Deciding where to stay in Lisbon, Portugal can be a tough task.
But you’ll be hard-pressed to find a higher concentration of picture-perfect Airbnbs and holiday apartments in Lisbon than in the neighborhood of Alfama.
The Alfama District, Lisbon’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhood, is literally the stuff dreams are made of. Every morning, walking to and from our perfect Lisbon Airbnb with river views, I nearly had to pinch myself that we were not in a fairytale, but in fact, real life.
I’m talking: old ladies hanging their laundry from the window. Winding alleyways that led to crooked streets, losing all sense of direction. And a hilltop Aperol spirtz with terrace views (OH, so many views)! Lisboans have definitely perfected the art of living.
If you’re contemplating where to stay on your Lisbon holiday, I highly recommend booking an apartment in the Alfama District!
Read on for the best Airbnbs in Alfama, Lisbon (spoiler alert: all with stellar views)!
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When searching for the best Airbnbs in Lisbon, you’ll find that rates will vary greatly. Some family holiday apartments may cost as little as $50/night, while larger flats with terraces can demand $200+.
The key thing to keep in mind: there are lots of choices at all price points. So it’s best to go into your search knowing how much you want to spend, and work backwards from there to keep your budget in check.
airbnb average price guide:
$ | $0-75/night
$$ | $75-125/night
$$$ | $125+/night
Let’s take a look at our options, shall we?
1 | Alfama with Amazing River View ($$)
First up on the list, I’d be remiss if I didn’t include the lovely apartment we stayed in during our two weeks in Lisbon. Sure, the trek up the narrow stairs to the third floor was tough, but we were rewarded with 180 degree views of Alfama and the Tagus River.
Though the apartment is small, we had everything we needed from a modern kitchen, washing machine, heat and a/c, to a good wi-fi signal and two comfy bedrooms to fit the whole family.
2 | Lisbon Boutique on the River ($)
Just down the “street” from our Rua do Castelo Picão apartment sits this sweet little gem: a boutique apartment in the heart of Alfama.
What the apartment lacks in size, it makes up for in thoughtful touches and modern decor (at a price point that’s exceptionally affordable)! Plus, you’re only steps away from Miradouro de Santa Luzia, the perfect place to take in the views on a sunny day.
3 | Spectacular Balcony View in Alfama ($)
Location, location! If your dreams of Lisbon include basking in the sun of your quaint terrace, then add this Alfama Airbnb to your wish list.
At the base of the hill and just a few minutes walk from the Terreiro do Paco station, you’ll have easy access to all of Lisbon and beyond at your doorstep. Not to mention, a huge selection of Fado bars and restaurants, plus some delicious tapas and sangria at nearby Maruto Bar & Bistro.
4 | Historic Alfama Apartment ($$)
This 5-star Lisbon Airbnb may be your perfect home away from home. Don’t be fooled by the fact that it’s a first floor apartment, the recently renovated flat offers views of nearby Portas do Sol.
The large kitchen (by Lisbon standards) and second bedroom equipped with bunk beds also makes it a comfortable fit for a small family.
5 | Modern 2 Bedroom with River View ($$)
Space comes at a premium in Alfama, so finding a 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with a huge kitchen at just over $100/night is quite a steal!
The house sits on a busy street, where some might consider the passing tram no. 28 a noisy bother. I, however, consider it immersion into the local culture and a chance for countless photo ops!
6 | Apartment with Terrace and River View ($$$)
If you want to truly stay in the heart of Alfama, considering booking this 2 bedroom apartment sandwiched between Portas do Sol, Castelo Sao Jorge, and the Sé Cathedral.
You’ll find plenty of restaurants tucked within the winding side streets, or enjoy dinner on the balcony on a night in. Bonus: for families with little ones, the hosts can provide a baby cot, high chair, children’s dishes or toys, free of charge!
7 | Light-Filled Apartment in Alfama ($)
One of the few Airbnbs on this list that doesn’t include a river view, I just couldn’t overlook this light and bright holiday apartment with its gorgeous overlook to the street!
The apartment is small, but clean and cozy with modern decor. The hosts even offer to pick you up from the airport and help you carry your luggage: a huge plus when working out the logistics of arriving in hilly Alfama!
8 | Alfama Watchtower Duplex ($)
The most affordable apartment for rent on this list, the tiny Alfama Watchtower offers 3 different vistas for a 270 degree view of historic Lisbon.
Located in the upper part of Alfama, it’s worth the hike for easy access to the areas many great restaurants (which become much less touristic the higher up the hill you go)! We recommend Copenhagen Coffee Lab for your morning fix, followed by O Prego or Augusto for lunch.
9 | Feeling Alfama’s Heartbeat ($$$)
Imagine waking up, throwing open the doors to your terrace, and sipping coffee while the locals stroll by. That’s exactly the kind of experience this dreamy Airbnb offers.
Add in a kind, experienced host and central location, and it’s easy to see why this holiday rental is rated 5 stars. And with two twin beds in the second bedroom, plus a toddler bed to spare, this apartment is perfect for a Lisbon family vacation.
10 | Spacious and Charming with Terrace ($$$)
Want everything you could possibly need in one family-friendly Airbnb? Then look no further: you’ve found it!
This Airbnb Plus property is super kid-friendly, with crib, high chairs, toys, kids dinnerware, and more – all included! It’s also on the ground floor, meaning less steps to trudge your whole brood up (a rarity in Alfama). With 3 bedrooms, it’s also one of the most spacious options on this list.
11 | Stunning River & City Views ($$)
This light and airy Lisbon apartment for rent is one of my favorites on this list.
Modern touches and clean decor make it feel like a hotel, while a spacious second floor gives it the feeling of a home. The amazing balcony with 180 degree views sure isn’t bad either.
Get lost as you explore the winding streets right outside your door, and don’t forget to visit the nearby Feira da Ladra flea market, open every Tuesday and Saturday.
12 | Enjoy Lisbon with River Views ($)
A 5-star Lisbon Airbnb rental at a 2-star price? Sign me up!
This cozy Alfama apartment is a little smaller than the rest, but the split living space (sofa bed downstairs/bedroom upstairs), makes it much more comfortable for families on a budget.
It’s also Plus verified, meaning it’s passed an in-home quality inspection by Airbnb, boasts one-of-a-kind designer touches, and is run by an experienced host with a solid track record for postive reviews.
13 | Alfama Sunrise ($$)
Climbing the steep stairs to the third floor of this historic Alfama building might be a challenge, but the sunny views of Alfama’s red rooftops sure are worth it!
Located near Miradouro de Santo Estevao, guests of this Lisbon Airbnb will appreciate its central location near many shops and restaurants. I can almost hear the faint sounds of Fado streaming into the apartment from here!
Which Alfama, Lisbon Airbnb would you choose for your next holiday?
