tourist map of alfama lisbon

Home > What to See and Do > Alfama

Neighborhood Guide with Map, the Best Things to See and Do, How to Get There, Where to Eat and Drink, and Where to Stay

View of Alfama from the Santa Luzia viewpoint

V illage-like Alfama is one of Europe’s oldest neighborhoods . It was settled as far back as the Iron Age, and later occupied by the Romans, Visigoths and other Germanic tribes, before becoming the heart of Moorish Lisbon. With the conquest of the city by Portugal’s first king in 1147, the Moors were either killed in the siege or segregated in Mouraria , and Alfama became home to the upper classes. It was also the Jewish quarter, until the Jews were expelled (together with all other non-Christians who didn’t convert) in 1497. As Lisbon expanded, the wealthy residents moved west, leaving Alfama to the fishing community.

One of the many picturesque corners of Alfama

Thanks to its dense bedrock foundations, it was practically the only neighborhood that wasn’t greatly affected by the disastrous 1755 earthquake. Its maze of cobbled “becos” (alleys), “escadinhas” (steps) and “largos” (small squares) is just as it was centuries ago, and it’s a joy to wander around, finding unexpected river views and incredibly picturesque details.

Colorful houses on Rua da Galé in Alfama

You don’t really need a map, just your camera -- all you need to know is that if you continue going down the hill you’ll eventually reach the waterfront and downtown, while uphill is the castle and the tram tracks (at the very top is the neighborhood of Graça ).

Typical Alfama buildings on Calçada de São Vicente

Long overdue restoration of the pastel-colored and tile-covered buildings started in the last decade, leading to gentrification and fears that the neighborhood will lose its soul together with its long-time residents. Many of the renovated buildings were turned into tourist apartments and hotels, but there’s still plenty of local color, as the sound of fado music echoes from an open window, elderly ladies chat across balconies with laundry out to dry, sardines are grilled in a corner during a street festival, and cats laze in the sun.

Cobblestone tribute to fado singer Amália Rodrigues on Rua de São Tomé in Alfama

In June (or throughout the summer, really), Alfama is a colorful and lively place, as Lisbon celebrates its annual street festivals , the Festas de Lisboa (see below).

What to See and Do in Alfama

St. George's Castle

Crowning Lisbon for over a millennium, this castle offers breathtaking views of the city draped over its series of hills. Peacocks roam around the landscaped area around the towers, which house a small museum displaying pieces dating back to the site’s Moorish occupation. Within the restored walls is also a tiny picturesque neighborhood.

See the St. George's Castle Visitor's Guide .

Portas do Sol Viewpoint

A statue of St. Vincent welcomes you to this terrace which offers the best view of old Lisbon. It’s the city’s must-see viewpoint , and an irresistible stop for photos. Street musicians provide a lively soundtrack, and there’s a kiosk serving refreshments, perfect for after a visit to the castle nearby.

See the Portas do Sol Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

São Vicente de Fora Monastery

This monastery dedicated to St. Vincent dates from 1582, and has the world's most extensive collection of baroque decorative tiles in its richly-decorated cloisters. It includes a series of 38 panels illustrating the fables of La Fontaine , created by master Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes between 1740 and 1750. Other panels depict scenes from the history of Portugal, including one showing the siege of Lisbon in 1147. There’s also an ancient cistern and the pantheon of the Bragança dynasty, which includes the tomb of Catherine of Bragança, the Portuguese princess who became the queen of England when she married King Charles II in 1662 (the borough of Queens, in New York, was named in her honor). From the rooftop is a wonderful view of Alfama, over the river and the dome of the National Pantheon.

See the São Vicente de Fora Monastery Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Cathedral

Almost nine centuries old, Lisbon’s cathedral is one of the city’s oldest monuments . It mixes different architectural styles, and its gothic cloister is also an archaeological site. By the entrance is the font where St. Anthony was baptized in 1195, while upstairs is the treasury, displaying priceless sacred art.

See the Lisbon Cathedral Visitor's Guide .

National Pantheon

Holding the tombs of Portugal’s most illustrious personalities, this church took 285 years to complete. It features a huge dome, from which you can admire a view over Alfama .

See the National Pantheon Visitor's Guide .

Santa Luzia Viewpoint

A white church with its back turned to the Portas do Sol viewpoint hides a terrace that’s essentially a balcony over Alfama . Many find it to be Lisbon’s most beautiful and most romantic viewpoint, as it’s adorned with historic tiles and bougainvillea, and the view is framed by a vine-covered pergola. It’s divided into two levels, with the lower one featuring a reflecting pool.

See the Santa Luzia Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Casa dos Bicos

One of Lisbon’s most striking buildings is one of the few survivors of the 1755 earthquake. Built as the home of the viceroy of Portuguese India in 1523, it’s covered in over 1000 diamond-shaped stones outside, while inside it presents an archaeological site with traces of Lisbon life from the past 2000 years, and an exhibition space dedicated to the life and work of Nobel Prize author José Saramago.

See the Casa dos Bicos Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santo António

This church is found right across from the cathedral, on the site where St. Anthony was born in 1195. A statue of him holding baby Jesus stands by the entrance. Unlike the cathedral, this church, which was originally built in the 1400s, was greatly damaged by the 1755 earthquake and rebuilt in 1757. It mixes the baroque and the neoclassical, and holds the remains of St. Justina, which were transferred from Rome in 1777 by Pope Pius VI. In the crypt (the actual birthplace of St. Anthony) is a contemporary tile panel illustrating the visit that Pope John Paul II made to this church in 1982. Next door is one of the branches of the Lisbon Museum, completely devoted to the life and worship of St. Anthony, with paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts.

See the Igreja de Santo António Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santo Estêvão

It’s almost always closed, but it’s still worth stopping by this church dedicated to St. Stephen, as there is a view over Alfama from the terrace beside it . Those lucky to find the monument open (usually on Sunday mornings), will see a fine example of Portuguese baroque architecture.

See the Igreja de Santo Estêvão Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de São Miguel

The main church in Alfama is dedicated to St. Michael and faces the tiny square at the center of the neighborhood’s maze of streets. Unfortunately it only opens once or twice a week for services, but has a stunning golden interior that partly survived the 1755 earthquake.

See the Igreja de São Miguel Visitor's Guide .

Largo do Chafariz de Dentro

This small square is named after its 13th-century fountain that may actually have Roman origins. It’s the Chafariz de Dentro (“Inner Fountain”), for its location inside the city’s medieval wall, but it was originally called Chafariz dos Cavalos (“Fountain of the Horses”), for the bronze spouts shaped like a horse’s head. Over the centuries it quenched the thirst of the people of Alfama and their animals, and was even used as a tank to wash clothes. Restored in 1622 and again in 1872, it was neglected for much of the 20th century, until a new restoration in 2017, when it regained its drinking water. Across the fountain is a former reservoir, built in 1868 as a solution to the city’s lack of water. The building was restored in 1998, when it was turned into the Fado Museum (see below). Other attractions around the square are the traditional old houses (some from the 1600s) that are now renovated, many with outdoor cafés and restaurants where tourists sit in the sun. From here you can also see the Church of St. Stephen (listed above) and, heading in the direction of Rua de São Pedro, two curious Ionic columns. These hold up the façade of a building, and may have come from a church that was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake or perhaps from a portico on the fountain. Other buildings that survived the earthquake are found on Rua dos Remédios, one of Lisbon’s most picturesque streets, to the east of the square.

Recolhimento Viewpoint

A landscaped terrace hidden on a street within the castle walls opened to the public for the first time in 2015. It has a children’s playground, but is mostly visited by tourists who find it by chance. It remains a secret, despite offering one of the best panoramic views of Alfama . The gate closes at 7pm, but this is a good spot to relax after a visit to the castle, in the shade of olive trees.

See the Recolhimento Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Decorative Arts Museum

Housed in a 17th-century palace, the Decorative Arts Museum presents a collection of 16th- to 19th-century Portuguese and other European (mostly French and English) furniture and tapestries. The interior of the palace alone would be worth a visit, with its beautiful tile panels and painted ceilings .

See the Decorative Arts Museum Visitor's Guide .

Aljube Museum

This former prison documents Portugal’s 20th-century political history, particularly the fascist regime that lasted until 1974. It’s quite fascinating, as it reminds visitors of the long fight for freedom and independence for the Portuguese colonies, and the struggles against censorship. It also shows the tiny, claustrophobic cells where political prisoners spent their days, and how they were interrogated and tortured.

See the Aljube Museum Visitor's Guide .

Fado Museum

UNESCO placed fado on the World Heritage list in 2011, but the music that was born on Lisbon’s streets has long been recognized for its cultural significance. It even has its own museum since 1998, where visitors can listen to songs from the past and present, and see instruments, photographs and other pieces related to the people and history of the genre.

See the Fado Museum Visitor's Guide .

Roman Theater

In Roman times, it was quite a sizeable theater, seating as many as 4,000 spectators, but all that remains is a small part that was unearthed over the last century. It stands behind a small museum that tells the story of Roman Lisbon , through pieces found during the excavations.

This is a branch of the Lisbon Museum .

Military Museum

The Military Museum is Lisbon’s oldest museum , but is one of the city’s least-visited attractions. Those who find it by chance are always pleasantly surprised, as they tour its several sumptuous rooms named after national heroes like Vasco da Gama and Prince Henry the Navigator. On display is a huge collection of artillery, swords that belonged to Portugal’s kings, and replicas of 16th-century armor. On the cannon-filled courtyard are tile panels illustrating Portugal’s historic battles against its neighboring kingdoms.

See the Military Museum Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santiago

The small church of St. James was where explorer Christopher Columbus married his Portuguese wife Filipa Perestrelo in 1479. It dates from the 1100s, but was almost completely rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. It’s found between the castle and the Santa Luzia viewpoint, and is the starting point of the Portuguese Way of St. James. It has a plain façade and a single bell tower, but holds several treasures inside, especially the remarkably gilded altarpiece and the 19th-century tile panels illustrating the "Mysteries of the Life of the Virgin.”

See the Igreja de Santiago Visitor's Guide .

Igreja do Menino Deus

It opened its doors to the public on July 4th, 2011 for its 300th anniversary, but this church is usually closed to visitors. To go inside, you'll have to ring the bell next to the main entrance. The interior hides one of the most impressive baroque churches in the city that served as a model for many other baroque buildings in the country. It was built during the golden years of King João V in the 18th century, adorned with marble and paintings by some of the greatest local artists of the time. All of it somehow survived the earthquake of 1755, as did one of the houses that can be seen right outside. Painted yellow, it's one of the oldest still standing in the city, and is a rare example of the architecture at the Age of Discovery. A second example is just around the corner on Rua dos Cegos.

Largo do Menino Deus Usually closed; ring the bell for access.

Feira da Ladra / Flea Market

Campo de Santa Clara Saturday and Tuesday mornings

Festas de Lisboa

If you’re in Lisbon between late May and July , you’ll see the city at its most festive, especially in Alfama. What was once an event of just a couple of days (on June 12 and 13, the feast of St. Anthony) is now a major festival lasting over a month. The city’s oldest neighborhoods (Alfama, Bairro Alto, Bica and Mouraria) turn into big street parties, especially on the night of June 12 , with outdoor grilling (sardines and pork), beer-drinking and dancing to folksy music. The celebration honors other "popular saints" besides St. Anthony, but isn’t religious. The highlight is a colorful parade down Avenida da Liberdade, with every Lisbon neighborhood represented in costume and song, competing for "best march." Another special event is the "Brides of Saint Anthony," a collective wedding ceremony in the cathedral , which also stops by Saint Anthony Church (the saint was known as a matchmaker). You'll see lots of potted "manjericos" (basil plants), traditionally used in Lisbon to declare undying love. Although the festival happens in different neighborhoods, Alfama’s maze of car-free streets is the main stage.

How to Get to Alfama

The best way to reach Alfama would be by tram 28 , but it’s always so crowded, that you’re better off walking from downtown, following the tracks. Although it’s an uphill climb, it’s less than a 10-minute walk, past the cathedral to the castle and the viewpoints nearby. Alternatively, take bus 737 , which departs every 10 minutes from Praça da Figueira (every 15 or 30 minutes on weekends) and goes up to the castle, past the cathedral. The viewpoints and the maze of Alfama are just around the corner from the final stop, at the gate of the castle. You may ride the tram and the bus for free with the Lisboa Card .

Where to Eat and Drink in Alfama

When in Alfama, head to the waterfront for meals at any time of the day. The restaurants in the converted warehouses across the road from Santa Apolónia Station open for lunch and continue to serve until dinner – you have the choice of light meals at Deli Delux , some of Lisbon’s best pizzas at Casanova , and contemporary Portuguese cuisine at Cais da Pedra – all three offer outdoor seating. Also in the vicinity of the train station you find two small, very recommended restaurants for traditional Portuguese food – Taberna Sal Grosso and Taberna Albricoque . These two usually have good dishes of the day and maintain the look and atmosphere of classic Lisbon restaurants. For meals with a view, head up towards the castle and dine with Lisbon at your feet at Chapitô à Mesa . For creative, signature cuisine, look for Boi Cavalo a few steps from Santo Estêvão Church and Prado close to the cathedral.

Where to Stay in Alfama

Alfama is home to some of Lisbon’s most beautiful hotels. Some are converted palaces, and many offer wonderful views. The Memmo Alfama design hotel offers the best view, while Palacete Chafariz D’el Rei has the most stunning interior. By the castle are Solar do Castelo and Solar dos Mouros , both romantic boutique hotels. A few feet from the neighborhood’s viewpoints is another boutique property, the Santiago de Alfama . There are also some of the most charming apartments in the city, like the Patio São Vicente in a lovely courtyard next to the São Vicente de Fora Monastery, The Lisboans by the cathedral, and the beautiful Tandem Palacio Alfama Suites with an outdoor pool and view of the National Pantheon. For more details and recommendations, see the best hotels in Alfama .

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Below is a map of Alfama, showing the tourist attractions and main streets. It’s recommended that you walk from Rua da Conceição downtown, cross Rua da Madalena to Rua de Santo António da Sé, which rises up the hill towards the Church of St. Anthony and the cathedral. At the cathedral, you have the choice to turn to the right to Cruzes das Sé and Rua de São João da Praça to the maze of narrow streets, or can continue to the left of the monument, up Rua Augusta Rosa. Although the streets of the heart of the neighborhood are worth exploring for their many picturesque corners, it’s recommended that you first follow Rua Augusto Rosa, which eventually becomes Rua do Limoeiro, to Miradouro de Santa Luzia, which is one of the city’s most beautiful viewpoints. Here you’ll see a sign pointing to the castle, by the Decorative Arts Museum. After a visit to the castle, head back to the Santa Luzia viewpoint and admire the postcard view from the terrace of the Portas do Sol viewpoint. Continue up Rua de São Tomé and follow the tram tracks, turning to Rua das Escolas Gerais. You’ll eventually see the towers of the Monastery of St. Vincent. At the monastery, you can continue to Campo de Santa Clara, the site of the flea market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. Even if it’s not market day, you’ll want to see the National Pantheon, even if you don’t go inside. At Campo de Santa Clara are some beautiful tiled façades and a pleasant garden where you can take a break, relax and enjoy a river view. Head back towards the Monastery of St. Vincent, cross the street to Rua de São Vicente, turn to Rua de Santa Marinha, and at the end, go up Calçada da Graça, which rises to the top of the hill, where there’s the Graça viewpoint and the neighborhood of Graça . Alternatively, when you’re back at the Monastery of St. Vincent, go down Calçada de São Vicente instead, continue down the hill, and you’ll eventually find the churches of Santo Estêvão and São Miguel, in the maze of streets which lead down to the waterfront (Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, Fado Museum and the cruise terminal). Heading east (to the left when facing the river), you’ll reach the Military Museum and the Santa Apolónia Station. Cross the road from the station to converted warehouses where you’ll find places to eat and drink.

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The Alfama district of Lisbon: A tourist guide for 2024

Alfama is the oldest and most characterful district of Lisbon. It is a delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets and traditional houses that meander up a steep hill from the banks of the Rio Tejo up to the São Jorge castle.

Within Alfama, you'll find many of Lisbon's most iconic historic buildings, including the Se Cathedral, the Castelo de São Jorge, the Panteão Nacional and the Igreja de Santo António.

Historically, Alfama was situated outside of the castle walls and was home to many of the city's poorer residents. As Lisbon grew into a major seafaring city, the district retained its bleak status as a tough and deprived area, home of sailors and dock workers. Today, Alfama has shrugged off this unfortunate reputation to become a fashionable and artisan district, while retaining its unique character and rich heritage.

Alfama is a joy to discover and is often best explored by simply getting lost within its labyrinth of alleys and side streets. Around every corner is a delightful plaza, a trendy café or an independent shop, with steep climbs rewarded by stunning panoramic views.

If you are new to Lisbon, Alfama makes an ideal base from which to begin your discovery of the city. This article provides an introduction to Alfama, helping you get the most from your visit to this fascinating district. Related articles: 3 days in Lisbon – The Baixa district – The Belem district

Highlights of Alfama

Fado music – This haunting and melancholic style of music originated in Alfama and was sung by sailors' wives awaiting the return of their loved ones. Traditionally, Fado is sung by a woman and is accompanied by classical Portuguese guitar.

The Mesa De Frades restaurant is Alfama's most atmospheric setting for a Fado performance, and was converted from a chapel.

Castelo de Sao Jorge – This ancient castle of Lisbon stands at the highest point of Alfama. From its battlements are wonderful views over the city, while at its centre is a heavily fortified keep from which early Portuguese kings ruled ( a guide to the Castelo de São Jorge ).

The number 28 tram route – This famous tram route of Lisbon, with its delightful 1930s yellow 'Remodelado' trams, navigates the narrow streets and hills of Alfama ( a guide to the 28 tram ).

Miradouro de Santa Luzia – Hidden behind the Santa Luzia church, this pretty garden provides some of the finest views over Alfama and the Tejo Estuary

A tour of Alfama

Alfama is an amazing district to just wander and get lost in, but this approach means it can be easy to miss the main sights.

