If you are planning a trip to Lisbon and deciding where to stay, this travel guide will help you find the area that best fits your needs so you can make the most of your vacation.
The capital of Portugal is made up of many neighborhoods, each with its own character. Some areas offer beautiful views but have many hills. Others are close to major tourist attractions, while some are quieter and more residential.
Some neighborhoods are lively at night, while others are better for families. Depending on the type of trip you want, you can choose one of the best areas of Lisbon for your stay.
The best neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon
- Chiado is one of the best areas to stay in Lisbon. It is artistic and slightly bohemian, lively both during the day and at night, and close to the main attractions of the city.
- Alfama is one of the oldest and most historic neighborhoods in Lisbon. It is located on the highest hill in the city and is a great choice for scenic views and a sense of the past.
- Baixa is the main tourist center of Lisbon. It has many attractions, grand buildings in Pombaline style, charming squares, and plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants. It is a good area for shopping.
- Principe Real is a cosmopolitan and fashionable neighborhood. It is known for antique shops, art galleries, stylish boutiques, and international restaurants. It is ideal for a calm and relaxed stay.
- Bairro Alto is quiet during the day and lively in the evening. It is known for its bars and city views.
- Estrela, now connected with Lapa, is a mainly residential and quiet area. It is not far from the lively areas of Chiado and Bairro Alto and is a good choice for families.
- Campo de Ourique is a residential and artistic neighborhood with a strong community feel. It is popular with expatriates and is also suitable for families with young children.
- Avenidas Novas is mainly a business district near the airport. It is not close to the historic center, but accommodation is more affordable and the area is flat, making it suitable for bicycles and strollers.
- Avenida da Liberdade is a central and elegant area. If your budget allows, it is a great choice for a special stay in Lisbon.
- Belem is a historic neighborhood along the Tagus River. It is not in the city center, but it is a good option for travelers looking for a quieter place to stay.
1. Chiado, the best area to stay in Lisbon
For me, Chiado is the best area to stay in Lisbon. It is very artistic and slightly bohemian, lively both during the day and at night, and close to the main attractions of the city.
This historic part of Lisbon was badly affected by the major earthquake of 1755 and later by a serious fire in 1988, which destroyed 18 buildings.
Today, the reconstruction is complete and the facades of the old buildings have been restored. In Chiado, you can see eighteenth century residential buildings alongside modern shopping centers.
One place you should not miss is the Convento do Carmo, a fourteenth century monument that is still standing. It was once a monastery of the Carmelite order, with construction starting in 1389. Only the main temple with its arches and sacred area remains today, but it is worth visiting this roofless church on a hill, overlooking Rossio.
If you are interested in modern art, Chiado is home to the Museu do Chiado, also known as the MNAC. The museum hosts important exhibitions by internationally known artists and presents artistic movements from modern times to the present day.
As you walk through this charming neighborhood filled with traditional cafes, artisan chocolate shops, retro boutiques, and grand theaters, you will find the oldest bar in Lisbon in Largo do Chiado. It is called A Brasileira, an Art Deco cafe opened in 1905. It was the first place to serve espresso coffee, known locally as bica, to the people of Lisbon.
Almost opposite the cafe, you will also find the oldest bookstore in the world still in operation according to Guinness World Records. It is called Bertrand, and it also offers a wide selection of books in foreign languages.
Chiado is lively in the evening as well, with many taverns and restaurants, including Tavares Rico, one of the oldest restaurants in the city.
With its many boutiques and international brand stores, Chiado is also a great area for shopping. Thanks to its wide range of accommodation options for different budgets, it is a popular place to stay in Lisbon for travelers of all ages.
Best Hotels in Chiado
- Casa do Barao (€€€) – Tucked away on a quiet street in the Chiado area, Casa do Barão is an elegant boutique hotel set inside a beautifully restored 18th century townhouse. The property feels like a private retreat, complete with a leafy garden and a small outdoor pool that is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Rooms are individually designed with a mix of classic architectural details and modern furnishings, creating a refined but relaxed atmosphere. Guests consistently praise the generous breakfast and the warm, personal service, making this a top choice for travelers looking for comfort, style, and a peaceful stay in the heart of Lisbon.
