centre, so if you want to stay at a luxury hotel in Porto, consider one of the following.

Vincci Ponte de Ferro is a fantastic hotel by the Douro River.

The hotel offers an impressive rooftop pool to enjoy a breathtaking view of the river and Porto.

The rooms are modern and stylish, and guests often praise the hotel’s high level of service and comfortable facilities.

See more photos & book here.

The Lodge Hotel is another luxury hotel in Cais de Gaia that impresses with its outdoor pool and charming rooms.

The hotel offers an exclusive experience with first-class service and tastefully decorated rooms that ensure maximum comfort.

Guests love the tranquil atmosphere and excellent facilities that make it easy to relax and enjoy their stay.

See more photos & book here.

Hilton Porto Gaia is a slightly cheaper alternative, but still a 5-star hotel with many great facilities.

Guests appreciate the hotel’s combination of price and quality, making it an excellent choice for those who want luxury without breaking the budget.

See more photos & book here.

Where not to stay in Porto?

Although Porto is generally a safe city, there are some areas that it may be best to avoid as a tourist.

One of these areas is Bairro do Aleixo, which has a history of drug dealing and crime.

Although much has been done to improve the situation, it is still an area that should be avoided, especially at night.

Another area that can be problematic is the Cerco do Porto.

This neighbourhood also has a history of crime and drug dealing, and although crime has decreased, it is still recommended to avoid the inner streets here, especially after dark.

Finally, Lagarteiro is also an area where it can be unsafe to walk around, especially at night.

The area has been known for drug-related violence in the past, and although improvements have been made, caution should still be exercised here.

However, it must be said that these areas are not exactly places where the average tourist will pass by by accident.

Overall, Porto is a city full of charm, history and variety, making it an excellent destination for all travellers.

Whether you are a first-time visitor, a food and wine connoisseur, or want to experience local life, Porto has something to offer you.

I hope you could use this guide on where to stay in Porto and are now ready for your trip to Portugal.

Frequently asked questions:

The post Where To Stay in Porto? 4 Best Areas & Places to Stay + Avoid! 🇵🇹 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

However, it’s unique, making it essential to research before booking your hotel. And that’s precisely what you’re doing right now as you read this guide on where to stay in Lisbon.

In this guide, I discuss several of the top areas and neighbourhoods in Lisbon, and I recommend places to stay across various price ranges, ensuring you have a comfortable stay in the area that appeals to you the most.

Lisbon is a city where history, culture, and modern life harmoniously blend. The Portuguese capital is a fascinating destination with its cobbled streets, historic trams, and panoramic views.

Let’s delve into this city with this guide: where to stay in Lisbon? I’ll tell you all about it.

Best areas in Lisbon 

If you’re in a hurry, here are the best areas in Lisbon where it makes sense to stay during your trip:

• Alfama – the city’s oldest and most charming area
• Baixa – downtown Lisbon close to everything
• Bairro Alto – the best area for nightlife and bohemian vibes
• Mouraria – the city’s multicultural area bustling with life

Click on the area and go directly to the booking site with the best hotels available.

The guide on where to stay in Lisbon continues below, where I delve deeper into the areas and discuss the best hotels in the Portuguese capital.

1. Alfama – the Oldest & Most Charming Area

As the city’s oldest district, Alfama stretches from the impressive walls of Castelo de São Jorge down to the River Tejo (which flows into the sea), and it’s here where you can truly feel the city’s heartbeat.

With its narrow, winding streets and cobbled lanes, Alfama is a maze of history waiting to be explored.

Every corner in Alfama holds a story. From traditional homes with colourful tiles to intimate fado bars where you can experience the soul of Portugal’s most beloved music genre.

Check out the best hotels in Alfama here.

Wandering through Alfama is like being invited to a private show where the past and present unite perfectly.

But what makes Alfama the best place to stay in Lisbon?

Firstly, it’s the location. You’re in the heart of old Lisbon, close to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks like Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral) and Castelo de São Jorge.

Additionally, Alfama is known for its authentic vibe. Instead of large hotel chains, you’ll find charming boutique hotels and guesthouses that offer an authentic taste of local life.

Staying in Alfama also means waking up to the sounds of Fado, enjoying a coffee in a sunlit square, and becoming part of a thriving local community where traditions are cherished.

Alfama in a nutshell:

• Lisbon’s oldest and most historic district.
• Home to traditional fado bars and music.
• Prime location near iconic landmarks.
• Authentic atmosphere with boutique hotels and guesthouses.
• A perfect blend of past and present.

