Explore Lisbon, Portugal’s Old Town at These Cosy Airbnb Alternatives
Immerse yourself in history and culture with a stay in Lisbon’s captivating Alfama district
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So, you’re planning a trip to Lisbon. There’s no better place to stay than the Old Town, also known as the Alfama district. This charming neighbourhood is the historic heart of the city, where winding cobbled streets are lined with beautiful traditional buildings. Our travel experts at Plum Guide know the area inside and out, and are here to make sure you have the best experience. It all starts with accommodation – be it romantic one-bedroom apartments to family homes. Take a look at some of our favourite Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon, Portugal's Old Town.
Balsa
Balsa, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
This third-floor apartment really delivers on the views. Looking across the rooftops towards the Sé Cathedral and the Tagus River, you'll love having meals and cocktails out on the small, private balcony. Inside, you'll find a fuss-free space flooded with natural light – the design isn't the most exciting, but two bedrooms and a cosy sitting area have you covered after sightseeing. Located on a residential street, you're just a quick walk from the Old Town's attractions, including Praça do Comércio and, of course, the Sé Cathedral right down the road.
Pinocchio
Pinocchio, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
Filled with light and colour, it's impossible not to feel happy in this home. From the bright tapestry in the lounge and the quintessential azulejo tiles in the kitchen to the gorgeous views of the river, you won't be feeling any of that Portuguese saudade here. The home is ideal for a small family, with a beautiful main bedroom that looks out to sea, and a dedicated kid's room complete with bunk beds. Telmo, the host, and his family lived here until recently, and you can tell that everything in the home has had love and thought put into it. A stay here means you're well-positioned to explore the neighbourhoods of Alfama and Baixa, both of which offer many exciting activities for the family.
Modern Fadista
Modern Fadista, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
If you’re heading to Lisbon on a romantic getaway, you’d be wise to bag this home. Bathed in natural light, make the most of the sun by sitting on the balcony and enjoying indulgent breakfasts of pastel de nata. When evening falls, this is a romantic spot for a glass of wine while you watch the city lights twinkling in the distance. You may want to spend all your time at home, but seeing as you’re centrally located in the Old Town, it would be rude not to head out and explore. You’ll come across loads of bars and restaurants within walking distance, as well as viewpoints such as Miradouro De Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Graça.
Pedra Real
Pedra Real, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
When it comes to Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon, Portugal in the Old Town, it’s hard to beat this wonderful home. With five bedrooms (each with an ensuite), it’s ideal for groups of friends or extended families looking for a large place to stay. Set within the restored ruins of the old Santo André church, the home effortlessly blends modern amenities with period features – our favourites are the original stone walls. The huge, open-plan kitchen and dining area were designed for big get-togethers, with lots of space to chat, read a book or watch TV. We love how each of the bedrooms have azulejo tiled headboards, adding a splash of colour and pattern to the rooms. If you need a moment of peace away from the group, one of the bedrooms has a narrow balcony where you can sit and people-watch on the street below.
Terracotta On The Tagus
Terracotta On The Tagus, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
Tucked away in a winding alleyway, this home is as charming on the inside as it is on the outside. Perfect for two people, the apartment has all the amenities you need, including a well-equipped kitchen and a king-sized bed. Our favourite room is the lounge, where you can throw open the French doors, pick a spot on the L-shaped sofa and gaze out across the terracotta roofs towards the Tagus. When it comes to sightseeing, step out onto Alfama’s cobbled streets to walk to nearby attractions like the Museu do Fado and the Cathedral of Lisbon.
Tranquil Shades
Tranquil Shades, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
What stood out to us the first time we saw this home was its sunny terrace. It’s a multifunctional space, where you can start the day with coffee, tuck into home-cooked dinners around the table, and talk late into the night while sipping a glass of wine on the sofa. Both bedrooms open up onto the terrace, too, so you can lie in bed and let the gentle breeze send you to sleep. When the weather’s not so good, the warm and inviting interiors are a great place to hang out. We love the cosy lounge where you can open the large windows and admire the views from the Juliet balcony. The iconic number 28 tram stop sits right outside, so you can head out the door and start sightseeing in no time.
Birchwood Views
Birchwood Views, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
Couples looking for Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon, Portugal's Old Town will love this bright and airy apartment. The living room has three French doors, one of which opens up onto a narrow balcony where you can watch the yellow trams passing below. Its beige and white colour scheme creates a calming atmosphere to come home to, where you can wash away the day under the rainfall shower and curl up with a glass of wine on the couch. You’ll be pleased to know you won’t have to travel too far to sightsee, as the home puts you within walking distance of São Jorge Castle, the Praça do Comércio, the Santa Justa Lift and the Museu do Fado.
Helping Hands
Helping Hands, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
At first glance, you may think you’ve stepped into a stylish New York apartment until you spot the Portuguese designs and the famous number 28 tram just outside your window, that is. Right next to a tram stop and five minutes from the São Jorge Castle, you’re well-positioned for sightseeing. When you’re not out and about, there are plenty of details to admire, from the artwork and the cowhide rug, to the geometric tiles in the bathroom. There’s space for two couples or a family, with the twin beds in the second bedroom forming a king-sized bed if needed.
The Castle Keep
The Castle Keep, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
Towering high above the neighbouring buildings, this home offers spectacular views of the Old Town and São Jorge Castle. It’s just the right size for a solo traveller or a couple, with a snug lounge and airy kitchen diner, complete with its original wooden beams. The home also comes with a balcony where you can take in the views of Alfama and across the river – it’s a dreamy spot for date nights. When you’re ready to hit the town, you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants just a short walk away. We particularly love Gelateiro d’Alfama for artisan gelato, perfect on a hot day.
Under The Orange Tree
Under the Orange Tree, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
Looking to celebrate a special occasion with friends? There’s no better place for it than this delightful three-bedroom home in the heart of the Old Town. There are so many reasons to love this pad, from the generously-sized living area to the main bedroom with its two sets of French doors which you can open up and let the morning light in. The best part of the home, however, is the secret courtyard – we bet you weren’t expecting that from a second-floor apartment. With a cheerful yellow wall and orange tree growing in its centre (you can even help yourself to fruit if you’re visiting in season), this is the place to spend time reading, eating and relaxing in the shade.
The Cobblestone Maze
The Cobblestone Maze, Plum Guide home in Lisbon, Portugal
Last but certainly not least on our list of Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon, Portugal's Old Town is this cosy home. It may be on the smaller side, but there's plenty of room for two to spread out. There's even a wrap-around patio filled with potted plants, perfect for alfresco meals and nightcaps. Inside, we love how zen-like the rooms are, from the calming white bedroom with its soft pink drapes to the airy kitchen and living space with its wooden beams. Right outside the home, you have all of the Old Town's attractions within walking distance. The neighbourhood is best explored on foot, where you can get happily lost amongst the narrow streets.