- Feeling Chiado 15 (€€) – Located just steps from Largo do Carmo, Feeling Chiado 15 places you right in the middle of Lisbon’s historic and cultural core. Housed in a traditional building, this small guesthouse offers a cozy and intimate stay with modern comforts like air conditioning and free Wi Fi. The rooms are simple but thoughtfully designed, ideal for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring the city. Its central location makes it easy to walk to landmarks such as Rossio Square, the Santa Justa Elevator, and Bairro Alto, while nearby cafés and shops add to the lively neighborhood feel.
- Chiado 44 (€) – Chiado 44 is a great budget friendly option for travelers who want to stay in one of Lisbon’s most desirable neighborhoods without overspending. Set inside a historic residential building, the hotel blends old world charm with modern updates. Rooms are bright and comfortable, with some offering balconies or partial river views. While the building has no elevator, guests appreciate the friendly staff, cleanliness, and unbeatable location close to Camões Square, public transport, and many of Lisbon’s best restaurants and bars. It is an excellent base for exploring the city entirely on foot.
2. Alfama, a great choice for a trip into the past
If steep hills and long stairways do not bother you, Alfama is a very good place to stay. It is one of the oldest and most historic areas of Lisbon, located on the highest of the city’s seven hills. It offers beautiful views and a strong sense of the past.
Alfama stretches from the estuary of the Tagus River up to the Castelo de São Jorge. The area is full of narrow stone streets and small squares that still show much of the city’s Moorish influence.
This neighborhood was originally built outside the old city walls and was once avoided by wealthier residents because it was considered poor. Even today, in areas closer to Mouraria, you can still see modest homes with colorful plants on balconies and laundry hanging outside.
Alfama was largely spared from the destruction of the 1755 earthquake because it was built on solid rock. This is one of the reasons why it offers such impressive views. It is also directly connected to the area of the Castelo de São Jorge, which provides a unique view over the historic center of Lisbon.
The castle was once occupied by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors before being taken by the Portuguese. Over the centuries, it served as a royal palace and a military base. Today, it is a national monument and museum.
In addition to the castle museum, Alfama is home to the Museu de Artes Decorativas. The museum displays decorative arts from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century, including furniture, textiles, silverware, Chinese porcelain, tiles, and traditional Portuguese ceramics.
The museum is located at Largo das Portas do Sol, where you will also find the Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Together with the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, it offers excellent views over the rooftops of Alfama and the Tagus River. Between the two viewpoints is the Bar Terraço de Santa Luzia, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the scenery.
Alfama has many bars, restaurants, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. If you want to support the local community, you can buy souvenirs at the shop of APPA, located in Largo de Santa Luzia.
To explore the area, if walking is difficult, you can take the famous tram number 28, which runs through the neighborhood and offers good photo opportunities. You can also walk down to the Alfama waterfront, where you will find hotels, restaurants, and nightlife venues.
For accommodation, Alfama is one of the most visited areas of Lisbon, so you will find many options, including boutique hotels and apartments with kitchen facilities.
Best Hotels in Alfama
- Hotel Convento do Salvador (€€) – Set inside a beautifully restored former convent, Hotel Convento do Salvador offers a calm and comfortable stay surrounded by some of Lisbon’s most historic streets. The interiors balance original architectural details with modern design, creating a light and welcoming atmosphere throughout the property. Rooms are simple yet stylish, designed for comfort after a day of exploring the city. Guests can relax in the small garden or terrace and enjoy a well regarded breakfast each morning. Friendly staff and an excellent central location make this hotel a strong mid range option for travelers who value character and convenience.
- Lisbon Best Choice Prime Apartments Alfama (€€) – This hotel is ideal for travelers who prefer the flexibility of apartment style accommodation. The modern units are well equipped with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and comfortable living spaces, making them suitable for longer stays or those who enjoy a more independent experience. Many apartments offer city views or balconies, adding a pleasant local feel to the stay. Guests frequently praise the cleanliness, thoughtful design, and easy access to nearby sights, restaurants, and public transport.
