A complete guide to where to stay in Lisbon first time (+ the best areas and hotels for sightseeing, one night, nightlife and near the beach).
Lisbon sits on the Tagus River, right where it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a large city, and its main sights are spread out. About half are in the central areas of Alfama and Baixa, while the rest are in Belém, which is around 30 minutes away by public transport. Because of this, deciding where to stay in Lisbon can take a bit of thought.
That’s why I created this detailed guide, where you’ll find the best areas and hotels to stay in Lisbon for first-timers, nightlife or a short stay. I also included some great places to stay if you want to enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches near the city.
Where I stayed in Lisbon
During my first trip to Lisbon, I decided to stay in the Baixa district, as it is the most central one. I wanted to be within a brief stroll from the top sights such as Santa Justa Lift and São Jorge Castle. Also, Bairro Alto, a popular nightlife neighbourhood, known for its Fado houses and restaurants, was within walking distance.
My favourite place to stay in Lisbon: Hotel Hotel
Why: great location for sightseeing and restaurants, a 5-minute walk to a metro station
What I like: outdoor swimming pool with a garden, exceptional breakfast
Since I found Hotel Hotel, I always stay there, it’s hard to beat the location. The pool is a lifesaver on those hot summer days, and the cocktails are seriously good. I’ve tried a few, but the one with matcha was my favourite. I also love that they welcome me with a glass of wine every time I arrive, it’s such a nice touch. Plus, breakfast is fantastic, and the garden setting is so lush and beautiful.
Most popular hotel in Lisbon
Searching for an excellent hotel in a central location? Take a look at Browns Central Hotel – with over 4,300 reviews, it’s the most popular hotel in Lisbon’s city centre.
Browns Central Hotel – Most popular hotel
Located in the heart of the Baixa district, this hotel is perfect if you want to explore the city on foot. It’s within easy walking distance of major sights like São Jorge Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, and two metro lines at Baixa-Chiado station. Plus, the spacious rooms are cosy and stylish, with wooden floors and marble bathrooms. Also, make sure to check out the cocktail bar, which is excellent!
Where to stay in Lisbon (first time)
- Baixa – for sightseeing (Portugal Boutique Hotel – best hotel in Baixa)
- Praça do Rossio – for sightseeing (My Story Hotel Figueira – best hotel near Praça do Rossio)
- Best hotel in Lisbon with a pool – The One Palácio da Anunciada
- Bairro Alto – for nightlife (Pessoa Hotel – best hotel in Bairro Alto)
- Cascais (outside Lisbon) – for beach (Hotel Cascais Miragem & Spa – best hotel in Cascais)
- Best hotel near Orient Station – Melia Oriente Hotel
- Best hotel near Lisbon Airport – Meliá Airport Hotel
Tips for booking a hotel in Lisbon
Public transport proximity – while most of the city’s main attractions are in Alfama and Baixa, the iconic Jerónimos Monastery is a bit further out, in the Belém district. You’ll need public transport to get there, and the same goes for visiting places like Pena Palace in Sintra. That’s why it’s a good idea to stay somewhere close to a metro station for easy access around the city and beyond.
Visiting Lisbon for the first time? Check out my full itinerary for spending 4 days in Lisbon, which covers all must-see attractions, including where to eat the best Pastel de nata.
Baixa – best area to stay in Lisbon first time
Lisbon comprises 24 official neighbourhoods, from historic districts like Alfama and Baixa to more modern areas like Parque das Nações. Baixa is considered the city’s downtown area, known for its grid-style streets and famous squares like Rossio and Praça do Comércio.
Baixa neighbourhood stretches from the Tagus River and Praça do Comércio in the south to the Praça Dom Pedro IV, located at the north end of Avenida Liberdade. Completely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake in 1755, the area boasts impressive architecture and wide, grid-like streets. Here, you’ll also find some of the city’s most beautiful squares – Praça do Comércio and Praça do Rossio.
