Lisbon, a city that is an absolute must-visit on any Portugal trip is a sprawling city with many districts that makes it hard to decide where to stay in Lisbon.
This hipster and artistic city is filled with many attractions that stretch across the entire city so finding a place to stay near public transport is necessary.
Forgot about spending hours doing the research yourself, I’ve picked some of the best places to stay in Lisbon from budget accommodation in Lisbon hostels to Lisbon apartments that are more budget-friendly and the best luxury hotels in Lisbon. All are amongst the top hotels in Lisbon within your budget.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links which I earn a small commission from and are at no additional cost to you and help keep this site running. All images used in this article are from Booking.com.
Best Area to Stay in Lisbon
Chiado
BEST FOR: Being in the centre of the action
Chiado is one of the most popular areas as it’s one of the most central places to stay in Lisbon. It’s in the centre of all of Lisbon’s main areas that are within walking distance, has plenty of attractions around, shopping and restaurants.
TOP PICKS FOR CHIADO
- Luxury: Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel
- Mid-Range: Hotel Borges Chiado
- Budget: Lost Inn Lisbon
Baixa
BEST FOR: Walking and being in the city centre
There’s no doubt that you’ll see the name of this neighbourhood plenty in your research for Lisbon. The area has been revamped over the last few years and is a collection of straight streets that are low (what Baixa means). It’s a great place to walk and have easy access to transportation for further exploration.
TOP PICKS FOR BAIXA
- Luxury: Altis Avenida Hotel
- Mid-Range: Grande Pensao Residencial Alcobia
- Budget: Living Lounge Hostel
Alfama
BEST FOR: Authentic Lisbon living
Alfama is a charming area of Lisbon that is a truly authentic place to stay in Lisbon. If you want a neighbourhood that feels more local then Alfama is a top choice, though don’t say I didn’t warn you that it is quite a walk up some of the hills here! Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district and thus cobblestone streets fill the area but be aware that some streets are not accessible for cars and though the #28 tram makes it way through this part of the city transport isn’t as easily accessed as others. It is a more quiet area to stay so if you’re fine with walking then you will be okay as it’s still very close to other popular parts of Lisbon.
TOP PICKS FOR ALFAMA
- Luxury: Eurostars Museum
- Mid-Range: Lisbon Lounge Suites
- Budget: Rodamon Lisboa Hostel
Bairro Alto
BEST FOR: Nightlife
If you love to party the Bairro Alto is the place for you. There are still a number of quiet streets in the area too so it doesn’t have to be ruled out if you don’t like to party. During the day there isn’t much to the area but it is still close and within walking distance to plenty of attractions and top areas such as Principe Real.
TOP PICKS FOR BAIRRO ALTO
- Luxury: Bairro Alto Hotel
- Mid-Range: Le Consulat
- Budget: Selina Secret Garden Lisbon
Principe Real
BEST FOR: Tourist & local living
Pricinipe Real is the latest up and coming neighbourhood in Lisbon that visitors are making their way into. Principe Real sits just north of the popular Bairro Alto, Chiado and Baixa areas but has a more local feel with boutique shops, trendy, hipster cafes and parks. Its location means that you’ll still be within walking distance of the city’s must-see sites, including nightlife, but it’s quiet enough that you won’t have to worry about being disturbed during your beauty sleep.
TOP PICKS FOR PRINCIPE REAL
- Luxury: Memmo Principe Real
- Mid-Range: Caso Do Principe
- Budget: Flores Guest House
Best Mid-Range Lisbon Accommodation
These are the best hotels in Lisbon that won’t break your budget. Most Lisbon hotels under €100 are outside of the city centre, but these hotels are steals for their location.
Lisbon Lounge Suites
Not a hotel, Lisbon Lounge Suites are instead apartments right in the centre of the Alfama district, a perfect location for exploring many of Lisbon’s best areas and the old city. The apartments are elegant enough that you will feel like you’re in a hotel. They are modern and are equipped with a full kitchen. Some ever offer views overlooking Tagus River. Many restaurants are close by and a tram runs literally right in front of this Lisbon accommodation.
Hotel Borges Chiado
Hotel Borges Chiado is located in a top Lisbon district, Chiado, an area that is only a minutes walk to where you can listen to Fado music, find shopping and plenty of options to eat. Guests can enjoy the elegantly designed rooms of their boutiqye hotel, the fitness centre and the outdoor terrace. Room service is available and some rooms feature balconies.
