Planning a stay in Lisbon? We present the city's main neighborhoods to give you a preview of what awaits you during your visit. From atmosphere to tourist attractions, here's everything you need to know about the neighborhoods of Lisbon to visit as a priority.

Alfama, the historic neighborhood

Alfama is the traditional and historic neighborhood not to be missed during your visit. With its village-like atmosphere, steep and narrow streets, colorfully-painted building facades, countless staircases, and typical restaurants and bars, you won't know where to look! Although it's one of the city's most touristy neighborhoods, it has managed to preserve its charm and authenticity.

Must-see things to do in Alfama:

• Get lost in the winding streets,

• Board the mythical and iconic tram no. 28,

• Listen to a Fado concert, the traditional music,

• Visit São Jorge Castle,

• Enjoy beautiful views from Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia.

Baixa, the shopping district

Located in the heart of Lisbon, Baixa is the city's downtown hub. It's a touristy and commercial neighborhood where you'll find numerous shops, hotels, restaurants, and beautiful neoclassical architecture along with some of the city's iconic monuments.

Must-see things to do in Baixa:

• Stroll along Rua Augusta to the Arch of Triumph,

• Admire the sublime Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square),

• Ride the Elevador Santa Justa,

• Soak in the atmosphere of Praça Dom Pedro IV (Rossio Square), Lisbon's liveliest plaza,

• Take the famous Gloria funicular that connects Baixa to Bairro Alto.

Graça, the hilltop neighborhood

Located on Lisbon's highest of its 7 hills, Graça is a perched neighborhood. You can reach it on foot (for the brave) or by taking the iconic tram no. 28. Quieter and less touristy than others, it's the ideal neighborhood to escape the crowds. But most importantly, it's the best place to gain elevation and enjoy Lisbon's finest views. We suggest going at sunset…

Must-see things to do in Graça:

• Enjoy panoramic views of the city from Miradouro de Graça and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte,

• Wander the streets and soak in the local, laid-back atmosphere,

• Visit the Church of Graça and its Convento de Graça convent,

• Take a break and picnic in Jardin da Cerca da Graça.

Mouraria, the multicultural neighborhood

Long neglected and rundown, Mouraria was revitalized in 2009. Since then, it has become a residential neighborhood known for its multicultural character. You'll find beautiful historic buildings with azulejo facades and numerous street art works. Mouraria is also known as the birthplace of Fado, since this traditional musical style originated here.

Must-see things to do in Mouraria:

• Admire the sublime azulejo facades of buildings like the Viúva Lamego House (Largo do Intendente Street),

• Climb the 'Escadinhas de São Cristóvão' stairs and see the impressive mural dedicated to Fado Vadio, one of the city's finest street art works,

• Walk through Rua do Capelão (also called 'Fado Street') where numerous portraits of Fado singers are displayed on the walls,

• Have a drink at the rooftop bar TOPO.

Bairro Alto, the lively and festive neighborhood

Bairro Alto is known as the city's most lively and festive neighborhood. You'll find numerous bars and nightclubs. By day, the neighborhood is equally worth visiting. It represents alternative Lisbon with many designer boutiques, concept stores, and trendy cafés.

Must-see things to do in Bairro Alto:

• Shop at designer and vintage boutiques,

• Visit the magnificent São Roque Church,

• See the São Carlos National Theatre,

• Enjoy the views from Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara and Santa Catarina,

• Party into the night…

Belém, the cultural neighborhood by the Tagus River

It's one of the city's most popular neighborhoods. Although slightly outside the city center, Belém houses some of Lisbon's most iconic monuments (see below). Beyond its cultural richness, the neighborhood is the perfect departure point for a cruise on the Tagus.

Must-see things to do in Belém:

• Visit the Monastery of the Hieronymites (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos), listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site,

• Visit the iconic Belém Tower,

• Visit the famous Museu Nacional dos Coches (Museum of Coaches featuring a collection of royal carriages and period vehicles),

• Taste the pastéis de nata (traditional Portuguese pastries) at Pastéis de Belém, the oldest bakery producing this specialty.

Other Lisbon neighborhoods worth visiting:

• Chiado: located between Baixa and Bairro Alto, it's the meeting place for literary enthusiasts,

• Príncipe Real: Lisbon's posh and wealthy neighborhood with luxury shops, restaurants, and hotels, as well as the Príncipe Real Botanical Garden;

• Estrela: another upscale Lisbon neighborhood featuring a garden, the National Assembly, and the British Cemetery;

• Intendente: an alternative neighborhood north of the city center that appeals to those wanting to venture off the beaten path…

• Cais do Sodré: Lisbon's former red-light district, today it hosts numerous trendy restaurants and shops. It's notably home to the famous Time Out Market.

• Ajuda: located above Belém, it brings together several attractions including the royal palace, the ethnology museum, a botanical garden, and royal stables;

• Alcântara: a popular and very trendy neighborhood known for its former factory converted into an artistic village with designer boutiques, street art, and more;

• Parque das Nações (Park of Nations): a former industrial site transformed into an exhibition venue in 1998, this neighborhood has since become Lisbon's modern and futuristic district;

• Almada: located on the opposite side of the Tagus, it's the ideal neighborhood to get closer to the Christ the King Statue and enjoy the best views of the 25 April Bridge.