The best neighborhoods in Lisbon

Did you know that Lisbon's different neighborhoods are one of the city's main tourist attractions?

 

The capital of Portugal is a destination that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year, who return from their vacations totally conquered by its history, culture, architecture and exquisite gastronomy.

 

However, much of Lisbon's magic is not found in its monuments or most iconic places, but in the streets and nooks and crannies of its most emblematic neighborhoods.

Engracia-IPPAR1 Aerial view of the Santa Engrácia church.

The 5 most touristic areas of Lisbon

 

Alfama Neighborhood

The first stop on our list of Lisbon neighborhoods is Alfama, one of the most iconic districts of the city. Famous for its bohemian atmosphere, its steep stairways and streets, its colorful houses and the spectacular views it offers of the entire capital.

If you want to get a first-hand look at local culture, art and lifestyle, this is the place for you. Do not miss the opportunity to visit one of the many museums, art galleries and cultural activities that are concentrated here. Not to mention the imposing Castelo São Jorge and the Lisbon Cathedral, two of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

To end your visit to this charismatic neighborhood of Lisbon, you can taste some of the famous Portuguese wines in one of the many bars or cafes in the area. And if you can have a couple of drinks while enjoying a good fado (a very popular traditional musical genre in the Alfama neighborhood), all the better.

Baixa neighborhood

 

Baixa is the perfect place to see the day-to-day life of Lisbon's inhabitants, as it is considered the city's main center of activity and commerce.

This neighborhood is part of the historic center of Lisbon, which is more than evident in its pedestrian streets and neoclassical buildings. The Praça do Comerço deserves special mention, a large square facing the Tagus River where you can admire some beautiful monuments such as the triumphal arch and the equestrian statue of King José I.

But these are not the only attractions in the neighborhood. It is possible to visit the Church of Nossa Senhora de Conceição, or go up the Santa Justa Elevator, which connects Baixa with the Chiado district and offers panoramic views of the whole of Lisbon. 

Belém neighborhood

 

The Belém neighborhood is one of Lisbon's most touristic districts, due in large part to its historical and cultural heritage, its culinary delights and its green areas.

Here we can find the Belém Palace (the official residence of the President of Portugal) and two buildings designated as World Heritage Sites by Unesco: the Jerónimos Monastery and the spectacular Belém Tower, a military fortress built in the 16th century to protect the port of Lisbon. 

But that's not all this neighborhood has to offer. If you want to take a little break, you can take a walk near the coast in the beautiful Tropical Botanical Garden, or in the Park of Nations.

And don't forget to try the famous Belém cream pastries, a delicious dessert typical of Lisbon in general and of this neighborhood in particular.

 

- Do you want to explore Lisbon in a different way? Book your River tagus boat trips and enjoy the Portuguese capital from the waters of the Tagus -

 

Chiado neighborhood

 

Our list of Lisbon's most iconic neighborhoods now takes us to Chiado, one of the most elegant and cosmopolitan areas of the Portuguese capital.

This place is full of squares and pedestrian streets to stroll through, such as Largo do Chiado square or the famous Rua Garrett, where you can find plenty of places to have a drink and fashion stores of the best international brands.

Chiado is also a delight for lovers of literature and culture, as evidenced by the large number of bookstores, antique stores and theaters that can be found. Among all these places, the café A Brasileira stands out, a place of worship for intellectuals.

Alto Neighborhood

 

If you want to put the finishing touch to your trip to Lisbon, you can't miss the Alto neighborhood, known for being the heart of Lisbon's nightlife.

Here you will find an open and welcoming atmosphere, and a large number of bars, pubs, clubs with live music and discos where you can socialize and enjoy the best cocktails and typical beers of the region.

But if the night is not your thing, don't worry. Touring the Alto neighborhood by day is also a real pleasure thanks to its marked bohemian character and the art galleries and vintage stores you'll see here and there.

Don't forget to visit the Church of San Roque and the Luís de Camoes Square, or admire the incredible views of the city from the San Pedro de Alcántara viewpoint. You won't regret it!

Remember that at FRS we can help you enjoy Lisbon as with this lisbon sunset boat.