Think Gothic Quarter in Barcelona, Old Town in Edinburgh and the old part of Copenhagen‘s City Centre, and then you understand the vibe here in Alfama.

Places to stay in Alfama

Let’s take a closer look at some great places to stay in Alfama:

Memmo Alfama, located in the heart of historic Alfama, combines tradition and modern comfort within a restored 19th-century building.

With breathtaking views from the terrace, this hotel truly captures the essence of Lisbon. 

The rooms are elegantly designed with wooden floors and contemporary amenities. Enjoy a buffet breakfast with local treats and explore the city with the hotel’s complimentary guided tours. 

See more photos and book here.

Dalma Old Town Suites is a hidden gem amidst Alfama’s cobbled streets.

The hotel blends classic Portuguese charm with modern sophistication, creating an intimate and cosy atmosphere.

The Rooms, decorated with hand-selected local art, have received high praise for their comfort and design.

Previous guests have highlighted the helpful staff who go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay.

With a serene courtyard for relaxation after a day’s sightseeing, Dalma Old Town Suites is not just a base but also a part of the genuine Lisbon experience. 

See more photos and book here.

Santa Luzia B&B – HOrigem embodies the authentic Lisbon lifestyle, situated in a renovated building that maintains its historic charm while offering modern facilities.

This bed & breakfast is known for its spacious, airy rooms with high ceilings and large windows, inviting Lisbon’s light inside.

Former guests frequently mention the unparalleled views of the city’s rooftops from the terrace, where a delightful breakfast can also be enjoyed. 

See more photos and book here.

2. Baixa – Lisbon’s Downtown Close to Everything

When you step into Baixa, you step into the heart of Lisbon. This district, known as the city’s “downtown”, celebrates elegance, history, and urban beauty.

This is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Lisbon for first-timers.

With its wide boulevards, majestic squares, and neoclassical buildings, Baixa is a tribute to Lisbon’s reconstruction after the massive earthquake of 1755.

Baixa is the perfect starting point for any tourist in Lisbon. Here you will find some of the city’s most iconic sights, such as the Elevador de Santa Justa, Praça do Comércio, and the triumphal arch of Rua Augusta.

See the best hotels in Baixa here.

But in addition to the major attractions, Baixa is home to countless cafes, restaurants, and shops, ranging from traditional artisan shops to modern fashion houses.

Why stay in Baixa? First and foremost, it’s the district’s central location. From Baixa, you can easily explore the rest of the city on foot or by the city’s efficient public transportation.

Moreover, Baixa offers a mix of traditional charm and modern comfort. The many hotels in the area range from luxurious palaces to cosy boutique hotels, ensuring there is something for every taste.

Staying in Baixa means being at the heart of it all, surrounded by Lisbon’s rich history while enjoying the district’s modern comfort and convenience.

Baixa in a nutshell:

• The city’s central and historic “downtown”
• Home to iconic landmarks and monuments
• A mix of traditional shops and modern fashion houses
• Perfect location to explore Lisbon
• A wide range of hotels to suit all budgets and tastes

Check out my guide on where to stay in Porto if you’re planning on visiting the 2nd city of Portugal as well.

Places to stay in Baixa 

Since Baixa is the centre of Lisbon, there are many great hotels here.

The One Palácio da Anunciada is a luxury hotel in Baixa.

From the moment you step in, you will be enchanted by the hotel’s sophisticated elegance, reflected in the preserved original details from the 16th century.

The rooms radiate luxury and comfort, while the spa offers tranquillity in the city’s heart.

Past guests often praise the lush, enclosed garden, a rare treasure in the city centre, and the exquisite gastronomy in the hotel’s restaurant.

With a perfect location close to the highlights of Baixa, The One Palácio is the epitome of luxury in Lisbon.

See more photos and book here.

Behotelisboa is another hotel in the centre of Lisbon, perhaps more for the average traveller who doesn’t want to spend much of their holiday budget on accommodation.

This boutique hotel offers stylish, functional rooms that are perfect for today’s traveller.

Past guests have highlighted the comfortable beds and the exceptional soundproofing, ensuring a good night’s sleep.

Behotelisboa is the ideal choice for a chic and central base in Lisbon.

See more photos and book here.

Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge is a breath of fresh air in Baixa’s hotel scene, where modern design meets traditional Portuguese elements.

Rooms are bright, spacious, and adorned with local art, creating a sense of belonging to Lisbon’s vibrant culture.