The following map is our suggested tour of the Alfama district, which will take 3 or 4 hours to complete. The yellow line is an optional route to the Graça district and the Graça viewpoint, however this requires a walk up a very steep hill. ( Note : Zoom in or out to see all of the points)

Sights along the route: 1) Santo António Church 2) Lisbon Cathedral 3) Roman Theatre (ruins) 4) Santa Luzia view point 5) Lisbon Castle 6) Portas do Sol plaza 7) Museu do Fado 8) Rua dos Remédios (shopping street) 9) Panteão Nacional 10) São Vicente de Fora church 11) Graça Plaza 12) Miradouro da Graça viewpoint 13) Graça convent 14) Arco de Jesus 15) Casa dos Bicos 16) Largo José Saramago

The challenges of exploring Alfama…

Alfama extends over a steep hill rising from the banks of the Tejo Estuary to the castle, and a second hill that leads up to the Graça district.

With very few flat areas in the district, exploring Alfama means you'll be climbing steep paths and endless staircases. Combined with the hills are cobbled streets, narrow footpaths and roads that are unsuitable for traffic. This can make exploring Alfama physically demanding, especially in the heat of summer.

Insider tip: To reduce the amount of uphill walking, catch the number 12 or 28 tram up to the Largo da Graça ( 11 ) and then walk downhill through Alfama.

While wandering in Alfama, expect to climb lots of steps – this is the side street leading to the Arco de Jesus

During a day trip to Alfama, it's incredibly easy to get lost in the many twisting back streets - especially between the Portas do Sol ( 6 ) and the Largo do Chafariz de Dentro ( 7 ). If you truly get lost, always head downhill as this will lead to the Tejo waterfront.

There is very little public transport in Alfama, except for the number 12 tram or 28 tram , which both follow the same route. The trams can be very crowded during the day, so please be extremely cautious with valuables as they are notorious for skilled pickpockets.

The metro stations serving Alfama (Terreiro do Paço and Santa Apolónia) are poorly positioned for exploring the area, with both being situated on the extreme edges of the district. As they are on the waterfront, you will be walking uphill from them.

Santa Apolónia metro station is below the Santa Apolónia train station – the main intercity train station of Lisbon

How much is a day trip to Alfama going to cost?

Alfama can be an inexpensive day trip if you choose to wander the district, enter the free religious buildings and admire the viewpoints. Entrance fees and costs are: • A ride on the number 28 tram – €3.00 • Lisbon Castle entrance fee – €10.00 • Se Cathedral entrance fee – Free • Se cloisters and treasury - €3.00 • Museu de Santo António - €3.00 • Roman Amphitheatre – Free • Museu de Teatro Romano - €3.00 • National Pantheon - €4.00 • Fado Museum - €5.00 • Metro single ticket – €1.80

The Largo José Saramago plaza sits next to the Tejo Estuary waterfront

A craft market held on the Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, with the pink Museu do Fado to the rear

A stay in Alfama

Alfama is a popular and characterful district, and is an ideal base for your holiday to Lisbon. This historically dense residential area has seen many of its traditional houses being converted into charming rental apartments and small personable hotels.

Alfama is within the main tourist area of Lisbon and within easy walking distance of the Baixa district and the nightlife area of Bairro Alto. Do note the word walk , as the lack of public transport and narrow roads means you will be doing a lot of walking unless you are close to either metro station. Related articles: Where to stay in Lisbon?

The map below shows the best accommodation and hotels to be found within the Alfama district. If you adjust it to suit your holiday dates, it will show the latest prices and availability:

Alfama's best viewpoints

With so many hills in Alfama, there are a number of fantastic viewpoints from which you can enjoy the stunning scenery.

The most famous is the Miradouro das Portas do Sol . This overlooks the patchwork of orange roofs and whitewashed houses extending down to the modern cruise terminal, where huge cruise ships can be seen towering over the waterfront. This is one of the most popular viewpoints in Lisbon and is on the main tourist route that follows the 28 tram past the Se Cathedral.

The Miradouro de Santa Luzia provides the same amazing view as the Portas do Sol, but it is less hectic. It is situated behind the Igreja de Santa Luzia church, and has the added bonus of being set within a pretty garden.

The Miradouro da Graça lies on the edge of the Graça district and provides stunning views across the Baixa district and the Castelo de São Jorge. It is a very steep walk up to the viewpoint, but at the top you will find a popular kiosk and evening hangout. Further uphill is the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte . This is the finest viewpoint of Lisbon, but it is a long and challenging walk from Alfama.

You will also find outstanding views from the battlements of Lisbon castle, a viewpoint known as the Miradouro do Castelo de São Jorge . The roof of the Panteão Nacional provides panoramic views over eastern Lisbon and the Tejo Estuary, but unfortunately not of Lisbon's historic centre.

The Miradouro das Portas do Sol

The Miradouro da Graça

The Miradouro do Castelo de São Jorge

The view from the roof of the Panteão Nacional

Alfama nightlife

Alfama nightlife could be considered as a much calmer version of the Bairro Alto district, which consists mostly of late-night restaurants and bars. Most bars in Alfama are small, often having just a handful of tables, and this gives them a personable and intimate atmosphere. Alfama is not for wild nights, it’s a place to chat and socialise with friends.

On the waterfront of Alfama, you will find 'Lux-Frágil' Lisbon's oldest superclub. The club can be notoriously fussy about who they let in, and will set a deterrent entrance fee of €300 if they don't want you to enter. The nightclubs around Pink Street are much more diverse and tourist-friendly.

Is Alfama safe?

Alfama is generally a safe area of Lisbon, but common sense should be used, especially late at night. The biggest risk to most tourists are the pickpockets who operate on the packed trams.

Alfama is significantly safer for visitors than it was 10 years ago, due to the increase in tourism and foreign investment. However, this has come at the price of the community atmosphere, with locals struggling to afford to live here.

Why is Alfama the oldest section of Lisbon?

While the majority of Lisbon was destroyed by an earthquake in 1755 and later rebuilt, much of Alfama survived. The district sits on a solid rock hill that shocked less during the event, and the district's elevation meant it escaped flooding caused by the following tsunami.

As such, the streets of Alfama still follow the original medieval layout of the city, which has barely altered since its foundation.

The best sight in Alfama - Lisbon castle

The best tourist attraction of the Alfama district is the Castelo de São Jorge. This castle has been entwined with Portugal’s early history and was the location in which the Christian Crusaders defeated the North African Moors in 1147. The castle’s importance waned from the 15th century and was badly damaged by the 1755 earthquake, but was restored to its former magnificence in the 1940s.

For your visit, there is a lot to see in the castle, including the fortified keep, a museum and views from the battlements. A typical visit lasts 1hour, and the adult entrance fee is €10. Related articles: Guide to Lisbon castle

The main keep of the castle

Alfama’s best activity – riding the no. 28 tram

The most enjoyable activity of Alfama, is a ride on the number 28 tram. This tram route connects the districts of Graça with Estrela, but the most scenic section is as it passes through Alfama. This narrow and undulating tram route is totally unsuitable for any modern trams, so the historic Remodelado trams, which date from the 1930s, provide the service instead. Related articles: The 28 tram

The E28 as it passes through the Largo das Portas do Sol

Main Tourist Sights of Alfama

The se cathedral.

The Sé de Lisboa is the solid and imposing cathedral that dates from the 12th century. The cathedral is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles and its interior is very austere when compared to the extravagance of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos or numerous baroque churches in Lisbon.

The cathedral was constructed on the site of a major mosque and excavations of this original structure can be seen in gothic cloisters to the rear of the cathedral. Related articles: The Se cathedral

The magnificent Se Cathedral

Igreja de Santo António de Lisboa

Saint Anthony is the patron saint of Lisbon, and the church dedicated to him was constructed on his birthplace.

Saint Anthony was born in 1195 but the Baroque-Rococo styled church dates from 1767, as the original church was destroyed by the devasting 1755 earthquake. Related articles: Igreja de Santo António de Lisboa

The National Pantheon (Panteão Nacional)

Church of Santa Engrácia is the National Pantheon of Portugal, and final burial location of many important Portuguese, including the poet Luís de Camões and the explorers Vasco da Gama and Henry the Navigator. Related articles: Panteão Nacional

The Fado Museum

Fado is an emotional and sorrowful style of music, which originated in the tough neighbourhoods where the sailor’s families lived. Fado is sung by a solo singer and is accompanied by a traditional Portuguese guitar and this mournful yet powerful music reflects the emotions felt by sailor’s wives, who were waiting for their husbands to return. The Museu do Fado details the history of this style of music. Related articles: Fado music

Chafariz d’El Rei

The Chafariz d’El Rei (king’s fountain) dates from the 13th century and supplied drinking water to ships moored on the banks of the Tejo. This fountain was on the outside of the city walls, while the Chafariz de Dentro (inside fountain) served the residences of Alfama and is in the Largo do Chafariz de Dentro (location 13).

Casa dos Bicos

The Casa dos Bicos (The house of spikes) was constructed by the first Viceroy of India in 1523, who took his inspiration from was inspired similar “spiked” buildings in Italy and Spain. The top two floors were destroyed by the 1755 earthquake and were only restored in 1981.

Roman Amphitheatre (Teatro Romano)

Lisbon was a major Roman city, and below the streets of Alfama are the remains of a Roman amphitheatre, which had a capacity for 5,000 spectators. Close to the amphitheatre is the Museu Teatro Romano, a small museum that displays many of the artefacts that were discovered at the site.

The remains of the Roman Amphitheatre in Lisbon

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Baixa district

The grand and impressive heart of Lisbon

Belem district

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Where to Shop?

Where are the best areas and shopping centres in Lisbon?

Alfama district

A labyrinth of narrow streets hides authentic Lisbon

Lisbon sunsets

Where to watch the sunset in Lisbon?

Parque das Nações

The ultra-modern side to historic Lisbon

Alcântara district

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Costa da Caparica

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A complete list of all of our Lisbon articles

Getting started

• Lisbon introduction
• How long in Lisbon?
• Lisbon for seniors
• Where to stay in Lisbon?
• Cost to visit Lisbon
• Lisbon's best museums
• Lisbon for a rainy day
• Lisbon at Christmas
• Lisbon Nightlife
• Is Lisbon walkable
• Lisbon's sunsets
• Is Lisbon safe?
• Lisbon on a budget
• Portuguese National Anthem
• Lisbon in March
• Lisbon in April
• Lisbon in May

Lisbon's districts

• Parque Nações
• Cais do Sodre
• Príncipe Real

Sightseeing

• Shopping in Lisbon
• Lisbon's best markets
• Lisbon's best bars
• Lisbon Parks
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Elevador de Santa Justa
• Torre de Belem
• Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Largo do Carmo
• Ponte 25 de Abril
• Senhora do Monte
• São Pedro de Alcântara
• Miradouro da Graça
• Jardim do Príncipe Real
• Elevador da Bica
• Elevador da Glória
• Elevador do Lavra

Transport guides

• Lisbon airport
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• Metro guide
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• To Christo Rei Statue
• Lisbon to Porto
• Lisbon to Belem

Itineraries

• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 3 days
• 1 week in Lisbon
• A weekend city break
• 5 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon to Porto Tour
• Lisbon beach guide
• The Lisbon coastline
• Praia Carcavelos

Lisbon Trams

• Tram No. 15

Lisbon's stations

• Orient train station
• Apolonia train station
• Cais do Sodré station
• Sete Rios bus station
• Rossio train station
• Lisbon or Barcelona
• Vilnius in October

The Lisbon region

Day trips from Lisbon

• Sintra introduction
• Sights of Sintra
• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Parque da Pena
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Cascais introduction
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• Cabo da Roca
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• Evora guide
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• The Alentejo region
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• Obidos Introduction
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• Ericeira introduction
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• Setubal introduction
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• Peninsula de Troia

Central Portugal

• Berlengas Islands

Portugal Guides

• Where to go in Portugal?
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• Portugal airports
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• Top 10 Algarve
• Portugal in June
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• Portugal in November
• Where to Live in Portugal

North Portugal

• Douro Valley
• Serra da Estrela
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• Porto where to stay
• How Long in Porto
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• Porto in 1 Day
• Porto in 3 Days
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• Foz do Douro
• Linha do Douro
• Port Cellars
• Airport to City
• Porto Trams

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
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• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
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• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
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• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

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The attractions in the maze of Lisbon's medieval quarter

A lfama is a medieval maze of streets, so even with the best map you'll find yourself a little lost. But it's actually a very small neighborhood, so all you need to know is that if you continue going down the hill you'll reach the waterfront, and going up takes you to the castle , where you can follow the tram tracks down to Baixa (downtown). The neighborhood starts by the cathedral ("Sé de Lisboa") and extends to the National Pantheon ("Panteão Nacional"). The best way to explore it is actually without a map, and just wandering around, discovering charming tile panels on the façades, unexpected views and picturesque corners. In between are whitewashed churches and places to have a drink or meal. Still, if you feel more comfortable with the help of a map, take a look at a closeup view of the neighborhood from Google Maps. You can use the "+" and "-" controls to zoom in and out:

Lisbon Travel Planner:

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Complete Lisbon Travel Guide:

Neighborhoods.

• Bairro Alto & Chiado
• Parque das Nações

Main Streets and Squares

• Comercio Square
• Rossio Square
• Rua Augusta
• Municipal Square
• Camões Square
• Figueira Square
• Rua das Portas de Santo Antão
• Restauradores Square
• Avenida da Liberdade
• Marquês de Pombal Square

Castles and Palaces

• St. George's Castle
• Belém Tower
• Ajuda Palace
• Belém Palace
• Fronteira Palace
• São Bento Palace
• Jeronimos Monastery
• Carmo Convent
• São Roque Church
• Estrela Basilica
• Lisbon Cathedral
• São Vicente de Fora Monastery
• National Pantheon
• St. Anthony Church
• Graça Church
• Conceição Velha Church
• São Domingos Church
• Memória Church
• Discoveries Monument
• Santa Justa Elevator
• Rossio Station
• Casa dos Bicos
• 25th of April Bridge
• Monument to Christ
• São Carlos Theater
• Lisbon Aqueduct
• Campo Pequeno Arena
• Roman Theater
• Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
• Ancient Art Museum
• Berardo Collection Museum
• MAAT Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
• MuDe Design and Fashion Museum
• Tile Museum
• Coaches Museum
• Maritime Museum
• National Archaeology Museum
• Chiado Contemporary Art Museum
• Lisbon Museum
• Orient Museum
• Decorative Arts Museum
• Anastácio Gonçalves Museum
• Medeiros e Almeida Museum
• Arpad Szenes-Vieira da Silva Museum
• Money Museum
• Intercative Science Museum
• Fado Museum
• Military Museum
• Marionette Museum

Modern Architecture and Landmarks

• Vasco da Gama Tower
• Vasco da Gama Bridge
• Oriente Station
• Portugal Pavilion
• Altice Arena
• CCB - Belém Cultural Center
• Lisbon Casino

Parks and Gardens

• Edward VII Park
• Tropical Garden
• Botanical Garden
• Estrela Garden
• Ajuda Botanical Garden
• Príncipe Real Garden
• Docas de Santo Amaro

Useful Tips

• Itineraries
• Family Attractions
• Transportation

Eating & Drinking

Accommodation.

Alfama Lisbon: A Complete Tourist Guide For 2024 

When I first moved to Portugal, I lived in Alfama Lisbon , where I called home for the first few months.

Nestled amidst its picturesque streets and vibrant alleys, the historic district of Lisbon became more than just a residence—it became an immersive experience.

Picture this: cobbled streets, panoramic views, cozy corners, local cafes exuding warmth, and a taste of the extraordinary in every sip of orange juice . The oranges are not just citrusy delights but a testament to the region’s rich flavors.

So, if you plan a trip to Alfama, Lisbon, keep reading to learn about the oldest district.

Plan Your Trip to Alfama Lisbon

Alfama is the oldest and most photogenic community in Lisbon.

The district has cobblestone streets and multiple scenic viewpoints, giving a bird’s-eye view of classic red roofs, cathedrals, and the Tagus River.

Within Alfama, you will find iconic historic buildings , including the Se Cathedral, Castelo de Sao Jorge, Igreja de Santo Antonio, and the Panteao Nacional.

Historically, the district was outside the castle walls and home to the poorer residents of Lisbon. As Lisbon became a maritime city, it became the home to dock workers and sailors.

Today, Alfama is a fashionable and artisan district with a rich history and unique character.

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Getting to Alfama Lisbon From The City Center

If you stay in the city center, you will not need to travel far to reach Alfama to enjoy the community atmosphere. Your trip should take 5 to 20 minutes . You can get to Alama by public transportation using the tram or bus.

I suggest commencing your exploration of Alfama from the farthest viewpoint from the river, Miradouro da Graça .

You can easily reach it within 20 minutes by taking the vintage Tram 28E from Praça do Comércio.

The tram is not only a convenient mode of transportation, but the tram route also offers a delightful way to visit the castle and various cathedrals in Alfama.

Hot Tip🔥: Invest in the Lisboa card as public transport is included.

Another option is to get on the hop-on-hop-off bus , which includes Alfama and has several stops, such as Lisbon Cathedral, Saint Anthony Church, and Lisbon Castle.

16 Things to Do in Alfama Lisbon

Miradouro da graça viewpoint.

If you are looking for a fantastic vantage point from which to view the city, I highly recommend visiting Miraduoro da Graça.

The terrace is a well-known destination. It boasts a few trees that provide shade and an open-air café perfect for taking a break and resting your feet.

Situated on a hill above one of Lisbon’s oldest Baroque churches, the terrace offers stunning views of central Lisbon, the castle, and the river.

Getting there is simple – you can either walk or take Tram 28E.

Campo de Santa Clara

Santa Clara Square is a charming location encircled by stunning architectural masterpieces, comprising two churches.

If you visit on a Tuesday or Saturday , you can experience the renowned pop-up flea market called “Feira da Ladra,” which has earned the nickname “Thief’s Market.”

