Lisbon Neighbourhoods, Locations and Districts

(Lisbon, Portugal)

A fascinating city with an important Moorish past, Lisbon is filled with a number of stunning landmarks, which are spread around its main districts of Alfama, Barrio Alto, Chiado, Graça and Pombaline (Baixa). Lisbon has grown up around the neighbourhood of the Alfama, first spreading to the west. This area soon become known as the Pombaline Baixa.

Devastated by a serious earthquake in the middle of the 18th century, much of the Baixa district was subsequently rebuilt and today comprises a large chunk of central Lisbon, directly north of the Praça do Comércio and next to the Alfama. The nightlife around the Barrio Alto district is legendary and young people flock here for the inexpensive clubs, bars and restaurants. If you're planning to join in the fun, expect a late night.

Alfama District

The Alfama is the most historic district in Lisbon and as such boasts a particularly rich heritage and Moorish past, with some ancient city walls still remaining in places. Much of the Alfama district remains completely intact and as it appeared literally hundreds of years ago, and so walking around its labyrinth of winding alleyways, cobblestone streets and baroque architecture is a little like stepping into the Portuguese past. Many terraces on the slopes around Alfama provide good vantage points, although for the best views of the whole district, you will need to visit the Castle of Sao Jorge, a former royal residence.

Barrio Alto District (Upper Quarter)

Located in central Lisbon and functioning as both a residential neighbourhood and shopping district, the Barrio Alto contains many entertainment opportunities, which have greatly improved since the 1990s, thanks to considerable investment. At this time, the majority of the streets in this part of Lisbon were completely pedestrianised.

Chiado District

Conveniently sited between the districts of Baixa and Bairro Alto, Lisbon's Chiado area is based around the square of the same name and is brimming with traditional Portuguese shops and cafes, which regularly feature outside tables. This ancient district is famous for its Roman origins and rich culture. Following an outbreak of fire on Carmo Street in the late 1980s, several of the buildings were badly damaged and today stand proudly once more, having been completely restored to their original image. Look out for the regular street entertainment, fashion houses and theatres.

Pombaline Lower Town / Baixa District

The Lower Town area of Pombaline is often better known is Lisbon as the Baixa district. This is an especially elegant neighbourhood and features a strong gridwork structure and some of Portugal's earliest 'earthquake-proof' buildings. For some of the best views of the ships sailing along the River Tagus, head to the bustling Praça do Comércio, where many summer celebrations frequently take place.

Graça District

One of the most historical parts of Lisbon, the Graça quarter is situated on the north-easterly side of the Castelo de Sao Jorge. For the best castle and river views, the Miradouro do Monte boasts impressive panoramas and is situated off the Rua Senhora do Monte. The Graça is immediately characterised by its narrow streets and historic workers' houses, which are particularly prominent around the Largo da Graça.