Sunny Lisbon is the perfect place to visit all year round offering almost 300 sunny days every year.
Finding the best area to stay in Lisbon can be quite daunting in Portugal’s capital and largest city.
Lisbon can be easily navigated by foot and using public transportation.
For the most part, the city is relatively safe, especially in the popular and touristic areas.
Each barrio or neighborhood has its own unique character and charm. And in each barrio, you’ll find amazing local establishments serving the very best Portuguese specialties.
To help you get the most out of your trip, we’ve prepared this guide with the best areas to stay in Lisbon for food lovers.
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Finding the Best Area to Stay in Lisbon for Food Lovers
Lisbon has a compact city center where you’ll find most of the main attractions. Baixa and Chiado are two neighborhoods in the city center to consider.
For alternatives areas outside the center and still very close to the core, check Bairro Alto, known for having a great nightlife.
For a trendy and artsy neighborhood with a nice organic market, Principe Real is the best area to stay in Lisbon.
If you want to stay and live like a local in Lisbon, Campo de Ourique will suit you best.
Finally, Graca and Penha de Franca embody the old Lisbon with hilly and quirky streets and steep staircases. This is one of the best area to stay in Lisbon for renting apartments at affordable rates.
1: Baixa & Chiado, 2: Bairro Alto, 3: Graca & Penha da Franca, 4: Campo de Ourique, 5: Principe RealAuthentic Food Quest Tip: To explore the city and make the most of your visit to Lisbon, we recommend getting a Lisboa Card. It is an official city pass that offers many benefits and discounts on transportation, museums and cultural sites in Lisbon and the surrounding region.
1- Baixa and Chiado
Baixa and Chiado are the most well known areas in Lisbon to visit. These neighborhoods are centrally located and close to many sites and attractions.
Notably in Baixa, you will find the Elevador de Santa Justa, an iron built elevator connecting the lower streets to the higher part of Lisbon.
You will also find the main plazas Praça do Comércio and Rossio.
Visiting Chiado means giving yourself the option of indulging in some of the best food, no matter the time of day.
At coffee and pastry shops, you’ll find local treats including the famous s pasteis de nata almost any time of the day.
Don’t miss Manteigeria, considered by some as the best shop for Pasteis de Nata in Portugal.
You will also find gourmet restaurants in Baixa and Chiado such as Cantinho do Avillez, one of the most famous restaurants by the Portuguese top chef.
If you prefer to sample diverse local foods and taste meals from local and prestigious Portuguese restaurants, go to Mercado da Ribeira.
Also known as the Time Out Market, this spacious market with numerous options will keep you coming back every day of your Lisbon trip.
Praça do Comércio also known as Terreiro do PaçoWhere to Stay in Lisbon City Center – Baixa and Chiado for Food Lovers
Baixa and Chiado are family-friendly areas with many options for your Lisbon stay.
From affordable hotels to boutique luxury hotels, the options abound. Here are three recommendations ranging from affordable to luxurious options.
Be Poet Baixa Hotel – Mid-Range Hotel
With a prime location on the main pedestrian street of Lisbon city center, Be Poet Baixa Hotel is a small and quaint boutique hotel.
Taste Portuguese delicacies on sites and start the day with an amazing fresh breakfast to fill you up for your Lisbon visit.
Prices start at $119 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
Corpo Santo Lisbon Historic Hotel – Luxury Hotel
This elegant hotel is ideally located on the Corpo Santo Square, a great starting point for exploring the city.
This 5-star boutique hotel combines history and modernity with a Pombaline architecture making each room unique.
With a gourmet restaurant, Corpo Santo Lisbon Historic Hotel offers Portuguese local delicacies anytime of the day.
Prices start at $259 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
Hotel do Chiado – Luxury Hotel
Hotel do Chiado is a charming hotel with a terrace offering amazing views overlooking the city. It is a great place for sunset drinks or a romantic dinner.
Conveniently located by the Baixa-Chiado metro station, you are ideally located to easily get around the city.
Prices start at $304 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
Lots of Portuguese bacalhau dishes at the trendy Time Out Market2- Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is known as the upper town of Lisbon. With its hilly streets and narrow stairs, it is a great place to try one of Lisbon funiculars.
It is also one of the liveliest neighborhoods at night. Many locals and tourists alike come here to listen to traditional Portuguese Fado music at night.