In my view, the best location to stay in Lisbon for first-time visitors is Baixa. This is the city’s most central area, providing easy access to the historic Alfama district and Bairro Alto’s vibrant nightlife. Baixa is also the flattest area in Lisbon, making it the perfect option for exploring the city on foot.
If it’s your first time in Lisbon, staying in Baixa means you’re close to major landmarks like the São Jorge Castle, the Santa Justa Lift, and Lisbon Cathedral. You’ll also have convenient access to public transportation, making it simpler to reach places like Belém, Cascais, or Sintra.
Don’t forget to buy skip-the-line tickets for Pena Palace and the Jerónimos Monastery (these sites draw 2 million visitors annually, causing long queues).
Why stay in Baixa for sightseeing
- Baixa is the most convenient area for first-timers due to its central location right in the heart of Lisbon
- walking distance to numerous must-see attractions, including São Jorge Castle, Santa Justa Lift, Rua Augusta Arch and Lisbon Cathedral
- easy access to Rossio train station, from where you can take the train to Sintra
- Avenida da Liberdade, the city’s main avenue for luxury shopping, is just a block away
- within a 10-minute stroll, you’ll find Bairro Alto with its many bars and restaurants
- easy access to the airport via the metro (take the green metro line (to Alameda) or the blue one (to São Sebastião) and then switch to the red metro line to Aeroporto
If you’re visiting Lisbon for the first time, I’d recommend staying in Baixa. It’s the most central area, making it easy to reach many attractions, lots of restaurants and the historic Alfama district within a short walk. Here, you’ll also find the best Pastel de nata in the city (in my opinion) – Manteigaria.
Don’t stay in Belém, despite it is home to the city’s most iconic site, the Jerónimos Monastery. The district is located on the outskirts of Lisbon, half an hour away from the city centre, and you’ll be far from almost everything.
Best hotels in Baixa
Portugal Boutique Hotel – Most popular 4-star
The Portugal Boutique Hotel is just a short walk from Rossio Train Station (from where you can take a train to Sintra) and two metro lines – the blue line (station Restauradores) and the green line (station Rossio). The hotel features a unique design, typical of the Pombaline era, with traditional elements such as authentic Portuguese tiles, in shades of blue and white. There are several dining options, including Varanda de Lisboa Panoramic Restaurant (traditional Portuguese cuisine), Adega Premium Winehouse Bar (with an extensive wine list) and Jony Rules Rooftop Bar.
Hotel da Baixa – Best rated 4-star
Nestled on Rua da Prata, right between Praça do Comércio and Praça do Rossio, Hotel da Baixa takes its name from Lisbon’s most charismatic neighbourhood. Set in an 18th-century building, the hotel blends historic charm with all the modern comforts. Its on-site restaurant, Sebastião, serves a great mix of Portuguese and international dishes, definitely worth a visit during your stay!
Altis Avenida Hotel – Most popular 5-star
Altis Avenida Hotel boasts a prime location, just a 5-minute walk from the famous shopping streets – Rua Augusta Street and Liberdade Avenue. The hotel resides in a stunning historic building that combines traditional Portuguese architecture with stylish Art Deco touches. The Rossio Gastrobar, situated on the rooftop, is an ideal spot for a cocktail or a laid-back dinner. You’ll love the wellness centre, featuring a heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, and oxygen spa therapy.
Pousada de Lisboa – Best rated 5-star
Centrally located, adjacent to Praça do Comércio, Pousada de Lisboa boasts stunning views of the Tagus River. The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, combining historic charm with contemporary luxury. The hotel’s restaurant, RIB Beef & Wine, specialises in high-quality meats and wines. In the wellness centre, you can relax in the indoor swimming pool with a private sunbathing deck or enjoy any of the luxurious spa treatments.
My Story Hotel Tejo – Best 3-star
My Story Hotel Tejo is a great budget-friendly option right near Figueira Square and the lively Rossio Square. The hotel is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, designed in the classic Pombaline style. Rooms are comfy and some of them offer stunning views of São Jorge Castle, which is definitely a bonus!