For those weary from walking around, the square offers a small garden in the center where you can sit back and catch your breath.

São Vicente of Fora Church

Hours from Mondays – Saturdays : 9:00 am – 20:00

Hours on Sundays : from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm and 15:00 – 17:00

Adult – 5 € Senior – 2,50 € Student – 2,50 € Children Free until (age) – 12

The church is situated on the same hill at a lower height than the Miraduoro.

It was constructed in 1582 at the identical location where the old church monuments of the battlefield stood.

The monument was built to commemorate the Portuguese and European crusaders buried there.

Amália Rodrigues Mural

The mural featuring Amália Rodrigues is a renowned street art piece in Lisbon.

Amália Rodrigues, also called the Queen of Fado, was a celebrated Portuguese actress and singer who played a key role in popularizing fado worldwide.

The mural is a mosaic that extends up onto a wall , seamlessly blending into the cobbled street below. Interestingly, thanks to the ingenious arrangement of the mosaic pieces, Amália appears to cry when viewed in the rain.

If you look closely, you’ll see other murals of the singer scattered around Lisbon.

Hot Tip🔥: Explore the street art around Alfama and other districts in Lisbon.

National Pantheon

Hours : Tuesdays – Sundays from 10:00 am – 18:00

Closed : January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, and Christmas Day

The National Pantheon is a stunning example of Baroque architecture influenced by Italian Renaissance design.

The walls feature colorful marble and flowing shapes , and the central nave leads to several tomb rooms that honor national figures such as explorer Vasco de Gama and Fado legend Amelia Rodriguez.

The terrace offers another breathtaking view of Lisbon. This beautiful monument is the resting place for many writers, artists, former presidents, and military figures.

Hot Tip🔥: Use the Lisbon Card to get admission free.

Museum of Decorative Arts

Hours : Wednesdays – Mondays from 10:00 am to 17:00

Closed : January 1, May 1, and Christmas Day

Price : €4 per adult pay €3.20 using the Lisboa Card

The Museum of Decorative Arts exhibits the opulent Portuguese interior design and art style from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Visitors can witness a stunning array of colors and designs inside the palace. The preserved furniture, china, table settings, framed artwork, and paintings are just a few treasures in the museum.

The museum also houses carriages, tapestries, and furniture from other parts of the world.

Worthy Note 🗒: You cannot take bags or large backpacks inside. Also, check out some of these free museums in Lisbon .

St. George’s Castle

Hours November – February : from 9:00 am – 18:00

Hours March – October : from 9:00 am – 21:00

Price : €10 adult / €5 student / FREE under 12

The castle’s origins can be traced back to the Roman era, around 200 BC. Over the centuries, it was fortified, conquered, and occupied by various groups, including the Moors and Crusaders.

However, the castle suffered significant damage due to an earthquake in the mid-1700s, and it was later restored in 1944, marking the last major renovation.

The castle is regarded as one of the city’s most important landmarks, given its rich history and cultural significance.

Hot Tip🔥: Travel with the Tram 28E included in your Lisboa Card.

Visit a Viewpoint: Miraduoro das Portas do Sol

Nestled atop the hill in Alfama, the city boasts several excellent vantage points.

Miraduoro das Portas do Sol presents a stunning panorama of the Tagus River and the city’s red rooftops.

You can even glimpse the hills and mountains beyond the water on a clear day. As you stand on the terrace, you’ll also see the São Vicente of Fora Monastery in the distance.

Igreja de São Miguel

Saturday Mass : 17:00

Thursday Mass : 18:00 (Only between mid-September and mid-June.)

The Catholic Church has been an integral part of the community in Alfama since the neighborhood was established.

However, the church was rebuilt entirely before the mid-1700s . The nave’s interior is intricately adorned, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in religious architecture.

Although all services are conducted in Portuguese, attending mass provides an opportunity to listen to the choir and immerse oneself in the local community ambiance.

Miraduoro de Santa Luzia

For more outstanding city views, visit Mirador de Santa Luzia. Here, you can witness the beautiful architecture of Alfama as it slopes down towards the Tagus River.

The deck is covered with trellis supporting vines, surrounded by decorative tiles and a small garden. From this point, you can spot the domes and towers of nearby churches.

Lisbon Cathedral (Sé Cathedral)

Hours : Daily from 9:00 am – 19:00

Mass Times : Sundays at 11:30 am and 19:00, Tuesdays and Saturdays at 18:30

The Sé Cathedral, the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, is Lisbon’s oldest church.

Constructed in 1147, it underwent several renovations and modifications due to natural disasters like earthquakes, fire, and the passing of time.

The cathedral boasts an awe-inspiring mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture and remarkable artwork.

One can find sculptures resting on tombs, intricate windows, exquisite embellishments, and paintings that add to the church’s beauty.

Museum of Lisbon

Tours : Tuesdays and Thursdays at 15:00, English and Spanish

Price : €3 per adult, free for children anytime, and free for everyone on Sundays before 14:00

The Museum of Lisbon is housed in a former leather bag factory and printing press building.

Located near an archeological dig site, it showcases artifacts and information about the ancient Roman Theatre in Lisbon.

Visitors can see excavated ruins, 3D models, and videos of the structure’s appearance and functionality during its use.

It is a must-visit destination for history and archeology enthusiasts.

Igreja de Santo António de Lisboa Church

Hours : Saturdays and Sundays: from 8:00 am – 20:00, Mondays – Fridays from 8:00 am – 19:00

Mass on Saturdays and Sundays : at 11:00 am, 17:00, 19:00,

Mass from Mondays – Fridays : at 11:00 am and 17:00

In the mid-1700s, a Catholic church was constructed on the site where experts believe Saint Anthony was born.

The church’s exterior is stunningly vibrant, complemented by lofty vaulted ceilings and a dome allowing ample natural light.

The Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon has been reconstructed several times since its original 15th-century inception and now stands as a national monument.

Additionally, a saint statue is in the square before the church, which Pope John Paul II sanctified in 1982.

The church’s crypt is built where Saint Anthony’s birthplace once stood. Visitors can also observe a canvas that showcases the most accurate facial representation of Saint Anthony.

If you’re in Lisbon on June 13, you can participate in the yearly procession at the church, which winds through Alfama in honor of Saint Anthony’s “patron saint day.”

Museum of Resistance and Liberation (Cadeia do Aljube)

Explore the rich history of Portugal at a museum that also served as a former prison, shedding light on the struggle against dictatorship and the eventual liberation of the country.

The Museum of Resistance and Liberation , situated close to the Se Cathedral, boasts a permanent exhibit and rotating temporary exhibits that change every few months, providing visitors with a fresh experience each time.

While adult admission requires a ticket, the cost is reasonable. Discounts are available for adults aged 13-25 and seniors over 65. Children 12 years and younger can enter for free.

Lisbon Army Museum

Hours : Tuesdays – Sundays from 10:00 am – 17:00

Price : €3 adult / €1 senior or child also receive 20% using your Lisboa Card

The Museu Militar de Lisboa , located on the site of a former 16th-century shipyard, boasts the world’s most extensive collection of artillery.

The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Portugal’s rich military history through various exhibits, including illustrated tiles, paintings, documents, and gear.

Visitors can explore various subjects, such as World War I, Vasco da Gama’s discovery of his route to India, and the Peninsular War.

In addition to its fascinating exhibits, the museum building is also a point of interest, as it is an excellent example of the lavish Baroque style.

Museum of Fado

Hours : Tuesdays – Sundays from 10:00 – 18:00, Final Admission at 17:30

Price : €5 adult / €2.50 young adult 13 – 25 / FREE under 12

Paid Tours : €3 per 1-hour tour ( Book in Advance )

The Museu do Fado is a tribute to Portugal’s talented fado musicians and singers, who have shaped Lisbon’s culture with their emotional and somber genre.

Although fado’s roots can be traced back to ancient times , it became popular in Lisbon in the early 1800s. Today, you can often hear fado in Portuguese pubs and restaurants, where the melancholy lyrics revolve around themes of fate, longing, and the sea.

The museum houses a remarkable collection of instruments , especially guitars used for fado, and artwork that showcases the genre’s influence on Lisbon’s culture.

To help visitors appreciate this mournful genre, the museum offers interactive exhibits, audio guides, and live performances at the attached restaurant.

If you wish to explore the museum in-depth, you can pre-book a guided visit in Portuguese, Spanish, English, or French by emailing the museum.

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Alfama’s Challenges While Exploring

When exploring Alfama, you first notice the steep hills that rise from the banks, starting at Tejo Estuary and going to the castle. Then, there is a second hill leading up to Graca.

Hence, you have very few flat areas, meaning you will climb steep pathways and staircases. Thus, visiting the Aflama district, especially in summer, becomes very demanding.

Hot Tip🔥: To help reduce walking uphill time, I recommend you take the number 28 or 12 tram to Largo da Graca and then walk downhill throughout the district. Also, to prevent getting lost, always move downhill as it leads to the Tejo waterfront.

Cost of Day Trips to Alfama

You need not pay a fortune for a day trip to Alfama if you enter many free buildings like churches and viewpoints. Entrance fees to some of the places cost:

• Tram 28: €3
• Lisbon Caste: €10
• Se Cathedral is free
• Se Cloisters and the treasury: €3
• Museu de Santo Antonio: €3
• Roman Amphitheatre is free
• National Pantheon costs €4
• Fado Museum: €5
• A Metro single ticket costs €1.80

Staying in Memmo Alfama  

Alfama is one of the most popular Lisbon neighborhoods to stay in. Here, some traditional homes are converted into rental apartments or small hotels.

Hot Tip🔥: Check out some of my favorite hotels in Alfama to stay when visiting.

The best part of staying in the neighborhood is that the leading tourist destination is within walking distance of the Bairro Alto and Baixa districts.

Here are the best things to do in Lisbon In June 2024

I’ll send you a list of the best things to do in May and every month moving forward from today.

It’ll be based on my personal experience of living and traveling around Lisbon. A lot of hidden gems.

Nightlife in Alfama

Alfama’s nightlife has a unique charm that sets it apart from other districts in Lisbon. While it may not be as bustling and vibrant as areas like Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré, it offers a more laid-back and intimate nocturnal experience.

• Fado Houses: Alfama is famous for its traditional music and scattered houses. You can enjoy soulful performances with Portuguese cuisine in a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
• Cafes and Bars: Alfama’s cafes and bars are charming and have outdoor seating. You can enjoy mild evenings mingling with locals over drinks and snacks.
• Night Strolls: Alfama’s nightlife offers peaceful nighttime strolls on its narrow, cobblestone streets. The district is perfect for a leisurely walk, taking in the historic architecture and serene beauty of the surroundings—charming spots off the beaten path where you can enjoy a more secluded and intimate nightlife experience.

 How Safe is Alfama 

Alfama is generally considered a safe neighborhood in Lisbon, particularly for tourists. Its popularity as a historic and cultural destination attracts visitors worldwide.

The district enjoys a higher police presence due to its tourist appeal, contributing to overall safety. Yet, like any urban area, it’s advisable to stay vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in crowded spaces or during events.

Alfama’s charming streets and vibrant community create a unique atmosphere; standard precautions should be taken while enjoying the nightlife.

Hot Tip🔥:  Before planning a trip to stay in the district, read my complete guide about a free walking tour of Alfama .

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Wrap-Up: Alfama Lisbon

Alfama is a captivating and historically rich neighborhood in Lisbon . It offers historic landmarks, charming narrow streets, and breathtaking panoramic views.

While its nightlife may be quieter, it presents a laid-back and intimate atmosphere perfect for strolls and enjoying traditional Fado performances. Explore Alfama and immerse yourself in its unique ambiance .

Frequently Asked Questions

What does alfama in lisbon mean.

The name “Alfama” means “hot springs” or “fountains” in Arabic. 

What is the best time to visit Alfama?

The best time to visit Alfama is spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. However, if you want to experience the lively Santo António Festival, visit in June.

Is Alfama safe for tourists?

Yes, Alfama is generally safe for tourists. Yet, like any other tourist destination, it is advisable to take basic precautions such as keeping your valuables secure, avoiding dark and deserted alleys at night, and staying alert in crowded areas.

What is the best way to get to Alfama?

The best way to get to Alfama is by taking the metro to Santa Apolónia station or tram 28 or 12, which runs through the neighborhood. Still, during peak seasons, tram 28 can become very overcrowded. 

What is the Feira da Ladra market, and when is it held?

Feira da Ladra is one of the oldest flea markets in Europe, held every Tuesday and Saturday in Alfama. Here, you can browse a diverse array of items, from vintage treasures to antiques, and experience the lively atmosphere of this unique market.

Lisbon Enthusiast

I first moved to Lisbon back in 2018, while working as a freelancer. It was my lifelong dream to move outside the borders of Denmark to find a warm country with the ability to dream, work and live my life. I lived in Lisbon for a year, and I continue to visit multiple times every year. It's by far my favourite travel destination. Lisbon has so much to offer to anyone.

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10 Things To Do In Lisbon

After living in Lisbon for a year and visiting twice a year, I’ve collected my 10 favorite things to do in Lisbon. Download it below.

The Alfama District – A complete guide to Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood

Alfama, lisbon.

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, and possibly, its most lived-in neighborhood. Situated on a hillside that faces south, Alfama extends from the Castelo de São Jorge on the hilltop down to the cruise terminal and the bank of the Tejo River.

Alfama means “hot water,” or “springs” in Arabic, and had been a Moorish settlement until the 12th century. Once the Christians retook the area, they built churches all over the hillside, often on top of former Muslim sites.

The neighborhood was somewhat spared by the 1755 earthquake. After the quake, wealthier Lisboetas left the hillside largely to fishermen and the working poor.

By the 1980s, Alfama was largely populated by fishermen, dockworkers, laborers, and shopkeepers. In the 1980s, roughly 50% had plumbing, and less than half of the homes in the area were inhabited. This was due both to the decay of the area and an aging population.

Source: “Alfama; from degradation to rehabilitation: F Brandão Alves et al” https://www.researchgate.net/publication/256520756_Alfama_from_degradation_to_rehabilitation

Today, the Alfama district is largely sought after for its historical buildings and stunning views. Much of the area has been renovated, and while some locals still live in the area, there are also a large number of vacation rentals in the neighborhood.

What is Alfama known for?

Aside from its medieval history, Alfama is known for its narrow streets and steep inclines . There are also many stairs in this neighborhood. Many of the narrow lanes are switchbacks and are not wide enough to accommodate cars.

Many of the houses in the neighborhood feature tiny doors – perhaps four feet tall. A joke is that the purpose was to keep horses from entering the house.

More likely, it has to do with ventilation, with many of the houses having stairs on the interior leading to the first floor below ground level.

Alfama is known for having spectacular views – from the castle, you can see practically all of Lisbon.

Below the castle, there are several public viewpoints (known as Miradouros), and some of the alleys and public terraces (as well as many of the hotels and rentals in the area) have stunning views.

Alfama is known as the birthplace of Fado music. Fado is usually sung by one singer, often a woman accompanied by a Portuguese guitar. Both the sound and the lyrics are melancholy.

In some ways, it could be compared to the Blues. And just as the Blues are distinctly American, Fado is a distinctly Portuguese tradition.

There are plenty of restaurants in the area where you can take in a show. For more information, read my Everything you need to know about fado music in Lisbon

At the bottom of the Alfama neighborhood, you can also find the fantastic Fado Museum if you are interested in listening to recordings and exploring the history of this local tradition.

Alfama is known for street art. Look for Vhil’s portrait of Amália Rodrigues near the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

Artist André Saraiva has a colorful mosaic with some 52,000 tiles in Santa Clara, near the Feira da Ladra flea market.

At the Miradouro do Sol you will also see Brazilian artist Tami Hopf’s mural “Lisa.”

As you wander the back alleys of Alfama, you will come across portraits of some of the neighborhood’s elderly residents. The 40 works scattered throughout the neighborhood were done by British artist Camilla Watson as part of her project “Alma de Alfama” (Soul of Alfama.”

For more information: https://www.camillawatson.com/alma-de-alfamasoul-of-alfama

Alfama is also known for summertime celebrations . During the summer, residents of the neighborhood set up barbecues and tables in the lanes of Alfama and grill sausage, sardines, and sell beer. Alfama becomes a party.

St. Anthony was born in Alfama, right across from the cathedral. His feast day is June 12, and June 13 is the biggest night of the year in Lisbon . Dancing, eating, drinking, and music go all night long. There is a parade on the 13th on the central Avenida da Liberdade, and the different neighborhoods compete. There are block parties all over the city on June 13.

St. Anthony was also known as “The Matchmaker.” Each June, the city gifts a free, mass-wedding to local couples at the cathedral. These are the “Brides of Saint Anthony.”

How to get to Alfama

Tram 28E and Tram 12E  both depart from Praça Martim Moniz. Tram 12E will have a much shorter line.

You could walk uphill , following the tram tracks as well.

Bus 737  departs from Praça da Figueira behind (east of) the Rossio Metro Station, and stops near the Miradouro das Portas do Sol before turning left and continuing uphill to the castle.

The two closest metro stations to Alfama (at the bottom of the hill, of course) are Martim Moniz (green line) in the center of town, northeast of Rossio Square, and Santa Apolonia (blue line) to the east of downtown located on the river.

Map of the Alfama District

What to do in alfama, castelo de são jorge.

Castelo São Jorge  There has been a settlement on this hilltop since the 8th century.  The Muslim Moors built a castle here in 1050 AD.  Christian knights under Afonso Henriques took the castle back in 1147.  

Castelo de São Jorge is open during the following times:  November 1 – February 28 open 9 am – 7 pm.  Hours extend until 9 pm during the warmer months.  Admission is 10€.  Seniors pay 8.50€.  Children under 12 are free.  The castle is one of only a few sites in Lisbon that are not discounted with a Lisboa Card.

Pastelaria Santo António

Rua do Milagre de Santo António, 10.

Turn right as you exit the castle and head downhill.  Pastelaria Santo Antonio lies straight ahead in a beautifully tiled building.  This bakery won Best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon in 2019.  In my opinion, the gooiest (and possibly best pastel de nata) in the city as well.  These delicacies sell for 1.20€ each.

