With its sun-drenched hills, historic neighborhoods, vibrant food scene, and sweeping views over the Tagus River, Lisbon offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Lisbon based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Lisbon: Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge
Best boutique hotel in Lisbon: Memmo Alfama Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Lisbon: Hotel Olissippo Lapa Palace
Best hostel in Lisbon: Home Lisbon Hostel
Best eco-friendly hotel in Lisbon: Dare Lisbon House
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
Casa Balthazar is a true piece of Lisbon’s history, nestled in the vibrant Chiado district. The property was acquired in August 1882 by Balthazar Roiz Castanheiro, the founder of the legendary Confeitaria Nacional, Lisbon’s oldest pastry shop. Remarkably, the building has remained in the same family for five generations, evolving from a private residence and cookie factory into the intimate boutique hotel it is today.
New York Times + 3 more“The Casa Balthazar building, near the central Rossio Square, was acquired in the 19th century by the founder of Confeitaria Nacional — an iconic Lisbon pastry shop — and was converted into a hotel in 2010. The 20 rooms (some with panoramic city views) are outfitted with contemporary bedding and vintage furniture. The hotel also offers a spa, a pool and breakfast provided by, yes, Confeitaira Nacional nearby.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Lisbon.
The Olissippo Lapa Palace is a true urban oasis tucked away in Lisbon’s most exclusive diplomatic district. Built in 1870 as a grand private residence for the Count of Valenças, this stunning property was later transformed into a luxury hotel in 1992. It retains much of its original aristocratic charm, offering guests a glimpse into 19th-century Portuguese elegance.
Frommers + 3 more“The 109 rooms are all individually decorated in keeping with the building’s heritage, with themes ranging from rococo to Art Deco. The palace is located among the embassies and mansions of the upscale Lapa district on a hillside with broad views across the city and the River Tagus.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Lisbon.
The Memmo Alfama Hotel is a standout boutique escape tucked away in the winding, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest district. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century courtyard building, the hotel was redesigned by architect Samuel Torres de Carvalho, who prioritized keeping the original facades to ensure the property blends seamlessly into the historic neighbourhood’s traditional aesthetic.
New York Times + 2 more“Billing itself as the first boutique hotel in the historical Alfama neighborhood, the 42-room Memmo Alfama has a rooftop mosaic infinity pool and wine bar that both feature views over the neighborhood and the Tagus River beyond.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Lisbon.
The Independente Suites & Terrace is a stylish boutique hotel housed within a beautiful early 20th-century palace that once served as the Swiss ambassador's residence. Its architecture is quintessential Lisbon, featuring high ceilings, intricate parquet floors, and large shuttered windows that overlook the city’s historic terracotta rooftops.
New York Times + 2 more“After the success of the Independente Hostel & Suites — a stylish boutique hostel and hip bar — the same group has transformed the neighboring townhouse into the Independente Suites & Terrace. The 18 suites are decorated with vintage finds, while the rooftop restaurant offers unusual, inventive neo-Portuguese and global cuisine.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Lisbon.
Palácio Belmonte is arguably Lisbon’s most historic and authentic stay. Dating back to 1449, this former noble residence was built directly atop ancient Roman and Moorish fortifications in the heart of the Alfama district. Remarkably, it survived the devastating 1755 earthquake, preserving centuries of heritage within its thick stone walls.
Lonely Planet + 2 more“Nestled beside Castelo de São Jorge, this 15th-century palace, turns on the VIP treatment with its nine suites, named after Portuguese luminaries and lavishly adorned with 18th-century azulejos, silks, marble and antiques.”
The Pestana Palace Hotel is truly a step back in time. Originally built in the late 19th century as the private residence of the Marquis of Valle Flôr, this stunning estate is classified as a National Monument. Its architecture is a beautiful mix of French-inspired Romanticism and Rococo styles, reflecting the opulence of the era when the Marquis returned to Portugal after making his fortune in cocoa and coffee.
Frommers + 2 more“Located mid-way between downtown and the historic Belém district, this is the height of five-star luxury, a Belle Époque palace built by a marquess who made his fortune importing chocolate from cocoa plantations on the equatorial island of São Tomé.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Lisbon.
Casa do Principe is a beautifully preserved gem located in the heart of Lisbon’s trendy Príncipe Real district. Housed in a stately 19th-century building, this boutique bed and breakfast perfectly captures the neighborhood's noble heritage. The interior retains much of its original period charm, featuring high ceilings, ornate plasterwork, and classic architectural details that transport guests back to a more elegant era of Portuguese history.
The Guardian + 1 more“Some guests check into this B&B and stay for months. No surprise: the nine rooms are palatial, with floor-to-ceiling windows and period features, but sweetly homely. And its location, in well-to-do Principe Real, is central but tranquil.”
