When you ask someone where to stay in Lisbon, you almost always get the same answer. Alfama, Barrio Alto, and Baixa/Chiado. And there is nothing wrong with these alternatives.
I’ve actually stayed in all of them and get why they are so popular. I had a good time there, too.
Close by these neighborhoods, there is the well-known, but still unrevealed, Martim Moniz. Conveniently located nearby all the main attractions, while still featuring a more local vibe. Martim Moniz is like the best friend of the hottest person in the class, or page 2 of Google’s search result.
Everyone knows it’s there, but doesn’t really pay attention to all there is to offer.
Martim Moniz doesn’t come up as much when searching for where to stay in Lisbon. I ended up staying here by coincidence and fell for it more as the days went by. By the time I left, it was my favorite area to stay in Lisbon.
Why I loved staying in Martim Moniz
What I like most about Martin Moniz is its proximity to everything. You have literally whatever you may need within walking distance.
Lisbon is known for its many miradouros (viewing points), and Martim Moniz is set right by some of the best. My favorites are Miradouro de Santa Luzia (perfect to watch the sunrise, or spend an afternoon) and Miradouro da Graca (one of the best places to watch the sunset in Lisbon, it’s magical), both reachable within 10 minutes.
Rua Augusta and Alfama are located a 10 minutes walk away (why not have the brunch special at Pois Café in Alfama while you’re there, it’s delicious). At the end of Rua Augusta, the Tejo river flows through. I used to run here in the morning. Before all the shops open it isn’t that crowded. It’s gorgeous around sunset as well, but also more packed.
The Figueria square is located 5 minutes away from Martim Moniz. There are usually markets here during the weekends, and sometimes daily during the high season, where you can buy local specialties such as delicious cheese and wine.
The Rossi square, one of Lisbon’s other main spots, is located a further 5 minutes walk away. On the street that connects these two squares, there are several great local restaurants. From Rossi, you can take the train to the beaches such as Caravelos and Estoril, as well as to the historic town of Sintra to spend a day or two castle-hopping.
Martim Moniz Is a Paradise For Foodies
Martim Moniz is a paradise for foodies. I stayed close by Ramiro, which is said to be one of the best seafood restaurants in Lisbon. Within 5 minutes of walking distance, there are delicious food options of all kinds. From authentic Portuguese food, to secret Chinese hideouts, sushi buffets, kebab, panaderias (famous ones such as Doce Mila and Mi Barrio, as well as many local corner bakeries), and everything else you can imagine.
Behind the main street Rua da Palma that leads to the Martin Moniz square, there is a little Bangladesh. While this isn’t an official name (yet), there are lots of Bengali and Indian restaurants lined up next to each other. My dad is Bengali, and the food is impressively authentic. A great option when you feel like mixing up your Portuguese diet. Food Temple which offers vegetarian tapas with an innovative twist, is also located a short walk from here.
The view from Topo.
On the Martim Moniz square itself, there are more options. While you probably won’t have the best dish of your life on the square, it makes a great stop for a drink or a simple bite (they serve mostly fast food) with a good ambiance. There is often live music or a DJ spinning. I’ve spent a few hours with friends here, sipping wine and catching up on life. A beautiful way to start any night.
Update August 2022:
According to locals, they have also opened a new market on the square called Mercado de Fusão (“Fusion Market”). I’ll make sure to check it out next time!
You’ll also find two charming rooftops on the square – Top Martim Moniz and Hotel Mundial. Both are great options for a drink or a coffee with beautiful views of the San Jorge castle.
Coffee and Supermarkets
Talking about coffee, Lisbon offers some of the best. You can get a good expresso at almost any local bakery or local restaurant. In addition, there are many charming cafés close by Martim Moniz where you can spend some time, such as Nata Fina, Eight, and Green coffee.
If you prefer to cook your own food, buy snacks, or a bottle of wine, there are many supermarkets close by Martim Moniz too. From the Minipreco Express which has most things you will need, and delicious fresh orange juice every day, to bigger such as Lidl, and niche shops from different countries around the world.
So where to stay in Lisbon? If you prefer a more local vibe, while still being in the middle of it all, Martin Moniz is a great option. I was based here for more than a month and will most likey be staying here again when going back to Lisbon. The best option for you depends, as always, on what you’re looking for.
Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments if you’re planning on visiting Lisbon.
Until then, tenha uma boa viagem (did I just teach you your first Portuguese? ?)
You might also want to check out some of my favorite restaurants in Lisbon, or 7 things you’ll love in Lisbon (including tips of where to experience those).
I will be travelling to Lisbon in September and will be staying in Martim Moniz. I’ve read a few articles about safety being a potential issue in this area. Would be interested in your take, especially as a solo female traveller.
Hi Laeka,
Exciting that you’re going to Lisbon. I felt safe during my time there. Lisbon is a very safe city in general.
Martim Moniz is known for being one of the most multicultural parts of town – many people from Bangladesh, China, etc live here so you’ll find lots of niche shops, and some restaurants with delicious food. The plaza also has some places to go for drinks and I’ve heard they opened a new market there + have DJs etc sometimes these days. I met nice people in the area and didn’t have any issues. Take the usual precautions you’d take in any city (no need to go alone in dark alleys super late etc), and everything should be fine.
It’s a great spot to explore the city from since you’ll be within walking distance of most attractions. Enjoy your trip!
Hi, I’m moving to Lisbon and looking at an apartment that is located near the Martin Moniz area, on Largo Das Olarias. Is this a safe neighborhood for a single woman for living? Thanks so much!
Hi Sonia,
Nice that you’re moving to Lisbon. I felt safe during my time there. Lisbon is a very safe city in general.
Martim Moniz is known for being one of the most multicultural parts of town – many people from Bangladesh, China, etc live here so you’ll find lots of niche shops, and some restaurants with delicious food. The plaza also has some places to go for drinks and I’ve heard they opened a new market there + have DJs etc sometimes these days. I met nice people in the area and didn’t have any issues. Take the usual precautions you’d take in any city (no need to go alone in dark alleys super late etc), and everything should be fine.
It’s a great spot to explore the city from since you’ll be within walking distance of most attractions.
I was here before the pandemic so it could be that things have changed since then. Always good to ask locals who live there at the moment to get their perspective too 🙂 Enjoy your new chapter!
There is no such thing as Praca Rossi. There is a square popularly called Rossio. From there there are no trains going to Estoril, Carcavelos nor Cascais. Only to Sintra.
Cascais you have to go to Cais do Sodre whithin 30min walk ftom Rossio
Thanks for your addition! Will update, about time to go back to Lisbon soon 🙂