The streets are filled with restaurant terraces in a neighborhood that’s mostly reserved for pedestrians.
During the day, you can go shopping at the local boutique shops.
With the lively nightlife, you will find endless fun and entertainment at all hours.
Ascensor da Bica one of the most picturesque funicular in LisbonWhere to Stay in Bairro Alto for Food Lovers
Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments – Budget Apartments
Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments offer brights studios with fully equipped kitchen. If you choose, you can also have breakfast served in your studio apartment.
These spotless apartments are quiet at night. They are far enough so you can sleep comfortably at night, yet within walking distance to the Bairro Alto nightlife.
Prices start at $86 a night for the entire studio
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar options check: Booking.com
Casa das Janelas com Vista – Mid-range Hotel
Casa das Janelas com Vista is a boutique hotel offering rooms with balcony in a unique and artsy atmosphere.
A freshly breakfast buffet, with local dishes, is served everyday in the living room. Located in the peaceful side of Bairro Alto, this hotel provides a great retreat after a day of sightseeing in Lisbon.
Prices start at $149 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
The Lumiares Hotel and Spa – Luxury Hotel
The Luminaries Hotel and Spa is a stylish boutique hotel featuring different size apartments, all equipped with kitchens.
The rooftop bar and restaurant provide fantastic views across the city. This is a great place to take in breakfast and the views in the morning.
Prices start at $452 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
3- Graca and Penha de França
In the Graça and Penha de França neighborhoods, it is not uncommon to sit outside and enjoy coffee while chatting with store owners.
These charming areas have an authentic vibe and you’ll find many local places to stay in Lisbon.
Most of the Graça district can be explored on foot. Although, you can also enjoy a ride on the popular Lisbon Tram 28 line.
The streets are narrow and full of small boutiques, cafes and pastry shops.
You will be walking under hanging laundry and enjoying soulful Fado music drifting from cafes and bars.
This is one of the oldest and liveliest areas in the city. It is also one of the best areas to stay in Lisbon and take in the city the view and the Tagus River.
While Graca is lively with tourist, Penha de França is a more local neighborhood with great local restaurants.
You’ll find a great indoor market called Mercado de Penha de Franca, where you can find local fish and vegetables.
If you are looking for affordable places to stay, Penha de Franca will be your best area to stay in Lisbon.
When it comes to accommodations, Graca and Penha de Franca are the ideal neighborhoods to rent apartments. Hotels are in limited supply and not the most economical choice.
Related: For restaurants in Lisbon, read our article about the 10 Authentic Restaurants to Eat like a Local in Lisbon
View of Lisbon from Graca Where to Stay in Graça and Penha de França for Food Lovers
Cristina’s Airbnb Apartment – Budget Room
Staying with locals via Airbnb is a great way to learn about the local food culture.
In Lisbon, we had a wonderful stay at Cristina’s Airbnb. We highly recommend her place in the Penha de França neighborhood, as one of the best area to stay in Lisbon.
Prices start at $40 for a double room
See prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments check: Airbnb
Photographer’s house in Graça – Budget Apartment
With a fully equipped kitchen and a cozy apartment with a balcony, the Photographer’s house offers the perfect home away from home.
Prices start at $61 a night for the entire apartment
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments check: Booking.com
Graca Riverview II – Mid-Range Apartment
If you are looking to enjoy the sunset over Lisbon with a glass of Vinho Verde, look no further.
Graca Riverview II offers a splendid rooftop terrace with river views where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese meals.
Prices start at $73 a night for the entire apartment
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments check: Booking.com
Take the tram 28 to visit Graca4- Campo de Ourique
Campo de Ourique is located 15 minutes west from downtown, at the end of the popular Tram 28 line.
This charming neighborhood is a “city within Lisbon.” It is a foodie paradise and the best area to stay in Lisbon for innovative cuisine. According to locals, it is the area where new food concepts are tested and launched.
Visiting the Mercado de Campo de Ourique is a must. This market opened in 1934 and offers some of the best fresh fish, vegetables, fruits and more in the area.
You can shop for and cook your own produce or you can eat at any of the unique eateries and bars.
Campo de Ourique is our favorite area to stay in Lisbon. Undiscovered by most visitors, it has a local vibe while being close to the main attractions in Lisbon.
If we were to live in Lisbon, this is the neighborhood we would consider calling home.
