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Finding a great location to stay can be quite daunting in Portugal’s capital and largest city. To help you get the most out of your Lisbon trip, we prepared this guide with the best areas to stay in Lisbon for food lovers.
We stayed in Lisbon for several weeks, walking and eating our way through Portugal’s capital 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 tourist 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.
Lisbon is the perfect place to visit all year round, offering almost 300 sunny days every year.
Here are our recommendations on where to stay in Lisbon based on location, neighborhoods and the local food scene.
Finding the Best Places to Stay in Lisbon for Food Lovers
Lisbon has a compact city center with charming, narrow cobbled lanes where you’ll find most of the main attractions. Baixa and Chiado are two neighborhoods in the city center to consider.
For alternative areas outside the center and still very close to the core, check Bairro Alto. This is where to stay in Lisbon if you’re looking for lively nightlife.
Graca and Penha de Franca embody the old Lisbon with hilly and quirky streets and steep staircases. This area is best for renting apartments at affordable rates.
If you want to stay and live like a local in Lisbon, Campo de Ourique will suit you best.
Finally, for a trendy and artsy neighborhood with quirky shops and a nice organic market, Príncipe Real is the place to be.
AUTHENTIC 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 – Best Areas to Stay in Lisbon For First Time Visitors
Baixa and Chiado are the most well-known areas in central Lisbon. These neighborhoods are centrally located and close to many sites and attractions.
In the Baixa District, 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 what meal of the day it is.
Coffee and pastry shops in the area offer local pastries and pasteis de nata at almost any time of the day.
When visiting Lisbon, don’t miss Manteigaria, considered by some 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 could keep you coming back every day of your Lisbon trip.
Where to Stay in Lisbon City Center – Baixa and Chiado for Food Lovers
Baixa and Chiado are among the most family-friendly areas in Lisbon and they offer many options for your Lisbon stay.
From affordable hotels to boutique hotels, there is something for everyone. Here are three recommendations ranging from the most affordable to the most luxurious hotel.
Be Poet Baixa Hotel – Mid-Range Hotel
With a prime location on the main pedestrian street of Lisbon’s city center, Be Poet Baixa Hotel is a small and quaint boutique hotel.
You can taste Portuguese delicacies on site and start the day with an amazing, fresh breakfast to fill you up before your short walk to one of many Lisbon attractions.
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 luxurious hotel is ideally located on the Corpo Santo Square, a great starting point for exploring the city.
The modern rooms in this 5-star hotel embrace the city’s history and 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 a romantic dinner or sunset drinks on their rooftop bar.
Conveniently located by the Baixa-Chiado metro station, you have easy access to public transport to explore Lisbon.
Prices start at $304 a night for a double room.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
2- Bairro Alto – Best Area To Stay in Lisbon For The Nightlife
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’s 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 many local designer boutiques.
The city is old fashioned, but the lively nightlife that has developed around the area means that you will find endless fun and entertainment at all hours.
Where to Stay in Bairro Alto for Food Lovers
Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments – Budget Apartments
Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments offers bright studios with fully equipped kitchens. If you choose, you can also have breakfast served in your studio apartment.
These spotless apartments are not noisy at night. They are far enough away 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 offers hotel rooms with balconies in a unique and artsy atmosphere.
A fresh breakfast buffet with local dishes is served everyday in the living room. Located in the peaceful side of Bairro Alto, this hotel provides a relaxing retreat after a day of sightseeing in the great city of Lisbon.
Prices start at $149 a night for a double room.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hotels check: Booking.com
RELATED: 10 Best Lisbon Wine Tours: From Winery Visits To Porto Tasting
The Lumiares Hotel and Spa – Luxury Hotel
The Luminaries Hotel and Spa is a stylish boutique hotel featuring different size apartments, all equipped with a kitchen.
The rooftop bar and restaurant sits at the top of the hotel and provides 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 Franca – Best Area to Stay in Lisbon On A Budget
In the Graça and Penha de França neighborhoods, it is not uncommon to sit outside and enjoy a coffee while conversing with store owners. These charming areas have an authentic vibe and you’ll find many local places to stay in Lisbon.
The cafes and eateries are known for their local fish and sparkling Portuguese Sangria. Be sure not to miss out on enjoying the delicious Portuguese food on an outdoor patio.
Most of the Graça district can be reached on foot. Although, you can also enjoy a ride on the popular Lisbon Tram 28 line.
With narrow streets full of small boutiques, cafes and pastry shops, this is one of the best areas to book your holiday apartment. As you explore, you will be walking under hanging laundry and enjoying soulful Fado music which will be drifting from the cafes and bars.
This is one of the oldest areas in the city, but it’s still very lively. It is also one of the best areas to admire the Tagus River views.
While Graca is lively with tourists, Penha de França is a more local neighborhood with great local restaurants. One of the most popular is Cervejarai Ramiro, known for its seafood platters.
