Where to stay in Lisbon, area by area.

Alfama is worth considering for old streets and views, but access is genuinely difficult with a suitcase. Expect uneven paving, steps and steep slopes, and do not assume a taxi can stop at the door.

Mouraria puts Martim Moniz, Rossio and the castle within walking distance. Its inner streets are steep and can become very quiet after dark; use the busier routes if you prefer more people and light around you.

Chiado is straightforward for a first visit: Baixa, Bairro Alto and the river are close on foot and the metro is nearby. The convenience costs more, and the main streets stay crowded during the day.

Príncipe Real is calmer, with gardens, restaurants and independent shops. It sits high above the centre and there is no metro station in the centre of the area, so plan for hills, buses or taxis.

Baixa is one of the easiest central bases with luggage: the street grid is comparatively level and several metro stations are nearby. It is also the most visitor-focused part of Lisbon, busy by day and less residential at night.

Choose Bairro Alto if going out is part of the trip. From Thursday to Saturday, street noise can make sleep genuinely difficult until dawn, even when a property describes its windows as soundproofed.

Graça has local shops and wide views away from the busiest central streets. The return journey is the trade-off: the climb is tiring, and a tram, bus or taxi can be useful at the end of the day.

Cais do Sodré has metro, trains and ferries beside the river, and is useful for nights out. Around Pink Street, crowds and noise can continue into the early hours, so check the exact street before booking.