Mercado de Campo de Ourique opens everydayAuthentic Food Quest Tip: To help you navigate this neighborhood, we recommend taking a Cultural Walk & Food Tour with Taste of Lisboa. You will discover the unique local spots with a local and learn about Portuguese cuisine.
Where to Stay in Campo de Ourique for Food Lovers
Dom Dinis Studios – Mid-Range Accommodation
Dom Dinis Studios offers cozy studios conveniently located next to the metro station. A delicious breakfast is served in the rooms every morning.
The studios are beautifully decorated and some have balconies to enjoy the views of Campo de Ourique.
You will be welcomed by the wonderful hospitality of the host with local Portuguese treats.
Prices start at $112 a night for the entire studio.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar options check: Booking.com
The Postcard Lisbon – Mid-Range Accommodation
This recently refurbished bed and breakfast in a historic building combines a minimalist style with Portuguese elements.
The Postcard Lisbon is located along the metro and bus lines, making it easy to get anywhere in Lisbon.
In the area, you’ll find a wide range of nearby restaurants and cafes.
Prices start at $135 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar options check: Booking.com
Hotel Da Estrela – Mid-Range Accommodation
In Campo de Ourique, Hotel da Estrela offers a charming and serene escape, from the bustling capital city.
The decor is contemporary. In the rooms you’ll find the typical amenities including free wi-fi, private bathrooms with walk in showers and more.
The hotel restaurant serves traditional Portuguese cuisine including the famous conventual desserts. There is also a private garden where you can relax with a glass of wine.
You’re in close proximity to restaurants and shopping and getting around is easy.
Prices start at $141 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar options check: Booking.com
Eat at Pigmeu, a restaurant offering contemporary Portuguese cuisine5- Príncipe Real
Príncipe Real is the trendiest area to stay in Lisbon. It has been described as one of the “coolest” neighborhoods in the city.
You’ll find some of the newest concept stores, art galleries, antiques and boutiques in town.
With restaurants, bars, stores, and art galleries everywhere, there’s a lot to see and taste.
The park, Jardim do Príncipe Real, is one of the main attractions of the area. You will see locals lunching at the outdoor cafes or lounging under the shady trees.
Every Saturday morning is an organic market around the garden where vendors sell their fresh produce, bread, pastries and more.
Príncipe Real offers day and night activities including live music adding a flare to your evenings.
With incredible views of Lisbon, your hotel will show you amazing sights no matter which one you choose.
Have lunch at the cafe at Jardim de Principe RealWhere to Stay in Príncipe Real for Food Lovers
Flores Guest House – Mid-Range Accommodation
Flores Guest House offers rooms, studios and apartments, some with fully equipped kitchens.
A fresh breakfast is served every morning in your room or you can enjoy it on the outdoor patio.
The location is walking distance from the city center, though you can also take the bus or metro.
Prices start at $107 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Your Lisbon Home Príncipe Real – Mid-Range Accommodation
If your are looking to live like a local, check out Your Lisbon Home Príncipe Real.
This is a comfortable and tastefully furnished one bedroom apartment. It is conveniently located next to the Jardim do Príncipe Real.
Prices start at $135 a night for the entire one-bedroom apartment
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Memmo Príncipe Real – Luxury Hotel
Memmo Príncipe Real is a 5-star boutique hotel featuring an outdoor pool and lounge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.
For dinner, the hotel restaurant, Café Príncipe Real, offers Portuguese and international dishes featuring Portugal’s influences around the world, especially in Brazil, Africa and Asia.
Breakfast is served here in the morning exclusively for guests. Light meals are also available for lunch and in the afternoon.
Prices start at $345 a night for a double room
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Enjoy a wonderful stay in LisbonLooking for Where to Stay and Things to Do in Portugal?
Take a look at a few of our top articles to explore the local food in Portugal
Where to Stay in Porto for Food Lovers
Portugal Food and Travel Guide
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Claire, ex-engineer, is a digital nomad and content creator at Authentic Food Quest. Since 2015, with her partner, Rosemary, they travel the world in search of the best local food experiences. Their mission is to help you enjoy the best local specialties on your travels or via recipes in your home kitchen. Favorite country for food: Vietnam. Favorite local dish: Hainanese Chicken Rice. Favorite way to keep fit: Cycling. Claire is responsible for the website and the fun food & travel videos on Youtube. She is also co-author of Authentic Food Quest Argentina and Authentic Food Quest Peru, available on Amazon.