Hours: Open until 7 pm.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol viewpoint

The miradouro das Portos do Sol is one of the best scenic viewpoints in Lisbon . There is a large plaza with a kiosk, and a separate cafe on a lower level. You may encounter street musicians performing near the statue of St. Vincent. It’s a great place to people-watch, but also to check out Alfama and the Tejo River.

Alexandre Farto (VHILS) Portrait of Amália Rodrigues

Just uphill from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol viewpoint, on the opposite side of the street, you will see a bus stop. Tucked in a corner behind the bus stop, artist Alexandre Farto (aka VHILS) has left this beautiful black and white mosaic entitled “Calçada” (pavement or sidewalk in Portuguese).

Using the classically Portuguese art form, this modern artist created a portrait of local Fado legend Amália Rodrigues.

Miradouro da Santa Luzia Viewpoint

Practically next door to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol is the Miradouro de Santa Luzia viewpoint. It is one of the prettiest spots in Lisbon . The colors are amazing. The white chapel, the purple bougainvillea, the green vines on the arbor, the blue and white azulejo tile, the sky, the roofs, the water.

Aljube Museum of the Resistance

Rua Augusta Rosa, 42. Across from the cathedral

In a neighborhood full of medieval history, this museum focuses on the history of Portugal in the 20th century. The museum tells the story of the Estado Novo and the regime of the dictator Juan António de Salazar that lasted most of the 20th century. It also documents how the regime was overthrown in the Carnation Revolution.

As it turns out, the museum building, right across the street from the Lisbon Cathedral was one of Portugal’s largest prisons during the Salazar dictatorship.

Visitors can imagine what it was like to sit in a tiny cell as a political prisoner and look out at the cathedral.

This is a great stop for history buffs and is a treasury of information. Not all visitors to Lisbon will appreciate that, but if history is your thing – have fun! Admission is only 3€.

For more information, read my Aljube Museum – learn about Portugal in the 20th century

Lisbon Sé Cathedral

This church was built on top of a mosque in 1147, not long after the hill was taken from the Moors. The cathedral is known as Sé – the seat of the bishop. The fortress-like church easily withstood the 1755 earthquake. It is open daily from 9 am – 7 pm. Read my Lisbon Cathedral | All you need to know before you go – lisbontravelideas.com

Igreja de Santo António Church

Directly across the street from the Lisbon Cathedral and the Largo do Sé, this church was built on the spot where St. Anthony was born and lived as a child.

He was baptized in the cathedral, and attended church across the street.

He eventually became a monk in the Alfama monastery that would later become known as São Vicente de Fora Monastery.

In the church make sure to wander down the hall to your left and see the shrines dedicated to St. Anthony and the downstairs chapel where Pope John Paul II prayed. To learn more about St. Anthony Church, read my article , https://lisbontravelideas.com/2023/01/igreja-de-santo-antonio-church-in-lisbon-a-quick-guide

Museu do Teatro Romano (Roman Theatre Museum)

Rua de Sao Memede, 3A

In the 1st century AD, the Romans controlled this area, and they called it Olissipo. This was the site of the 4000-seat Roman Theatre.

The museum is part of the Museu de Lisboa.

Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday – Sunday from 10 am – 6 pm.

Casa dos Bicos

Rua dos Bacalhoeiros, 10

This house is famous for its Italian-inspired façade of diamond-shaped stones. Today the mansion houses the personal library of the Nobel Prize-winner for Literature in 1998, José Saramago, one of Portugal’s greatest authors.

It also houses an exhibition about his life and work.

Outside, under an olive tree, lie his ashes. The house was built in 1523 by Afonso de Albuquerque, the Portuguese viceroy of India.

Museu do Fado / Fado Museum

Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, 1

Hours:  Closed Mondays.   Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am – 6 pm.  Last entry is at 5:30.  Closed January 1, May 1, 24, 25, and 31 of December. Tickets: 5€, Seniors 4.30€, Ages 13-25: 2.50€, Under 12 free.

São Vicente de Fora Monastery and Church

The Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora (Monastery of St. Vincent Outside of the Town Gate) was originally built in the 12th century, not long after the Christian reconquest of Lisbon.

A glass floor in the sacristy reveals what are believed to be graves of some of the crusaders that died reclaiming the city.

Unfortunately, not much from the original structure remains today, other than the large cistern near the entryway.

Lisbon’s favorite son, St. Anthony lived here as a monk, and there is a chapel dedicated to him on the spot that was believed to be his living quarters.

One of the top reasons to visit is to enjoy the more than 100,000 blue and white azulejo tiles inside the monastery.

Another reason is to enjoy the rooftop balcony with its fantastic views of Lisbon and the river.

It is free to enter the church, but make sure you pay the €5 to enter the monastery, the cloisters, the crypt, the cistern, and explore the rooftop.

Children 12 and under are free.  Ages 65 and over are free. Closed on Mondays.

National Pantheon / Santa Engracia

Campo de Santa Clara

This is the large domed building that you can see from across the river or from the Alfama district’s scenic viewpoints.  Several of Portugal’s national heroes are buried here. 

Admission is 5€. It is free if you have a Lisboa Card. 

Closed on Mondays.  Tuesdays and Saturdays are a good choice for a visit, because you can also go to the Feira da Ladra. 

Feira da Ladra (Thieves Market)

This 700-year-old flea market operates at Campo de Santa Clara.  It is just outside of the National Pantheon (Santa Engracia).  The flea market is held every Tuesday and Saturday morning.

Where to park in Alfama

Maybe you can find some on-street parking, or maybe your hotel has a few spots.  Truth is, there isn’t a lot of parking around here.  Try:

Estacionamento Pago Alfama, paid lot.

Estacionamento Chão de Loureiro

Rua de São Tome 88 Garage

Parking Campo de Cebolhas

Cruise Ship Parking

Lodging in Alfama

This is lisbon hostel.

Costa do Castelo,63

This hostel located in a 19th-century building has a large terrace overlooking the neighborhood.  Breakfast is provided, but you are also welcome to get in on brunch, a Portuguese dinner, or Portuguese lessons.  They organize free walking tours, yoga on the terrace, and trips to the beach.

A large single room with a twin bed, balcony, and a view Is $60 a night . Beds in four, six, or eight bedrooms start at $27 a night.

Breakfast is not included.  Security lockers are available.  

Laundry service and airport pick-up are also available.

Hotel Convento do Salvador

Rua do Salvador, 2B

This reasonably priced hotel is in a former convent directly below the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.  From the viewpoint, you can actually take a short staircase down to the lane where the hotel is located.  

A room with a queen bed can be had for as low as $100 per night.   Although the building was once a convent, the rooms are both modern and comfortable.

The hotel is committed to sustainable practices, and a portion of each stay is donated to a local children’s community center.

Memmo Alfama

Travessa das Merceeiras, 27

Memmo Alfama has a rooftop pool and open-air lounge overlooking Alfama and the Tejo River.

Memmo Alfama is a quick walk from the Lisbon Cathedral and the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia viewpoints.

A double room in this four-star hotel in the high season can be had for $218.

To book: https://www.booking.com/hotel/pt/memmo-alfama.en.html?aid=7930224&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Solar do Castelo

Rua das Cozinhas, 2

This Lisbon Heritage Hotel is the only hotel situated within the castle’s walls.  This romantic boutique hotel in an 18th-century building occupies the former kitchen space of the Castelo de São Jorge. 

The 14-square-meter Castelo room can be had for as low as $306 per night.  Guests are provided a free bottle of port on arrival.

Palacete Chafariz del Rei

By Unlock Hotels

Travessa Chafariz del Rei, 6

Stay in a beautiful 19th-century mansion.

A deluxe suite with a river view, 646 square feet, air conditioning, and a queen bed can be had for around $350 per night.

To learn about other popular neighborhoods in Lisbon:

Lisbon’s downtown – Baixa: Everything you need to know

Bairro Alto – An overview of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighborhood

Lisbon’s historic Belém neighborhood | Everything you need to know

Avenida da Liberdade | Everything you need to know

Thank you for reading about Lisbon’s Alfama district. Prices may vary. If you purchase anything from a link in this article, I will receive a small commission. That would be great! Thank you for supporting my work.

Worldwide Walkers

13 Things to do in Alfama – Lisbon’s Charming Old Town

Lisbon’s old town Alfama will always have a special place in my heart. During the dreadful year of 2020, Glenn and I lived in Alfama for 3 months, which gave us a chance to explore all the things to do in this charming neighborhood of Lisbon.

It was actually a complete coincidence that we ended up living in Alfama. We stayed here from March to June during the first lockdown of the whole world, and thus had the chance to experience one of Lisbon’s most popular places without a single tourist in the area.

It was such an incredible opportunity to be able to explore Alfama alone. Therefore, we want to share with you what we found to be the best things to do in Alfama!

In this blog post, we’re going to share all kinds of information about Lisbon’s old charming town. You’ll learn about the history, how to get there, where to stay, tips for visiting, and all the best things do and top attractions to see in Alfama.

So let’s get started! Here are our top recommendations on what to do during your visit in Lisbon’s most charming and beautiful old town.

AFFILIATE LINKS DISCLOSURE: Dear Reader, this blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here .

About Alfama – Lisbon’s old part of town

Before sharing the best things to do in Alfama, we want to give you some general information about this beautiful neighborhood in Lisbon.

Lisbon has many different districts, however Alfama remains the oldest quarter in town. Therefore, it’s only natural for us to start this blog post with sharing some history facts about Alfama.

Afterwards, we’ll tell you some practical information about how to get to Alfama and some tips for visiting.

Alfama’s long history

There is a lot of history hidden within the narrow cobblestoned streets of Alfama.

The name “Alfama” originates from the arabic word “Al-hamma”, which means “bath” and “fountain”. To this day, you’ll still find many fountains while walking around Alfama.

The neighborhood was originally Muslim, and the Moorish domination ruled it from 711 to 1147. During this period, Alfama was inhabited by the rich, which means that a lot of important people lived and ruled from here.

By 1147 the Moors in Alfama were defeated, and the territory of Lisbon became part of the Kingdom of Portugal.

Consequently, the rich moved out of Alfama and the fishermen, sailors, and poor people moved in.

From then on, Alfama turned into a difficult neighborhood where crime was on the rise. In the late 20th century there was even talk about destroying the whole neighborhood and rebuilding it again. Luckily, it never came that far!

During the massive Lisbon earthquake in 1755, Alfama was also one of the few neighborhoods in Lisbon that survived complete destruction.

It’s safe to say that Alfama is one of the strongest and toughest neighborhoods in all of Lisbon.

Today there is a strong sense of community in Alfama, which we were lucky to experience during our 3 months living here. It was a daily activity for the ladies to hang out freshly washed laundry on the balconies while catching up and having a laugh.

One night, our whole street was even singing from their balconies! It was a very interesting scene, and we’re so grateful that we were able to experience this sense of community.

If you want to know more about the history of Alfama, then sign up for a walking tour in Alfama .

How to get to Alfama

Before you can go explore all the great things to see in Alfama, it’s needless to say that you have to get there first! Here are 3 ways to get to Alfama from the city center of Lisbon:

• Walk : Strap on your shoes and start walking up the incredibly steep cobblestoned streets of Alfama. We really recommend this as it’s the best way to explore the neighborhood – plus, we’re keen hikers!
• Tram : If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, then you can take the old and authentic tram #28. The tram lines were introduced to Lisbon in 1901 and are such an integrated part of the city today.
• Bus : Another great way to travel around in Lisbon is by bus. There are several routes that goes past Alfama, but we’ll suggest you take bus line #737 towards Castelo. It will drop you off at the São Jorge Castle, which leaves you on the top of Alfama.

If you want to ride all the transportation for free and get discount on many attractions all over Lisbon, then look into buying the Lisbon Card .

Where to stay in Alfama

Are you thinking about staying in Alfama during your trip to Lisbon? Then you’re in luck because you can find the most incredible hotels in Alfama. Being the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon, there are a lot of historical places to stay at in Alfama.

That being said, the accommodation options in Alfama aren’t exactly cheap. So if you want something affordable, then chances are that you have to stay in another neighbourhood in Lisbon.

Below, you’ll find some of the best accommodation options in Alfama. As always, we’ve done our research on Booking.com .

Best hotels in Alfama

• Hotel Convento do Salvador : One of the more affordable hotel options in Alfama. This 3-star hotel is located in a former convent. The rooms are clean and modern, and in some of them you’ll even find beautiful views over the Tejo River.
• Solar do Castelo – Lisbon Heritage Collection – Alfama : This incredible 4-star hotel is located in a building from the 18th century – right within the walls of Sao Jorge Castle! It’s a boutique hotel with beautifully designed rooms that takes you back to another time period.
• Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel : This unique 5-star boutique hotel has won several awards and is located in a fully restored 15th century palace. The rooms/suites are big, spacious, and often offer beautiful views of the Tejo River.

Tips for visiting Alfama

Before we move on to the top attractions and best things to do in Alfama, we want to quickly share a few quick tips so that you are as prepared as possible. So here goes 3 tips for visiting the old town of Lisbon:

• Wear good shoes : Don’t visit the neighborhood in heels or flip flops. Trust me, you’ll regret it! The hills are very steep, so you want to wear something comfortable on your feet.
• Watch out during rain : Alfama is full of cobblestones and unique street tiles, and they get really slippery when wet. So, if it’s raining or if it has just been raining while you visit Alfama, then watch out that you don’t slip and hurt yourself. I speak out of my own experience here…
• Be respectful of locals : Because of its charm, Alfama is one of Lisbon’s most touristic areas! But remember that local people still live here. So, make sure to give people a little privacy. I’m sure not all locals in Alfama thinks it’s nice to have a camera up their nose while they hang up fresh laundry.

Top attractions and 13 best things to do in Alfama

Now we’ve finally reached the essence of this blog post! This section contains all the best things to do in Alfama including top attractions, viewpoints, delicacies, and much more!

1. Lisbon’s castle: Castelo de São Jorge

The biggest must-see thing in Alfama is definitely Lisbon’s old São Jorge Castle. Therefore, we only find it right to start this blog post with this particular attraction.

Castelo de São Jorge was built in the mid-11th century during the Moorish period. The castle was never meant to house royal residents, instead it was built as a place to house military troops. But after 1147, when the Moors were defeated, it was decided that the castle should house royal residents.

In the 13th century, Castelo de São Jorge finally became a royal palace and many festivities and coronations took place here. However, the royal adventure only lasted until 1580 when the castle was turned back into military barracks under the Spanish crown.

It wasn’t until 1910 that Castelo de São Jorge was declared a national monument of Portugal. And today, the castle both serves as a national monument, a museum, and a popular tourist attraction in Alfama.

• Related post: All you need to know about the São Jorge Castle in Lisbon

Apart from all the great history in the castle, you’ll also find some of Lisbon’s greatest viewpoints within the castle grounds. Castelo de São Jorge is definitely one of the best things you can see and do in Alfama – and in all of Lisbon!

The castle is open from 9 AM to 9 PM during the summer period, whereas during winter it’s open from 9 AM to 7 PM. Below you’ll find a table over the ticket prices of Castelo de São Jorge in 2023:

You can either buy your ticket directly at the ticket office or book your ticket online with a tour guide included . See the ticket prices of 2023 in the box below:

2. Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Taking in the breathtaking views over Lisbon and the Tagus River is definitely one of our favorite things to do in Alfama! We 100% recommend you to stop by some of the many viewpoints scattered around the city – not just the ones in Alfama.

Anyways, the Miradouro de Santa Luzia is probably the most famous viewpoint in Alfama.

The reason why Miradouro de Santa Luzia is so popular is because of its setting in a beautiful little garden surrounded by the classic colorful tiles of Lisbon. Here you’ll get some great views over the rooftops of Alfama and the Tagus river.

The viewpoint is public and open to visit at any time and any day during the week.

3. Miradouro das Portas do Sol

My favorite viewpoint in Alfama is the Miradouro das Portas do Sol. If you really want to enjoy Lisbon’s old town the right way, then I’d suggest you head over here.

During lockdown, our favorite thing to do was to go to this beautiful viewpoint and do some workout – remember, there was no tourists and no people on the streets, so we basically had it all to ourselves!

Once the restaurants opened up again, we regularly went to the little café right next to the viewpoint. We’re not talking about the Portas do Sol café, but a cheaper smaller “kiosk” that has a few tables right next to some great views and the tram line. We absolutely loved going here in the afternoon to play cards and drink a beer or two.

If you have the time and really want to appreciate Alfama, then we suggest that you buy a coffee and take a break in the sun by either Portas do Sol Café or by the little green kiosk on the street. During our travels, we’ve learned that it’s often the small things that gives us the deepest experiences and memories.

4. Miradouro da Graça

We’re almost done with talking about viewpoints, but we need to include this last one to really do this Miradouro-list justice… So here goes one more viewpoint!

Miradouro da Graça is technically not situated in Alfama. It’s located in the neighboring quarter named São Vicente. However, it’s only a short walk from Alfama, and it truly deserves a visit while you’re in the area!

The great thing about Miradouro da Graça is that you actually get a view over Alfama and Castelo de São Jorge. So, somehow it’s the perfect ending to your viewpoint-visits in the old town of Lisbon.

Hands down, this viewpoint is one of the best ways to see magnificent Lisbon all at once! Unfortunately we don’t have a picture of it, so you’ll just have to go and see it for yourself.

Like all the other viewpoints, it’s open to visit whenever you want.

5. Lisbon’s Cathedral Sé

Another great thing to do in Alfama is to visit Sé de Lisboa – also known as Lisbon’s Cathedral. Sé was built back in 1147 and therefore remains the oldest church in all of Lisbon.

Sé even survived the big earthquake in 1755! But it was also renovated many times to keep it strong.

Today it’s also declared one of Portugal’s national monuments – just like the Castelo de São Jorge.

