Nestled on the banks of the River Tagus, Portugal’s lively capital serves up some pretty beautiful scenery, with architectural marvels and picturesque streets everywhere you look. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip, why not stay somewhere with a balcony? There’s nothing better than taking in the views without leaving the comfort of your home. To begin your journey, check out the very best Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon with a balcony, selected by our travel experts at Plum Guide.
Gold & Glory
Gold & Glory, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Located in the peaceful residential neighbourhood of Arroios, this three-bedroom apartment is a great base to explore all that Lisbon has to offer on a longer visit. You’re just a twenty-two-minute walk to Parque Eduardo VII with its impressive views, while the Old Town is three minutes away by public transport. There’s a strong sense of design throughout the home, its earthy colour palette creating a calming space to relax after a day of sightseeing. Two of the bedrooms have desks if you need to get some work done, or put the laptop away and enjoy a cold drink on the balcony. With its comfy seating and table, you can easily stay out here all evening, although the sofa in the living room is particularly squishy and may tempt you over for a movie night.
Ode To A City
Ode To A City, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
It’s hard not to be impressed by the views from this apartment. As soon as you arrive, you’ll want to head up to the communal rooftop terrace for spectacular panoramas of the River Tagus and the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge. There are multiple seating areas, making it a great spot to watch the sun go down. When you don’t want to share, your apartment also comes with a balcony for alfresco breakfasts and cocktails (whether that’s at the same time is entirely up to you – you are on holiday, after all). The interiors are cool and breezy, offering a respite from the heat. There’s also a well-equipped kitchen should you want to make some comfort food, but with waterfront restaurants on your doorstep, we don’t think you’ll use it much. The Alcântara neighbourhood is also a nightlife hub, so make sure you pack your best going-out clothes.
Braque
Braque, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Couples searching for Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon with a balcony will love this elegant one-bedroom home. The highlight is, of course, the balcony, which leads out from the open-plan kitchen and living room. Looking out over the rooftops of the Mouraria neighbourhood, you’ll soon make this your favourite spot for a morning coffee. Some of the landmarks to keep an eye out for are the Castelo de São Jorge, the River Tagus, and Convento do Carmo. A little study also looks out onto the rooftops, but if you’d rather disconnect, let the breeze in through the French doors while you chill out on the sofa. Mouraria, also known as the Moorish Quarter, is a historic district full of street art and eateries. It’s a very multicultural area, so you’ll find a whole array of delicious cuisines just a short walk away.
Green Library
Green Library, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Set at the very top of a townhouse, you’ll need to be fit to climb the eighty steps to this fifth-floor home. It’s worth the workout though, as the views are excellent. When you make it to your front door, reward yourself with a glass of wine while you unwind on the balcony, taking in the pastel houses and the lush greenery of Jardim Botânico de Lisboa. Avid readers will love this home with its fully-stocked bookshelf and cosy reading area underneath the beams. If you’re not engrossed in your book (and when you’re ready to tackle those stairs again), head down to explore your location in the heart of Príncipe Real. One of Lisbon’s most affluent areas, the neighbourhood is known for its 19th-century mansions and high-end boutiques. The upscale EmbaiXada shopping mall is a six-minute walk from the home, while the botanical gardens are just a couple minutes further.
Lisbon Intuition
Lisbon Intuition, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Sleeping up to five guests, this is the perfect apartment for a family or a group of friends. It’s perched on the highest of the seven hills of Lisbon in the neighbourhood of Graça, and as you can imagine, the panoramas from here will put any postcard to shame. They’re sure to distract you from whatever you’re doing, whether you’re lounging on the sofas, chatting at the dining table or snacking on pastéis de nata on the balcony. When you want to explore, the iconic Tram 28 is just a short stroll from the home, taking you through some of the city’s most beautiful neighbourhoods. When your feet are aching and your belly is full of traditional delicacies, head back home for the night, but not before musically-talented guests have provided some evening entertainment on the regal piano.
Crafted Over Centuries
Crafted Over Centuries, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Located right by the waterfront in the Alcântara neighbourhood, this is one of our best Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon with a balcony for couples or solo travellers. It’s on the smaller side, but the whitewashed interiors and skylights make it seem much bigger. There’s also a snug lounge for when you need a rest from sightseeing, and two balconies to choose from, so really, there’s not much to complain about. While you have a kitchen, you’re right next door to the LxFactory, an industrial complex home to arty outlets and hip restaurants. After some retail therapy, we recommend picking up some tasty food and enjoying it out on your balcony, a charming little vantage point to people-watch. While the neighbourhood has many laid-back bars and pubs, Lisbon’s Old Town is a great spot if you’re looking for a different vibe, just eighteen minutes by taxi.
Bohemian Soul
Bohemian Soul, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Set in the heart of the Old Town, there’s nowhere better to soak up the city’s culture and history than this stylish home. There are two large double bedrooms, each with access to the balcony – what better way to wake up than with coffee and pastries against a backdrop of beautiful buildings? Set against a neutral palette, you’ll find chic lighting, colourful artwork and tasteful ornaments dotted throughout, making the apartment feel more like a well-loved home than a holiday rental. Everything feels refined, and even the most discerning guests will find it difficult to leave. However, with the Old Town’s attractions just a stone’s throw away, it would be rude not to go out and explore. For shoppers, your first stop should be Velas Loreto, one of the city’s most beautiful shops. Foodies, on the other hand, will want to make a beeline for Água Pela Barba, a modern Portuguese restaurant with a twist.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
Heading to Lisbon with extended family? This apartment is a rare find, with space for up to eight guests. No one has to settle for a sofa bed either, with two double bedrooms, a twin room and a room for little ones with a single bed and a top bunk. Head to the bathroom to get ready for the day – there are three to choose from, but the one with the traditional azulejo tiles has particularly caught our eye. Head to the kitchen and living area and you’ll be transported back to the 60s with the retro decor. Statement lighting, velvet sofas and curious sculptures come together to create a fun and funky space. You’ll have a choice of two balconies, one leading out from the kitchen and one from the sitting area, where you can admire the colourful buildings and terracotta rooftops of the bustling Saldanha neighbourhood with its smart shops and restaurants.
Seafarer Terrace
Seafarer Terrace, Plum Guide home in Lisbon
We’re not saying we saved the best for last, but we’ll admit this is one of our favourite Airbnb alternatives in Lisbon with a balcony. Forget tourist-packed viewing platforms – you’ll have a spacious terrace all to yourself with enough room for sunbathing and tucking into alfresco meals at the dining table. If that’s not enough, there’s also a balcony perfect for morning coffees. The interiors have a touch of luxury, from the handsome fireplace to the marble-topped kitchen counters. Floor-to-ceiling windows surround the open-plan kitchen and living room so you can drink in the vistas even when you’re inside. The elegance continues into the two bedrooms, each with amazing views and access to the balcony. With their azulejo tiles, walk-in showers and deep bathtub, the two spa-like bathrooms are made for indulging in some downtime. To top it all off, you’ll be staying within the walls of Castelo São Jorge, a historic castle on a hill. What more could you possibly want?
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