Hi! Welcome to Authentic Food Quest. We are Claire and Rosemary. Our goal is to help you explore local culture through food. As digital nomads, we travel to share authentic food recipes and food guides from around the world so you can savor them during your travels or in your home kitchen.
I am such a good lover and Lisbon looks beautiful. I may have to add this to my future travels!
The food sounds amazing, thank you for this guide
I am sold just on the 300 sunny days a year! Would be awesome to enjoy the sun and check out all the great foodie spots.
Good food is definitely a priority, especially when traveling. Definitely need to bookmark this for future reference, sounds so delicious!
Kileen
Great to hear Kileen. And don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions as you prepare for your Libson trip.
I have such fond memories of the time I spent in Lisbon! The food was so delicious.
Did you have a specific favorite dish, Nadalie? Libson is a great city with much to offer. Cheers.
I’m from Lisbon and you’ve manage to show some places even I didn’t know ? My favorite neighborhood is Principe Real. I really enjoy the park and love the Memmo Principe Real Hotel. You have such a beautiful view from there. So glad you enjoyed the city!
Wonderful to get your feedback Marlene. We also enjoyed the Principe Real neighborhood, especially the green space. Appreciate your feedback, always love hearing from the locals 🙂
We are going back to Lisbon in 2020 so this post is helpful. I love this city and have only explored a little bit so I want to dig in deeper and see more! That plus eat all the amazing food you guys always discover!
Thanks so much Andi. We have a lot of articles about the dishes not to miss in Lisbon and Portugal in general. As you plan for your 2020 trip, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Thanks for your kind words 🙂
Still do not know which to choose from the city center to the Campo de Ourique for local life or old Lisbon!
It is a tough choice, but we do have a bias for Campo de Ourique 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, Carol.
Sounds like you spent some extensive time in Libson! You definitely covered a lot of ground there. Graca and Penha de França would be my preference, but the Photographer’s House in Graca looks like a steal and I love the decor. The whole apartment and a view for 61usd? Sweet! Thanks for the tip.
Glad you liked the article, Vanessa. We truly enjoyed our stay in Portugal and Lisbon in particular. We loved the local feel in Penha de Franca and Graca is very similar. You’ll not go wrong at either place. Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Bacalhau!!!!! So I only had a few hours in Lisbon but had several days in Porto and LOVED eating all the food especially the Bacalhau! So I was discussing travelling to Lisbon Portugal with Darcee cause we are both food lovers being from New Orleans, and now I cant wait to show her this post! I think we would love to stay in Graca because we can double dip with the amazing food but also those views…wow.
Though we may have to stay in Bairro Also because Darcee loves trains and I secretly love the idea of funiculars and that Ascensor da Bica might be one of the coolest ever!
Lisbon is so easy to navigate, Eric so you really can’t go wrong by in either neighborhood. For foodies like us 🙂 Portuguese food delivers and yes, it is all about the bacalhau 🙂
This is the perfect resource for visiting Lisbon. I’m bookmarking for my time in Europe next spring. Thank you for the expertise.
You are most welcome, Elaine. IF you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Cheers.
haven’t been to Lisbon…yet. 🙂 I tend to stay in or near the city center as that’s where most of the attractions are, makes it easier single I’m geographically challenged. 🙂 Sounds like Baixa and Chiado would be good options for me with Chiado for the win for the food.:)
Staying centrally located in a new city is always a good idea. Indeed, staying around Baixa and Chiado is a good idea. We enjoyed the neighborhood. Cheers, Debra.
I spent 5 days in Lisbon but the focus was more on sights around. We did experience the local food there but sadly forgot to keep a record of it. The options you have shared is great.
Thank you Indrani. Save for this article for your next Lisbon trip 🙂 Cheers and thanks for stopping by.
I cannot wait to explore Lisbon and Portugal one day. I’d love to stay like a local in Campo de Ourique and eat all the tasty custard tarts I can get my hands on. I’m glad to read that it’s a foodie paradise and so close to the Mercado too. Visiting a local food market and getting to know vendors is one of my favorite ways to get to know a city. Thanks for these tips!
You are most welcome Claudia. Truly hope you are able to visit Portugal soon. Do hold on to this article for your eventual trip. You will love it. Cheers.