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 bet.
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.
READ MORE: To find out what and where to eat in Lisbon, read our article about the 15 Authentic Restaurants to Eat like a Local in Lisbon.
Where to Stay in Graça and Penha de França for Food Lovers
WC by The Beautique Hotels – Boutique Hotel at Budget Price
WC by The Beautique Hotels is just a minute walk from the historic downtown area. The modern rooms are soundproofed and beautifully furnished.
This hotel is convenient to the metro station, as well as the famous Avenida da Liberdade where you can shop in some of Lisbon’s most luxurious designer boutiques.
There are many restaurants within a five to ten minute walk from the hotel, and Bairro Alto’s party district is only a mile away.
Prices start at $107 per night for a double room.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments check: Booking.com
Lisbon Lights Apartments – Mid-Range Apartment
Nestled amongst the hills, Lisbon Lights Apartments is a wonderful place to stay in Lisbon – just a short walk to the Alfama District.
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Here you’ll find a maze of cobbled, narrow streets, medieval alleys and outstanding views.
There are many incredible restaurants in the area, and you can also take a gourmet food tour in Alfama. You’ll visit wine bars, sample charcuterie, and enjoy local pastries while learning about Lisbon’s history.
Apartments also feature a kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, making it easy to buy fresh, local food and cook at home.
Prices start at $133 per night for an apartment with a terrace.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments check: Booking.com
Graça – Castle | Lisbon Cheese & Wine Apartments
Graça – Castle offers beautifully decorated units with spacious rooms and a perfect location near Lisbon city center. Some apartments have river views.
These apartments are ideally located near Castelo de São Jorge, the National Pantheon and the Portas do Sol viewpoint.
And, yes, they give you Portuguese wine and cheese upon arrival!
Prices start at $160 a night for a two-bedroom apartment.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments check: Booking.com
4- Campo de Ourique – Best Area to Stay in Lisbon Like A Local
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” and a foodie paradise. It is an area best known by locals where new food concepts are tested and launched.
Visiting the Mercado de Campo de Ourique is a must during your stay in Lisbon. This market opened in 1934 and offers some of the best fresh fish and vegetables in the area.
You can shop for and cook your own products or you can eat at any of the unique eateries and bars that have a home in the area.
Campo de Ourique is a very pleasant neighborhood to live in and still undiscovered by most visitors. It retains a very 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.
Where to Stay in Campo de Ourique for Food Lovers
Apartamento Arrabida
Located on a quiet street, Apartamento Arrabida is perfect for those who want a laid-back stay in Lisbon.
The apartment is in a residential area, but only a few blocks from shops, restaurants and the Tram 28 so you can easily get to other Lisbon neighborhoods. It also offers a sunny terrace and free garage parking.
Prices start at $98 a night for the entire apartment.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar apartments 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 bus and metro 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 atmosphere, away from the bustling capital city.
The decor is contemporary and the stylish rooms offer 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
5- Príncipe Real – Best Area to Stay in Lisbon For Artsy Lovers
Príncipe Real is the trendiest area to stay in when you visit Lisbon and it has been described as one of the “coolest” neighborhoods.
You will find some of the coolest 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.
Principe 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.
Where to Stay in Príncipe Real for Food Lovers
Flores Guest House – Budget Accommodation
Flores Guest House offers rooms, studios and apartments, some fully equipped with a kitchen.
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 $75 a night for a double room.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Casa C’Alma – Mid-Range Accommodation
Casa C’Alma has five contemporary rooms offering a peaceful, relaxing place to stay in Lisbon. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, but still be near all the action.
The guesthouse is located on a lovely piazza in the heart of Principe Real, where you’ll find a wine bar and several coffee shops and trendy restaurants nearby.
Casa C’Alma is a ten minute walk from the Lisbon city center and continental breakfast is included each morning.
Prices start at $111 a night for a double room.
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
Have you been to Lisbon? What is your favorite neighborhood and best place to stay in Lisbon? Please tell us in the comments below.
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Claire is co-founder of Authentic Food Quest and a lover of simple and exquisite cuisine. Since 2015, with her partner, Rosemary, she has been traveling the world as a digital nomad, creating content about local food experiences.
Her advice from visiting 45 countries and more than 240 food cities has been featured in Lonely Planet, Business Insider, Honest Cooking, Food Insider, and Huffington Post. She has also co-authored three books, including one in collaboration with Costa Brava Tourism.
An ex-mechanical engineer, Claire is responsible for SEO, keeping the website running, and the fun food & travel videos on YouTube.
When Claire is not eating, she can be found running or cycling. Find out more about Authentic Food Quest
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 🙂
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 🙂
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.
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 🙂
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 🙂
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.
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 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.
The food sounds amazing, thank you for this guide
I am such a good lover and Lisbon looks beautiful. I may have to add this to my future travels!