Grape Harbor Prata Apartments – Best apartments
Grape Harbor Prata Apartments offers spacious, quiet apartments with a fully equipped kitchenette. The location is perfect for sightseeing, right in the heart of downtown Lisbon. And the best part? You can enjoy a delicious continental breakfast with fresh bread and warm pastel de nata delivered to your room every morning.
Praça do Rossio – best place to stay in Lisbon for tourists
Baixa is an ideal neighbourhood for first-timers and tourists since it’s as central as you can get. Whether you stay near the Tagus River or closer to Praça do Rossio, you’ll be just a 20-minute walk from most of the city’s main sights. But if you want everything right on your doorstep, including a metro station and the train to Sintra, then Praça Dom Pedro IV is the spot for you. Located in the heart of Baixa, this square puts you within easy reach of attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Praça Dom Pedro IV, better known as Praça do Rossio, is a beautiful square, full of history. It boasts a stunning fountain, surrounded by elegant historical buildings. On the western side of the square, you’ll find the Rossio Train Station, which stands out with its striking Neo-Manueline architecture.
Praça do Rossio (Rossio Square) is definitely one of my favourite places in Lisbon. It’s always buzzing with energy, especially when festivals are happening. During one trip, I stumbled upon an art festival there and ended up buying a lovely gold-plated necklace.
Staying near Praça Dom Pedro IV provides you with easy access to some of the city’s most popular landmarks, including Santa Justa Lift and São Jorge Castle. You’ll also be within walking distance of the historic Alfama district and Bairro Alto’s nightlife.
Why stay near Praça do Rossio as a tourist
- Praça Dom Pedro IV is the most convenient place for tourists, thanks to its central position
- walking distance to numerous top attractions, including Santa Justa Lift, São Jorge Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, Rua Augusta Arch and Church of Saint Roch
- Rossio train station connects you to Sintra with its famous Pena Palace and the rest of the country
- easy access to the airport via the metro (from Rossio station, take the green metro line to Alameda and then switch to the red metro line to Aeroporto
Best hotels near Praça do Rossio
Hotel Santa Justa – Best rated 4-star
Located right next to Praça do Rossio, Hotel Santa Justa is the perfect base for sightseeing. It’s super close to Augusta Street, packed with lots of shops and restaurants. And here’s the best part – their restaurant, Elevator, doesn’t just have amazing food, they also have live Fado music every Tuesday and Thursday.
My Story Hotel Figueira – Most popular 4-star
My Story Hotel Figueira is perfectly located on the lively Figueira Square, just steps from Rossio Square. The rooms are modern and comfortable, with some offering gorgeous views of São Jorge Castle. Don’t miss the hotel’s restaurant, La Squadra, where you can enjoy delicious modern Italian cuisine.
Hotel Avenida Palace – Best 5-star
Overlooking Restauradores Square, Hotel Avenida Palace is the perfect place to stay if you’re after old-world charm. Housed in a 19th-century building, it truly feels like staying in a palace. The breakfast is fantastic, served in an elegant room with crystal chandeliers. And don’t miss the daily evening piano and Fado performances, they add a magical touch to your stay!
Blue Liberdade Hotel – Best 3-star
Located right on Praça dos Restauradores, Blue Liberdade Hotel is a fantastic budget-friendly choice. You can enjoy complimentary coffee, pastel de nata, and prosecco in the lobby throughout the day. Be sure to join the free walking tour, it’s a great way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights.
Residentas Arco do Bandeira – Best apartments
Residentas Arco do Bandeira offers modern apartments with fully equipped kitchens, right on Rossio Square. The property is set in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, a lovely example of classic Pombaline architecture. There’s even a luggage storage area if you arrive early. It’s the perfect home away from home in the heart of Lisbon!