- Alfama – Lisbon Lounge Suites (€) – They combine affordability with comfort in a lively and historic part of the city. The property offers a mix of rooms and apartment style suites, some with kitchen facilities, making it a versatile choice for different travel styles. Interiors are bright and contemporary, providing a comfortable base after long days of sightseeing. Visitors appreciate the helpful staff, cozy beds, and the convenience of being able to walk to major viewpoints, traditional restaurants, and tram connections nearby.
3. Baixa, the tourist center of Lisbon and a great area for shopping
Baixa is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. It was almost completely rebuilt after the earthquake and is now the main tourist center of Lisbon. The area is full of attractions, grand Portuguese buildings in Pombaline style, charming squares, and many shops, bars, and restaurants.
The reconstruction of Baixa was led by Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, also known as the Marquis of Pombal. He was Secretary of State and Prime Minister of Portugal and played a key role in rebuilding Lisbon after the devastating earthquake of 1755.
Baixa was completely destroyed by the earthquake, which had a magnitude of 9. The area was rebuilt in a grand neoclassical style using a grid layout. Today, it is considered one of the most pleasant areas to stay in Lisbon.
Baixa stretches from Praça dos Restauradores to Praça Marquês de Pombal, where modern Lisbon begins. This area includes many of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Places you should not miss include Praça do Comércio, the lively Rua Augusta and its arch, the Elevador de Santa Justa, Rossio, the Church of Saint Anthony, and Praça dos Restauradores.
If you are interested in fashion and design, Baixa is home to the Museu do Design e da Moda, located on Rua Augusta.
In Baixa you will also find the Lisboa Story Centre, a space dedicated to the history of Lisbon. It is located in the eastern wing of Terreiro do Paço and has been recently renovated with modern technology.
Baixa is an excellent area for shopping or for relaxing at the outdoor tables of its many cafes and taverns while watching people pass by. The neighborhood is known for some of the most beautiful retro shop windows in the city, including Confeitaria Nacional, founded in 1829.
You can walk from Praça dos Restauradores, where the obelisk of Portuguese independence stands, to Rossio Square, also known as Praça Pedro IV. Dating back to the thirteenth century, it is one of the most popular meeting places in the city.
Here you will also find one of the most unusual shops in Lisbon, O Mundo Fantástico da Sardinha Portuguesa, which sells canned sardines in colorful and creative packaging designed for gifts.
If you choose to stay in Baixa, you will also find several bars where you can try traditional ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur. Two well known places are Ginjinha Sem Rival and Eduardino, both located on Rua das Portas de Santo Antão.
Best Hotels in Baixa
- Porta do Mar Apartments (€€) – Porta do Mar Apartments offers stylish and well designed apartments ideal for travelers who want space and independence while staying close to Lisbon’s main sights. The apartments are modern and thoughtfully laid out, featuring fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and plenty of natural light. Many units include balconies or river views, adding an extra layer of charm to the stay. This is a great choice for couples or families who appreciate contemporary interiors and the flexibility of apartment living, all within easy walking distance of restaurants, shops, and transport connections.
- My Story Hotel Figueira (€€) – My Story Hotel Figueira is a modern and welcoming hotel overlooking one of Lisbon’s most central squares. The rooms are bright and comfortable, decorated in a clean contemporary style that suits both short city breaks and longer stays. Guests enjoy thoughtful touches such as soundproofing, quality bedding, and a generous breakfast served daily. The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Lisbon on foot, while the friendly staff and reliable comfort make it a popular choice for travelers seeking convenience without sacrificing quality.
- Casas da Baixa – Jules & Madeleine (€€€) – Casas da Baixa Jules and Madeleine delivers a refined apartment style experience with a strong focus on design and hospitality. Each apartment is individually styled with high quality furnishings, elegant color palettes, and fully equipped kitchens that make longer stays especially comfortable. The service blends hotel level attention with the privacy of an apartment, including concierge support and daily housekeeping. This is an excellent option for travelers who want a polished and luxurious stay while enjoying the freedom of a private residence.