Past visitors often highlight the hotel’s casual atmosphere and proximity to public transportation and attractions.

See more photos and book here.

3. Bairro Alto – best area for nightlife & trendy vibes

Bairro Alto comes alive as the day winds down in Lisbon, and the twilight light falls over the city’s rooftops.

This neighbourhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, is where Lisbon’s young souls and nightlife enthusiasts gather to celebrate life.

Bairro Alto offers a fascinating contrast between day and night.

During the day, it’s a quiet neighbourhood with picturesque streets, colourful buildings, and cosy cafes, where you can enjoy a “bica” (espresso) and watch the world go by.

But when the sun sets, the neighbourhood transforms into a bustling centre of party and colour with countless bars, restaurants, and clubs playing everything from traditional fado to modern electronic music.

See the best hotels in Bairro Alto here.

Why should you stay in Bairro Alto? Firstly, it’s because of the neighbourhood’s unique atmosphere.

Here you get an authentic experience of Lisbon’s nightlife and culture.

The area’s many boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses allow you to stay in the heart of the party in comfortable and charming surroundings.

Furthermore, Bairro Alto is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot and by public transport.

Bairro Alto was the area I found most exciting when I first visited Lisbon in my early 20s, and I’ll likely still choose to stay here on my next trip (even though I’m now in my early 30s).

Staying in Bairro Alto means being a part of Lisbon’s vibrant heart, where culture, history, and modern life come together in an explosion of colours, sounds, and flavours.

Bairro Alto at a glance:

• The centre of Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife.
• A bohemian atmosphere with picturesque streets and colourful buildings.
• A wide range of bars, restaurants, and music venues.
• Centrally located with easy access to the city’s attractions.
• An authentic experience of Lisbon’s cultural soul.

Places to stay in Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is a popular area among locals and tourists who come to enjoy the many restaurants and bars. Therefore, there are plenty of good hotels in different price ranges – here are some of my favourites.

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa is Bairro Alto’s star in the luxury hotel sky.

Located in a majestic building, this hotel offers unparalleled modern luxury and historic charm.

The rooms are spacious and exquisitely decorated, with panoramic windows opening up to breathtaking views of Lisbon.

The spa is a sanctuary where guests can pamper themselves after a day in the city. Previous visitors can’t get enough of the hotel’s rooftop and gourmet restaurant.

The Lumiares is undoubtedly the place for the ultimate luxury experience in Bairro Alto.

See more photos and book here.

9Hotel Mercy is an icon of elegant design and comfort in Bairro Alto.

With its modern architecture and interior design, the hotel welcomes guests to an atmosphere of sophisticated relaxation.

The rooms are comfortably furnished with modern amenities, while the chic rooftop bar offers one of the city’s best views, especially at sunset.

Previous guests have praised the hotel’s central location and excellent customer service.

9Hotel Mercy is perfect for travellers looking for stylish quality without the hefty price tag.

See more photos and book here.

Inn Bairro Alto – BA Sweet is the perfect choice for those seeking an authentic Lisbon experience without breaking the bank.

This charming hotel is in the heart of the vibrant Bairro Alto district and offers clean, comfortable rooms with simple yet tasteful decor.

The central location makes it easy for guests to dive into the local nightlife or explore Lisbon’s many attractions.

Inn Bairro Alto is ideal for budget-conscious travellers who don’t want to compromise on quality.

See more photos and book here.

4. Mouraria – the city’s multicultural area brimming with life

Often overlooked by the average tourist, Mouraria is one of Lisbon’s most authentic and multicultural enclaves.

This neighbourhood, once the Moorish part of the city, is a maze of narrow streets and hidden alleys where the past and present come together in a vibrant tapestry of cultures.

Mouraria is where fado, Portugal’s hauntingly emotional national music genre, was born. Today, you can still hear the strains of fado emanating from the small bars and restaurants that line the district’s streets.

Check out the best hotels in Mouraria here.

But beyond the music, Mouraria is also known for its rich history and cultural diversity, reflected in the area’s cuisine, art, and people.

Why choose to stay in Mouraria? For those looking for a more genuine Lisbon experience, Mouraria is the perfect choice.

Here, you are off the beaten tourist paths and deeply immersed in the city’s true soul. The area’s many guesthouses, and boutique hotels offer a unique and intimate experience that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city.

Get ready to experience fado with this video:

Staying in Mouraria is like being welcomed into the innermost circle of Lisbon, where traditions are cherished and the city’s true essence truly shines through.