Sé is a beautiful cathedral that anyone can enter for free. Just remember to cover your shoulders and knees. If you want to explore the cathedral further, then you can also visit the High Choir, the cathedral’s Museum of Treasury, and the nave for €5 per person.

In 2023, the Sé Cathedral of Lisbon is open every day except for Sundays and holidays. You can visit between 10 AM and 6 PM during winter, and between 9:30 AM and 7 PM during the summer season.

6. Teatro Romano Museum

It’s not enough that Alfama is the home of Lisbon’s castle and Lisbon’s cathedral, Alfama is also the home of Lisbon’s Roman amphitheater! In fact, it’s the only Roman amphitheater that has ever been discovered in all of Portugal.

Only a stone’s throw away from Sé Cathedral, about 150 meters, you can go see the old roman ruins.

The roman ruins were discovered in the 60’s and excavation began in 1980. Apparently the amphitheater was built by Emperor Augustus, and it had the capacity to host between 4000-5000 people.

You can either just walk by and see the excavation site from above for free, or you can dive deeper into the Roman history in Portugal and go visit the Museu Teatro Romano.

The ticket price to visit Museu Teatro Romano in 2023 is €3 for adults. The opening hours are 10 AM – 6 PM with last admission at 5:30 PM. It’s open every day except for Mondays when the museum is closed.

In our opinion, the Teatro Romano Museum isn’t one of the most important things to do and see in Alfama, but it’s still a cool and different attraction – plus it’s pretty cheap to visit.

7. Fado museum

One of the best things to do in Alfama is to learn about Fado. Unfortunately, we never got to visit the Fado Museum or experience Fado at a restaurant, so we sadly can’t share our personal experience.

Alfama is known for Fado, which is a Portuguese music genre and an art that can be traced back to the beginning of the 19th century. It’s an expressive and melancholic song, or “saudade” as it would be referred to in Portugal. A “Saudade” means a “longing”.

Like we mentioned earlier, Alfama was a tough neighborhood where a lot of poor people used to live. Therefore, Fado often reflects the hardships of life.

If you are into music and you’d like to experience this part of the Portuguese culture, then I’d suggest that you try to eat at a Fado restaurant in Alfama , or you go visit the Fado museum.

Museu do Fado is open every day between 10 AM and 6 PM except for Mondays. You can see the ticket prices for 2023 in the table below:

8. Lisbon’s best Pastel de Nata

One of the absolute BEST things to do in Alfama is to eat Pastel de Nata. Actually, this doesn’t just count for Alfama – eating this delicious pastry is a must on your visit to Portugal. In fact, it’s probably the most famous pastry in all of Portugal.

• Related post: 30 GREAT Things Portugal is famous for

Pastel de Nata is a custard-filled tart that’s crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and taste heavenly when still a bit warm. Have it with a shot of Espresso and it’s the perfect little breakfast combination. But really, you can eat Pastel de Nata anytime during the day…

The best place to eat them in Alfama is in Pastelaria Santo António, which also won the award for BEST Pastel de Nata in 2019.

They only cost €1,2 per piece – and every bite is an absolute piece of heaven! So make sure to stop by this delicious Pastelaria on the way up to Lisbon’s castle.

9. Flea market at Santa Clara

If you’re visiting Alfama on a Tuesday or on a Saturday, then you can go by Feira da Ladra and make a bargain or two.

Feira da Ladra translates into the “Market of Female Thieves”, and it’s a popular flea market in Lisbon. It’s also known as the Mercado de Santa Clara because it’s located on Campo de Santa Clara.

It’s not one of the things you must see in Alfama, but it’s a nice way to explore something a bit more local in this popular and touristic neighborhood. You can find used books, clothes, antiques, and small knick-knacks in the market.

Feira da Ladra is open every Tuesday and Saturday. I couldn’t really find the official opening hours, but expect to come between 8 AM – 5 PM, and it should still be open.

10. Look for the peacocks

One of the more funny things to do in Alfama is to go on the lookout for the beautiful peacocks that live in the castle.

During our first month of living in Alfama, we stayed in an apartment that was located right next to the castle. It was such an incredible place to spend a whole month! And during the first week, we quickly learned that the area was full of peacocks.

The peacocks walked around in the streets and jumped on top of our roof. It was magnificent to constantly be surrounded by this incredibly colorful bird!

However, after some time we did start to grow tired of their high-pitched screams that lasted all day and all night… We’re pretty sure it was their mating season.

Anyways, one day when we were on our way home from a walk, we even saw a peacock that had spread its feathers wide open. It was shaking them at us (like it was warning us not to come any closer), so we naturally kept our distance. It was a pretty cool experience!

You should definitely be on the lookout for the peacocks when you’re exploring Alfama. They normally live in the castle, but they often jump over the walls and go into the streets of Alfama. You can most likely find them in the streets that are close to the castle.

11. Get lost in the streets of Alfama

I think my overall favorite activity, out of all the things to do in Alfama, is to just go get lost in the narrow, colorful cobblestone streets. That’s also why we recommend you to walk instead of taking the tram or the bus.

So, put the tourist map aside for an hour and just follow your feet. You’ll often find small winding streets with colorful tiles and beautiful graffiti-art, which other tourists often don’t find. You’ll also discover small hidden cafés and restaurants that are more local and authentic.

We absolutely love to just walk around in Alfama. There is so much history in these streets of Lisbon, and it’s probably the most charming old town we’ve ever seen.

Out of all the things to do in Alfama, this is an absolute must! You haven’t experienced the real Alfama before you start going off-road.

Just a quick reminder about what we said in the beginning – Be respectful of the locals who live here when you get off the tourist trail. The small streets of Alfama are so mesmerizing, but sometimes your camera can make people feel uncomfortable. So, just remember that people actually live here, and Alfama isn’t just a big tourist attraction of Lisbon.

12. Book a guided tour through Alfama

If you really want to get to know the history and best spots of Alfama, then we recommend you to go on a tour with a local. There are so many different tours you can go on, but we’ve just selected a handful of what we think looks best:

• Go on a classic walking tour in Alfama and learn about the area from a local guide.
• Are you an introvert like me (Cecilie)? Explore Alfama on a self-guided audio tour .
• Be the ultimate tourist on a guided segway tour through Alfama .
• Listen to- and taste Alfama’s soul with this walking tour with Fado and dinner included .
• Book a local food tour in Alfama where you will taste your way through the old town.

13. Delicious gelato in Alfama

What better way to end your day in Alfama than with a delicious gelato?!

Well you’re in luck, because we Lisbon’s best gelato at the foothill of Alfama. Back at sea level, you’ll find a shop named “Gelato Davvero Rio Tejo” – look it up on Google Maps.

The owners are super friendly and they have some REALLY DELICIOUS GELATO. They sell a few classic flavors, but also a mix of more modern flavors such as kiwi and banana!

Eating a yummy gelato really is the best way to end your day exploring all of Alfama’s best things to do!

Why visit Alfama? And how to be a better traveler in 2023

We wanted to write this blog post, not just to inform you about the best things to do in Alfama, but also to advertise about how to become a better traveler here in the old historic town of Lisbon.

Alfama is one of the most popular neighborhoods to visit in not just Lisbon, but in all of Portugal. This naturally brings a lot of tourists to the scene.

We were lucky to experience Alfama without any other tourists. Living in this neighborhood for 3 months during the world pandemic made us realize just how beautiful this place is. The sense of community in Alfama is very strong, and we think it’s important that we tourists respect that.

We found that the locals of Alfama always greeted each other on the streets – they even greeted an obvious foreigner like me! And it honestly made me feel very welcome.

So let’s become better tourists to Alfama and make sure to give the locals more space, smile at them and say hello instead of just taking pictures of them.

…We’ve also visited Alfama back in 2019, before the world pandemic, and the scene was completely different – so we speak out of own experience when we say that the big tourist crowds did take away some of the beauty of the old town in Lisbon. So now that tourism is back, let’s be better travelers to Alfama here in 2023.

Alfama will always have a special place in our heart! When our governments closed the borders in 2020, Lisbon was the place that an international couple like me and Glenn could call “home” for a while. For that, we’re always grateful to Portugal and we will continue to come back for more visits in the future.

• You can read our story about how we ended up in Lisbon in my blog post: Where is home for international couples?
• Or go check out what we did during lockdown in this blog post: Lockdown life in Lisbon
• Planning a trip to Lisbon? Read my Weekend in Lisbon itinerary

I hope you enjoyed this blog post about all the best things to do in Alfama. Now you’re hopefully prepared for your next trip to the old town of Lisbon! Make sure to share some of your experiences of lovely Alfama in the comments. Thanks for reading!

Hi, I'm Cecilie! And I'm the writer behind our travel blog. I only write about places that we've personally been to and want to recommend to you. I'm passionate about creating truthful travel guides, which can help you plan your own trip. When I'm not traveling or writing, you'll find me on a hiking trail, in a coffee shop, or in a shoe store around Copenhagen.

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JUST AMAZING we are going for 4 days staying 2 in Alfama i cannot wait this is very helpful

I’m glad to hear it Lisa! Thank you so much for your lovely comment, I hope you’ll have a wonderful trip. Happy travels!

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20 Things to Do in Alfama, Lisbon’s Prettiest District

by Drifter Planet | Oct 4, 2023 | Portugal

If you have been reading my blog since 2015, then you have probably seen how I rave about Lisbon, its pretty streets, and pastel houses. Do you want to know what’s the prettiest part of Lisbon?

The answer is Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district.

I was writing an itinerary post for Lisbon and I realized how I spent most of my time in Alfama. When you see the pictures, you won’t blame me. After all, it looks like a Wes Anderson movie backdrop.

A little insider tip for my website visitors – when it comes to Lisbon’s most amazing neighborhoods, Alfama is the more famous one but the one that’s next to it Graça is awesome too. Graça comes within the São Vicente district. Some maps of Alfama actually include the São Vicente district too.

So for the sake of this article, this list of things to do in Alfama also has a few from Graça.

Introducing Alfama

The neighborhood of Alfama is situated between the medieval Castelo de São Jorge and the Tagus River. Castelo de São Jorge is also called St. George Castle and it overlooks Alfama.

Believe it or not, Alfama’s name originated from the Arabic language. The original word was “al-hamma” which is an Arabic word for the fountains or the baths.

The entire Lisbon city is built on steep hills and Alfama district is no exception. As a result, there are many viewpoints and lookout terraces which are called “ miradouros ” in Portuguese. ( Porto in Portugal also has a lot of viewpoints)

My pro tip for exploring Lisbon: Make sure you wear the most comfortable shoes while exploring Lisbon. Yes, you must have heard it for literally every destination but it is the most true for Lisbon considering the steep hills and slippery cobblestone streets. Check out my post about what to wear in Lisbon .

The streets of Alfama are narrow and it feels like you are inside a labyrinth. Some of the streets also overlook the Tagus River and from some, you can see the top of São Jorge Castle.

The devastating earthquake of 1755 didn’t destroy most of Alfama and thankfully most of the historical landmarks, streets, and buildings still remain. As a result, in some places, you will feel like you have stepped into a time machine and gone back a few decades.

Things to do in Alfama Lisbon

Table of contents, follow tram 28 route.

If you have seen photos of Lisbon or read even a few lines about this city, you probably already know about the tram 28. It is a historical tram and this particular line was created in 1914 so that the residents of Graça & Estrela could move to Baixa.

These historical yellow trams are tiny! There’s the place for barely 20 people and in peak months many more get shoved inside and they have to stand for the journey.

A lot of first-time visitors want to ride the historical tram 28. I did too back in 2016 but I gave up hope after seeing how long the queue was. It was easily going to take hours. The queue was even longer in 2023. Unless you can brave the long lines, you won’t be able to ride the tram 28.

Over the years, I have realized that it is a lot of fun to just follow the scenic route of Tram 28 as it moves around Alfama and São Vicente. After all, the beauty of the landscape gets even more awesome with the pop of color that the yellow tram brings.

The streets of Alfama and Graça are on steep hills and it is fun to see how these trams move slowly as they climb up the streets. So if you are going to walk in Alfama, then get ready to climb on these steep streets and enjoy the workout. Many are cobblestone streets so they tend to get slippery.

In order to see the best locations for the tram, get to Miradouro Portas do Sol belvedere, and walk up to Calçada de Santo André, and just after that is Graça.

Castelo de São Jorge

When you are in Lisboa, you will definitely see the medieval building of Castelo de São Jorge, it is high up on a hill in Santa Maria Maior at one end of Alfama. It was initially the center of Lisbon.

The only way to visit São Jorge Castle is to do it super early in the morning before the people start queueing up. The queues are painfully long! It is a good idea to eat something before you arrive here because of the climb. If you are in Lisbon for just one day , then please skip this.

Consider getting a Lisboa card if you are going to visit historical sites like this one and you can also use it on trams/buses.

São Jorge Castle is historical and the first fortification dates back to 2 BC. If you get past the long lines and go inside, you will notice 10 towers. The towers are connected with a wall, that divides the courtyard.

If you manage to beat the crowds and get inside, you will climb steps to reach on top of the wall and the towers for a panoramic view of Lisbon. It is an uninterrupted 360-degree view of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

The most famous tower is The Tower of Ulysses, which was earlier the location for the national archive – the Torre do Tombo.

Make sure you eat something before you head to Castelo de São Jorge because not only do you need to climb a lot inside but also just to reach the entry point of the castle.

Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge

Were you not able to get into São Jorge Castle? Don’t worry, walk a few steps and you will see a church with a bell tower along the castle walls. You can go up for a view and without the crowds.

“Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge” means “the tower of the church of St. George Castle” and it is exactly that. The entry fee for this is EUR 5, which also includes a drink of your choice – water, juice, white wine, champagne, and port wine.

There are spiral steps that go to the top and once you are up there, you will see a lovely view on all the sides. You can ring the bell too but be careful, it is loud.

Of course, the view from the actual São Jorge Castle is better, more panoramic and more open. But the view from Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge is almost as good except you have the frame of the tower window – which actually added a nice touch for my photos.

For the exact location on Google Maps, click here .

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

This is perhaps the most famous spot in Alfama and it deserves all the hype. Miradouro das Portas do Sol is an elevated belvedere with stunning views of Alfama’s pastel-hued houses, and the Tagus River, and in the distance, one can also see the Monastery of são Vicente de Fora.

Unlike many other viewing terraces or miradouros, this is pretty spacious and you will get a spot to see the sunset next to the railing. The railing isn’t so high so the view feels uninterrupted like some of the other nearby viewpoints.

There is also a Portas do Sol cafe/bar with massive outdoor seating where we bought large Caipirinha cocktails for €7 per person and they were amazing. Of course, if you go in Alfama’s inner lanes then these cocktails are for €5 per person but here you are also paying for this stunning view.

We were here to catch the sunset and we didn’t leave until it was nighttime and it was a very fun-filled evening.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Miradouro de Santa Luzia is a part of the Church of Santa Luzia (Igreja de Santa Luzia), which dates back to the 17th century. No one actually visits this church here but they come here for the stunning views over Lisbon’s old quarters.

This viewing terrace is right under Portas do Sol but the experience is completely different. There are arches, pillars, and sitting spots next to each pillar with a slightly different view from each one.

This viewing terrace is covered with a green vine that was thriving here in the humid summer months. At one end of this boulevard is also a massive bougainvillea that was blooming with magenta flowers when I visited.

Arrive here just before the sunset, watch the colors change as the sun goes down, and after that, you can move up to Portas do Sol for a cocktail.

Sit in a Cafe on a Slanted Street with a view

There is a limit to how much you can walk, and move around for sightseeing. At some point, you have to sit and relax. At this point, I want to highlight the fun of slowing down in Alfama with a cup of coffee/tea or even a glass of wine.

Lisbon is built on steep hills and as a result, there are a lot of slated streets. The same is true with Alfama and the streets get even narrower here. Some of our best moments that were spent in Alfama were when my friend and I sat next to a window with a view of a slanted road with slow-moving red and yellow trams moving up and down these streets.

We often sat at a small Nepalese restaurant called Yak and Yeti . You can also sit at a nearby bar called Alter , but it was a bit expensive with just one table overlooking the street.

If you are looking for just a cafe where you can drink tea or coffee, with a bakery and breakfast options, then Copenhagen Coffee Lab in Alfama is for you. Right outside this cafe is the tram route.

Another awesome spot with a nice view is actually an ice cream & pizza shop – Insano Gelato e Pizza . Walk a little ahead and then there is another restaurant with a view – Salsa .

Miradouro da Graça

This is my favorite viewpoint in Lisboa and is a bit higher than the others. Unlike the other viewing terraces in Lisbon, this isn’t a crowded spot. From here you can also see the nearby Monastery of são Vicente de Fora much better than the others.

Just like Miradouro das Portas do Sol, there is also a cafe/bar on top with chairs next to the viewpoint. The view isn’t as uninterrupted as that from Portas do Sol but nonetheless, I liked this spot enough to climb 200-300 steps to see it twice.

For me, not just the actual viewpoint but the way to it was pretty beautiful. Yes, you have to climb a lot of steps but the breathtaking views along the way especially right before the sunset time make it worthwhile. There is a lot of street art and graffiti on the walls of the steps.

I must inform you that you can’t actually see the sun going down from this viewpoint because of the direction but the golden hour colors make it lovely nonetheless. If you want to see the sunset, then go to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte instead.

Sé de Lisboa

Sé de Lisboa is also called the Lisbon Cathedral. The full name is “Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa or Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Mary Major” in Portuguese or the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major in English.

Sé de Lisboa is the oldest church in Lisbon and was built in 1147 and is a protected national monument since 1910.

Over the last centuries, Sé de Lisboa has survived many earthquakes, the worst being the 1755 Lisbon earthquake that destroyed the main chapel of the cathedral. This cathedral has been modified and restored many times, which is why it is a mix of different architectural styles – Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles.

The entry fee for Sé de Lisboa is EUR 5 and if you decide to go inside, you will also see the artifacts. If you did get the Lisboa Card, then you still have to pay EUR 4 to get in.