4. Principe Real, a cosmopolitan and trendy neighborhood for a relaxing stay
Principe Real is a cosmopolitan and trendy neighborhood known for antique shops, art galleries, stylish boutiques, and international restaurants. It is a very good choice for a calm and relaxed vacation in the Portuguese capital.
The neighborhood is built on a hill and, like many areas of Lisbon, it has steep streets. This adds to its character and offers pleasant panoramic views. It is popular with wealthier residents, and many historic buildings have been converted into luxury apartments. Traditional shops have often been replaced by modern concept stores.
Even so, Principe Real still has places that keep a more traditional atmosphere. The area also offers several green spaces, including the Jardim do Príncipe Real and the Jardim Botânico de Lisboa.
The Botanical Garden of Lisbon is home to around twenty thousand plants, many brought from former Portuguese colonies in the nineteenth century. It is a quiet place where you can walk, relax, or read surrounded by greenery and small ponds.
The Botanical Garden is managed by the Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência, also known as MUHNAC, which is located nearby on Rua da Escola Politécnica. Not far from here, close to Avenida da Liberdade, you can also visit the Museu do Cinema, which hosts temporary exhibitions, film screenings, a bookshop, and a bar restaurant.
Art lovers can visit Espaço 62 on Rua da Conceição da Glória. It is a gallery and shop run by Portuguese and international artists, offering original works at accessible prices.
If you are interested in antiques, the area has several specialized shops, including Solar, one of the largest antique stores in the city, known for original tiles from Portugal and other countries.
For shopping, a visit to Embaixada is recommended. It is located inside the Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, built in 1877, and is one of the main shopping centers in Lisbon. Inside, you will find Portuguese and international brands, as well as bars and restaurants.
One notable place inside Embaixada is Gin Lovers, a space dedicated entirely to gin. A short walk downhill leads to Jamie’s Italian. As you continue toward Bairro Alto, you will find many restaurants and bars, some with views, including the garden setting of Lost In.
Best Hotels in Principe Real
- Memmo Príncipe Real – Design Hotels (€€€) – Memmo Príncipe Real is a standout choice for travelers seeking design forward style and stunning views. The property opens onto a leafy terrace overlooking the city and provides a calm, contemporary atmosphere throughout. Rooms are sleek and thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities and many feature private balconies that let in generous natural light. The highlight is the rooftop pool and terrace where guests can sip a drink while admiring Lisbon’s rooftops and river beyond. With an on site restaurant and bar as well as easy access to cafés, boutiques and green spaces, Memmo Príncipe Real blends sophisticated comfort with prime city living.
- Alegria A Lisbon Boutique Hotel (€) – Alegria A Lisbon Boutique Hotel offers a cheerful and budget friendly stay in one of Lisbon’s most dynamic neighborhoods. The style feels fresh and modern, with clean lines and bright public spaces that reflect the hotel’s name. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped with what you need for a relaxed city break. Guests appreciate the friendly service, daily breakfast, and the fact that so much of the city is within easy walking distance. This is a welcoming pick for travelers who want lively local energy coupled with good value.
- Hotel Botanico (€) – Hotel Botanico brings nature inspired charm and a relaxed vibe to your stay with interiors that feel fresh, calm and contemporary. Rooms are simple yet stylish and many are decorated with botanical accents that echo the hotel’s name. A generous breakfast helps start the day before exploring nearby shops, bars and restaurants. The staff are known for being warm and helpful and the location offers excellent access to both city landmarks and transport links. This is a great option for travelers prioritizing comfort and a laid back feel without straying from central Lisbon.
5. Bairro Alto, the neighborhood with stunning views
Bairro Alto is located close to Principe Real and, like it, sits on higher ground. It is very quiet during the day and lively in the evening, with many bars offering beautiful views over the city of Lisbon.