Best hotels in Lisbon with a pool
Lisbon enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, making it one of the sunniest cities in Europe. Its bright weather is one of the city’s biggest charms, but it also means things can get pretty warm, especially in the summer. And after a full day of exploring its steep streets and historic neighbourhoods, there’s nothing better than coming back to a hotel with a pool. It’s the perfect way to relax, whether it’s a refreshing swim before dinner or lounging by the water with a cool drink in hand.
Many hotels in Lisbon offer rooftop or courtyard pools, often paired with bars or even beautiful city views. If you’re planning your stay during the warmer months, I really recommend choosing a hotel with a pool. It adds that little extra comfort and makes your stay feel more like a holiday.
Note that if you’re hoping to stay in the central Baixa district and want a hotel with a pool, your options are a bit limited. Because of the historic architecture, most 3- and 4-star hotels only offer tiny plunge pools. They are great for a quick dip, but not exactly ideal for lounging or swimming laps. If a proper pool is a must, you’ll either need to look slightly outside Baixa or treat yourself to a 5-star stay. That said, Lisbon’s hotel prices are generally much lower than in other parts of Europe. So it’s definitely worth checking out the upscale spots before compromising on location.
Here are some of the best hotels in Lisbon with a swimming pool (just steps away from the Baixa neighbourhood).
BessaHotel Liberdade – Best 4-star
BessaHotel Liberdade is a fantastic 4-star option with a heated indoor pool, perfect for a relaxing swim year-round. The hotel also has a lovely spa area with both dry and wet saunas, plus a Turkish bath. Additionally, you can enjoy the sunny terrace with loungers, ideal for catching a few rays. Make sure to check out their excellent Portuguese restaurant, Tabik, as well. And with Restauradores and Rossio Squares just around the corner, sightseeing couldn’t be easier.
The One Palácio da Anunciada – Best 5-star
This 5-star hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool with Balinese beds and a relaxing spa area complete with a sauna. Set in a beautifully restored 16th-century palace, the property still features original ceiling frescoes! The location couldn’t be better – on a quiet street just a short stroll from Restauradores Square and the main shopping area. For food, you’ve got great options right on-site – Condes de Ericeira Restaurant (for Mediterranean and Portuguese dishes) or O Jardim Wine Bar (for delicious tapas and wine).
Memmo Príncipe Real – Rooftop pool with a view
This 5-star hotel is hidden away on a quiet street in Príncipe Real, a fancy neighbourhood full of beautiful old mansions. It has a fantastic rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city. At Café Principe Real, you can enjoy tasty Portuguese and Mediterranean food. Plus, there’s a free walking tour that takes you through the historic Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto areas, definitely worth joining!
Bairro Alto – best area to stay in Lisbon for nightlife
The best place to stay in Lisbon for nightlife is Bairro Alto. This vibrant neighbourhood, which comes alive after dark, is famous for its late-night culture. From traditional Portuguese taverns serving local drinks to modern clubs, Bairro Alto offers something for everyone.
Set on a hill overlooking the city centre, the Bairro Alto district dates back to the 16th century. It is characterised by narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colourful buildings, fado houses and restaurants. The area is also known for its unique boutiques, vintage stores and cosy cafés. Among its most popular landmarks are Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara, the Church of Saint Roch and Elevador da Glória.
To experience the magic of the traditional Fado performances, make your way to O Faia or Fado ao Carmo (my favourite spots to enjoy a Fado performance). For a delicious taste of Portuguese cuisine, head to Grapes & Bites, Essencial, or Mercearia do Século. And if you love good wine and charcuterie, don’t skip The Old Pharmacy. Finish the night at Jam Club (great cocktails and live performances), Pavilhão Chinês (unique atmosphere) or Gin Lovers Bar & Restaurant (excellent gin cocktails).
Why stay in Bairro Alto for nightlife
- Bairro Alto is a central, picturesque neighbourhood, famous for its vibrant nightlife, ideal for dining and enjoying drinks
- for a traditional Fado experience, reserve your spot at the live show Fado in Chiado
- Bairro Alto is excellently connected to the rest of the city through the Baixa-Chiado metro station, where the green and blue metro lines intersect
However, I suggest staying a few blocks away from Bairro Alto as it can get quite noisy at night. Take a look at my hotel recommendations below, both are located in a quiet area, less than a 5-minute walk from the Bairro Alto neighbourhood.
