I always pay special attention to the accommodation options available in each city I visit. For first-time visitors to Lisbon, finding a comfortable and conveniently located place to stay is crucial to ensuring a memorable trip. Today, I’m excited to share my experiences in Lisbon and offer a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect place to stay in this charming city.
1. Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Lisbon
Selecting the right neighborhood in Lisbon can greatly enhance your travel experience. Depending on your preferences, here are some of the main areas in the city that I highly recommend.
1.1 Alfama: Where History and Tradition Meet
Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel
Location: Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel is centrally located in Alfama, near the iconic Castelo de São Jorge. From the hotel, it’s easy to walk to major landmarks like Lisbon Cathedral (Sé Cathedral) and the National Pantheon (Panteão Nacional).
Accommodation Experience: This boutique hotel is set within a beautifully restored 15th-century palace, blending historical architecture with modern luxury. The rooms are elegantly decorated, showcasing traditional Portuguese style. The views from the windows are stunning, offering glimpses of the city and the Tagus River. The hotel’s restaurant, Audrey’s, serves exquisite Portuguese cuisine, using fresh ingredients and delivering unique flavors.
Pricing and Offers: Room rates at Santiago de Alfama typically start around €250 per night, depending on the season and room type. The hotel frequently offers special packages, such as romantic getaways or cultural experience bundles, including guided tours of Alfama and exclusive dining experiences.
Recommendation and Experience: My stay at this hotel was truly unforgettable. The blend of history and modernity is impressive, and every corner of the hotel exudes a unique charm. The staff provided personalized recommendations that enhanced my exploration of the city. The prime location and breathtaking views from the room made my stay even more memorable.
Transportation: The hotel is about a 15-20 minute drive from Lisbon Airport, accessible by taxi or Uber. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Terreiro do Paço station and then a tram to Alfama. Bookings can be made through platforms like Booking.com and Expedia.
Palácio Belmonte
Location: Palácio Belmonte is situated atop a hill in Alfama, adjacent to Castelo de São Jorge. It’s a secluded and luxurious retreat with a history dating back to the 15th century.
Accommodation Experience: As a boutique hotel, Palácio Belmonte is renowned for its unique ambiance and historical significance. The hotel has only ten suites, each named after a Portuguese explorer and uniquely designed. The interiors feature original frescoes, antique furniture, and beautiful tiles, creating an atmosphere that is both luxurious and timeless.
Pricing and Offers: As one of Lisbon’s most exclusive hotels, rates at Palácio Belmonte start around €500 per night. The hotel offers bespoke packages, such as private guided tours of Lisbon, gourmet dining experiences, and exclusive access to cultural events.
Recommendation and Experience: Staying at Palácio Belmonte feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern luxury. From the exquisite gardens to the artistic interiors, every detail amazed me. The high-end service and serene environment made my time in Alfama truly relaxing and enjoyable.
Transportation: The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Lisbon Airport, and private transfers can be arranged for a seamless journey. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Martim Moniz station and then a tram to the hotel.
Memmo Alfama Hotel
Location: Memmo Alfama Hotel is centrally located in Alfama, just steps away from Lisbon Cathedral and the Fado Museum.
Accommodation Experience: This modern boutique hotel adds a contemporary touch to the traditional Portuguese hospitality. The rooms are sleek and stylish, with clean lines and neutral tones. The highlight of Memmo Alfama is its rooftop terrace, complete with a pool and panoramic views of the Tagus River—an ideal spot for enjoying a drink at sunset.
Pricing and Offers: Room rates at Memmo Alfama start at around €180 per night. The hotel often provides seasonal discounts, such as long-stay offers or special rates for early bookings.
Recommendation and Experience: Memmo Alfama Hotel perfectly combines modern comfort with traditional culture. The convenient location and modern amenities were key factors in my choice to stay here. The rooftop terrace became my go-to place every day to enjoy the sunset and the city’s stunning views. The warm and attentive service from the staff made me feel truly welcome.
Transportation: The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Lisbon Airport by taxi or Uber. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Santa Apolónia station and walk to the hotel. Bookings can be easily made through the hotel’s website, Booking.com, or Hotels.com.
Alfama is a neighborhood rich in history and culture, where every street tells a story of the past. The three hotels I stayed in—Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel, Palácio Belmonte, and Memmo Alfama Hotel—each offer a unique experience, providing not just comfort but also a deep connection to the Portuguese heritage. Whether you seek luxury, history, or modern comfort, Alfama has a perfect place for you. I highly recommend these hotels to anyone visiting Lisbon, and I hope every traveler has as memorable an experience as I did in this enchanting neighborhood.