To be honest, my style of traveling doesn’t include going inside every single church or iconic building unless there’s something really special inside. Instead, I like to enjoy how they look from the outside. So yes, you don’t need to go inside Sé de Lisboa but just appreciate the building from outside and that’s it.

Eat Pastel de Nata

After or before you visit Sé de Lisboa, go to the nearby bakery Pastelaria Santo António to enjoy the most famous snack of this city.

There isn’t a single guide for Lisbon or Portugal in general where I don’t mention Pastel de Nata. After all, this delicious snack is as famous (and iconic) as the Yellow Tram 28.

Quick intro, Pastel de Nata is a Portuguese egg tart that was created for the first time in a monastery in Lisbon and today it is a popular snack sold in every single bakery. This is one of the things that made me fall in love with Lisbon when I first visited in 2016.

So when you are in Alfama, visit Pastelaria Santo António , which is near Lisbon Cathedral – Sé de Lisboa. Even if you see a long line here in peak seasons, don’t be discouraged because the staff has a nice system and people keep moving faster.

Old Alfama Square & Chafariz de los Caballos

If you are going to walk around in Alfama, then one of the spots that you will surely cross is Old Alfama Square. It isn’t a massive square like the one at Rossio but a small one with restaurants all around and the Fado Museum on one side.

There is also a historical water tap called “Chafariz de Dentro ou dos Cavalos” which means “Fountain of Dentro or dos Cavalos” and is also marked as “Chafariz de los Caballos” on Google Maps. The water usually doesn’t run out from the taps anymore except in the mornings.

If you are a fan of the Azulejos – the ceramic Portuguese tiles that are everywhere on the buildings then you should also check out a shop that’s near the square – Azulejos de Fachada . Maybe you can buy something for your own house.

If you are hungry then get a table outside in one of the restaurants in the Old Alfama Square and enjoy the authentic Portuguese flavors.

Fado Museum

If you are looking for an offbeat thing to do in Lisbon without crowds, then this is for you. If you don’t know this already, Fado is a traditional Portuguese blues music style and if you have any interest, then you will enjoy the Fado Museum.

Fado Museum has a pastel pink building which was earlier a former water elevatory station. Inside is a permanent exhibition on Fado with videos and documentaries about the Portuguese guitar, Fado music, and information about legendary singers like Celeste Rodrigues, Amália Rodrigues, and Manuel Rebello to name a few.

Sit on the armchair with earphones for an interactive experience. There is also a cafe inside.

The entrance to the Fado Museum is EUR 5 and you won’t spend more than 30 minutes inside. Use the audioguide to maximize your experience.

Dinner in Alfama with Fado Show

Now that you know about Fado music, it is time to actually enjoy it in real-time with wine.

There are many restaurants within Alfama where you can eat dinner, drink wine, and enjoy a live Fado Show. If you walk around Alfama and Graça in the evenings, you will find at least one if not more.

I will recommend a place where I actually went to eat – Santo André . I didn’t know there was going to be a Fado Show but just 30 minutes before the Fado start time, locals kept coming in and some were standing.

I ate prawns, and grilled octopus here. The food was decent and not expensive. The cocktails were for EUR 5, so we were pretty satisfied with everything here.

Apart from Santo André, a few more restaurants in Alfama / Graça with Fado performances are:

• Clube de Fado,
• Taverna D’El Rey (very expensive),
• Duetos da Sé,

When in doubt walk on Rua de São Pedro and you are sure to find live Fado show in one of the many restaurants here.

Miradouro do Recolhimento from Chrildren’s Park near the Castle

I have seen many guides for Lisbon but almost no one talks about this place which is the best viewpoint of Lisbon and is free!

There’s a children play ground overlooking Alfama city and Tagus River. It is higher up than Portas do Sol much more open and viewing possibilities all around. This is right after São Jorge Castle and you will find it easily if you just walk around in this area.

There is a lovely play area here and the time I visited, lemon trees were fruiting. All around the park were lavender bushes.

There are benches near the play area where you can sit and admire the view. There is a hexagonal wooden frame too that is perhaps made just for Instagrammers because it makes a lovely photo frame.

The playground has closing hours too and one can find them on Google Maps too.

Monastery of São Vicente de Fora

No matter which viewpoint you go to in Alfama, one building that stands out as you look at the view is the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, which actually means “Monastery of St. Vincent outside the walls” translated from Portuguese to English. This neighborhood is actually São Vicente but some segregations classify it as Alfama.

The monastery building is definitely stunning from the outside and also is one of the buildings that I say you should see the insides of.

If you are a fan of Azulos, you will love the museum inside this 17th-century monastery because you can see blue and white tile work that’s something that Portugal is famous for. Not only the tile work but the monastery also offers the other main thing that Lisbon is famous for – the views from the top.

Unlike some other attractions and historical buildings of Lisbon, the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora isn’t crowded. So if you weren’t able to visit Castelo de São Jorge, then you should consider including São Vicente de Fora Monastery in your itinerary.

The entry fee for the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora is EUR 5 in 2023 & 2024. You can visit the São Vicente Church without the entry fee but with the EUR 5 fee, you can visit the high altar and main areas of the Church. The royal pantheon of the Braganza monarchs of Portugal is situated in the São Vicente monastery.

Santo Estêvão Belvedere

I promise this is the last viewpoint on this list. Miradouro de Santo Estêvão is one of the quieter viewpoints as compared to Portas do Sol. You are a little closer to Rio Tejo (the Tagus River) as compared to the other viewpoints so it is a bit different.

Santo Estêvão Belvedere doesn’t have benches for you to sit on but the lack of crowds makes up for it. Sometimes a few street musicians play here, so you can experience something special if you are in luck.

This viewpoint is actually in front of a church – Igreja de Santo Estêvão where you can see some lovely tile work.

You have to take a staircase to reach Miradouro de Santo Estêvão with cute houses on each side. It is close to the Fado Museum, so you can do these two spots together in a day.

Walk on Rua dos Remédios

There are many pretty streets in Alfama’s maze of cobbled streets but there’s one that deserves a specific mention. Rua dos Remédios is a narrow street with steps in some places and is one of the oldest streets in Alfama.

It doesn’t have tram lines, and you can see the Tagus River at one end when you climb up on it. It is mostly a pedestrian street that’s lined with amazing restaurants and shops on each side.

There are arches on top at some spots. You can actually discover something new each time you walk on this narrow street and sometimes end up by mistake in someone’s courtyard.

Some other interesting streets to walk on are Escolas Gerais, Rua do Loureiro, Largo de São Estevão, and Beco da Bicha.

Night Walks & Streetfood in Alfama

Wondering how’s the nightlife in Alfama? To be honest, for nightlife, you should go to Bairro Alto or Pink Street. Stay in Alfama if you want to discover the beauty of this old district in the quiet of nighttime.

If you’d like to experience street food, then many sides of the streets come alive in Alfama as you walk from Portas do Sol to Graca direction.

These street-based restaurants open up at nighttime and get filled up by the locals. The early hours of the night in Alfama are buzzing because these streetfood restaurants play loud traditional music. But then suddenly everything quietens up before midnight when they close for the day.

Some of the best walks I had and photos that I clicked in Alfama were right after the sunset with the warm glow of the lamps.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is not technically in Alfama but is in the nearby district of São Vicente, it is close to Miradouro da Graça.

Because Miradouro da Senhora do Monte isn’t in the main historical Alfama, it doesn’t get as crowded as Portas do Sol or Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Also, it is higher and requires way more effort to reach here than the other viewpoints, that’s why not many people visit.

This is the largest lookout in Lisbon and you will get a wide view of the city. You will see the 25 de Abril Bridge over the Tagus River, Christo Rei, and Praça Martim Moniz much better from here than other lookouts. That’s why it is a good place to click loads of photos. There’s plenty of space to move around.

This is one of the few viewpoints where you can actually see the sunset and not just the sunrise. From Portas do Sol, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, or even Miradouro da Graça – you can’t actually see the sunset because of the direction. This one is open from all sides so is a good place to catch the sunset.

Tip: don’t include all the viewpoints in your visit because you will need to climb a lot and will hate me for suggesting them. In general, a lot of viewpoints are similar so just pick a few – ideally one for sunset and another general one.

Moreover, you don’t have to climb every single place yourself. Some visits require a tuk tuk so that you can just chill and enjoy the view without having to climb.

Feira da Ladra / Mercado de Santa Clara

Aren’t flea markets super fun? They give you an idea about the culture and you get to meet amazing people and possibly eat yummy street food. If you agree then you will love this one.

Mercado de Santa Clara has roots dating back to the 19th century and is a very old flea market in Lisbon. It was earlier situated near the Castelo de São Jorge but moved to its current location around Jardim Botto Machado in 1903.

It is also commonly called “ feira da ladra ” because a lot of stolen goods are sold here. It is held twice a week in Campo de Santa Clara in Alfama.

You can find antiques, handmade things, rugs, electronics, paintings, books, random house items, and even azulejos. Be ready to haggle a bit if you like something.

Feira da Ladra is open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 09:00 to 18:00. In order to reach it, you have to walk uphill from the Santa Apolonia metro station.

The National Pantheon, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Santa Engracia Church are all nearby, so you can combine this trip with other places too.

National Pantheon

Panteão Nacional or the National Pantheon is an impressive 17th-century building that was once of the Church of Saint Engracia. If you visit the Feira da Ladra, then this is just a short walk away and you will see the building from far away.

Here’s something funny, the construction of the building that has the Panteão Nacional began in the 16th century and ended in the 20th Century. So it took 400 years! Because of this, a famous Portuguese proverb emerged “Obras de Santa Engracia”, meaning work never finishes. I like that!

Whether you like the above story or not, the building should be visited since it is an iconic sight in Lisbon. It houses the tombs of some of the most famous people in Portugal – the heroes of the country.

If you decide to go inside the National Pantheon building, you can climb up to a higher level for panoramic views – a specialty of Lisbon if you haven’t already noticed.

Moreover, this isn’t one of the highly visited spots in Alfama so you can have some areas and viewpoints to yourself.

Where to stay in Alfama

I have said it already in my 2-day Lisbon itinerary post that you should definitely find a place to stay in Alfama for your trip. I did that also when I visited Lisbon in 2023 and I was on a street that had the tram lines, so the historical tram 28 went by my door every day.

Also, broaden your search to the nearby Graça district. Below are a few options that I recommend:

• Olissippo Castelo – Click here to book ,
• WHome – CSA18 Premium Design Apartment – Click here to book ,
• Costa do Castelo Terrace – Click here to book , 
• Lisbon Gambori – Click Here to Book.

Final Thoughts about things to do in Alfama

This post for Alfama definitely has a lot of suggested things to do but I recommend you match your pace to the vibe of Alfama – slow. So relax, take things slow, and don’t try to climb every single viewpoint or waste time standing in long lines to enter every single historical building.

PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

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Last Updated on April 3, 2024 by Drifter Planet

The Alfama district in Lisbon

• Victor | Essencial Portugal

Book your holidays in 3 clicks all over Portugal using the button below. I have created for you a page that gathers the best rated and most recommended English speaking tours and activities throughout Portugal as well as the luxury hotels or villas classified by the most sought after and appreciated criteria.

The Alfama is a historic and picturesque district of Lisbon, located on the hill overlooking the city. It is known for its narrow, winding streets, colourful granite houses, azulejos (decorative tiles) and wrought iron balconies. It is the oldest district in Lisbon, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. It was largely spared by the 1755 earthquake, making it a great place to see the city’s traditional architecture.

The Alfama is also famous for its lively nightlife and traditional fado music. There are many bars and fado clubs in the area, offering lively nights with talented fado singers. The panoramic views of the city from the various miradouros are also one of the highlights of the Alfama. Finally, the Alfama is a great place to discover the local gastronomy. The Ribeira market offers a variety of fresh produce, while local restaurants serve traditional dishes such as grilled sardines and bacalhau à brás (cod).

Guided tour of the Alfama and Lisbon

If you want to discover Lisbon and the Alfama in a fun and relaxed way, the English speaking guided tours are for you! You will be able to wander through the narrow streets of the Alfama and discover the hidden corners of the city while learning fun facts about Lisbon’s history and culture.

How to get to the Alfama district?

There are several ways to get to the Alfama district in Lisbon. One of the most common ways is to take the metro. The red line (linha vermelha) and the blue line (linha azul) have stops near Alfama, such as

• Martim Moniz stop: It is located at the northern edge of Alfama, it is connected to the red line.
• Santa Apolónia stop: It is located in the eastern part of the Alfama, it is connected to the blue line.

You can also take a tram, Tramway 28 is a very popular way to get to the Alfama district, it passes by many breathtaking views. It is also possible to get to the Alfama by bus, lines 714, 727, and 732 have stops in the area. If you prefer to walk, you can also explore the narrow streets of Alfama on foot. It is important to note that the area is very steep, so be prepared to climb some hills.

Visits and activities in the Alfama district ?

The Alfama is a historic and picturesque district of Lisbon, rich in monuments to visit. Here are some of the most important monuments not to be missed during your visit to this district.

São Jorges Castle

São Jorge Castle is a must-see when visiting Lisbon. It is located in the charming Alfama district, which is one of the oldest in the city. This medieval castle was built in the 11th century by the Moors and was then used by the Christians as a fortress for the following centuries. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Tagus River. When you visit the São Jorge Castle, you can see the ruins of the fortifications and buildings that have been preserved over the centuries.

You can also visit the castle’s gardens and admire the many species of plants that grow there. There is also a museum in the castle that traces the history of Lisbon. São Jorge Castle is a great place to immerse yourself in the history of Lisbon. It is open every day, and it is advisable to book your place online to avoid queues. It is possible to climb to the top of the ramparts and enjoy a 360 degree view of the city. It’s a great place for an afternoon of exploration and cultural discovery.

The cathedral of Sé

The Sé Cathedral is an architectural jewel located in the historic heart of Lisbon. This Gothic cathedral was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest in the city. It is located in the Alfama district, a picturesque and charming part of Lisbon. The Sé Cathedral is a testimony to the history of Lisbon and its importance over the centuries. It was built on the site of a former mosque, a testimony to the Muslim presence in the area.

The cathedral has been damaged several times by earthquakes and fires, but has always been restored to maintain its architectural charm. It has a unique gothic architecture with pointed arches, stained glass windows and colourful azulejos. Sé Cathedral is an active place of worship and is open to visitors every day. It is also a venue for concerts and cultural events. It is possible to climb to the top of the tower to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. Sé Cathedral is a must-see for lovers of architecture and history.

The Museum of Santo Antonio

The Museu de Santo Antonio is a museum dedicated to the figure of the patron saint of Lisbon, Saint Anthony. It is also located in the Alfama district, in the house where he was born. This museum is a place of worship and memory that traces the life of Saint Anthony and his impact on the city of Lisbon. The Museu de Santo Antonio is a cultural and spiritual place where you can discover the history of this saint. There is a room dedicated to his life and biography, as well as a room that traces the different celebrations of the feast of Saint Anthony, which is one of the most important events in the city.

The museum is also rich in religious objects related to the saint, such as relics, images and statues. The Museu de Santo Antonio is a unique place to discover the history and culture of Lisbon. It is open every day except Monday. It is accessible to everyone and is particularly interesting for lovers of religious history and cultural heritage. It is an active place of worship, so it is recommended to respect the appropriate rules of conduct. It is an ideal place for a family visit.

The Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre of Lisbon is an archaeological site located in the Alfama district was discovered in 1869 and is one of the few examples of Roman architecture in the city. It was used for shows and gladiatorial fights. It is a testimony to the Roman presence in the area over 2000 years ago. The Roman Amphitheatre is a place of historical and cultural discovery. It is possible to visit the ruins of the amphitheatre and discover the different sections of this building such as the stands, the preparation rooms for the gladiators and the underground passages.

There is also an exhibition room that tells the story of the amphitheatre and life in Lisbon in Roman times. The Roman Amphitheatre is a unique place to discover the history and culture of Lisbon. It is open every day except Monday. It is accessible to all, but it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes to explore the ruins. It is a place of discovery for archaeology and history lovers, but also for all visitors curious to discover the traces of the Roman presence in the city of Lisbon.

The Fado Museum

The Fado Museum is a must for all lovers of this traditional Portuguese music. It is located in the Alfama district and is dedicated to the history and culture of Fado, a music that is intimately linked to the soul of Lisbon.

The Fado Museum is a place of cultural discovery where you can learn about the history of this music through the centuries. There are interactive exhibits where you can discover the different styles of Fado, the instruments used, the lyrics and the most famous composers. You can also listen to Fado recordings and watch video projections of the most outstanding Fado performances.

The Fado Museum is a place of discovery for all music and culture lovers. It is open every day except Monday. It is accessible to all and it is recommended to book your place online to avoid queues. It is an ideal place to discover the soul of Lisbon through its traditional music, and to soak up the atmosphere of the city by listening to Fado songs.

Lisbon’s Tramway 28 is a must for all visitors to the city. It is known as one of the best ways to discover the historical areas of the city, especially the Alfama district. This historic tramway is a means of public transport in Lisbon that has been running for over 100 years.

Tramway 28 is a unique way to discover Lisbon. It crosses the narrow streets and steep slopes of the city, passing by historical monuments and picturesque neighbourhoods. It is considered a tourist attraction in its own right as it offers a breathtaking view of the city. It is particularly popular for its views of Lisbon’s azulejos, cobbled streets, churches and miradouros.

Tramway 28 is a convenient and fun way to discover Lisbon. It is easily accessible and runs every day. It is highly recommended to book your seat in advance to avoid queues.

The Panteão Nacional

The Panteão Nacional is an emblematic building of Lisbon, located in the Alfama district. It was built in the 18th century as a place of worship, and has become a place of national memory for the personalities who have marked the history of Portugal.

The Panteão Nacional is a unique architectural building, with a combination of baroque and rococo styles. It is decorated with frescoes, statues and azulejos that bear witness to the art and culture of Portugal. It is a place of remembrance for the personalities who have marked the history of Portugal, such as kings, poets and statesmen, all of whom are buried in the Panteão. It is open every day except Monday.