Best hotels in Bairro Alto
Pessoa Hotel – Best rated 4-star
Situated less than a 5-minute walk from the Bairro Alto district, the Pessoa Hotel is the ideal place to experience Lisbon’s nightlife scene. Rooms are modern and cosy, featuring a design inspired by the works of the famous poet Fernando Pessoa. In the hotel’s restaurant, Mensagem, you can taste delicious Portuguese dishes while enjoying the stunning panoramic city views. Plus, there is a great spa with an indoor swimming pool.
Carmo Hotel – Most popular 4-star
The Carmo Hotel has a perfect location both for nightlife and sightseeing. It is close enough to the lively Bairro Alto but tucked away in a quieter area for a peaceful sleep when needed. Rooms are modern, and some of them offer panoramic views of Lisbon’s old town. The hotel’s Maria do Carmo Restaurant serves delicious traditional Portuguese dishes.
The Lumiares Hotel & Spa – Best 5-star
This 5-star hotel is in a quiet spot right between Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real, and Baixa. You’ll have countless restaurants at your doorstep. The rooms are modern, spacious, and even have a little kitchenette if you feel like making a snack or coffee. The real highlight? Breakfast on the rooftop with epic views of the Tagus River and Castelo de São Jorge. Oh, and there’s a nice little spa with a sauna and steam room, perfect for relaxing.
My Story Hotel Rossio – Best 3-star
My Story Hotel Rossio is a fantastic, affordable choice. The location couldn’t be better, right on Rossio Square and just a short walk from the lively restaurants of Bairro Alto. Plus, the breakfast is a highlight, with a tasty mix of traditional Portuguese treats and classic American favourites.
Chiado Arty Flats – Best apartments
If you’re after a bit more space and comfort, Chiado Arty Flats is a great pick. These self-serviced apartments are just steps from the trendy Bairro Alto and its numerous restaurants. Each apartment comes with either a full kitchen or a well-equipped kitchenette. And the best part? A delicious breakfast is delivered straight to your door every morning.
Cascais – Where to stay in Lisbon near the beach
If you’re dreaming of staying by the beach during your trip to Lisbon, here’s the deal – there’s no actual beach within the city limits. Lisbon sits along the Tagus River, not the ocean, so while you’ll get stunning waterfront views and gorgeous sunsets, you won’t find sandy beaches right in the heart of the city. In fact, the nearest beaches to the capital of Portugal are in the coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril (a 30-40 minute journey by train from the city centre).
If you want to spend a few days enjoying the sun at the beach, I’d suggest dividing your time between Cascais and Lisbon. This is in case your trip is long enough. Alternatively, you can base yourself in Lisbon and take day trips to the coastal town of Cascais for a beach excursion. Below, I’ve outlined hotel and area suggestions for both choices, allowing you to make your own decision based on your preferences.
The best places to stay in Lisbon for the beach
- Cascais – a small, picturesque town on the Estoril Coast, known for its stunning beaches
- Chiado – a central district in Lisbon, close to Cais do Sodré station, perfect both for sightseeing and day trips to Cascais
Cascais
Cascais, a charming coastal town in Portugal, sits just west of Lisbon along the Estoril Coast. Once a fishing village, it is now a popular beach destination with historic charm. Cascais is famous for its beautiful beaches such as Praia da Rainha, Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Duquesa. Also, the famous Praia do Guincho, a beach known for its natural beauty, is easily reachable with just a 30-minute bus ride.
How to get to Cascais
Take a local train (Cascais Line) from Cais do Sodré train station in Lisbon to Cascais (a 30-minute journey). The journey is very scenic, providing stunning views of the bay as it follows the coastline.
Here are some of the best beach hotels in Cascais.