The Santiago de Alfama Boutique Hotel is a stunning property set within a beautifully restored 15th-century palace. Located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic Alfama district, the building even incorporates remnants of ancient Roman ruins into its foundations. The extensive restoration, led by architect Luís Rebelo de Andrade, masterfully bridges the gap between centuries, blending original architectural details with modern art and contemporary design.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“In 2015, Dutch hospitality dreamer Heleen Uitenbroek turned a ruined 15th-century palace into Lisbon’s latest luxury sleeps at this 19-room bastion of style. Airy and awash in light pinewoods and contemporary art, her exquisite attention to detail is everywhere.”
The Corpo Santo Historical Hotel is a fascinating boutique property located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic Cais do Sodré district. Its name honors the "Corpo Santo" square, a former shipyard and meeting place for 15th-century fishermen who worshipped a nearby miraculous image of Saint Pedro Gonçalves.
New York Times + 1 more“This is an upscale property that opened in 2017 near the lively Cais do Sodré district, with welcoming staff, a convenient location, an on-site restaurant and 77 plush, neutral-hued rooms.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Lisbon.
Le Consulat is a refined boutique hotel perfectly positioned in Lisbon’s vibrant Chiado district. Housed in a grand, historic building that served as the Brazilian Consulate for over a century, the property now offers an intimate stay that feels more like a private residence than a hotel.
New York Times + 1 more“Opened in 2017 in a historic building formerly occupied by the consulate of Brazil, Le Consulat is a sophisticated hotel with eight spacious suites decorated with artworks culled from top Lisbon galleries, and views across the lovely Camões square in the central Chiado district.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Lisbon.
The Ivens Hotel in Lisbon is a stunning boutique property nestled in the vibrant Chiado district. Occupying a historic 19th-century building that once served as a luxury warehouse and later as a radio station, the hotel was reborn in 2021 as a sophisticated "explorers' hotel." Its name pays tribute to Roberto Ivens and Hermenegildo Capelo, the famous 19th-century Portuguese explorers who crossed Central Africa.
CN Traveler“Designed by the well-known Spanish interiorist Lázaro Rosa-Violán and the Portuguese Cristina Matos, The Ivens is inspired by the journey of Ivens and Capelo, two of the greatest Portuguese explorers of the 19th century. Travelers and explorers for the new era: This is your place, with no doubt.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s Hotlist 2022.
The Independente Hostel & Suites is a stunning property set in a renovated 19th-century palace that once served as the official residence of the Swiss ambassador. Located at the intersection of the Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real, and Avenida da Liberdade neighborhoods, it perfectly balances historic grandeur with a modern, bohemian spirit.
Telegraph“As if dropped from heaven on one of Lisbon’s most beautiful spots, the stylishly breezy Independente Hostel & Suites is housed behind a 19th-century façade facing the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, a belvedere with views across the city to the Castle of St. George, offering a luxury location at a budget price.”
Hostel Lisbon Calling is arguably one of the most characterful places to stay in the Portuguese capital. It is located inside a beautiful, restored 18th-century apartment building in the Cais do Sodré district. Staying here feels less like a typical hostel and more like visiting a well-traveled friend’s sprawling, historic home.
Lonely Planet“This fashionable, unsigned backpacker favourite near Santa Catarina features original frescoes, azulejos and hardwood floors – all lovingly restored by friendly Portuguese owners. The bright, spacious dorms and a brick-vaulted kitchen are easy on the eyes.”
The Dorm is a unique accommodation located right inside the LX Factory in Alcântara, one of Lisbon’s most creative and industrial-chic hubs. Set within a complex that was once a major 19th-century manufacturing site, the hostel occupies a space that reflects the area's transition from a bustling industrial zone to a thriving artistic destination filled with street art, quirky boutiques, and independent studios.
The Guardian“Much skill, style, charm and attention to detail is required to make people see cubby holes as desirable overnight accommodation, so hats off to The Dorm. All 28 cubbies have thick mattresses, white duvets plus hooks, lockers, useful lighting, and curtains for privacy.”
The Verride Palácio Santa Catarina is a stunning 18th-century palace transformed into an exclusive boutique hotel. Perched atop the Santa Catarina hill, this historic residence—once home to a Portuguese count—was meticulously restored by architect Teresa Nunes da Ponte and interior designer Andrea Previ. The renovation masterfully preserves original features like sculpted wooden ceilings, Rococo plasterwork, and intricate tile panels while integrating sleek, modern luxury.
CN Traveler“The former home of an 18th-century count, Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina channels Lisbon’s political and design legacies, with Moorish archways and a black-and-white tiled floor inside.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List.
Recommended by:
New York Times, Lonely Planet, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, The Guardian, Frommers
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Forbes
Recommended by:
The Guardian, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, CN Johansens
Recommended by:
New York Times, Forbes
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler
Recommended by:
Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
The Guardian
Recommended by:
CN Traveler
Lisbon is a coastal and hilly city in Portugal and also is the capital city of the European nation. It is the home to several landmarks such as the National Azulejo Museum, Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge and Tagus Estuary.
