Here are my picks for the 20 best things to see and do in Lisbon, with prices, opening hours and tips for avoiding the longest queues. Prices are in euros. Several well-known sights have been closed for renovation, and some still are; I’ve included the details under each attraction.

1. Castelo de São Jorge

The castle on one of the city’s highest hills is the best place to start because it gives you a sense of Lisbon’s layout. From the walls, you look down over Baixa, the river and the bridge. You can walk along the ramparts and between the towers at your own pace.

Entry costs €17 for adults, with free admission for children under 12. The castle opens daily from 9am to 9pm between March and October, and from 9am to 6pm for the rest of the year. The castle’s website says the small museum within the grounds is temporarily closed.

It’s a steep walk up, so take bus 737 to the gate or tram 28 to Miradouro de Santa Luzia and walk the final five minutes. Arrive at opening time or late in the afternoon for shorter queues and better light.

Book a guided skip-the-line ticket for Castelo de São Jorge.

2. Alfama and Sé Cathedral

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, and the place where wandering without a plan pays off. The lanes are so narrow that laundry hangs across them, and steps lead up and down between little squares, cafés and fado houses.

On the edge of the neighbourhood stands Sé de Lisboa Cathedral. The €7 ticket includes the choir, the balcony between the two towers and the treasury. The cathedral welcomes tourists from Monday to Saturday and is closed to visitors on Sundays.

Tram 28 stops right outside the cathedral. To avoid tackling the hills on foot, you can book a private tuk-tuk tour through Alfama, with commentary from the driver.

Alfama is also an atmospheric place to stay, provided you’re comfortable with steps and cobblestones. See hotels in Alfama here, or read my guide to where to stay in Lisbon to compare neighbourhoods.

3. Tram 28

The yellow number 28 tram is both public transport and one of Lisbon’s best-known experiences. Its route runs from Martim Moniz through Graça, Alfama, the cathedral and Chiado to Campo de Ourique, taking you through several historic neighbourhoods in one ride.

A ticket bought from the driver costs €3.30. It’s cheaper to use a rechargeable Navegante card, which brings the fare down to €1.90, or a €7.25 24-hour ticket covering trams, buses and the metro.

The tram is often packed in the middle of the day. Board at the Campo de Ourique terminus or travel early in the morning for a better chance of a seat. Keep a close eye on your bag and phone: the UK Foreign Office advises travellers to take care on public transport and at crowded bus and tram stops in Portugal, and notes that thieves often work in teams.

4. Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Lisbon’s viewpoints are called miradouros, and they’re free. Miradouro de Santa Luzia is in Alfama beside tram 28: a small terrace with blue-and-white tiles and views over the roofs towards the river. A tiled panel shows Praça do Comércio as it looked before the 1755 earthquake.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is higher up in Graça, beside a small chapel founded in 1147. You can see the castle, the centre and the bridge. It’s my pick for the best sunset spot in the city.

Take tram 28 to Graça and walk the final stretch uphill. You can also use the new Funicular da Graça from Mouraria, which is running again after a closure.

5. Museu do Fado and an Evening of Fado

Fado is Lisbon’s own music, and you should hear it at least once. At Museu do Fado in Alfama, recordings, instruments and posters tell the story of this melancholy singing tradition. Audio guides are available in several languages.

Entry costs €5, and the museum opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. It’s on Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, close to Santa Apolónia railway station.

In the evenings, fado is performed in restaurants in both Alfama and Bairro Alto. Many require you to order a full dinner, which can get expensive. A cheaper alternative is to book a fado show with a glass of wine.

6. Panteão Nacional and Feira da Ladra Flea Market

Panteão Nacional’s white dome is visible from much of the city. Some of Portugal’s best-known figures are buried inside. From the terrace beneath the dome, you can look out across Alfama and the river.

Entry costs €10, with free admission for children under 12. It opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm in summer, closing at 5pm from October to March. It’s closed on Mondays.

Outside, on Campo de Santa Clara, Feira da Ladra flea market takes place every Tuesday and Saturday. Its roots stretch back to the 13th century, and you’ll find everything from old tiles and vinyl records to outright junk. Come in the morning and take the metro to Santa Apolónia.

7. Praça do Comércio and Arco da Rua Augusta

Praça do Comércio is the city’s grand riverside square, surrounded by yellow arcades on three sides. Ships docked here in colonial times. Today, it’s a natural starting point for a walk through Baixa.

At its northern end stands Arco da Rua Augusta. You can reach the top for €5 between 10am and 7pm. A lift covers most of the climb, followed by 74 steps. The views down over the square and along the pedestrian street are worth the money.