1.2 Baixa: The Heart of the City
Baixa is Lisbon’s commercial and financial center, and it’s a popular choice for many visitors. The area is characterized by wide streets, grand squares, and an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and shops. If you enjoy being in the middle of the action, Baixa is the place to be.
I stayed in a modern hotel near the main shopping streets of Baixa, where everything was within walking distance. The hotel’s central location made it easy to explore Lisbon’s main attractions, such as Rossio Square and Praça da Figueira. The convenience of being close to everything allowed me to make the most of my time in the city.
1.3 Bairro Alto: The Vibrant Nightlife Hub
For those who love nightlife, Bairro Alto is the ideal neighborhood. This area comes alive after dark with its many bars, restaurants, and clubs. If you’re a night owl looking to experience Lisbon’s lively bar scene, Bairro Alto won’t disappoint.
I stayed in a stylish boutique hotel located just a few steps away from the busiest streets of Bairro Alto. The hotel’s modern design and comfortable rooms provided a peaceful retreat after a night out. During the day, the neighborhood offered a great opportunity to explore Lisbon’s street art and enjoy a coffee in one of the many trendy cafes.
1.4 Belém: A Blend of History and Modernity
Located in the western part of Lisbon, Belém is home to some of the city’s most famous historical landmarks, such as the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. This area is perfect for history buffs and families looking for a more relaxed environment.
Although there are fewer accommodation options in Belém compared to the city center, the hotels here are of high quality. I stayed at a luxurious riverside hotel that offered stunning views of the Tagus River. The hotel’s excellent amenities and dining options made it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding attractions.
2. Accommodation with Convenient Transportation
When choosing accommodation, the convenience of transportation is another crucial factor. Lisbon’s public transport network is extensive, so no matter where you stay, you can easily reach the city’s top attractions.
2.1 Hotels Near Metro Stations
If you want to make getting around Lisbon as easy as possible, I recommend choosing a hotel near a metro station. Lisbon’s metro system is efficient and covers most of the city, making it easy to explore without the need for a car. I once stayed at a hotel near the Marquês de Pombal metro station, which offered quick access to both the city center and the airport.
2.2 Accommodation Near Train Stations
If you plan to take day trips from Lisbon to nearby destinations like Sintra or Cascais, staying near one of the city’s main train stations is a smart choice. The Santa Apolónia and Oriente train stations are well-connected, and there are several budget-friendly hotels in the vicinity.
3. Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
In addition to luxury and boutique hotels, Lisbon also offers plenty of affordable accommodation options, making it a great destination for budget travelers, backpackers, and students.
3.1 Youth Hostels
Lisbon has a wide variety of youth hostels, ranging from basic dorms to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. These hostels are ideal for solo travelers or groups of friends looking for a social atmosphere. During one of my trips, I stayed at a lively hostel in the heart of Lisbon, where I met fellow travelers from all over the world. The hostel was clean, safe, and incredibly affordable, offering a great balance between price and comfort.
3.2 Guesthouses and Short-Term Rentals
For those who prefer a more home-like experience, Lisbon has an abundance of guesthouses and short-term rental apartments. These accommodations are often run by locals and provide a more personalized experience. I once stayed in a cozy apartment in Alfama, where the host went out of their way to ensure I had everything I needed. They even provided insider tips on the best places to eat and visit, making my stay even more enjoyable.
4. Tips for Booking Accommodation in Lisbon
Over the years, I’ve developed a few tips and tricks for booking accommodation that I’d like to share.
4.1 Book Early
Lisbon is an increasingly popular tourist destination, especially during the spring and summer months. To secure the best deals and avoid disappointment, I always recommend booking your accommodation as early as possible. Popular hotels and guesthouses tend to fill up quickly, particularly during peak travel seasons.
4.2 Compare Prices and Read Reviews
When booking accommodation, I always compare prices across several platforms, such as Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia. Additionally, I make it a point to read guest reviews to get a better sense of what to expect. By doing so, I’ve been able to find great value accommodations that meet my specific needs.
4.3 Consider Additional Amenities
Different travelers have different needs when it comes to amenities. For instance, if you’re traveling with family, you might prioritize accommodations that offer breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. On a recent trip, I stayed at a hotel that provided all these amenities, which made my stay more comfortable and stress-free.
5. Finding the Perfect Place to Stay in Lisbon
Lisbon is a city full of charm and character, and finding the right place to stay can make your visit even more special. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Alfama, the bustling heart of Baixa, the vibrant nightlife of Bairro Alto, or the historic beauty of Belém, there’s an accommodation option that’s perfect for you.
Every neighborhood in Lisbon offers something unique, and each time I return, I discover new places to stay and explore. I hope this accommodation guide helps you find the ideal base for your Lisbon adventure, allowing you to experience the best that this remarkable city has to offer. Enjoy your stay in Lisbon!