Some of the best neighborhoods in Lisbon are:
Alcântara
Alcântara is actually a municipality of the city, however, locals regard the neighborhood it as a part of Lisbon. Located between Belém and downtown, the neighborhood is filled with offices, stores, bars and restaurants, and many more.
Alfama
Alfama is a charming neighborhood of the capital city that has narrow and windy medieval alleys. The neighborhood is known for its traditional meal accompanied by traditional fado music. It has landmarks such as Castelo de São Jorge and Portas do Sol.
Avenida da Liberdade
Avenida da Liberdade is a neighborhood that was built in the late 19th century and runs between Parque Eduardo in the north and Rossio train station in the south. The neighborhood is the home to several banks and hotels and renowned brands such as Armani and Burberry as well as the Hard Rock restaurant can be found here.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is a hilly and windy neighborhood that is filled with a bohemian aura and bars, making it one of the hippest areas in the city. The neighborhood is also home to hotels, hostels, tattoo parlors, cafés, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
Mouraria
Mouraria is a neighborhood that stretches from Martim Moniz in the north towards Alfama in the south. The neighborhood is home to old homes and buildings that portray art and décor from the past.
See also our article about the best areas to stay in Lisbon.
For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $140 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $180 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Lisbon hotel then you can expect to pay around $280 per night.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Lisbon, then book Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Lisbon.
Not a fan of big chain hotels? No problem. If you want to stay in a boutique hotel in Lisbon, then you should book Memmo Alfama Hotel. The hotel has been rated highly by previous guests for its boutique style. It has also been recommended by influential travel journalists. Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Lisbon, then go for Hotel Olissippo Lapa Palace. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Lisbon, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Lisbon, then you should check out Home Lisbon Hostel. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Lisbon.
Looking for a cozy place to stay in Lisbon that serves you handmade and fresh breakfast in the morning? Go and check out Bed & Breakfast Le Consulat. The B&B has been recommended by well-known travel experts and recent guests have given it top ratings.
Try Bed & Breakfast Le Consulat or Independente Suites & Terrace Hotel if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Lisbon. They all have excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try the Memmo Alfama Hotel. It offers amazing views of Lisbon according to recent customer reviews.
Looking for a great view while having your dinner or drinking a beer? Independente Suites & Terrace Hotel has one of the best rooftop restaurants in Lisbon.
2 Hour Lisbon Sunset and Wine Sailing Tour. Board a sailboat at the harbor and relax while you take in the city views from a unique perspective. See Belém Tower, the neoclassical Ajuda National Palace, Ponte 25 de Abril (25th of April Bridge) and more. Price: $43.
Sintra: Pena Palace and Park Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entrance. Marvel at Pena Palace, one of the most magnificent and recognisable tourist attractions of Portugal. The palace exemplifies the 19th century Romanticism style of architecture and stands atop a rocky peak, which is the second highest point in Sintra Hills. Price: $17.
Lisbon: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River with Drinks. Watch the sunset over one of Europe's most beautiful cities on a 2-hour cruise off the coast of Lisbon. Admire landmark monuments from the water, such as the 25 de Abril Bridge and white dome of the Basilica da Estrela. Price: $35.
More things to do in Lisbon
Lisbon, the sun-drenched capital of Portugal, is a city where the echoes of ancient history seamlessly blend with the vibrant energy of the twenty-first century. Perched atop seven hills overlooking the shimmering Tagus River, its story begins long before the Roman era, with roots stretching back to Phoenician traders who recognized its strategic harbor. Throughout the centuries, Lisbon has been a melting pot of cultures, shaped by Visigoths, Moors, and Christian crusaders. The age of exploration saw the city flourish as the epicentre of a global empire, with ships departing from the Belém district to map uncharted corners of the globe, leaving behind a legacy of architectural grandeur and maritime spirit.
Today, Lisbon stands as a resilient symbol of renewal and cultural synthesis. It is a city that embraces its nostalgia, famously captured in the haunting melodies of Fado music, while simultaneously evolving into a thriving hub for technology, design, and sustainable urban living. The iconic yellow trams rattling through narrow, tiled streets remain a hallmark of its enduring character, serving as a reminder that modernity has not stripped the city of its authentic, bohemian soul. It is a destination that prioritizes quality of life, inviting visitors to linger in historic plazas while engaging with a progressive, welcoming community.
Beyond the familiar sights, Lisbon hides curious secrets within its winding alleys. Many travelers are surprised to learn that the city is actually older than Rome, with archaeological evidence suggesting it was founded centuries earlier. Furthermore, during World War II, Lisbon served as one of the few neutral ports in Europe, functioning as a frantic, real-life crossroads for spies, refugees, and royalty. Finally, the city’s famous mosaic pavements, known as calçada portuguesa, were originally crafted by prisoners in the mid-nineteenth century, transforming a labor of hardship into an enduring, quintessentially Lisboeta art form.
Please do read our guide on where to stay in Lisbon, so you get an even more in-depth understanding of the city.
If you like our list of B&Bs, hostels and hotels in Lisbon, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Barcelona or the best hotels in Porto.