Best Neighborhoods to Live in Lisbon

Best Neighborhoods to Live in Lisbon: A Comprehensive Guide

Lisbon, Portugal’s picturesque capital, is known for its history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere. When relocating to Lisbon, selecting the right neighborhood is crucial, as each district offers its unique charm, lifestyle, and amenities. Whether you are moving for work, studies, or retirement, finding the right area can enhance your experience. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best neighborhoods to live in Lisbon, detailing their daylife, nightlife, schools, markets, parks, and more.

I’ve been living in Lisbon since 2020 and have had the chance to experience different neighborhoods first-hand, including Chiado (which I loved during Covid but found too overtouristy afterward), Avenidas Novas, and Campo de Ourique. Each neighborhood offers a distinct lifestyle, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned along the way.

1. Campo de Ourique

Overview: Campo de Ourique is a family-oriented, traditional neighborhood known for its relaxed vibe and proximity to Lisbon’s city center. It’s one of the most beloved neighborhoods by locals, offering a balance of residential comfort and urban convenience.

• Daylife: This area offers tree-lined streets, local cafés, small boutiques, and artisanal shops. It’s a great neighborhood for daily strolls or a relaxing afternoon at one of the local establishments.
• Nightlife: While Campo de Ourique is more tranquil at night, it does offer some cozy bars and casual dining spots.
• Schools: Several schools, both local and international, are available in the area, making it a great neighborhood for families with children.
• Markets: Mercado de Campo de Ourique is a popular spot, where you can find fresh produce, gourmet items, and specialty products.
• Parks & Green Spaces: Campo de Ourique is home to beautiful parks like Jardim da Estrela, a lovely park with fountains and playgrounds, and Tapada das Necessidades, a vast green area with a more peaceful vibe. Jardim da Parada also provides a quiet space for relaxing.
• Public Transport: The area is well-served by bus and tram, though the nearest metro station (Rato) is a bit further away.
• Safety: Campo de Ourique is a very safe neighborhood, especially for families.
• Real Estate: Prices are increasing, but it remains more affordable than the city center.
• Community: The neighborhood has a close-knit, local community, with a strong residential feel.
• Atmosphere: Campo de Ourique offers a relaxed, traditional Lisbon atmosphere, ideal for those who want to feel part of the local culture.

2. Graça

Overview: Graça offers a fantastic blend of old-world charm and youthful energy, attracting young professionals, artists, and families. It’s a bohemian neighborhood that’s quickly gaining popularity.

• Daylife: Graça has a distinctive character with narrow streets, old buildings, and trendy cafés. It’s a great area for exploring Lisbon’s authentic side.
• Nightlife: Graça has a more laid-back nightlife compared to other areas of Lisbon. Enjoy intimate bars, casual spots, and traditional Fado music venues.
• Schools: While Graça offers local schools, there are fewer options for international schools than in other neighborhoods.
• Markets: Mercado da Graça is a lovely market for fresh food and local products.
• Parks & Green Spaces: Graça is famous for its viewpoints, such as Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, which offer panoramic views of the city.
• Public Transport: Graça is well-connected by buses and tram 28, though the metro station is a little further away.
• Safety: Graça is generally safe, though it’s a good idea to stay cautious at night in certain areas.
• Real Estate: Graça is more affordable than the central neighborhoods but has seen rising property prices due to its growing popularity.
• Community: It has a diverse community, with locals and expats living side by side.
• Atmosphere: Graça is full of bohemian charm, with an artistic and lively atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a vibrant but traditional neighborhood.

3. Avenidas Novas

Overview: Avenidas Novas is a bustling, modern district known for its wide streets, commercial areas, and close proximity to Lisbon’s business hubs. It’s ideal for those who want to be near the action but enjoy a quieter residential atmosphere.