The area has several steep streets and stairways, unless you choose to use one of the two funiculars that are still in service, which offer an alternative way to reach the neighborhood.
Bairro Alto is located above Chiado and faces the Castelo de São Jorge in Alfama. Because of its position, it has some of the best viewpoints in Lisbon. The Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is one of the most famous and offers a view that should not be missed.
From here, you can walk through old stone streets to admire traditional architecture and street art, explore small gift shops, and choose a bar for a drink.
If you are interested in creative and handmade activities, you may want to visit Retrosaria Rosa Pomar, a traditional shop focused on crafts. It sells home textiles, clothing, and shoes.
Bairro Alto is also home to the Museu da Farmácia, which is dedicated to the history of pharmacy. The museum displays a wide collection of objects related to medicine and pharmaceuticals from around the world.
This neighborhood is especially known for its nightlife. It has many restaurants offering Portuguese cuisine as well as European, Asian, and Middle Eastern food. Bairro Alto is becoming an important area for gourmet dining in Lisbon.
You can have dinner at the quiet tavern Loucos e Sonhadores or visit Pavilhão Chinês, a unique space known for its Chinese porcelain collection and well made cocktails. For city views and Argentine cuisine, you can choose the rooftop restaurant Paparucha. If you enjoy jazz music, you can book a table at Páginas Tantas.
Bairro Alto offers options for different tastes and budgets. In summer, its terraces and sidewalks fill with young people, and it is easy to meet others. However, if you are looking for a quiet place to sleep, it is important to choose your accommodation carefully.
Best Hotels in Bairro Alto
- Casa das Janelas com Vista (€€) – Casa das Janelas com Vista is a small and charming boutique hotel known for its warm atmosphere and attentive hospitality. Set inside a traditional building, the property feels intimate and welcoming, with cozy common areas where guests can relax or enjoy a drink in the evening. Rooms are comfortable and thoughtfully decorated, balancing classic touches with modern comfort. Breakfast is often highlighted as a standout feature, served in a relaxed setting that encourages guests to linger. This hotel is ideal for travelers who appreciate personal service and a home like feel while staying close to Lisbon’s nightlife and viewpoints.
- The Independente Hostel and Suites (€€) – The Independente Hostel and Suites offers a stylish and social stay inside a striking historic building. The property blends hostel energy with hotel level comfort, offering both shared dorms and private rooms and suites. Interiors are bold and eclectic, creating a creative atmosphere that attracts travelers from around the world. Guests can enjoy a lively bar and restaurant on site, as well as spacious common areas designed for socializing. This is a great option for travelers who want character, design, and a vibrant social scene without sacrificing comfort.
- Lisbon Colours Bairro Alto Apartments (€€) – Lisbon Colours Bairro Alto Apartments provides bright and modern apartment style accommodation suited for travelers who value independence and space. Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living areas, and contemporary décor with plenty of natural light. The apartments are well maintained and designed for both short and longer stays, making them a practical choice for couples or small groups. Guests appreciate the convenience of having restaurants, cafés, and nightlife just steps away while still enjoying a comfortable private retreat.
6. Estrela and Lapa, a residential area ideal for families
Estrela, now connected with Lapa, is mainly a residential area and a calm and pleasant place to stay in Lisbon, especially for families. It is quiet, yet still close to the lively areas of Chiado and Bairro Alto.
Originally a prestigious residential area for the city’s nobility, the neighborhood is now home to several embassies. Its main landmark is the Basilica da Estrela, a large church built in the eighteenth century. It is known for its impressive dome and rich interior, which includes a permanent nativity scene made of about five hundred cork figures.
The basilica is worth visiting not only because it is one of the most important baroque churches in Lisbon, but also for its panoramic terrace, which offers views over the city skyline.
Opposite the basilica is the Jardim da Estrela, a charming public garden with old trees, a small lake, a kiosk, and a small library for children. It is a pleasant place for a walk or a coffee, often shared with local residents playing dominoes.
