Hotels vs. Airbnbs in Lisbon: What’s best for your stay?

Nana Guerreiro
4 days ago
3 min read

Lisbon has quickly become one of Europe’s most popular destinations — and whether you're coming for a weekend break or a full cultural deep-dive, one of the first decisions you'll make is: hotel or Airbnb?

Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice often depends on your travel style. Here's a balanced breakdown to help you decide.

Hotels: Comfort, Service, and Consistency

Advantages:

Professional service: Daily housekeeping, 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and concierge support can make a huge difference — especially if you're arriving early, leaving late, or need help during your stay.
Location clarity: Reputable hotels are usually located in safe, central areas — no guessing games with coordinates or vague directions.
No surprises: What you see is usually what you get. Hotels are regularly inspected and held to professional standards.
Support during issues: If something goes wrong, there’s staff on-site to help right away.
Amenities: From breakfast to rooftop views, in-room coffee, or even spa access — the little extras can make your stay smoother and more enjoyable.

Things to consider:

Prices can be slightly higher, especially in peak season.
Rooms may be smaller than apartment-style Airbnbs (but they’re usually more functional and well-managed).

Airbnbs: Space and Local Living — Sometimes

Advantages:

More space: Especially if you're staying for longer or traveling with family, Airbnbs often offer kitchens, living areas, and extra bedrooms.
Home-like feel: Some travellers enjoy the experience of “living like a local.”
Potential for unique stays: Historic buildings, quirky decor, or charming viewpoints can be appealing.

Things to consider:

Quality varies: Unlike hotels, not all listings are professionally managed. What looks great in photos may not feel quite the same in person.
Check-in can be tricky: Especially with hosts who are unavailable or not responsive.
Limited support: If something breaks or goes wrong, you're often relying on a single host’s availability.
Less predictable locations: Some Airbnbs are far from the centre, or tucked into areas that may not be ideal for first-time visitors.

A Thought on Lisbon and the bigger picture

Lisbon is evolving quickly — and part of that is the way tourism has reshaped many of its neighbourhoods. In recent years, the boom in short-term rentals has had an impact on housing availability for locals, particularly in historic central areas like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Many residents have been priced out or moved away, which naturally changes the atmosphere of these beloved bairros.

Choosing a hotel, especially one that’s locally owned or part of a Portuguese group, can be a way to enjoy the city while supporting quality services and preserving the soul of Lisbon’s traditional neighbourhoods.

So… What do I recommend?

Every traveller is different. But if you’re asking me?

For comfort, support, and the peace of mind that comes with reliable service — especially on your first visit to Lisbon — I usually recommend staying in a hotel. You’ll spend your days out exploring, and at the end of the day, it’s nice to return to a place where everything is taken care of.

If you need help choosing a hotel or neighbourhood, just reach out.

I’m happy to help. Whether you’re staying in a boutique hotel in Chiado or a stylish spot in Avenida da Liberdade, I can help tailor your tour to match your stay.

Looking forward to showing you around.

– PeppePortugal Journeys With Peppe