Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon for Renting an Apartment
1. Alfama
Alfama is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon, characterized by its narrow winding streets, colorful buildings, and breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River. This historic district is home to several landmarks, including the São Jorge Castle, the Lisbon Cathedral, and the National Pantheon. Visitors can wander through its maze-like streets, explore charming cafes and restaurants, and immerse themselves in the sounds of traditional Fado music.
2. Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is Lisbon's bohemian quarter, known for its lively nightlife, eclectic mix of shops, and vibrant street art. During the day, visitors can stroll through its narrow streets lined with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops. At night, the neighborhood comes alive with bars, restaurants, and live music venues, making it the perfect place to experience Lisbon's famous nightlife scene.
3. Baixa
Baixa, also known as downtown Lisbon, is the city's commercial and financial center, characterized by its grand plazas, wide boulevards, and elegant architecture. The neighborhood is home to iconic landmarks such as the Praça do Comércio, Rossio Square, and the Santa Justa Lift. Visitors can shop at upscale boutiques, dine at gourmet restaurants, and explore historic sites such as the Lisbon Cathedral and the Elevador de Santa Justa.
4. Chiado
Chiado is Lisbon's cultural heart, renowned for its theaters, bookstores, and charming cafes. This elegant neighborhood is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Carmo Convent, the São Carlos National Theater, and the famous Café A Brasileira. Visitors can explore its picturesque streets, browse through art galleries and antique shops, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.
5. Belém
Belém is a historic district located to the west of Lisbon's city center, famous for its maritime history and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries, which commemorate Portugal's Age of Exploration. The neighborhood is also known for its delicious pastries, including the famous Pastéis de Belém, which can be enjoyed at the renowned Antiga Confeitaria de Belém.
These are just a few of the many incredible neighborhoods to explore in Lisbon. Each offers its own unique atmosphere, attractions, and experiences, making the city a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Rental Costs in Lisbon
1-Bedroom Apartment
For a 1-bedroom apartment in Lisbon, you can expect to pay anywhere from €600 to €1200 per month, depending on the location, amenities, and condition of the property. Apartments in popular neighborhoods such as Chiado and Baixa tend to be on the higher end of the price range, while those in more residential areas like Alvalade or Campo de Ourique may be more affordable.
2-Bedroom Apartment
For a 2-bedroom apartment in Lisbon, rental prices typically range from €800 to €1800 per month. Again, prices can vary based on factors such as location, size, and amenities. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto may command higher rents due to their popularity and historic charm.
3-Bedroom Apartment
Renting a 3-bedroom apartment in Lisbon can cost anywhere from €1000 to €2500 per month. The price range is influenced by factors such as location, size, and the overall condition of the property. Apartments with modern amenities and views of the river or city skyline may be at the higher end of the spectrum.
House
For those seeking a standalone house in Lisbon, rental prices typically start at around €1200 per month for a smaller property and can go up to €5000 or more for a larger, luxury home in prestigious neighborhoods such as Cascais or Estoril. Prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, size, and amenities such as a garden or pool.
Studio
Studios in Lisbon are a popular choice for students and young professionals. Rental prices for studios generally range from €400 to €900 per month, depending on factors such as location, size, and amenities. Studios in central neighborhoods like Príncipe Real or Santos tend to be more expensive compared to those in more suburban areas.
Room
For those looking to rent a room in Lisbon, prices typically range from €250 to €600 per month, depending on factors such as location, size, and whether the room is furnished or unfurnished. Rooms in shared apartments or student residences may be more affordable, while those in upscale neighborhoods or with private bathrooms may command higher rents.
Overall, the rental market in Lisbon offers a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. It's important to research carefully and consider factors such as location, amenities, and transportation access when searching for accommodation in this vibrant and dynamic city.
What to visit in Lisbon, popular places
- Alfama: Explore Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, characterized by narrow winding streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River. Don't miss the iconic São Jorge Castle and the Lisbon Cathedral.
- Bairro Alto: Experience Lisbon's vibrant nightlife scene in this bohemian quarter, known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. During the day, explore its charming streets lined with colorful buildings and street art.
- Baixa: Discover Lisbon's downtown district, home to grand plazas, elegant architecture, and bustling shopping streets. Visit landmarks such as the Praça do Comércio, Rossio Square, and the Santa Justa Lift.
- Belém: Delve into Lisbon's maritime history in this historic district located to the west of the city center. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries.
- Chiado: Immerse yourself in Lisbon's cultural heart, known for its theaters, bookstores, and charming cafes. Don't miss the Carmo Convent, the São Carlos National Theater, and the famous Café A Brasileira.
- Parque das Nações: Explore Lisbon's modern side in this waterfront district, home to the Expo '98 site. Visit attractions such as the Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium), the Vasco da Gama Tower, and the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
- Miradouros: Take in panoramic views of Lisbon from its numerous miradouros (viewpoints) scattered throughout the city. Some popular miradouros include Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Miradouro de Santa Catarina, and Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.
- Gulbenkian Museum: Discover an impressive collection of art at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, which houses works ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces.
- Lisbon's Street Art: Wander through Lisbon's streets to admire its vibrant street art scene. From colorful murals to intricate graffiti, the city is a canvas for local and international artists.
- Tram 28: Ride the iconic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of Lisbon's historic neighborhoods. The vintage yellow tram winds its way through narrow streets, offering a unique perspective of the city.
These are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Lisbon. Whether you're exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply soaking up its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is sure to captivate you with its charm and beauty.
Cost of living in Lisbon
- Accommodation: Rent prices in Lisbon vary depending on the neighborhood and the type of accommodation. On average, you can expect to pay around €600 to €1200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Prices may be lower in suburban areas or higher in popular neighborhoods such as Chiado or Alfama.
- Utilities: The cost of utilities, including electricity, water, heating, and garbage, for a typical 85 square meter apartment in Lisbon is approximately €100 to €150 per month. Internet service typically costs around €30 to €40 per month.
- Transportation: Lisbon has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. A monthly pass for unlimited travel on public transport costs around €40 to €50. Taxi fares are relatively affordable, with an average starting fare of €3.50 and an additional charge of €0.50 per kilometer.
- Food: Grocery prices in Lisbon are reasonable, with a basic weekly shopping for a couple costing around €50 to €70. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant for dinner may cost approximately €15 to €25 per person, while a cappuccino in a cafe typically costs around €1.50 to €2.50.
- Entertainment: Lisbon offers a wide range of entertainment options, from cultural events to nightlife activities. A movie ticket costs around €6 to €10, while a cocktail in a bar may range from €5 to €10. Many museums and galleries offer discounted or free admission on certain days of the week.
- Healthcare: Portugal has a public healthcare system that provides affordable medical care to residents. However, many expats and visitors opt for private health insurance for additional coverage and faster access to services. The cost of private health insurance varies depending on the coverage and provider.
- Educational Expenses: If you have children, you'll need to consider the cost of education. International schools in Lisbon can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the school and grade level.
- Other Expenses: Additional expenses in Lisbon may include clothing, personal care items, and recreational activities. Overall, the cost of living in Lisbon is relatively affordable compared to other major European cities, making it an attractive destination for expats and travelers alike.
Keep in mind that these are approximate costs and actual expenses may vary depending on individual lifestyle choices and circumstances. However, with careful budgeting and planning, it's possible to enjoy a comfortable standard of living in Lisbon without breaking the bank.