Buy a ticket for Arco da Rua Augusta here. Afterwards, walk along Rua Augusta to Rossio square, the heart of lower Lisbon.

8. Convento do Carmo and Elevador de Santa Justa

Convento do Carmo is a roofless convent church. It collapsed in the 1755 earthquake and was never rebuilt, leaving its Gothic arches open to the sky. The surviving section houses a small archaeological museum.

Entry costs €7. It opens Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm, extending to 7pm from May to October, and closes on Sundays. The nearest metro station is Baixa-Chiado.

Next door is the old iron lift, Elevador de Santa Justa, linking Baixa with Carmo. Both the lift and its viewing platform have been closed since September 2025, with no reopening date announced. You can still see the structure from the street below; it’s a good photo stop.

9. Bairro Alto and Chiado

Chiado is Lisbon’s elegant shopping neighbourhood, with old cafés, theatres and bookshops. Livraria Bertrand opened here in 1732 and, according to Guinness World Records, is the world’s oldest operating bookshop. A few steps away is A Brasileira café, dating from 1905, with a bronze statue of poet Fernando Pessoa outside.

Bairro Alto, above Chiado, is quiet by day and full of people in the evening, when small bars open and customers take their drinks out into the street. This is where to head for a night out.

The old Glória and Bica funiculars, which used to climb to Bairro Alto, are both out of service following the Glória accident in September 2025. Take the metro to Baixa-Chiado or walk instead.

For the history behind the streets, book a guided walk through Rossio, Chiado and Alfama. You can also see hotels in Chiado here for a central base.

10. Time Out Market

Time Out Market occupies the old Mercado da Ribeira market hall by Cais do Sodré. Under one roof are 26 restaurants and eight bars, including stalls run by several well-known local chefs. You eat at long communal tables in the middle of the hall.

Entry is free. It opens from 10am to midnight Sunday to Wednesday, and until 2am Thursday to Saturday. The green metro line and tram 15 stop at Cais do Sodré.

The market works best for lunch or for trying several different dishes. It’s more expensive and tourist-focused than small local restaurants, and finding a seat can be difficult in the evening. To get further into Portuguese food, book a small-group food and wine tour.

11. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

The monastery in Belém is Lisbon’s biggest attraction and shares a UNESCO World Heritage listing with Torre de Belém. It was built in the 16th century with money from the spice trade. The two-storey cloister, with its carved columns, is among the most beautiful sights in Portugal.

A cloister ticket costs €18, with free entry for children under 12. Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9.30am to 5.30pm, with last admission at 5pm. It’s closed on Mondays. The adjoining church has separate opening hours.

Queues can be very long, and the ticket office closes an hour before the monastery. Buy your ticket before you arrive. Tram 15 from the centre stops right outside.

Buy a ticket for Mosteiro dos Jerónimos here.

12. Torre de Belém

This small riverside fortress tower is Lisbon’s landmark. Torre de Belém was closed for around a year for restoration, reopening on 27 May 2026.

Entry costs €15, and it opens Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Visits now use timed slots with limited visitor numbers, so you need to book a date and time in advance.

The tower is small inside, with a narrow staircase. If you’re short on time or travelling with children, seeing it from outside and walking along the river is perfectly reasonable. To go inside, buy a ticket for Torre de Belém here.

13. Padrão dos Descobrimentos and Pastéis de Belém

Between the monastery and the tower stands Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a tall monument to Portuguese explorers shaped like the prow of a ship. You can take a lift to the viewing platform. The €10 ticket also includes the exhibition and film at the base.

The monument opens from 10am to 7pm between March and September, closing at 6pm for the rest of the year. In the square outside is a large marble world map, best seen from above.

While you’re in Belém, stop at Pastéis de Belém bakery. It has made its small custard tarts since 1837 using a recipe from the monastery. It opens daily from 8am to 9pm, extending to 10pm in summer. Expect a queue, especially in the middle of the day.

14. MAAT

MAAT is Lisbon’s museum of art, architecture and technology. The new building sits like a white wave beside the river, while its neighbour is an old power station with its turbines and boilers still in place.

A ticket costs €16 for international visitors and covers both buildings. The museum opens from 10am to 7pm every day except Tuesday. Tram 15 stops at Altinho, right outside.

Exhibitions change, so check the programme before paying. I’d walk along the river from here to Belém regardless; it takes around 20 minutes. Buy a ticket for MAAT here.