Grande Pensao Residencial Alcobia
Grande Pensao Residencial Alcobia is yet another place with a great location and one of the top places to stay in the Lisbon city centre. It’s 250m to Rossio metro station for exploring further but close-by is Figueira Square and Lisbon Cathedral as well as many options for dining. Simple rooms are provided with wooden furniture and warm tones. Stay here and you’ll easily be able to explore the old city and beyond.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Find more hostel options on Booking.com.
Best Luxury Lisbon Accommodation
These top accommodation options in Lisbon are luxurious, modern and totally chic. These are all five-star hotels in Lisbon.
Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel
Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical hotel is easily one of the best hotels in the Lisbon city centre, close to some of the best districts such as Rossio and Bairro Alto. Views from this 5-star hotel overlook 17th century buildings and the river in the distance. There is a restaurant on-site, a fitness centre and a bar. Many guests rated its location as one of the best in Lisbon with excellent food.
EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel
One look at the rooftop infinity pool and the cool elegance of the rooftop design paired with the incredible view over Lisbon’s orange coloured roofs and you’ll want to stay here. Just outside of the city centre in the upscale district of Amoreiras, EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel is perfect for those who want luxury without a heavy price tag. A bar, restaurant and spa are on-site with guests rating the breakfast as superb.
MYRIAD by SANA Hotels
Though not in the city centre, this luxurious getaway couldn’t be passed up as an option for those living on the finer side of life as it puts up a fair fight for the title of best hotel in Lisbon. The hotel presents itself gracefully overlooking the Tagus River as a modern and contemporary hotel with panoramic views. Everything about the hotel is chic including the on-site amenities such as the restaurant and bar, indoor pool, spa, terrace and more.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Find more hostel options on Booking.com.
Best Budget Lisbon Accommodation
These are just some of the best hostels in Lisbon that are centrally located, boutique styles and have all of the amenities you’ll need plus they’re cheap hostels in Lisbon.
Living Lounge Hostel
The best place to stay in Lisbon on a budget that’s in the city centre is Living Lounge Hostel, where I personally stayed and loved. The location is in a prime spot with minimal noise and within easy walking distance of a number of attractions as well as across the street from a metro station.
It’s a boutique-style with each room designed by different artists but still prioritizing comfort. The best highlight is the dinners held every night for only €10 where you can meet other travellers and chat.
Yes! Lisbon Hostel
Yes! Lisbon Hostel also has a city hostel in Porto that is just as popular and highly rated. This hostel too has a prime location within walking distance of many attractions. It’s easy to meet friends in the lobby, at the bar or during one of the free events held such as walking tours and pub crawls. Hostel dinners are made here as well for €10 with amazing food.
Lost Inn Lisbon
Located in the Chiado district, possibly the best area to stay in Lisbon, the Lost Inn Lisbon is close to the famous Pink Street, bars and top Lisbon attractions that are all within walking distance. It’s very trendy and fun with its chic yet casual decor, vaulted ceilings and overall modern look. Breakfast is included, there is a common area as well as a reading area and the rooms are comfortable.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Find more hostel options on Booking.com.
FAQ
Which is the best area to stay in Lisbon?
That is really based on personal preference. If you want a central neighbourhood choose something in the Baixa-Chiado area. If you want a more quiet neighbourhood opt for Alfama or Principe Real.
Where should I stay in Lisbon for the first time?
If you like being in the city centre and want to be close to all of the main attractions then without a doubt the Baixa-Chiado area is a top choice for you.
What is the most central place to stay in Lisbon?
Baixa-Chiado and Barrio Alto are the most sought after central places to stay in Lisbon.
Is Lisbon a walkable city?
Absolutely! Keep in mind that Lisbon is a large city so walking to some areas it a trek but for the most part, all of the must-see Lisbon attractions are within walking distance of one another. Also note that Lisbon has a lot of hills, bring comfy shoes!
How many days do you need in Lisbon?
My personal recommendation is 3-4 days. This gives you enough time to explore a few parts of Lisbon at a leisurely pace and also time for a day trip to the popular Sintra. My detailed Lisbon guide breaks down how to spend 3-4 days in the city.