Lisbon is considered one of the most attractive cities in Europe, here one of the lowest crime rates, a comfortable climate for living. At the end of the last century, residents of the capital massively moved to the suburbs, but today the districts of Lisbon come to life again, not only the local population returns here, but tourists come with pleasure. In this regard, a completely logical question arises – in which area to choose housing and stay for a while exploring the city.
Lisbon areas on the map.
Where to stay in the capital of Portugal
In total, there are 4 large districts in the city, which in turn are divided into 53 microdistricts, but travelers choose a zone for living according to several criteria:
- housing prices;
- the presence of attractions and the development of tourism infrastructure;
- convenient transport interchange.
The houses in the central part of the city are restored. For residents of Lisbon, the cost of apartments in them is too high, but most tourists say that renting a house costs several times less than in other cities in Europe.
It is important! From the airport, directly by subway train, you can get to the oldest station in the city. In the metro area Saldanha in Lisbon, many hotels are concentrated.
Alfama
The oldest district of the city is located around the castle and stretches to the Alfama River. Pensioners, poor families of fishermen, immigrants live here. Guests of Lisbon visit the Fadu and Hebrew Museum in Alfama, the Church of Santa Engracia and the Lisbon Cathedral, as well as 2 viewing platforms.
This is a picturesque corner of the city, where it is pleasant to stroll through the narrow streets that a car doesn’t always go through, eat in one of the best restaurants serving national cuisine of the capital and listen to traditional Fado music in Portugal. The area is located on a hilly area, steep descents and climbs often go up the stairs.
In June, residents celebrate St. Anthony’s Day, at which time the streets are very lively.
The nearest metro station is Santa Apolonia.
Benefits:
- special coloring and charm;
- proximity to attractions;
- developed tourist infrastructure.
Disadvantages:
- there is no transport, even a taxi is very rare here;
- no parking;
- complex street weaving where you can easily get lost;
- the apartments are small, most in need of repair.
Avenidas Novas
The literal translation of the name of the area means – New Prospectus. All houses – residential and office – were built in the 20th century. There are many hotels, there are park areas. Locals and tourists love to stroll in the park at the Galust Gulbenkian Museum .
Locals live in this area of Lisbon – if you are interested to see how the Portuguese live, settle in Avenidas Novas. There is also a large number of very unusual cafes and restaurants with more affordable prices than in places full of tourists.
From April to September, spectacular bullfights are held at Campo Pequeno Arena. Despite the fact that in this part of the city there is no special atmosphere of Alfama, living here is quite comfortable.
Benefits:
- large selection of apartments;
- developed infrastructure;
- convenient transport interchange.
Disadvantages:
- busy traffic;
- busy streets;
- expensive housing.
Paw and Santos
The following two areas where to stay in Lisbon are advised by local guides – Lapa and Santos. Atmospheric location in the city with palaces, parks and squares. Many locals specially come here for dinner or lunch. However, for walking this part of Lisbon is not very convenient – you have to rise and fall along the hills.
The nearest metro station is Rato, and the well- known tram number 28 and tram number 25 also travel . An electric train follows the resort area of Cascais and the ocean.
Benefits:
- high quality housing;
- quiet, calm area.
Disadvantages:
- high cost of housing;
- it may be difficult to park the car;
- Public transport travels infrequently.
Bayrru Altu
The area of bohemian and nightlife. Locals call it the Chameleon district. At night, life is seething until the morning, from the many bars and nightclubs come cheerful music. In the afternoon, it is a completely quiet and calm area. Given that the people of Lisbon prefer silence and tranquility, a huge number of apartments for every taste are for rent here. Da Atalaia is considered to be the most partying place, and for thorough shopping in Lisbon, one of the best is Rua da Rosa.
The nearest metro station is Baixa-Chiado.
Benefits:
- central area of the city;
- high concentration of entertainment venues, restaurants and shops.
Disadvantages:
- this part of the city is quite dirty;
- noisy at night;
- many homes are in poor condition and require repairs.
Baisha
The Baixa district in Lisbon is considered one of the most popular among tourists. A huge number of shops, souvenir shops, entertainment places, restaurants and cafes are concentrated here.
There is an area between two picturesque hills, so the name of this part of the city means – Lowland. After a terrible earthquake in 1755, the first urban development plan in Europe was prepared for the reconstruction of the district. The houses here are built taking into account earthquake resistance.
What is interesting to visit here:
- Elevator di Santa Zhusta Elevator Cable Car;
- shopping area of Prasa do Comerciu;
- Figueira Square;
- Rossiu Square;
- Queen Mary II National Theater, built in the mid-15th century;
- Rashtauradores Square;
- Gloria lift.
Benefits:
- central part of Lisbon;
- the housing is spacious and comfortable.
Disadvantages:
- it is deserted at night;
- no transport.
Belem
In which area is it better for a tourist to stay to see interesting sights of Lisbon ? Pay attention to the historical district of Belem – although it is located somewhat away from the center, there is something to see here. First of all, it is the Belem Tower and the Gironimush Monastery, which are worth visiting regardless of which area you decide to stay in.
For the sweet tooth, the famous patisserie works, which since 1836 has been selling delicious pastry de belém dessert.
From this district of the city you can quickly get to the historical center of the capital: in 20 minutes by bus or tram 15.
Benefits:
- the area is along the river;
- there is a lot of vegetation;
- quiet and calm atmosphere reigns.
Disadvantages:
- located far from the city center;
- there is no metro nearby;
- in August it becomes crowded.
Shiaudu
This is one of the most prestigious areas of the capital of Portugal. Here, life is in full swing: shopping, a large selection of restaurants, elegant architecture make the area a center of bohemian life. Staying in Chiado is a good decision if you plan to stay in Lisbon for just a couple of days.
The area is convenient for living, there are hotels, hostels and hotels.
Interesting places to visit:
- Carmo Monastery;
- Santa Justa elevator and observation deck;
- Sao Roque Church;
- Calcada do Duque staircase, built in a beautiful part of the city.
Benefits:
- many monuments of culture and architecture;
- good place for tourists who do not have a car.
Disadvantages:
- expensive housing;
- no parking.
Expo
This area of Lisbon is considered one of the largest reconstruction and construction projects in all of Europe. Its construction is dedicated to the International Exhibition, which was held in 1998, and was dedicated to the opening of the sea route to India. The characteristic features of the district are the use of modern materials in construction – glass, steel and concrete.
Significant sights:
- large shopping center;
- aquarium
- informative pavilion of knowledge, where children go with pleasure.
Gambling tourists are welcomed by the casino. For walks there is a promenade equipped with plants from around the world. A cable car stretches along the park area. Numerous restaurants and cafes serve European and Chinese dishes.
The central part of the city can be reached by subway, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. In the subway you need to make a transplant. Nearby is the station, from where trains to Porto and southerly follow. If you have not yet studied the issue, find out how to use the Lisbon metro .
Benefits:
- excellent location – on the river bank, a lot of greenery;
- developed infrastructure;
- convenient transport interchange;
- many parking lots.
Disadvantages:
- remoteness from the central part of the city;
- Tourists note that in this part of the capital there is no special color and atmosphere that prevail in the historical center of Lisbon.
Where better to stay in Lisbon is, of course, an individual question. The fact that every tourist area is worthy of attention and visit is obvious. All areas of Lisbon are interesting, atmospheric, where there is a special, favorite place – a personal corner that will forever remain in your heart.
Some more tips on where to stay in Lisbon are given by the girl Katya, who lives in the city – watch the video.