The Albatroz Hotel – Right on the beach
Situated on the cliffs of the Estoril Coast, the Albatroz Hotel offers spectacular views of the Cascais Bay. The popular beaches – Praia da Rainha, Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Duquesa are less than a 5-minute walk from the hotel. The Albatroz Restaurant offers a gourmet experience by blending iconic dishes with innovative Mediterranean fusion cuisine. Plus, there is an outdoor swimming pool.
Hotel Cascais Miragem – Beach & Spa
Situated directly by the Atlantic Ocean, Hotel Cascais Miragem boasts stunning views of the Estoril and Cascais Bay. The wellness centre, Miragem Water Lounge, features an outdoor infinity pool, salt lake, sauna and Turkish bath. There are 2 dining options to choose from – Gourmet (a fine-dining Portuguese restaurant) and Oasis Terrace (Mediterranean cuisine). Cristóvão Colombo Bar offers an impressive selection of wines and exotic cocktails, making it an ideal place to unwind.
Chiado
Chiado is the perfect spot to stay in Lisbon if you want to see the city and still have the beach within easy reach. Centrally located between Baixa and Bairro Alto, this neighbourhood is a great base for exploring the city’s top sights. Even better, it’s just a short walk to Cais do Sodré Station, where you can catch a direct train to the stunning beaches of Cascais. So whether you’re in the mood for museums or a day by the sea, Chiado puts it all at your fingertips.
From Cais do Sodré Station, you can take a direct train to any of the numerous beaches, situated along the train route. Some of the most popular are Praia da Caxias (a 15min ride), Praia de Carcavelos (a 20min ride), Praia do Tamariz and Praia da Rainha (a 30min ride).
Here are the best hotels in Chiado (just a short train ride from the beaches near Lisbon).
Corpo Santo Historical Hotel – Best 5-star
Corpo Santo Hotel boasts a central location, ideal both for sightseeing and day trips to the Cascais coastline. It is just steps away from Cais do Sodré Train Station, the Tagus River, and the famous Praça do Comércio. The Porter Bistrô Restaurant at the hotel features a relaxed atmosphere with unique dishes, while the 146 Bar boasts an impressive cocktail menu.
Monte Belvedere Hotel by Shiadu – Best 3-star
This budget-friendly gem is just a short stroll from Cais do Sodré Train Station. This makes it super convenient for exploring both Lisbon and the nearby beaches. It’s located right next to the popular Miradouro de Santa Catarina, so you’ll enjoy stunning views. Breakfast is a highlight, served on the rooftop terrace and made with fresh ingredients straight from their organic farm in Porto.
Best hotels near Orient Station
If you’re arriving in Lisbon by train, there’s a good chance you’ll pass through Oriente Station, also known as Gare do Oriente. It’s one of the city’s busiest transport hubs and a key connection point for travellers exploring Portugal by rail. From here, you can catch high-speed Alfa Pendular trains or regional lines to popular destinations like Porto, Faro, and Évora.
Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava and opened for Expo ’98, the station is a striking mix of steel, glass, and modern design. It’s worth a look even if you’re not catching a train, in my opinion! The futuristic canopy over the platforms almost feels like something out of a sci-fi movie.
Oriente Station is located in the modern Parque das Nações district, a bit outside the city’s historic centre. It takes about 30 minutes by metro to get downtown, including a line change. That’s why I’d only recommend staying in this area if you have a specific reason, like catching an early train or flight. It’s also very convenient if you’re arriving by train from Porto and flying out the next day. Oriente Station is less than 10 minutes from the airport on the red metro line, making transfers quick and easy.
But for a full Lisbon experience, this area might not be the best base. It’s clean, modern, and practical, but it lacks the charm and character you’ll find in neighbourhoods like Alfama, Chiado, or Bairro Alto. Still, if you need a hotel right next to Oriente Station, here are my top recommendations.