Mouraria at a glance:

• One of Lisbon’s most authentic and multicultural enclaves
• The birthplace of the poignant fado music
• A rich history spanning from Moorish times to the present
• A unique chance to experience the real soul of Lisbon
• Intimate guesthouses and boutique hotels offer an authentic experience

Places to stay in Mouraria

In Mouraria, I think you generally get more value for your money compared to the other areas of Lisbon I mention in this guide. So, if you want to stay at a really good hotel at a relatively low price, Mouraria might be your best bet.

Let’s start with a luxurious hotel in the area.

Hotel Portugal is a stunning hotel in Mouraria. This outstanding hotel is renowned for its unparalleled service, opulent rooms, and atmosphere exuding Portuguese elegance.

A delightful blend of classic and modern design creates a harmonious oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

For those seeking a premium Lisbon experience, Hotel Portugal is undoubtedly the top pick in Mouraria.

See more photos and book here.

The following hotel, Hotel Mundial, is a robust bastion of comfort and quality.

This impressive hotel boasts spacious rooms and modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay.

But what truly sets Hotel Mundial apart is its famed rooftop bar.

From here, guests can enjoy a 360-degree view of Lisbon whilst sipping a cocktail at sunset.

Past visitors have lauded the hotel’s excellent location and helpful service.

Hotel Mundial is the perfect choice for those looking for a well-run hotel in the heart of the city.

See more photos and book here.

For those hoping to experience the soul of Lisbon without breaking the bank, Mouraria Lisboa Hotel is an excellent choice.

The hotel offers neat, comfortable rooms with a modern touch.

Even with its budget-friendly pricing, the hotel doesn’t compromise on quality.

Previous guests have highlighted the clean and cosy atmosphere and the hotel’s central location, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions.

Mouraria Lisboa Hotel is ideal for travellers looking to experience the best of Lisbon without spending too much on accommodation.

See more photos and book here.

Areas to Avoid in Lisbon 

Lisbon is renowned for its beauty, culture, and history and is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with all major cities, there are certain areas where tourists should exercise more caution, especially at night.

Baixa: This area is the heart of Lisbon, brimming with historical landmarks and beautiful architecture. But at night, some parts of Baixa can become less safe. The dark and secluded streets can be hiding spots for pickpockets and other dubious characters.

As it’s a popular tourist area, it can also attract individuals targeting unsuspecting tourists. However, this is the case in all major European cities, so it’s not to say the area is inherently dangerous! 

Avenida Reis and Praca da Alegria (around Rossio): These central areas of Lisbon can be bustling during the day, but at night they may attract individuals with less than honest intentions, including pickpockets and drug dealers. 

Monsanto Park: This vast green space is lovely during the day, but it can become a haven for dubious activities at night. The lack of lighting and isolation can also make it a less safe spot for tourists. 

Barrio Alto: Where there’s nightlife, there’s unfortunately also drug dealing at night. Although possession of small amounts of drugs has been decriminalised in Portugal, interacting with these dealers can lead to undesirable situations. Additionally, the busy streets and bars can be a hotspot for pickpockets.

Generally, it’s important to note that while these areas might pose potential risks, it doesn’t mean they are always dangerous. Many locals and tourists frequent these areas all the time without issues. But as a tourist, it’s always a good idea to be extra cautious, especially in unfamiliar places, particularly at night.

Also, check out this lovely video from two Danes who used to live in Lisbon:

Here are some general safety tips:

• Be aware of your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transport.
• Avoid carrying important documents, large amounts of cash, and all your credit cards when out and about.
• Steer clear of isolated, dilapidated roads or places where there are no other people, especially at night or early in the morning.
• If possible, avoid street vendors as they might try to distract and confuse tourists to rob them.

Having said that, Lisbon is a fantastic city where 99.9% of all tourists will never experience any issues as long as precautions are taken.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled beauty, Lisbon is undoubtedly a city that deserves exploration. From the historic streets of Alfama to the lively nightlife in Bairro Alto, the Portuguese capital offers a variety of experiences waiting to be discovered.

I wish you a wonderful trip to Lisbon with adventure, discoveries, and unforgettable memories.

If you’re still unsure where to stay in Lisbon, check out Dalma Old Town Suites in Alfama or Behotelisboa in Baixa, the city’s centre.

If you have questions about where to stay in Lisbon or your trip to Portugal, comment below.

Frequently Asked Questions:

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