Where to stay near Lisbon’s Santa Justa Lift

The Elevador de Santa Justa has connected Lisbon’s Baixa and Bairro Alto neighbourhoods since 1902. This ornate iron lift was inspired by the work of Gustave Eiffel, and its neo-Gothic structure is now a Lisbon landmark. On the upper level there’s a look-out point with panoramic views over the squares and boulevards below.

Whether you stay close to the top or bottom of the Santa Justa Lift, you’ll be in easy walking distance of Lisbon’s best restaurants, bars and shops. Here are five popular places to stay within a few minutes’ walk.

DesignChiadoFlats

DesignChiadoFlats are directly connected to the upper level of the Santa Justa Lift, in the fashionable Chiado district. The building was part of a regeneration plan led by renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, and now houses a mix of spacious one and two-bed apartments. They’re all decorated in white and grey, with throws and rugs in raspberry, ochre or sunny yellow. Many also come with sofas which transform into bunk beds. Guests here appreciated the combination of self-catering facilities and hotel-like services, such as a daily cleaning service and a super friendly front desk staff.

Carmo Apartments

Across the road from the Santa Justa Lift, the modern Carmo Apartments sleep two to six guests. Each flat has glossy parquet floors and white walls hung with playful knicknacks here and there – from flocks of ceramic birds to a rack of brightly coloured toy cars. The apartment windows offer views of the historic lift, São Jorge Castle, or the ruins of the nearby Carmo Convent. The building is located in Chiado, less than 150 metres from Baixa-Chiado metro station. If you’re walking there, stop off along the way for an ice cream at the legendary Gelados Santini.

Kate’s Glamorous Design Apartment

Kate’s Glamorous Design Apartment is all about light and dark. Walls are painted in inky blue and forest green, while huge windows flood the whole space with sunshine. The main living-dining area is furnished with soft throws and pouffes, finished off with a print of Kate Moss, the apartment’s namesake. There’s also an open-plan kitchen with sleek black units and a big central breakfast bar. When you step outside, you’ll find yourself around the corner from the top entrance of the Santa Justa lift. Head the opposite way and you’ll reach Baixa-Chiado metro station within a couple of minutes.

Feels Like Home Baixa-Chiado Library Loft

It’s a 2-minute stroll from Santa Justa Lift to this roomy top-floor apartment. High ceilings create a sense of space throughout the open-plan lounge, dining room and kitchen, and there’s a sliding wall to separate the bedroom from the main living areas. White and pale grey walls provide a backdrop for statement design pieces, including colourful ceramic lamps and a bookshelf-themed mural. Feels Like Home Baixa-Chiado Library Loft is surrounded by the shops and restaurants of Lisbon’s Baixa district. Just 100 metres away is Fado & Wine, a cosy bar where you can sample local wines, cheeses and charcuterie to the sound of traditional Portuguese music.

LV Premier Apartments Chiado- CH

LV Premier Apartments Chiado- CH is on a quiet pedestrian road, only 50 metres from the Santa Justa Lift. It offers accommodation ranging from two-person studios to roomy apartments that sleep up to 10. All of them have contemporary décor, air conditioning and views of historic landmarks including the Carmo Convent and the lift itself. From here it’s a 5-minute downhill walk to Baixa’s shopping streets and the bars and restaurants around Rossio Square. Try Topo Chiado for rooftop cocktails with gorgeous city views, or The Beer Station to sample craft beers from across Portugal.