Lisbon’s main neighborhoods and areas

Alfama

We begin with Alfama. As soon as you step into this neighborhood, you'll know you're in Lisbon. It’s located at the foot of São Jorge Castle. This neighborhood is the pure essence of this city. Its aromas transport you to days gone by, and walking its streets is like stepping back in time: almost all the families that live there have inhabited these houses for generations. 

In Alfama you’ll enjoy traditional Portuguese restaurants and shops. It’s also one of the cradles of Fado. Amalia Rodrigues, one of Fado’s most famous interpreters, was born in this neighborhood, which makes her one of the famous people of Lisbon.

Baixa

This neighborhood is located in the most central area of Lisbon. One of the interesting facts about this neighborhood is that it construction began after the great earthquake of 1755 by the Marquis of Pombal. In Baixa you’ll find traditional Lisbon spots like the Praça do Comércio and the Santa Justa Lift, very popular places that you cannot miss.

Belém

This popular neighborhood is located some distance from Baixa, but there you’ll find the quintessential monuments you must visit as you travel the streets of Lisbon. These include Jerónimos Monastery, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Belém Tower or the 25 de Abril Bridge. It is said that Portuguese explorers used to set off on their journeys from the port of this well-known neighborhood.

Parque das Nações

The most modern neighborhood in all of Lisbon. On the occasion of Expo ‘98, this entire area of the city was revitalized. What stands out most is the Vasco de Gama bridge, the longest in Europe, commemorating the 500 years since the conqueror’s arrival to India. 

Don’t miss the great Oriente Station either. It is covered by a glass structure, so it has exceptional lighting.

Chiado

The most bohemian and elegant neighborhood in all of Lisbon. It was rebuilt after a big fire in 1988. Its restaurants and the Armazén de Chiado shopping center add flair to the city and its surroundings. We can find the statue of the illustrious poet Fernando Pessoa and the café A Brasileira.

Bairro Alto

Separated from Chiado by the Plaça Luís de Camoes, it was the setting for the Carnation Revolution, one of the more important days in modern Portuguese democracy history. It is the most urban area where graffiti and street art abounded. It is known for its antiques stores and cafes. 

In short, these are the traditional neighborhoods of Lisbon, where you can enjoy yourself to the fullest in one of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities in the world.

Author: Rafael Gomes

Guest Relations Supervisor of Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa Hotel

Olá! I am Rafael Gomes and I have the privilege of being the Guest Relations Supervisor of Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa Hotel. I have joined the company on December 2022, however I started as a receptionist 7 years ago and I soon realized the Hospitality business was the one I wanted to be in. I chose to venture into this position with the main goal of making our guests' stays memorable, being able to exceed their expectations and, consequently, making them loyal to our brand. It is fantastic to be able to welcome guests from all over the world on a daily basis and provide them with experiences that they will carry with them for a lifetime. I extend an invitation to all readers to visit us in the heart of Lisbon, in the city's most emblematic hotel.