15. LX Factory

LX Factory is a former industrial complex in Alcântara, directly beneath the bridge, converted into shops, restaurants, offices and galleries. Street art covers the walls. In a former printing hall, Ler Devagar bookshop has shelves from floor to ceiling.

It’s free to walk around and makes a good stop on the way to or from Belém. On Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 7pm, the main street hosts a market selling crafts, clothes and food.

Take tram 15 to Calvário. Come for lunch or late in the afternoon, when the restaurants are at their liveliest.

16. Ponte 25 de Abril and Cristo Rei

The red suspension bridge, Ponte 25 de Abril, resembles the Golden Gate and is visible from most of the city. Across the river, the Cristo Rei statue stands with outstretched arms, looking back towards Lisbon.

Pilar 7 Experience is inside one of the bridge supports, letting you reach road level for €3. The lift is out of service, though, so you’ll need to climb 372 steps. I’d only recommend it if you enjoy stairs.

For Cristo Rei, take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, followed by bus 3001. The crossing takes around ten minutes and costs €2. Check the viewing platform’s opening hours before setting off.

The best view of the bridge is from the water. Book a sunset cruise on the Tagus to see the city and bridge from the river.

17. Oceanário de Lisboa

Oceanário de Lisboa is one of Europe’s largest aquariums and my top choice for a visit with children. It’s in modern Parque das Nações. At the centre of the building is a huge tank with sharks, rays and an ocean sunfish, which you walk around on two levels.

Prices depend on your entry time. Adult tickets cost €29.90 in the morning, €27.70 in the middle of the day and €25.50 after 4pm. Children aged 3 to 12 pay from €15.50; under-threes enter free.

It opens daily from 10am to 8pm, with last admission at 7pm. Allow 90 minutes to two hours. Take the red metro line to Oriente, followed by a walk of around 15 minutes. Buy a ticket for Oceanário de Lisboa here.

18. Museu Calouste Gulbenkian

The Gulbenkian Museum holds one of Europe’s finest private art collections, assembled by oil magnate Calouste Gulbenkian. You move from Egyptian figures and Persian carpets to Rembrandt, Monet and a whole room of jewellery by René Lalique.

The main building reopened on 18 July 2026 after 18 months of renovation. The €16 ticket also covers the modern art collection in the neighbouring building. Admission is free after 2pm on Sundays.

The museum opens from 10am to 6pm, extending to 9pm on Saturdays, and closes on Tuesdays. It’s set in a large garden that’s free to visit and good for a break. Take the metro to São Sebastião or Praça de Espanha.

19. A Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra is Lisbon’s most popular day trip, and it’s easy to see why. Colourful palaces and gardens sit close together in wooded hills, just around 40 minutes by train from Rossio Station. A journey costs €2.05 when paid using the balance on a Navegante card.

The best-known sight is Palácio da Pena, the yellow-and-red fairytale palace at the top. A palace-and-park ticket costs €20, and you must choose a date and time when buying it. You’ll only enter the palace at the time printed on your ticket. Bus 434 runs from the station to the palace.

Quinta da Regaleira, with its famous well and spiral staircase descending underground, also costs €20 and requires a timed ticket. Set off early and stick to two sights in one day.

You can buy a ticket for Palácio da Pena here or book a day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais with transport. To experience the town without the day-trippers, see hotels in Sintra here.

20. A Day Trip to Cascais

Cascais is a former fishing town that became a seaside retreat for the royal family. Today, it’s Lisbon’s nearest beach town, with small sandy beaches in the centre, pleasant streets with fish restaurants and a waterfront promenade to neighbouring Estoril.

Trains leave Cais do Sodré around every 20 minutes and take 40 minutes. The route follows the coast, so sit on the left on the outward journey. The fare is €2.05 each way when paid using the balance on a Navegante card.

The same train stops in Belém, so you can combine the two outings in one day if you’re short on time. For a beach base with trips into Lisbon, see hotels in Cascais here.

Practical Travel Tips for Lisbon

Lisboa Card: The city pass costs €31 for 24 hours, €51 for 48 hours and €62 for 72 hours. It includes unlimited metro, bus and tram travel, trains to Sintra and Cascais, and free entry to sights including Castelo de São Jorge, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Torre de Belém, Padrão dos Descobrimentos and Museu do Fado. Visit two or three in a day and the card pays for itself, though you still need to reserve times for the monastery and tower. Buy a Lisboa Card here.

Transport: Buy a rechargeable Navegante card from a metro ticket machine. The card costs €0.50, a single metro, bus or tram ride costs €1.90, and a 24-hour ticket costs €7.25. The red metro line serves the airport. I’ve covered all the options in my guide to getting from Lisbon Airport to the city centre.

