This forum has been so helpful previously. We are traveling to Portugal in April 2025 starting in Lisbon. We wonder should we wait to rent an auto until we leave Lisbon? Any recommendations of where to stay as we heard the Alfama area has had so many tourists that locals are being pushed out- We are looking for moderately to lower priced accommodations in Lisbon or should we start in Sintra and commute to the city? We have 2 weeks and will travel South to the Algare and Alentejo regions. Any must do or see recommendations are highly welcomed? Thank you!
Posted by
Western WA
98 posts
Yes, I'd wait to rent a car until you are leaving Lisbon.
Regarding Alfama, I believe the issue is more related to short-term rentals (Airbnb etc) than the actual neighborhood. There are just a lot of short term rentals in that neighborhood. If concerned, then stay at a hotel or an aparthotel.
Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own pros and cons. It matters what you are looking for.
Posted by
OP
158 posts
Thank you Lynn!
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
1842 posts
I would stay in Lisbon. It's a lovely city that is smaller than the larger European capital cities so fairly easy to get around, and Lisbon has a wonderful ambiance. You would waste too much time commuting into Lisbon from Sintra.
We were there in 2018, and we stayed at the Hotel Real Palacio on Rua Tomas Ribeiro. The rate at the time was $170 per night including a filling breakfast buffet. Of course it's possible the rate has increased since then. One drawback for some tourists is that this hotel is not the most centrally located. It is near the Marques de Pombal and Edward VII Park. It's within walking distance of the Gulbenkian Museum. Sometimes we took a taxi to the city center (Rossio Square, etc.), but sometimes we walked. The walk was a very pleasant and enjoyable 20 to 25 minutes down Ave. Liberdade. This worked for us but might not be central enough for some tourists. Take a look on Google maps and see what you think. The Real Palacio is a less expensive alternative. It all depends on what is more important to you.
Posted by
OP
158 posts
Thank you kmkwoo for the advice about staying in Lisbon. We cant afford the hotel you mentioned but we might stay in the Graca neighborhood.