Estrela is not only an area for religious sites and retirees. Alongside elegant townhouses and villas, there are also interesting shops such as Consi.go, as well as several places that appeal to food lovers.
The neighborhood offers a good selection of local and international restaurants, along with many small and welcoming bars. If you enjoy Greek food, you can try the Greek bistro Kefi. For traditional codfish dishes and fado music, Sr. Vinho is a well known option.
For Italian cuisine, Come Prima is popular for its pasta dishes. For one of the best steaks in Lisbon, you can visit Café de São Bento, located near the Portuguese Parliament.
Even if you do not choose this area for your stay, you can take tram number 28 to see the Assembleia da República or enjoy a quiet evening away from the more tourist focused parts of the city.
Best Hotels in Estrela and Lapa
- Olissippo Lapa Palace (€€€) – Set within a historic palace surrounded by lush gardens, this hotel offers a tranquil and luxurious escape with classic elegance throughout. Rooms and suites are spacious and refined, many with sweeping views, while amenities include a renowned spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a refined dining experience. Ideal for travelers seeking timeless luxury and exceptional service.
- Garam Lisboa (€€) – This intimate boutique property delivers a warm and design focused stay with a distinctly personal feel. Rooms are thoughtfully styled with contemporary details, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests often highlight the attentive service and relaxed ambiance, making it a great choice for travelers who value character and comfort.
- As Janelas Verdes Inn (€€) – Housed in a former eighteenth century townhouse, this charming heritage inn offers a refined and residential style experience. Interiors feel elegant yet home like, with inviting common spaces that encourage guests to unwind. A solid option for travelers who appreciate historic charm paired with understated comfort.
7. Campo de Ourique, for a local feel and a strong sense of community
Campo de Ourique is a residential and artistic neighborhood of Lisbon, known for its relaxed atmosphere. It is also suitable for families with young children. Because of the presence of the French school, it is a popular area among expatriates.
Located in the western part of Lisbon, north of Estrela and west of the historic center, the neighborhood offers a mix of authentic local life and modern comforts. Here you will find small boutiques, artist workshops, design shops, and neighborhood cafes, along with a strong sense of community.
Campo de Ourique is home to Jardim Teófilo Braga, commonly known as Jardim da Parada. This public park is very popular with local residents and is a peaceful place to relax and take a walk.
Another important spot in the area is the Mercado de Campo de Ourique, an indoor market where you can enjoy local and international food and buy fresh products.
In the neighborhood you will also find several interesting local cafes, including Dedicated. This place works as a graffiti shop, art gallery, and cafe, serving coffee, beer, and wine from small Portuguese producers. It also hosts a small hip hop museum and displays a collection of around one thousand used spray cans by the graffiti writer Eko.
Another creative space is Chasing Rabbits, which sells new and second hand records focused on post punk, new wave, indie, and synth music. It also has a section with music books and photography editions, as well as a cafe for drinks and snacks.
The most important cultural attraction in the area is the Casa Fernando Pessoa, dedicated to the famous Portuguese poet. You can visit the house where he lived and wrote during the last fifteen years of his life. The museum also includes a library specialized in world poetry.
There are not many hotels in Campo de Ourique, but there are apartments for rent. If you book in advance, you can find good accommodation at very reasonable prices.
Best Hotels in Campo de Ourique
- Hotel da Estrela (€€) – Housed in a former palace, this boutique hotel offers a peaceful and elegant stay with a residential feel. Rooms are tastefully decorated with classic details and modern comforts, and the quiet garden and on site restaurant add to the relaxed atmosphere. A great choice for travelers who value charm, calm surroundings, and thoughtful design.
- Central Lisbon Charming Loft (€€) – This stylish loft style accommodation is ideal for travelers who enjoy space and independence. Interiors are bright and modern, with a well equipped kitchen and comfortable living areas that suit both short and longer stays. Best suited for couples or solo travelers looking for a home like base with easy access to the city.
- The Postcard Lisbon (€€) – A small and design focused property offering a warm and personal stay. Rooms are thoughtfully styled with contemporary touches, creating a cozy yet polished feel throughout. Guests appreciate the friendly service and relaxed ambiance, making it a strong option for travelers seeking character and comfort without excess.
