4 Exciting Neighbourhoods in Lisbon You Can’t Miss

One particularly fun thing to do in Lisbon is to explore the sprawling attractions of its old neighbourhoods. Wander along the old streets, stop by for a seafood dish and try the delicious pasteis de nata (egg tarts), take lots of photos and perhaps also pay a visit to a Fado bar.

There are many districts in Lisbon but, as depicted on the EscapeHunter.com travel blog, 4 of them stand out with their warmth and their unique identity: Alfama, Baixa, Bairro Alto and Chiado. 

Alfama

The ancient Afama district is where Lisbon really grew out from – yes, this is the oldest part of Lisbon, but as time passed by, the new centre has moved to Baixa.

It is believed that the word “Alfama” comes from Arabic language, but its exact meaning is disputed. The Christians took Lisbon from the Moors in 1147 during the “Siege of Lisbon”. Back then, much of the city was still contained in what we know as Alfama today.

Alfama, Lisbon

The district contains a large number of historical attractions and the beautiful viewpoint of Miraduro de Santa Luzia. The ancient Lisbon Cathedral is found here too and the tram 28 also passes through this district.

Baixa

Lisbon’s historic centre and its main squares (Rossio and Figueira) are here.

It’s primarily a good place for eating around (there are countless restaurants, bars, cafes…) and there even are several important attractions in the area – perhaps the most outstanding of them is the old Santa Justa Elevator.

Baixa, Lisbon

Besides visiting and eating, Baixa can be a good starting point for day trips in the city: plenty of tour buses have stops here, not to mention the fact that the vintage yellow trams also serve the area and, there are several metro stations here as well – Rossio, Restauradores being the closest ones.

Bairro Alto

Established on Lisbon’s western hills, Bairro Alto (the “upper district” or “high district”) is first of all renowned for its night life, bars, restaurants and quiet old neighbourhoods.

Bairro Alto is also a wonderful place to go hunting for street art. And, this is where the Elevador da Glória funicular operates. For the experience, it’s worth trying.

Bairro Alto, Lisbon

During the day, this part of the city might seem rather quiet, but the night life hotspots get lit up during the late hours.

Don’t plan a trip there without consulting Escape Hunter on Bairro Alto. Photos, advice and further information about this wonderful place will prove useful if you want to thoroughly enjoy it.

Chiado

Finally, one of Lisbon’s trendiest neighbourhoods to visit is Chiado. It boasts with high-end shops and restaurants and it has lots of scenic streets for pleasant walks.

Are you seeking elegance or just want to take a pleasant walk? Or a memorable trip aboard and old tram? Chiado is the place for you!

Chaido, Lisbon

Stylish old cafes and restaurants are found all around and again, the old tram 28 passes through this neighbourhood as well.

In Chiado, there’s plenty of variety in terms of architecture, so it’s a place where you can keep going, admiring the buildings around. Plus: some of Lisbon’s oldest (and legendary) cafes and restaurants are actually found in Chiado.