• Daylife: Avenidas Novas has a more cosmopolitan feel, with a mix of office buildings, restaurants, and shopping centers. It’s a convenient area with all the amenities you could need.
• Nightlife: The nightlife here is more laid-back, with local cafés and bars, though it’s not as vibrant as areas like Bairro Alto or Príncipe Real.
• Schools: The area is well-served by local schools and has several international schools nearby.
• Markets: Mercado de Alvalade is a lovely spot to grab fresh groceries and local products.
• Parks & Green Spaces: Eduardo VII Park is the largest green space in the area and offers stunning views of the city.
• Public Transport: Avenidas Novas is well-connected with several metro stations, including Saldanha and Campo Pequeno, and numerous bus routes.
• Safety: Avenidas Novas is a very safe neighborhood, popular with professionals and families.
• Real Estate: Prices are moderate, with a mix of older and newer buildings.
• Community: The neighborhood has a diverse mix of locals, expats, and professionals.
• Atmosphere: Modern and business-focused, Avenidas Novas is ideal for those who want convenience and access to Lisbon’s commercial life.

4. Estrela

Overview: Estrela is an elegant, residential neighborhood known for its green spaces, historic landmarks, and proximity to the river. It’s perfect for those seeking a quieter yet well-connected area.

• Daylife: Estrela is known for its calm ambiance, with its wide streets, cafés, and local shops. The iconic Basílica da Estrela is a must-see, along with the lovely Jardim da Estrela park.
• Nightlife: Estrela offers a more relaxed nightlife compared to the city center, with a few casual bars and restaurants offering a quiet evening out.
• Schools: The area features several schools, including international options.
• Markets: Mercado de Estrela is a local favorite, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.
• Parks & Green Spaces: Jardim da Estrela, a beautiful park with fountains and playgrounds, provides a relaxing retreat.
• Public Transport: Estrela is well-connected by bus and tram, and the nearby metro stations make it easy to get to the city center.
• Safety: Estrela is considered a safe and family-friendly neighborhood.
• Real Estate: Prices are higher than other areas, but Estrela remains more affordable than the most central parts of Lisbon.
• Community: Estrela offers a mix of locals and expats, making it ideal for those seeking a calm yet diverse community.
• Atmosphere: Elegant and peaceful, Estrela offers a serene lifestyle without being too far from the city center.

5. Beato

Overview: Beato is an emerging neighborhood in Lisbon that blends industrial charm with an exciting creative scene. Once an industrial hub, it’s now a hotspot for artists, young professionals, and those looking for more affordable living options with a unique vibe. Beato is gradually transforming, with new businesses, cafes, and cultural spaces popping up, making it a perfect area for those seeking something a bit off the beaten path.

• Daylife: Beato is filled with creative spaces, modern art galleries, and quirky cafes. The area is also home to a growing number of coworking spaces, making it popular among freelancers and digital nomads.
• Nightlife: While Beato isn’t known for its bustling nightlife, it’s home to several alternative bars and eateries, with a cool, artsy vibe perfect for casual hangouts.
• Schools: Beato has a few local schools, but it’s not as well-served by international schools compared to other central areas.
• Markets: Beato is more known for local shops and artisan markets, offering a great selection of handcrafted goods and unique finds.
• Parks & Green Spaces: Beato is home to Parque da Bela Vista, one of Lisbon’s largest parks, perfect for outdoor activities, jogging, or a relaxing day in nature. It’s also close to the Parque Ribeirinho Oriente, a riverside park that offers beautiful walking and cycling paths along the Tagus River, adding to the area’s green spaces.
• Public Transport: The neighborhood is served by buses and tram lines, and while the nearest metro station is a bit further, it’s still easily accessible.
• Safety: Beato is generally considered a safe neighborhood with a relaxed atmosphere. The area has a close-knit community and feels more residential than tourist-heavy, making it a great choice for those seeking peace.
• Real Estate: Property prices in Beato are more affordable compared to central Lisbon, making it an appealing option for those who want to be close to the city but at a lower cost.
• Community: The neighborhood is attracting more young creatives, artists, and expats who are drawn to its eclectic atmosphere and growing cultural scene.
• Atmosphere: Beato offers a creative, industrial vibe, with a mix of old and new. It’s an area in transition, with a sense of community and a laid-back ambiance, perfect for those looking for something a bit different from the city center.

6. Santos

Overview: Santos is one of Lisbon’s most vibrant and trendy neighborhoods, known for its bohemian charm, riverside location, and exciting nightlife. It has become increasingly popular with young professionals, expats, and creatives, offering a dynamic and energetic environment. The neighborhood offers a mix of modern cafes, bars, and cultural spots, making it a great place for those who want a lively city experience with a creative twist.