8. Avenidas Novas, a business district close to the airport and good for saving money
Avenidas Novas is a relatively modern area where nineteenth century villas stand next to tall glass office buildings. It is mainly a business district and not very close to the historic center, but it is flat and well connected to other parts of Lisbon.
The area is also known as the Fatima district because of the presence of the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima. It features wide tree lined streets and several green spaces, making it pleasant and suitable for families with young children, especially for those using strollers.
Nearby, you will find some of the largest parks in Lisbon, including Parque Amália Rodrigues, Parque Eduardo VII, and the Gulbenkian Gardens. These parks are ideal places where children can play in a calm environment. The area also has many bike lanes, making it convenient for cycling around the city.
Avenidas Novas is also good for shopping, with several small shopping centers spread across the district, such as Centro Comercial do Campo Pequeno, Monumental, and Saldanha Residence.
For digital nomads and remote workers, there are several convenient options. Along Avenida da República, you can find A Padaria Portuguesa. If you prefer a more classic atmosphere, the historic pastry shop Versailles is also nearby.
Another pleasant spot is the garden terrace cafe at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, surrounded by greenery, small lakes, and ducks. It is considered one of the nicest cafes in Lisbon.
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum houses around six thousand pieces from the collection of Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, often called the Lord of the Five Percent. Its galleries include works from ancient Egypt, the Greek and Roman world, Mesopotamia, Islamic cultures, Armenia, the Far East, and Western art.
In the evening, Campo Pequeno and the Gulbenkian Museum host various events, including exhibitions and concerts of modern, jazz, and classical music. For a more rock focused night out, there are smaller bars such as Cockpit Bar.
The neighborhood is about fifteen minutes from the airport and offers many hotels with competitive prices, mainly aimed at business travelers. It is a good option to consider if you have already visited Lisbon before and are returning to the city.
Best Hotels in Avenidas Novas
- Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon (€€€) – This landmark luxury property delivers an elegant and serene stay with a strong focus on comfort and service. Rooms are expansive and classically styled, many with sweeping city or park views. Guests can enjoy a renowned spa, an indoor pool, and a rooftop fitness track with panoramic scenery. Ideal for travelers seeking refined luxury and a peaceful retreat close to central Lisbon.
- Jupiter Lisboa Hotel (€€) – A modern hotel known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent amenities. Rooms are comfortable and contemporary, while highlights include a rooftop pool, spa facilities, and a well regarded breakfast. This is a great mid range choice for travelers who value comfort, wellness features, and good transport connections.
- Ibis Styles Lisboa Centro Marquês de Pombal (€) – A colorful and budget friendly option offering clean and functional rooms with playful design touches. Breakfast is included and public spaces feel bright and welcoming. Well suited for travelers looking for reliable comfort, good value, and a practical base for exploring the city.
9. Avenida da Liberdade, a central and elegant area with major international fashion brands
Avenida da Liberdade is not a neighborhood but a wide boulevard. Often compared to the Champs Élysées, it stretches for about one and a half kilometers from Praça Marquês de Pombal to Praça dos Restauradores in the Baixa area.
Many national festivals and public celebrations take place here, including Carnival and religious events. The avenue is also the center of luxury shopping in Lisbon, with five star hotels and high end restaurants.
Tree lined paths run along both sides of the ninety meter wide avenue, creating a pleasant setting for walking and window shopping. Here you can find international fashion brands such as Gucci, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada.
Along the avenue there are also impressive nineteenth century buildings and wide sidewalks decorated with the traditional black and white mosaic patterns typical of Lisbon.
If shopping is not your priority, you can walk to the nearby Parque Eduardo VII, the largest park in Lisbon. The park includes three large greenhouses with exotic plants from around the world. At the top of the park there is a monument commemorating the April 25 Revolution and a viewpoint. Inside the park you will also find the restaurant Praia no Parque.