It is accessible to everyone and it is recommended to book your place online to avoid queues. It is an ideal place to discover the history and culture of Portugal, to admire its architecture and to pay tribute to the personalities who have marked the country’s history.

The architecture of the Alfama

The architecture of the Alfama is marked by its historical and traditional character. As one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods, it was largely spared from the 1755 earthquake that destroyed much of the city. This makes it a privileged place to discover the city’s traditional architecture. Granite houses are a characteristic feature of Alfama’s architecture. They can be seen in the narrow, winding streets of the district, often painted in bright colours to add life to the setting.

Azulejos (decorative tiles) are also a common feature of Alfama architecture, and can be seen on the facades of houses and public buildings. Wrought iron balconies are another typical architectural feature of the Alfama. They are often adorned with decorative motifs and are an ideal place to enjoy the panoramic views of the city. There are also churches and monasteries in the Alfama, such as Lisbon’s Sé Cathedral which is a Gothic building dating from the 13th century.

Finally, the Alfama is the ideal place to enjoy a panoramic view of Lisbon. The Castelo de São Jorge, a castle built in the 11th century, located at the top of the Alfama hill, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the whole of Lisbon.

The Alfama district and Fado

Fado is a traditional Portuguese music that is intimately linked to the soul of Lisbon, and particularly to the Alfama district. This neighbourhood is considered to be one of the cradles of Fado, as it is where this music was born in the 19th century. Fado is a mixture of melancholy, nostalgia and feelings of everyday life, which reflects the soul of the city and its inhabitants.

The Alfama is a historic district of Lisbon, which has preserved its medieval architecture and narrow, steep streets. It is a neighbourhood where the inhabitants have always been very attached to their traditions and culture. The inhabitants of Alfama have always been fans of Fado and have contributed to its spread by singing it in taverns and bars. Fado has become a symbol of the soul of Alfama and Lisbon.

Fado is today a cultural symbol of Lisbon and has become a UNESCO cultural heritage. The Alfama district is the ideal place to discover Fado, as it is here that you can attend live performances in traditional taverns and bars. There are also museums dedicated to Fado in the area such as the Fado Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of this music. Here is a list of 4 bars or restaurants where tourists can listen to Fado in the Alfama district:

• Adega Machado – This historic bar is one of the oldest in Lisbon and is known for its live Fado evenings, with local artists and experienced musicians. It is also famous for its authentic atmosphere and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
• Tasca do Chico – This bar is a must for listening to Fado in the Alfama district. It is known for its warm atmosphere and traditional cuisine, accompanied by local drinks and live music.
• Clube de Fado – This club is dedicated to Fado music, offering live Fado evenings with local artists and experienced musicians. It is also possible to dine in and enjoy a traditional meal with Fado music.
• Casa de Linhares – This restaurant is located in a historic house in the Alfama and offers a charming atmosphere and traditional Portuguese cuisine with live Fado music.

The miradouros of the Alfama

A miradouro is a panoramic viewpoint in Lisbon. It is usually a terrace or platform on high ground from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Miradouros are often located on hills or rooftops and offer an unobstructed view of the city’s monuments, streets and rooftops.

They are often decorated with gardens, statues and benches to allow visitors to relax and enjoy the view. Miradouros are a popular place for tourists and locals alike and are often used for cultural events and parties in the summer.

Miradouro of Santa Luzia

This miradouro is one of the most famous in the Alfama, offering a breathtaking view of the city, the Tagus and the Castelo de São Jorge. It is decorated with Moorish-style gardens, mosaics and statues. It is a place for locals and visitors to relax, have a drink and enjoy the view and listen to live music. It is particularly popular for its peaceful atmosphere and sunset views.

Miradouro da Graça

Located at the top of Graça hill, this miradouro offers a breathtaking view of the whole city of Lisbon. It is a meeting place for locals and visitors alike, with café terraces and bars to enjoy the view. It is known for its panoramic view of the whole city, the Tagus and the Castelo de São Jorge. It is also a place to relax and listen to live music, particularly popular for its Fado nights.

Miradouro Portas do Sol

The Miradouro Portas do Sol is one of the most famous miradouros in the Alfama, offering a breathtaking view of the city, the Tagus River and the rooftops of the old town. It is located in the narrow streets of the Alfama, is accessible by steps and is renowned for being one of the most peaceful miradouros in the city. It is particularly popular for its panoramic view of the whole city, the Tagus and the Castelo de São Jorge. It is also a relaxing place to listen to live music, particularly popular for its Fado nights. It is a favourite place for lovers of Lisbon city views, for amateur or professional photographers, or for those who want to enjoy a quiet moment in a peaceful place.

Where to eat in the Alfama district

The gastronomy of the Alfama is a must-see culinary experience for visitors to Lisbon. The area is famous for its traditional taverns and restaurants that serve authentic local cuisine, rich in flavours and fresh ingredients. Traditional dishes from the area are often based on fresh fish and seafood, accompanied by rice and vegetables. Typical restaurants in the Alfama offer traditional Portuguese cuisine using fresh local produce and the typical flavours of the region.

You can enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes such as grilled sardines, bacalhau à brás, or fish ceviche. You can also try traditional meat dishes such as roast suckling pig with rice and vegetables, or the famous petiscos (Portuguese tapas) such as cod croquettes, tripe à moda do Porto, and pasteis de bacalhau. Restaurants also offer vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Here is a list of 5 typical restaurants in Alfama:

• Restaurante Solar dos Presuntos
• Tasca da Esquina
• Casa de Linhares
• Adega Machado

Alfama: best hotels

The Alfama district is the oldest district in Lisbon and also one of the liveliest in the city, with many bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. It is therefore a favourite place for tourists looking to stay in a lively and historic area. It offers a variety of accommodation ranging from high-end hotels to bed and breakfasts to holiday flats for rent.

Here is a list of 5 of the best known hotels in the Alfama district:

• Hotel Santa Luzia
• The Independente Hostel & Suites
• Casa do Conto
• Hotel Casa de São Mamede
• Casa das Janelas com Vista de Lisboa

All of these hotels are located in the Alfama district, offering comfortable rooms and great views of the city, ideal for travellers looking for accommodation that is central and close to Lisbon’s main tourist attractions.

The craft shops of the Alfama

The Alfama district of Lisbon is known for its artisanal shops offering unique and traditional products. These shops offer a wide range of handmade products, such as pottery, mosaics, textiles, jewellery, wooden objects, leather goods and wicker baskets. These shops also offer local products such as azulejos (ceramic tiles), ceramics, fabrics, lace, and silver crafts.

The craft shops in the Alfama are a favourite place for art and culture lovers, for those looking for original souvenirs, or for those looking for unique gifts for their loved ones. Local artisans offer their skills, creativity, passion and history. The craft shops also offer the opportunity to acquire unique objects, often handmade, that reflect the culture and traditions of the region.

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10 beautiful sights not to miss in Alfama Lisbon (plus tips from a local!)

Alfama is the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon, and between the colourful houses and tiny alleys, there are many sights to discover. It is the perfect location to get lost and enjoy its unique atmosphere. Alfama is not to be missed when you visit the Portuguese capital! The Alfama district is my local area, so I will gladly share some insider information with you when you travel!

Thanks for sharing!

An Overview of Alfama Lisbon

• What to see?  Alfama is a charming neighborhood, also known as Lisbon old town. It is the oldest Portuguese capital neighbourhood and a must-see day trip when visiting the city!
• Costs?  Discovering the streets is entirely free. Monuments and guided tours require tickets.
• Where?  In Lisbon, in the neighbourhood of Alfama.
• Worth it?  The picturesque streets are unique, and the many sights in this area make it a top tourist attraction in the capital!

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A short history of the Alfama district

Alfama lies between the Tagus River and the steep slopes that lead toward São Jorge Castle. It houses many traditional places and the famous tram 28 rides through the narrow streets. The name comes from ‘al-ḥamma ‘, the Arabic word for hot fountains or hot baths. Within the district, you’ll discover the streets of the parishes (freguesias) São Vicente de Fora, São Miguel and São Miguel.

During the 1755 earthquake, Alfama wasn’t severely damaged thanks to the dense bedrock foundations, and the district remained a labyrinth of tiny streets. So leave your map at home and discover this fabulous district’s squares and alleys. On top of that, Alfama boasts a ton of sights that are unique in the neighbourhood . Let’s dive in and discover the epic places in Alfama. Remember to bring your camera! This Alfama guide also includes some quiet spots with fewer tourists!

Top 10 things to do in Alfama Lisbon

When you smell sardines and hear Fado in the background, you’ve probably arrived in Alfama, the oldest district in Lisboa. With its charming streets, picturesque houses and traditional restaurants, this place is not to be missed when visiting the city. There are plenty of escadinhas (steps), so you’ll get a workout simultaneously! If walking uphill is an issue , use the many tuk-tuk tours in the city!

Map of things to do in Alfama Lisbon

1. Miradouro de Santa Luzia

The Portuguese capital is built on seven hills , and Alfama is built on one of them. But with these hills, you also get stunning viewpoints! Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of them, and the viewpoint is famous for its pergola and azulejo tiles . It has the prettiest viewpoint in the city, and therefore also the busiest!

In May / June , the enormous Bougainvilleas start to blossom , and the scene is complete! Someone might be singing Fado, buskers play the guitar , and the overall atmosphere is just amazing. Walking along the Santa Luzia Church, you’ll spot remnants of the historic Moorish city walls .

Tips:  the viewpoint is  located  on Largo de Santa Luzia. You can reach it by Tram 12, 28 and busline 737 . You can visit the miradouro for free. If you want to avoid big crowds in summer, come early in the day! Santa Luzia Church is open on Saturdays.

2. Miradouro das Portas do Sol

The next Alfama Lisbon highlight is very close! Miradouro das Portas do Sol provides a stunning view over Lisbon old town and the many red roofs! Portas do Sol translates to  Doors of the Sun , and it is mostly sunny in this spot!

At the viewpoint, you will also see the statue of Saint Vicente , Lisbon’s patron saint, until 1981. You can also see the enormous monastery São Vicente de Fora, named after Saint Vincent from the platform.

Location:  Largo do Portas do Sol. You can reach it by Tram 12, 28 and busline 10B. The miradouro is free to visit.

Discover more viewpoints in the city! Here are some tips for easy ways up the steep hills in this city guide!

3. São Jorge castle

Castelo de São Jorge is the highest point in Alfama . It is a steep walk up, but you can reach Sao Jorge Castle by bus line 737 . The famous Lisbon castle offers a great overview of the city! You’ll learn more about the Moorish occupation and Portuguese history in the small museum, and you can walk along the castle walls of Castelo de São Jorge.

Don’t forget to look for the many peacocks that live here! Surrounding Castelo de São Jorge are many more narrow cobbled streets to discover, including the church Santa Cruz do Castelo.

Here are some tips for visiting:  You can reach São Jorge Castle by taking bus 737 or a regular taxi. It is located in a car-free zone for cars with a permit only . For that reason, Uber and Bolt services have to stop a 5-minute walk from the castle. If you walk, take your own pace and enjoy the many beautiful things you’ll see along the way!

Entrance to São Jorge Castle is € 15,00 for adults . There are ticket machines, and you can order tickets online to skip the queue. An excellent time to visit is just before sunset! Open from 9 AM to 6 PM and until 9 PM in summer.

4. Sé Cathedral

Lisbon’s Cathedral , Santa Maria Maior, is the oldest in Lisboa, and Se Cathedral was built in the 12th and 14th centuries. The construction started after D. Afonso Henriques won the conquest of Lisbon after the Moorish period in Portugal. In a couple of years, the  Romanesque structure  was finished. The cloister at the back of the Sé Cathedral is  one of the oldest monuments  in the city.

The Gothic cloister dates back to 1261, and in 1649, secrecy was added. Se Cathedral is sturdy as it  survived many earthquakes , including the one in 1755! Many parts were destroyed but have been rebuilt or remodelled since. Sé de Lisboa is now a national monument, and when exploring Alfama, it’s a hard-to-miss sight!

Visiting Lisbon Cathedral:  Entrance to the oldest church in Lisboa is € 5,00 for adults. Open from Monday to Saturday from 10 AM until 6 PM.

5. Festas dos Santos Populares

Are you visiting Portugal in June? Then, you’re in for a treat! It’s time for Festas dos Santos Populares , the popular saints festival . Santo António is Lisbon’s patron saint, and for nearly the whole month, there will be festivities in Lisbon (and the rest of Portugal for different saints). Saint Anthony was known for his match-making skills, and the so-called Marriages of Alfama occur on June 12th each year at the Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon, the church dedicated to Saint Anthony.

On Avenida da Liberdade, you can witness the  colourful parade  with costumes and dance. On the streets, you’ll see  people selling plants  (manjericos) as a symbol of undying love. The Alfama district becomes an open-air party with pimba music, plenty of beer, sardines and festive decorations . Check out  this Instagram video  for an impression!

Travel tips:  Festas de Lisboa is free, but food and drinks are paid! The main dates are June 12th (the biggest street party) and June 13th. You can also celebrate in the neighbourhoods of Bairro Alto, Mouraria and Bairro Alto. If you would like a good night’s rest, avoid booking a hotel in the heart of Alfama and the other neighbourhoods mentioned above at this time!

Love it or hate it, Tram 28 has become a true icon in Lisbon ! The historic trams have been around for over 100 years and will still take you from A to B in the Lisboa. Tram 28 is part of the public transport system, although it looks like a tourist attraction.

It can be very full, so be careful with your belongings . Also, be cautious with your camera or phone when taking pictures from the tram. Tram 28 connects Martim Moniz with Campo Ourique and makes its way through neighbourhoods like Alfama, Baixa, Estrela and Graça.

You might wait in line at Martim Moniz during the high season for over two hours ! To avoid queues and enjoy a seat, you can ride with the Hills Red Tram Tour instead . Your ticket will be valid for 24 hours, with no crowds. Another way to avoid the crowds is by walking along the tracks . As a bonus, you can stop at all the beautiful things to do in Alfama and take pictures! Do you still want to ride a historic tram in Lisbon but with fewer people ? Try tram 12, 15 or 18!

Costs for Tram 28:  If you purchase a ticket on the tram, you pay the highest fee of € 3,00 per person for one ride. The 24-hour unlimited public transport ticket for € 6.80 will give you a much better value. You can buy these upfront at the metro station and not on the tram! If you have the Lisboa Card , you can ride the tram for free, as all public transport is included!

7. A dinner experience with Fado

Fado, the songs about Lisbon, Saudade (an intense longing, melancholy sadness) and tradition. In Alfama, Fado Houses are everywhere. And when you’re here, visiting a Fado show is highly recommended! After all, it is classified by UNESCO as World Heritage ! And while you enjoy a delicious traditional Portuguese meal, you’ll listen to songs about Lisbon.

You’ll feel the songs, even when you don’t speak Portuguese! In most Fado houses, you’ll have to remain silent when they are singing and playing music. Discover the soul of Portugal in the songs and listen to the charismatic voices of the singers.

Where to watch Fado:  LX Bohemia and A Baiuca are some of my favourites.

8. The Fado Museum

If you want to learn more about Fado , visit the Fado Museum on Largo do Chafariz de Dentro! Inside, you will learn more about the history of Fado music and Portuguese culture, and you will see the guitars from up close. Notice the unique guitar with six pairs of strings and a pear-shaped harmonic box!

The permanent exhibitions also contain more information about the rise of the Fado Houses. They will highlight famous Fado Singers such as Amália Rodrigues. The temporary exhibitions change every few months.

Extra info:  The Fado Museum is  located  on Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 1. Entrance is € 5,00 per person and is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. You need 30-60 minutes to see the exhibitions.

9. Rua de São Tomé

On Rua de São Tomé, you’ll spot a unique artwork on the cobblestones. Lisbon-based artist Vhils created this work, a tribute to the Fado singer Amália Rodrigues . Amália da Piedade Rebordão Rodrigues is known as the Queen of Fado and the Lisbon born singer died in 1999. Vhils created an extraordinary piece in Lisbon’s traditional pavement (Calçada Portuguesa) style. The title of the artwork is Calçada, meaning pavement.

Behind Vhils’ art, you’ll spot a house that looks slightly different from the surroundings. Several buildings in Lisbon survived the earthquake, and many were destroyed. The oldest house is the house on Rua dos Cegos. The house is over 500 years old!

10. Get lost in the maze of tiny streets!

The famous sights in the Alfama area are worth visiting, but nothing beats exploring the maze of tiny streets . Experience Alfama like a local, dive into the charm of Portugal and discover the different architectural styles of the buildings. The best way is to take the many side streets in the Alfama area.

You might get lost, but that is ok! The area between the Fado Museum and Portas do Sol especially has many narrow, cobbled streets . Often without big groups of tourists! You will enjoy a strong sense of what life in Portugal is all about.

Hire a photographer in Alfama!

Did you know I work as a photographer in Lisbon ? And one of my favourite photography grounds is Alfama Lisbon! As a resident, I know many hidden spots and know my way through the cobbled streets! When you visit Alfama, having long-term memories of your time in Lisbon is fantastic. The Alfama neighborhood creates a beautiful background with azulejo tiles, colourful houses and viewpoints.

Besides, the photography experience with me is partially a walking tour , so you can see many stunning places in the area! A photoshoot in Alfama takes 30 to 90 minutes , and prices start at € 100,00. This experience is great for solo travellers, families and couples! Learn more about   photo shoots in Lisbon , or contact me to book! I would be delighted to capture you in this beautiful city!

Would you like to be photographed in Alfama?

Book me as your photographer in the tiny streets of Alfama! As a local, I know all the ins and outs of the best photography locations in Alfama. Click here to read more and to see more examples!