Currently closed: The tile museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, is closed for renovation with no reopening date, so it isn’t on this list. Elevador de Santa Justa and the three old funiculars, Glória, Bica and Lavra, are also out of service.

Closing days: Many state-run attractions close on Mondays, including Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Torre de Belém, Panteão Nacional and Museu do Fado. Gulbenkian and MAAT close on Tuesdays.

Tourist tax: Lisbon hotels charge a tourist tax of €4 per person per night, for up to seven nights, for everyone over 13. It’s usually paid at check-in or check-out.

More of Portugal: Lisbon combines easily with the rest of the country. See my guides to where to stay in Porto and where to stay in the Algarve to extend your trip north or south.

The post 20 Best Things to Do in Lisbon: Sights, Prices & Tips appeared first on Destination Well Known.

There have been several fare changes. From 15 October 2026, participating airport taxis are due to introduce fixed fares into the city, and you can now pay for the metro by tapping a bank card at the gates. Here, I cover the options, prices and journey times, along with my advice on which to choose.

If you’d rather drive yourself from the airport, you can compare prices on rental cars at Booking.com.

1. Metro: the red line from Terminal 1

The metro would be my choice for most visitors. Aeroporto station is just outside arrivals at Terminal 1, to the right as you leave, with signs showing the way. The red line, Linha Vermelha, starts here, so you can’t head in the wrong direction.

The line doesn’t reach Baixa, so you’ll need to change once. For Rossio, Baixa-Chiado or Cais do Sodré, change to the green line at Alameda. For Marquês de Pombal or Avenida da Liberdade, stay on to the terminus at São Sebastião and change to the blue line.

There’s no luggage size limit on the metro, so bringing a suitcase is fine. You’ll find the routes on Metro de Lisboa’s network map.

Prices and tickets

A single metro and bus ticket costs €1.90 and is valid for 60 minutes. It must be loaded onto a navegante card, which costs €0.50 the first time and is available from station machines. You can reuse the card, but each person needs their own.

You can also skip the machines and tap your bank card or phone at the gates. This costs €1.92 per journey, with Visa and Mastercard accepted, including through Apple Pay and Google Pay. Metro de Lisboa explains bank card payment at the gates on its website. Use one card per person and keep it handy for ticket inspections.

For several journeys on your first day, a 24-hour metro, bus and tram ticket costs €7.25. All fares are on Metro de Lisboa’s ticket page.

The Lisboa Card includes metro, bus and tram travel, plus entry to a range of museums. It costs €31 for 24 hours, €51 for 48 hours and €62 for 72 hours; you can buy the Lisboa Card here. The tourist office has an Ask Me Lisboa desk in arrivals, open from 07:00 to 22:00.

Departures and journey time

The metro runs daily from 06:30 to 01:00. Trains run every 6 to 8 minutes during the day and every 10 minutes late in the evening. Check the intervals in the metro timetable.

Alameda takes around 17 minutes and São Sebastião around 20 minutes. Including your change, allow 25 to 30 minutes to Baixa-Chiado and half an hour to Cais do Sodré.

The last train leaves the airport at 01:00, but you can’t count on a connection to the green or blue line that late. If you land around midnight, a taxi or Uber is a more dependable choice.

2. City buses and the night bus

Carris runs several city buses past the airport, but they’re only an option with hand luggage. The airport gives a maximum luggage size of 50 x 40 x 20 cm on city buses, while Carris itself says 55 x 40 x 20 cm. Either way, an ordinary suitcase is too large.

Route 744 runs from the airport via Entrecampos, Saldanha and Marquês de Pombal, then down Avenida da Liberdade to Restauradores. Route 783 goes to Amoreiras via Saldanha and Marquês de Pombal. You’ll find the stops on Carris’ route 744 page.

A ticket bought on the bus costs €2.30. The €1.90 ticket on a navegante card is also valid here; fares are listed by Carris.

When the metro is closed at night, bus 208 runs between Gare do Oriente and Cais do Sodré via the airport, Areeiro, Alameda, Martim Moniz and Praça do Comércio. It operates from roughly 00:30 to 05:30.

The old Aerobus, still mentioned in many older guides, no longer runs.

3. Taxis: fixed fares planned from 15 October 2026

Lisbon Airport taxis have long had a poor reputation because some drivers have left the meter off and demanded a high fixed price. That’s why the city, airport, tourist office and taxi associations have agreed on fixed fares, due to apply from 15 October 2026.

