Lisbon is a treasure trove of beautiful buildings, colourful facades, and kind locals. When thinking about the best area to stay in Lisbon, there truly are so many to choose from. From the vibrant streets of Principe Real to the historic neighbourhood of Graça and the elegant Avenida da Liberdade – here’s our guide so you experience the city at its best from day one!
Principe Real
This trendy and upscale neighbourhood is nestled between Bairro Alto and São Bento. It’s known for its leafy squares, stylish boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Wander through the Jardim do Principe Real, a picturesque garden boasting exotic plants and a peaceful atmosphere. There is so much for you to explore, from designer stores to vintage boutiques, and many charming cafes. Don’t miss the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for panoramic views of the cityscape and the Tagus River.
Places to visit: Jardim do Principe Real, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, Embaixada Concept Store, São Roque Church.
Graça
For a taste of authentic Lisbon charm, Graça is the place to be. Perched atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, this historic neighbourhood offers sweeping views of the city below. Colourful houses and quaint cafes line the streets so getting lost here is an experience. Visit the iconic São Jorge Castle, a Moorish fortress with centuries of history. It’s also the home of the well-known flea market at Feira da Ladra, where you can find everything from antiques to handmade crafts. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte offers the city’s best viewpoints where you can watch the sunset over Lisbon’s rooftops. For some, it’s the best area to stay in Lisbon.
Places to visit: São Jorge Castle, Feira da Ladra, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Graça Church.
Avenida da Liberdade
For those seeking luxury and sophistication, Avenida da Liberdade is the place to be. This grand boulevard is lined with designer shops, upscale hotels, and gourmet restaurants. Its paths are adorned with fountains and lush greenery. High-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton and Prada give fashion lovers their dose of retail therapy. It’s also conveniently located near many of Lisbon’s top attractions, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. We think it’s the best area to stay in Lisbon if you have a credit card… or someone else’s.
Places to visit: Parque Eduardo VII, Marquis of Pombal Square, Lisbon Botanical Garden, São Roque Church.
Martim Moniz, Intendente, Anjos
Martim Moniz, Intendente, and Anjos are three adjacent neighbourhoods that offer a taste of Lisbon’s multicultural scene. Martim Moniz is known for its diverse eateries, with stalls serving cuisine from around the world at the Mercado de Fusão. Intendente has plenty of street art adorning its walls and trendy bars and cafes around the square. Anjos is a laid-back residential area with a mix of traditional Portuguese taverns and modern restaurants. Together, these neighbourhoods offer some of the best places to stay in Lisbon. Three eclectic atmospheres that reflect Lisbon’s diverse cultural heritage.
Places to visit: Mercado de Fusão, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (for views over the area), Casa Independente, Anjos Church.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Graça, the cosmopolitan vibe of Avenida da Liberdade, or the multicultural energy of Martim Moniz, Intendente, and Anjos, each of these neighbourhoods offers a unique and unforgettable experience. No matter where you choose to stay in Lisbon, you’re sure to be enchanted at every turn.