• Daylife: Santos is home to many chic cafes, boutique shops, and restaurants offering international and local cuisine. Its proximity to the Tagus River also means plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a walk or sit by the water.
• Nightlife: Known for its lively nightlife, Santos offers a variety of bars, clubs, and late-night hangouts. The area is bustling with life in the evenings, making it one of Lisbon’s most exciting places for nightlife.
• Schools: The neighborhood offers some local schools and has a few international schools in the surrounding areas, making it suitable for families.
• Markets: While Santos doesn’t have a traditional market, it is home to gourmet shops, artisanal stores, and small local food markets that bring character to the neighborhood.
• Parks & Green Spaces: In addition to the nearby Jardim da Praça das Flores, Santos is close to the waterfront, providing picturesque views and green spaces for outdoor enjoyment.
• Public Transport: Santos is very well-connected with several bus and tram lines, and the Cais do Sodré metro station is just a short walk away, providing easy access to other parts of the city.
• Safety: Santos is considered a generally safe area, though like any popular nightlife destination, it’s important to stay cautious in crowded spots after dark.
• Real Estate: Property prices in Santos have increased in recent years due to its rising popularity, but it still offers more affordable options compared to more central neighborhoods like Chiado and Baixa.
• Community: Santos has a vibrant, international community, attracting expats, creatives, and young professionals. Its laid-back yet energetic atmosphere makes it an appealing neighborhood for those looking to immerse themselves in Lisbon’s creative side.
• Atmosphere: Santos combines riverside tranquility with an artistic and bohemian vibe, offering an energetic and cool place to live for those who enjoy city life with a creative twist.

Conclusion

Each of these neighborhoods offers something unique, whether it’s the family-friendly feel of Campo de Ourique, the historical charm of Alfama, or the modern conveniences of Avenidas Novas. The right neighborhood for you will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and proximity to work, schools, and essential amenities. Use this guide to narrow down your options and start exploring Lisbon’s vibrant communities!

FAQs

1. What are the sketchy areas of Lisbon?

Some areas like Cais do Sodré and Intendente have historically had a reputation for being less safe, especially at night. However, these neighborhoods have undergone gentrification and are now much safer, though it's always best to stay alert in any city.

2. Where do rich people go in Lisbon?

Wealthy residents often frequent areas like Avenida da Liberdade, Parque das Nações, and Alcântara for upscale shopping, dining, and exclusive events. These neighborhoods offer luxury real estate and a high-end lifestyle.

3. Where should I stay in Lisbon for the first time?

For first-time visitors, Baixa, Alfama, and Chiado are great choices due to their central locations, historic charm, and proximity to major attractions. These areas offer a classic Lisbon experience but might get overtouristy.

4. Is Lisbon a walkable city?

Yes, Lisbon is very walkable, especially in areas like Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama, where narrow streets are perfect for exploring on foot. However, be prepared for hills in many neighborhoods.

5. What is the best neighborhood nightlife in Lisbon?

Bairro Alto is the most famous nightlife district in Lisbon, with countless bars and clubs. Cais do Sodré and Santos are also popular for their vibrant nightlife scenes.

6. What is the most beautiful part of Lisbon?

Alfama and Graça are often considered the most picturesque parts of Lisbon, offering stunning views, narrow streets, colorful buildings, and a historic charm that captures the essence of the city.

7. What is the safest neighborhood to stay in Lisbon?

Campo de Ourique, Principe Real, and Parque das Nações are known for being safe and family-friendly, with low crime rates. Many expats and families choose these areas for their peace and security.

8. Where do most American expats live in Lisbon?

American expats often live in neighborhoods like Parque das Nações, Avenida da Liberdade, Campo de Ourique, and Alfama, where there are international schools, expat communities, and good amenities.

9. Where do celebrities live in Lisbon?

Celebrities and high-net-worth individuals tend to live in upscale neighborhoods like Avenida da Liberdade, Restelo, and Estoril, where they can enjoy luxury residences and privacy.

10. What is the most popular street in Lisbon?

Avenida da Liberdade is one of the most iconic and popular streets in Lisbon, lined with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and cafes, making it a central point for both locals and tourists.