The city is divided into two zones:

• Zone 1: €16 on weekdays from 07:00 to 22:00, and €20 at night, on weekends and public holidays. This includes Parque das Nações, Alvalade, Areeiro and Avenidas Novas.
• Zone 2: €19 on weekdays from 07:00 to 22:00, and €23 at night, on weekends and public holidays. This includes Baixa, Chiado, Alfama, Bairro Alto, Avenida da Liberdade, Estrela, Alcântara and Belém.

The fare covers up to four passengers with luggage, with no extra supplements allowed. For five or more people in a larger vehicle, zone 2 costs €23 during the day and €28 at night and on weekends.

You can buy a voucher at the tourist office desk in arrivals or pay in the taxi, and drivers must accept cards without a surcharge. Taxi association ANTRAL has published the agreement, fares and zones in Portuguese.

The scheme applies to taxis participating in the agreement, so ask for the fixed fare before getting in. For extra certainty, buy the voucher at the desk first.

Until 15 October, taxis use the meter, with a typical city-centre journey costing €15 to €20. The taxi rank is just outside arrivals. The airport warns against accepting offers from drivers approaching you inside the terminal.

4. Uber and Bolt

Uber and Bolt are widely available in Lisbon and often a little cheaper than taxis. A journey to the centre typically costs €10 to €18, with higher prices when demand is strong.

Drivers can’t collect passengers at the taxi rank. Pick-up is in car park P2, which the airport identifies as P2, level 2. Follow the signs from arrivals and check the meeting point in your app.

Waiting times can be long in the late afternoon and evening when several flights arrive together. In a hurry, a taxi is a better option; the new fixed fares are due to apply from 15 October.

5. Private transfer

For a driver waiting with a sign when you arrive, you can book a private transfer from Lisbon Airport here.

Prices start at around €25 for a car carrying up to four people, only a little more than a taxi. It makes most sense for late arrivals, travelling with children or having everything arranged before you leave home.

6. Terminal 2: remember the shuttle for your return flight

All arrivals use Terminal 1, but several low-cost airlines depart from Terminal 2. These include Ryanair, Norwegian, Wizz Air, Vueling, Transavia, Eurowings and Volotea.

Terminal 2 has no metro station. Take the metro to Terminal 1, then the free shuttle from the departures area. It runs every 12 minutes between 03:30 and 00:30. The trip takes around 3 minutes, but allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes. The airport’s Terminal 2 page has the current times.

7. Onwards by train from Gare do Oriente

There are no trains from the airport itself, but Gare do Oriente is only three metro stops away, taking around 7 minutes. Trains from there run north towards Coimbra and Porto and south towards the Algarve.

For an onward trip, I’ve written guides to where to stay in Porto and where to stay in the Algarve.

Trains to Sintra leave from Rossio and Oriente, while trains to Cascais leave from Cais do Sodré.

Which option should you choose?

Here’s what I’d recommend for the most common situations:

For most people: Take the metro. It costs €1.92 with a bank card and reaches Baixa in around half an hour with one change.

For two or more people with suitcases: Take a taxi to the door. From 15 October, the agreed weekday daytime fare to Baixa, Chiado and Alfama is due to be €19 for participating taxis; until then, check the meter fare.

Arriving around midnight or later: Take a taxi, Uber or Bolt. Night bus 208 is only an option with hand luggage.

With only hand luggage and a hotel near Avenida da Liberdade: Bus 744 goes directly to Marquês de Pombal and Restauradores without a change.

For everything arranged before you travel: Book a private transfer, with the driver waiting in arrivals.

Practical tips for Lisbon airport transfers

Tap your card at the gates. Airport ticket machines can have queues. A contactless card or phone lets you go straight to the gates.

Check your departure terminal. For Terminal 2, you need the shuttle from Terminal 1.

Stay near the metro. In Baixa or Chiado, Baixa-Chiado station is nearby. You can see places to stay in Baixa here.

Taking an early flight? Parque das Nações is three metro stops from the airport, and the new taxi fares from 15 October are due to be €16 to €20. You can see places to stay in Parque das Nações here.

For help choosing the right neighbourhood, I’ve written a guide to where to stay in Lisbon.

The post Lisbon Airport to the City Centre - Metro, Buses & Taxis 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.

Before choosing your hotel, it is worth checking the airport connection. My guide to getting from Lisbon Airport to the city centre compares the metro, buses and taxis and explains which option suits each area.

Once you have chosen your area, my guide to 20 things to do in Lisbon will help you plan your days, with sights, prices and tips for avoiding the queues.

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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