Deciding the best place to stay in Lisbon isn’t actually that difficult. Depending on what you’re looking for during your stay in the vibrant Portuguese capital, you’ll either want to be in the history rich Baixa and Chiado areas, or the nightlife lover’s Bairro Alto.
Really, the best place to stay in Lisbon depends on your tastes. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest and most vibrant capitals, with amazing history, beautiful architecture, fantastic Portuguese foods, thumping nightlife and nearby beaches.
It often ranks amongst the most desirable cities to live in and visit. There are so many different areas of Lisbon to choose from, but they can be roughly broken down into a few categories of interest: history & culture, romance, shopping & nightlife.
In this guide, we’ll help you choose the absolute best place to stay in Lisbon, based on your interests and plans for your visit!
Best Place to Stay in Lisbon For History & Culture
If you’re looking to experience the rich history and culture of Portugal, then Lisbon is one of the best places to do so. The best place to stay in Lisbon for history & culture is actually a tie between ancient Belem and Baixa (downtown).
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Belem is home to the beautifully ornate Jerónimos monastery, which sits in the center of many of the city’s other main historical monuments and museums. Don’t miss the Maritime Museum, Torre de Belem Tower and Berardo Collection modern art gallery.
See Also: Best Off-track Museums in Europe
Baixa is Lisbon’s main city center and is where you’ll find some of the city’s most intriguing squares like Figueira, Rossio and riverfront Praça do Comércio. Many of the area’s historical building have since been turned into hotels, hostels, guest houses and shops, giving travellers the opportunity to see the inner workings of these architectural classics.
Nearby Chaido comes in as a runner up for the best place to stay in Lisbon for history as it has excellent shopping as well.
See Also: Finding The Hidden Treasures of Europe
The Best Place in Lisbon For Romance
If you’ve ever seen a picture of Lisbon, whether it be of the waterfront or of the historical center, you can probably tell that it’s a pretty romantic place to be. But if you’re looking for the best place to stay in Lisbon for romance, it’s got to be Alfama.
This is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon and it consists of a mesmerizing labyrinth of old homes and narrow cobbled stone alleyways all climbing up the tall hill towards the São Jorge Castle. This is the best area to get lost in, so take your significant other and simply lose yourself in the maze that is Alfama.
While you’re adrift in the sea of zig-zagging back streets, try to visit the São Jorge Castle, Se Cathedral, the National Pantheon and Saint Anthony’s Church.
There are quite a few hotels in Alfama and the fun of getting lost here makes it the best place to stay in Lisbon, in our opinion.
The Best Place to Stay in Lisbon for Shopping
If you’re looking to max out your credit cards and fill bags full of designer fashion, then the best place to stay in Lisbon for you is definitely around Avenida da Liberdade. This kilometer and a half long strip of shops is where you’ll find Portugal’s most expensive real estate and it’s most luxurious designer boutiques.
Perhaps it’s no surprise then that many of the hotels near Avenida da Liberdade are quite expensive, although you can find some great deals on places that are $80 per night or less that are just a few minutes walk away.
Note: Avenida da Liberdade may be the best place to stay in Lisbon for shopping, but it also links Restauradores & Marquis of Pombal Squares, two great places for walking.
The Best Place to Stay in Lisbon For Nightlife
This is an easy one actually. The best place to stay in Lisbon for nightlife (by far) is Bairro Alto. Long known as the city’s bohemian neighbourhood, this perfect city grid of bars, night clubs, restaurants and graffiti clad walls is Lisbon’s social center.
The music and dancing goes into the wee hours of the morning in this nocturnal district, but if you visit during the day it has a totally different character. Much like many of the residents and visitors to this part of the city, Bairro Alto sleeps during the day and parties all night.
The Best Place to Stay in Lisbon Outside Of The City
If you’re looking for a quieter Lisbon experience, or maybe just a couple days outside of the city during your stay, consider checking out the Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort just an hour outside of the capital.
The resort boasts an 18-hole golf course, a swimming pool, a fitness centre and a spa, giving travellers the opportunity to stay in style.
The Best Place to Stay in Lisbon is Wherever You Choose
Lisbon truly is one of the most charismatic cities in all of Europe. Most visitors instantly fall under its enchanting spell and one thing is for sure, after a couple of days, you won’t want to leave. The best place to stay in Lisbon really depends on what you’re looking for. Whether you want a romantic dinner for two, a day of golfing outside of the city or to party until the sun comes up, Lisbon has you covered.
What do you think the best place to stay in Lisbon is? Please share with us in the comments below!
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