Between Avenida da Liberdade and Parque Eduardo VII, in the Santo António district, lies Praça do Marquês de Pombal. At its center stands a forty meter high column dedicated to the Marquis of Pombal, built between 1917 and 1934.
At the top of the column is a bronze statue of the Marquis with a lion at his feet, symbolizing power. A female figure at the base represents rebuilt Lisbon, looking toward the Baixa Pombalina area that was reconstructed after the earthquake of 1755 under the leadership of the Marquis.
Accommodation around Avenida da Liberdade is generally not budget friendly. However, in the nearby Santo António area it is possible to find more affordable options. If your budget allows, this central and elegant area is ideal for a special stay in Lisbon.
Best Hotels in Avenida da Liberdade
- Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa (€€€) – This iconic luxury hotel combines classic elegance with modern comfort along one of Lisbon’s most prestigious avenues. Rooms are spacious and refined, many with city or river views, and the property features a pool, spa, and multiple dining options. It is a strong choice for travelers who want high end service, timeless style, and a central address.
- TURIM Boulevard Hotel (€€€) – A contemporary hotel with bold design and a lively atmosphere, offering stylish rooms with modern finishes. Highlights include a rooftop pool and bar that provide sweeping city views, perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. Well suited for travelers who enjoy modern luxury with a social edge.
- BessaHotel Liberdade (€€) – This modern and comfortable hotel focuses on functionality and understated design. Rooms are well equipped and soundproofed, ensuring a restful stay, while amenities like a fitness area and restaurant add convenience. A solid mid range option for travelers looking for comfort, reliability, and easy access to the city.
10. Belem, a historic neighborhood ideal for sunsets
Belém is located about five kilometers west of Lisbon’s historic center, along the banks of the Tagus River. Although it is not in the city center, it is well connected by public transport and is a good option for travelers looking for a quieter place to stay.
With its many museums and historic sites, impressive architecture, scenic walks along the river, and a selection of good restaurants, many visitors choose to spend part of their stay in Belem.
This area played an important role during the sixteenth century, when Portuguese explorers set out from here to discover sea routes to East Africa, Brazil, and India. Many of Belem’s grand buildings still reflect its rich colonial past.
One of the most famous landmarks is the Torre de Belém, a fortified tower built in the sixteenth century on the riverbank. It was used as a lookout point and part of the city’s defense system.
Another major attraction is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This large sixteenth century monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline style, a richly decorated form of Portuguese Gothic architecture.
Nearby, you can also see the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a monument honoring thirty three navigators who played a role in Portugal’s maritime discoveries.
Belem also offers activities beyond monuments. From here, you can take a boat trip on the Tagus River or visit the Centro Cultural de Belém. Art lovers can explore the Museu Coleção Berardo, which displays around nine hundred works of modern and contemporary art, as well as the MAAT.
A visit to Belem would not be complete without tasting a pastel de nata. This famous custard tart, sprinkled with cinnamon, was created in the seventeenth century by monks from the Jerónimos Monastery and remains one of Portugal’s most popular treats.
Belem is also one of the best areas in Lisbon to watch the sunset, especially along the riverfront. If you do not mind the extra travel time, which can increase during the busy summer months, you will find a good range of accommodation options in Belem for different budgets.
Best Hotels in Belem
- Palacio do Governador (€€€) – Set inside a beautifully restored historic building, this refined stay blends heritage architecture with contemporary design. Rooms and suites are spacious and elegant, while highlights include a serene spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a polished restaurant. It is ideal for travelers seeking a calm and luxurious atmosphere with strong attention to detail.
- Hotel Jeronimos 8 (€€) – This modern boutique style property offers sleek and comfortable rooms designed for relaxed city stays. Guests appreciate the quiet ambiance, attentive service, and thoughtful amenities that make it easy to unwind after sightseeing. Its walkable surroundings and transport connections add to the overall convenience.
- Setubalense (€) – A simple and affordable option focused on practicality and location. Rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, making it a good base for short stays. Best suited for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring the city rather than at the hotel.
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