Park for free in Lisbon

The Portuguese capital is one of our favourite destinations. Getting lost on its charming streets, its museums and taking in its breathtaking panoramic views are some of the things we recommend doing in Lisbon. What's more, to give you time to really get to know it, there's nothing better than travelling around Lisbon with a rental car.

Like any large city, Lisbon has a lot of traffic and there are traffic restrictions in most central areas. That's why today we've got the best tips for parking in the capital of Portugal, take note:

Parking on the street

Lisbon is a city with colour-coded on-street parking. The areas where parking is prohibited are expressly indicated, so the other spaces will depend on the colour used. There are areas with free parking, such as those adjacent to Santa Apolonia, Santo André Hill or the Panteão Nacional.

The three colours are: green, yellow and red. They are ordered according to availability and hourly rate. Green zones are the most common and where parking meter prices are cheapest. Next, there are the yellow lines, which are slightly more expensive and cover fewer spaces. Finally, the red ones are hard to find, are right in the centre and are usually the most expensive. Parking is free of charge from 19:00 until 09:00 the following day in all these coloured zones.

Residential neighbourhoods

When looking for somewhere to park, we all take into account things such as convenience, safety and distance to the city centre. The residential neighbourhoods are where the right balance is struck.

• Benfica: is one of the best areas for free parking because it is the furthest from the city centre. It is also connected to many public transport stops meaning the city centre can be reached in no time. Pay attention to the areas of Centro Comercial Fonte Nova, Puerta de Benfica and Agência Lusa.

• Belém: Although the Belém neighbourhood is one of Lisbon's liveliest and most touristic spots, there is parking around Rua da Junqueira and El Restelo. What's more, while you're in the area, you can't leave without visiting this monument and trying the famous Pastéis de Belém.

• Graça o S. Vicente de Fora: Areas that will connect you directly with Lisbon's historic quarter or from where you can go straight to the city centre. Pay attention in this area as the car parks are split into exclusive parking spaces for residents and free parking spaces for visitors.

• Telheiras: a stone's throw from Estadio Alvalade with lots of free parking areas. Have a look around Avenida Padre Cruz and 2º Circular do Eixo Norte-Sul.

Use mobile applications

Many Lisbon residents have already started using mobile apps to help them find somewhere to park in the city. Download some of the most popular ones, such as EMEL ePark, ParkApp or Telpark. These applications mix different parking formats to offer instant solutions.

Private car parks

If, despite these tips for free parking in Lisbon, you opt for a paid car park, we recommend the car parknicipio Praça do Municipio or Bairro s at Praça do MuAlto, both of which are well-located and offer a good level of service. You'll be right at the starting point for exploring the city's most visited areas.

Another good option is the town hall car park, which costs around â‚3€ per day.

There are also park-and-ride car parks close to the residential areas of Alfama and Graça, although this is the least recommended option as they are quite out of the way.

Have you taken note of everything? Travel safely and on your own terms with the freedom that your Centauro car gives you. Book your next holiday now at our Lisbon office.