Melia Oriente Hotel – Best 4-star
Meliá Oriente Hotel is the nearest place to stay near Oriente Station, just a couple of minutes on foot. There’s a huge shopping mall right across the street, and the Lisbon Oceanarium is close enough to walk to. The rooms are modern and roomy, and if you can, ask for one on a higher floor for great views of the city and the Tagus River. Plus, the hotel restaurant is a great spot to grab some tapas and a drink in the evening.
Eurostars Universal – Best 5-star
If you’re looking to treat yourself, Eurostars Universal is a fantastic luxury option just steps from Oriente Station. The hotel features a gorgeous rooftop pool, while the spa area includes both dry and wet saunas. Rooms are spacious, elegantly decorated, and some even come with breathtaking views over the city and the river!
Moxy Oriente – Best 3-star
Moxy Oriente is an excellent budget option just steps from Oriente Station. The rooms are basic but cosy, with everything you need for a short stay. Be sure to request a room on a higher floor to enjoy beautiful views of the city and the Tagus River.
Best hotels near Lisbon Airport
Lisbon Airport, officially known as Humberto Delgado Airport, is the main international gateway to Portugal. Conveniently located just 7 kilometres (4 miles) from the city centre, it’s easily accessible via the red metro line. The metro ride to downtown takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your final stop. If you prefer a quicker option, a taxi to the city centre will cost approximately €15.
While getting to the airport is fairly straightforward, I wouldn’t recommend staying in this area unless you have an early flight to catch. Reaching some of Lisbon’s main attractions can take around 40 minutes, and spots like the Jerónimos Monastery can take over an hour with up to three metro or bus changes. That said, if you do need a convenient place to stay before an early departure, here are my top hotel recommendations near the airport.
Meliá – Best 4-star
Located just across from Terminal 1, Meliá is the perfect spot for an overnight stay near Lisbon Airport. They even offer a shuttle service if you’re travelling with heavy or bulky luggage. Breakfast starts as early as 4 AM, making it ideal for those with early flights. The hotel also features a fantastic spa, complete with a swimming pool, sauna, and Turkish bath. For dining, the Colinas de Lisboa Restaurant serves up delicious Mediterranean dishes alongside traditional Portuguese specialities.
Star inn – Best 3-star
Located just steps from Terminal 1, Star Inn is a fantastic budget-friendly option near the airport. They also provide a free shuttle service for more convenience. Breakfast is great, with a continental buffet starting at 2 AM and a full buffet available from 5 AM. The rooms are simple but comfortable, perfect for a one-night stay.
FAQs about where to stay in Lisbon
If you’re visiting Lisbon for the first time, stay in Baixa. It is the most central district, filled with historical charm and great for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. You’ll be within walking distance from top attractions such as Santa Justa Lift, São Jorge Castle and Lisbon Cathedral.
The best area to stay in Lisbon is Baixa. It’s the city’s vibrant downtown area, close to major sights (such as Santa Justa Lift and São Jorge Castle) and easy to explore. Baixa is packed with history, charming streets, and a mix of traditional and modern vibes. Plus, it’s well-connected by public transport, making it super convenient to get around.
No. Although Belém is a great area with historical landmarks such as Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, I wouldn’t recommend it for first-timers. The neighbourhood is a bit farther out from the city centre (around a 40-minute trip using public transport). This means you’ll spend a lot of time travelling to get to most places, which will be inconvenient.
It’s better to stay in Lisbon and visit Sintra on a day trip. Lisbon offers more accommodation options and nightlife and there are plenty of attractions to visit. Sintra, while stunning, is smaller, making it ideal for a day visit rather than using it as a base to explore Lisbon.
No, Lisbon doesn’t have a beach directly within the city centre. However, it’s close to several stunning beaches along the Atlantic coastline. Some of the popular nearby beaches include Carcavelos, Cascais, and Estoril, easily accessible by train or car from Lisbon.
Yes, the Meliá Hotel is located just a short walk from Terminal 1 at Humberto Delgado Airport. The hotel also offers a free shuttle service between 4 AM and midnight for more convenience.
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