• Have a walk around Igreja de Santo Estêvão. It is often quieter, and the views over the Tagus River are stunning.
• Do you see someone selling Ginjinja? Try one! This cherry liquor is usually served in a chocolate cup, and you can drink it on the go.
• To know more about Portugal’s political history, look at the Aljube Museum. It’s located in a former prison, and you’ll learn more about the fascist regime, Portuguese colonies and censorship.
• Find the  History of Lisbon  Mural by Nuno Saraiva.
• Discover Casa dos Bicos, where you can find the   José Saramago Foundation. Casa dos Bicos is mostly known for its beautiful façade.
• On Rua de São Memede, you can find a Roman Theater that once had space for 4.000 spectators.
• Another Vhils art piece can be found on Tv. Merceeiras. If you like street art, this is definitely worth a look!
• The oldest museum in Lisbon is the Military Museum, which is not often visited. The museum, however, boasts an impressive collection of artillery and swords, and you’ll learn more about the historical battles.
• Discover the former fountain in front of the former palace Chafariz d’El-Rei.
• The Azulejo Museum is close to Alfama and well worth the detour.

Nearby sights that are officially not in Alfama

The lisbon flea market.

Every  Tuesday and Saturday , Campo de Santa Clara, in front of the National Pantheon, changes into the hustle and bustle of market stalls. It is Feira de Ladra ,  the flea market in Alfama . When you’re looking for a bargain or a treasure amongst the “junk”, this is the place to be. The word ladra means a female thief and means  thieves’ market . The original name of the flea market, however, was piolho ladro which means flea or bug.

Tip:  Did you get hungry, and do you like mushrooms?  Santa Clara dos Cogumelos  is a tip-top restaurant with fantastic food and wine! Just like Feira da Ladra, it is located on Campo de Santa Clara.

National Pantheon

In 1682, the National Pantheon (Panteão Nacional.) was built, but then it was known as the Church of Santa Engrácia . It is Portugal’s first baroque monument, and the interior is covered in white marble. The construction of the National Pantheon took so long that the dome was only completed in 1966!

Since 1916, it has been known as the National Pantheon, and inside, you’ll find an octagonal floor plan. Here, you’ll discover tombs of well-known and influential cultural figures . Examples are Fado singer Amália Rodrigues, author Almeida Garrett and general Humberto Delgado. There is also an empty tomb, a cenotaph for famous personalities such as Vasco da Gama, Henry the Navigator , Luís de Camões, and more!

Travel tips:  The National Pantheon is reached by tram 28. As this might be busy, you can take the Blue Metro or a bus to Santa Apolónia. It’s a short but steep walk up to the Panteão Nacional.

São Vicente de Fora

The Monastery  was built between the 16th and 18th centuries , and it is the place where the kings of the House of Bragança are buried. You can find the marble tomb in the ancient cistern, and both Catherine of Bragança and Carlos I (the next-to-last king of Portugal) are buried here.

The Monastery is dedicated to São Vicente, and inside, you’ll find a unique collection of decorative tiles . The highlights are 38 panels which contain the fables of La Fontaine. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop for a stunning view over Alfama ! São Vicente de Fora is next to the National Pantheon and Feira da Ladra.

Miradouro da Graça

Just behind Alfama, on top of another hill, you can find Miradouro da Graça. From this point, you overlook the castle and the western parts of Lisboa . In the background, you’ll spot the bridge Ponte 25 de Abril, Praça do Comércio and the Carmo Convent. During the day, the Convento da Graça is often open. Have a look inside and enjoy the quietness within the monastery walls.

Miradouro da Graça is a popular place during sunset , so it can get very crowded! Hidden spot: walk around the convent and walk to Jardim da Cerca da Graça. This park is a lot quieter and a hangout spot for locals. From there, you can also walk further up to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte , the highest viewpoint in the city.

How to get to Alfama Lisbon

Alfama is easy to reach from wherever you are in Lisbon. You can take the Blue line to the metro stations Santa Apolónia and Terreiro do Paço . Both stations are at sea level, meaning you will walk uphill often. From downtown Lisbon, you can use several elevators and lifts free of charge. This guide includes all the areas where you can take lifts, including Alfama.

Bus 737 travels to the top of the hill in Alfama. From there, walking down and exploring this stunning part of the city is easier! Lastly, you can take a taxi , but some areas in Alfama are car-free. Bolt and Uber services cannot drive to these sections, but a regular taxi can.

Where to eat in Alfama

Alfama is relatively touristy, with plenty of tourist traps to eat in. My rule of thumb is that if someone tries to lure me in, I keep walking. As a local, I often eat in other neighbourhoods in Lisbon, but there are some lovely places to eat in Alfama! For example, Zunzum Gastrobar and ANFÍBIO offer contemporary Portuguese cuisine (reservations are needed in both restaurants). Here are some more favourites!

Favourite Places to eat in Alfama

• Café da Garagem – inside a cinema. Nice views, great for a coffee or lunch.
• Audrey´s – part of a hotel. Great for lunch and dinner.
• A Baiuca and Bohemia Lx St António – great for Fado
• Citron. Fabulous Lebanese food!
• Eating Bear for tapas.
• Chafariz d’El-Rei for a fancy brunch (pre-booking needed)
• Al Sanpietrino Trattoria – vegan
• Agulha no Palheiro
• Ourives Petisqueira

Hotels in Alfama Lisbon

Alfama is one of the best neighbourhoods in Lisbon to stay! In between the narrow streets, you will find plenty of hotels. When travelling with lots of luggage, ensure you can reach your accommodation by taxi. Otherwise, you will be doing a lot of carrying on the hills! Some lovely hotels in Alfama are Alfama Vintage Studio Apartment , the Editory Riverside , Chafariz Del Rei (in a former palace!), and São Vicente Alfama Hotel by TRIUS Hotels . You can find all the hotels and accommodations on the map below!

Alfama Lisbon is the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon. There are many small streets, colourful houses, and famous landmarks. Some highlights include Portas do Sol, the Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle.

Yes! Alfama is Lisbon old town, but Bairro Alto also has a long history. Downtown Lisbon was hugely destroyed during the 1755 earthquake.

Alfama is a beautiful neighborhood and a safe area to stay. There are many small hotels and apartments to rent. It’s also relatively quiet, and many older people live in the Alfama area.

Overall, Alfama is very safe, just like the rest of Lisbon. Be mindful in the busiest places like Tram 28.

Alfama is built on a hill, and some areas are steep. The area is small enough to discover on foot, but there are also tram, bus, and taxi services. You can always start at the highest point at Lisbon Castle and descend the hill.

I hope this local guide of Alfama will help you find all the famous sights and some hidden gems. Whether you want to see churches like Igreja de Santo António and Igreja de São Miguel, or the famous castle and the viewpoints, there are sights for everyone!   What do you think your favourite part of Alfama Lisbon will be? Let me know in the comments! You can easily spend a few days in this district alone, and at minimum, a day trip will be unforgettable!

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Hi! I'm the founder and writer behind Discover Portugal. After travelling the world for over 25 years, I settled in Portugal in 2021. I work as a professional photographer and writer with over 10 years of experience. I write local guides about Lisbon (where I'm based) and the rest of Portugal to inspire you for your Portugal vacation.

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10 comments.

This was a great write up on Alfama. Very informative … I didn’t know about the National Pantheon which is now on my list . And must say… great pics.

I’m sure you will love Alfama! Let me know if you have any questions when you’re in Lisbon!

Alfama looks absolutely stunning, I can’t believe I’d never heard of it before! Thank you for sharing – will definitely be adding it to my list.

That is great to hear Leah, I hope you have a fantastic time when you visit Lisbon!

Portugal is so pretty! I need to visit this country one day

I hope you get to come over someday!

There is some lovely architecture in this city, and I love the art and the azulejo tiles!

Sure thing! I keep being mesmerised by all its beauty!

We fly out from Australia tomorrow to Portugal for 3 weeks. I can’t wait! My husband is a surfer and we are very much looking forward to staying in Lisbon, Ericiera, Porto and Lagos. Thank you for your information and travel tips. I have made lots of notes from your recommendations.

Thank sounds amazing Belinda! Have the best of times and I´m happy the site helped you with your planning!

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The oldest and most traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon, with cobbled lanes and alleys and steep, gruelling inclines, should be discovered little by little, stopping frequently to savour the view, atmosphere and authentic spirit of the oldest side of the capital. Take a deep breath and start to climb the hill that will reveal one of the best views of the city.

• Description

The oldest and most traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon, with cobbled lanes and alleys and steep, gruelling inclines, should be discovered little by little, stopping frequently to savour the view, atmosphere and authentic spirit of the oldest side of the capital. Take a deep breath and start to climb the hill that will reveal one of the best views of the city. There are many ways to get to where old Lisbon is hidden away. Whether you come by boat, metro, bus or even tram, the tangle of streets punctuated by rails below and flower boxes above has to be discovered on foot. How else could you discover Beco do Forno do Sol (answer: in Graça, on the way to Vila Berta) or Cruzes da Sé, to which references exist from 1690? Or even Escadinhas da Saúde or Beco do Quebra-Costas, a street that has existed since 1565? The cobblestones, testimony to the centuries and centuries of history, also await your footsteps. Enter the Sé (cathedral), dating from 1147, where you can still see the Tesouro (treasury) and the Roman ruins which preceded it. Continue up and don’t forget your camera: from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia you can see the pure essence of Alfama and the splendour of the Tagus, which is particularly impressive on sunny days. Once you’ve recovered your breath totally and let the sweet chords of the Portuguese guitar soothe your soul – it is at the heart of Fado, after all – climb up to the Castelo de São Jorge and visit the City Information Centre. Only after absorbing every angle of Lisbon and feeling like a true conqueror of the city can you – and should you – go to Portas do Sol and enjoy the outdoor cafés which give the square its name; or climb up to get an even higher and even more special viewpoint. Even if the sun sets, there are countless restaurants and Fado houses where you can recharge your batteries and let the city cast its spell. Come and be won over.

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A Walk Through Alfama

Visiting Alfama is getting lost in a maze of streets, alleys, lanes, steps, squares and courtyards, going back in time and feeling the authentic soul of Lisbon. It’s stepping into a small village within the city, where everywhere you turn is a postcard view with tile panels, street art, pastel colors, fountains, arches, potted plants, orange trees, clotheslines, and beautiful river vistas. To find (and photograph) the most picturesque corners of the neighborhood, follow these steps:

Take tram 28 to Miradouro da Portas do Sol (1). After taking in the views, head to Rua Norberto de Araújo, a street that starts with a flight of steps (2). Just a few steps down you see an arch on the left, illustrating scenes from Lisbon’s history (3). At the end of the stairs you see the bell towers of two of the neighborhood’s landmark churches ( Igreja de São Miguel and Igreja de Santo Estêvão ) (4), and should continue straight ahead to Rua da Adiça (5). Here you find one of the neighborhood’s many small fountains (6) and one of the most picturesque corners in the city (7). Turn back on Beco das Canas (8), and go down the stairs. Turn left onto Rua da Galé (9), where you see two colorful houses that are just waiting to be photographed (10). Go back on Rua da Galé and down Escadinhas de São Miguel (11), where you will want to snap a photo from every angle (12)(13)(14).

As you reach Igreja de São Miguel, you see the first of many tile panels from the 1700s (15). This one dates from 1770, and illustrates Our Lady of the Rosary and Baby Jesus over St. Dominic and St. Catherine of Siena. Turn left down the stairs around the church, and you reach Largo de São Miguel with its small palm tree (16). Turn left at the church (17) to Calçada de São Miguel, where you have a view of Igreja de Santo Estêvão in the distance, but turn left at Beco da Cardosa (18).

Go up the steps, past an orange tree (19), and when you reach the top (20) you’re at Rua Castelo Picão (21), where you should turn right at Beco das Cruzes (22). Here you find portraits of locals on the façades, created by British photographer Camilla Watson (23), and see the façade of Igreja de Santo Estêvão (24). At the end of the stairs, turn left (25) towards Largo do Peneireiro, where you turn right (26) and go up another flight of steps (27) (28). At the top, turn right on Rua de Guilherme Braga (29), and head towards Igreja de Santo Estêvão. From its terrace (30) is a view over Alfama (31).

Behind the church are more stairs (32), taking you past tiled houses (33) and an 18th-century fountain also covered with tiles (34). Go down Escadinhas/Calçadinha de Santo Estêvão, and you pass by the old public baths, as indicated by a tile panel (35). Turn left at the bottom of the steps to Calçadinha de Santo Estêvão (36), and you reach Rua dos Remédios, one of the streets that mostly escaped the 1755 earthquake. Going past a curious Manueline portal (37), head straight up Rua dos Remédios, and when you reach number 139, go under the arch, up Escadinhas do Arco da Dona Rosa (38). At the top of the steps is the picturesque Beco dos Paus (39), a perfect spot for a break, looking out to the river (40).

Going back down the stairs of Escadinhas do Arco da Dona Rosa, you return to Rua dos Remédios, where you see another historic tile panel on number 145 (41). It’s a panel that survived the earthquake, dating from 1749 and illustrating St. Martial and St. Anthony with the Baby Jesus. Tile panels depicting St. Martial are a common sight on Lisbon’s façades, as it was believed that the saint protected homes from fires. Right across from this panel is the arch of Escadinhas dos Remédios (42), which hides another panel (43), this time from 1757 and illustrating the Holy Family returning from the “Flight into Egypt.”

At the end of Escadinhas dos Remédios (44), turn right (45). Continuing straight ahead, you eventually find Beco dos Ramos on the right, an alley full of potted plants that once gave it the title of Lisbon’s "most flower-filled street" (46). Continuing down Beco da Lapa (47), you see a piece of street art created by local art students (48). Turn right on number 74 (49), and you’re once again on Rua dos Remédios, where you turn left and head towards Capela dos Remédios, with its beautiful Manueline portal (50). You then reach Largo do Chafariz de Dentro (51), where you can visit the Fado Museum . There are several outdoor cafés here for a break, before heading towards the northwest corner of the square (52), down Rua de São Pedro. You pass by several fado restaurants on Rua de São Pedro (53) and eventually arrive at Largo de São Rafael (54), where you step into the old Jewish quarter (55). Here you see two surviving Manueline windows (56) and a small fountain. Going under the arch (57) you turn right, where you find a monumental drinking fountain from the 1800s. Turn right on Travessa de São João da Praça (under the arch next to the fountain) (58), and turn left under a series of arches (59) until you reach the Church of São João da Praça, where you should turn left (60). Go down Rua de São João da Praça and you eventually reach the cathedral , passing by beautiful tile panels (61) and more orange trees (62).

Going around the cathedral, up Rua Augusto Rosa (63), you pass by the Aljube Museum (64) and the Roman Theater Museum, which is a branch of the Lisbon Museum . When you go past number 17 of Rua Augusto Rosa, turn right at Travessa das Merceeiras towards the Memmo Alfama Hotel . It’s on this street that you find one of the city’s most iconic pieces of street art, created by Vhils (65). Go back to Rua Augusto Rosa, and follow the tram tracks up the hill. You’re almost back at your starting point, but first stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia to admire the neighborhood that you’ve just visited (66). From here you can head to the castle , where you have even more views over the city (67), and can then follow the tram tracks again, towards the São Vicente de Fora Monastery and the National Pantheon , and from there to Miradouro da Graça .

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St. George's Castle

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Alfama Neighbourhood Guide: Lisbon’s Most Charming District

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, its most traditional and charming. One of the only districts to be spared from the devastating earthquake of 1755, Alfama is the historic soul of Lisbon and its steep, cobblestoned lanes stand just as they were in medieval times. When the WOW Team visited Lisbon recently, we headed directly to Alfama to explore the heart of Lisbon and to kick off our trip the right way! Here’s our guide on the very best that this charming neighbourhood has to offer.

Things to do:

Castelo de são jorge.

Alfama’s castle can be seen from almost anywhere in Lisbon and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can climb the towers or wander along the ramparts for some of the most breathtaking views across the city, the river and on clear days, the distant Atlantic Ocean.

Get lost in the steep, cobblestoned lanes

Exploring Alfama’s maze of tiny streets, cobblestoned lanes and steep staircases feels as though you’ve stepped back in time. The winding, rabbit warren of alleyways lined with intricately tiled houses with wrought iron balconies, hanging washing and colourful, peeling paint reinforces the feeling that this is a living, breathing district and not one falsely constructed for tourists. Leave your map at the hotel and get wonderfully lost in these streets for a few hours.

Ride the number 28 tram

One of the highlights of any visit to Alfama is to ride the famous number 28 tram. This narrow, yellow tram has become an icon of Lisbon as it winds its way through the tiny, steep streets. You won’t find trams like these anywhere else in the world – they’re still the original models that were commissioned back in the 1930s. The tram route is long, but the Alfama section is the most enjoyable.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

The romantic terrace of the Miradouro de Santa Luzia offers sweeping views over Alfama and the Tagus River. Find a spot and sit for a little while admiring the cascading bougainvillea, the chipped tiles and the stunning vista below.

Bring your wallet so you can browse the traditional shops selling all manner of beautiful prints, tiles and crafts. If you’re in town on a Tuesday or Saturday, be sure to visit the famous Feira da Ladra flea market for an eclectic mix of item and the best place to pick up Portuguese baskets.

Admire the vibrant colours

Alfama is Lisbon’s most colourful neighbourhood and a feast for the eyes. The brightly pained, albeit weathered houses, the pretty flowers bursting from balconies and the impressive tiling that decorates almost every inch of the district will fill your camera’s memory card in no time!

Miradouro de Graça

High up on the hill is the residential Graça district and another of Lisbon’s beautiful viewpoints: Miradouro de Graça. This is a favourite spot amongst locals because of its splendid terrace and panoramic views over Lisbon as well as Castelo de São Jorge. It’s much more peaceful than Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Have a drink at the open air café in the late afternoon.

Churches and cathedrals

Alfama is also home to some spectacular and significant churches and cathedrals. Be sure to stop in at the Romanesque Sé Cathedral with its twin castellated bell towers, the Igreja de Santa Engrácia-Panteão Nacional, one of the most recognisable buildings in the Alfama skyline, and the Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, admired for its spectacular Baroque canopy over the alter.

How to get around

Because Alfama is a maze of steep hills and narrow lanes, transport options are limited. The best way to get around this neighbourhood is on your own two feet of course. A popular walking route is to follow the tram route from Baixa to Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Another favourite route is to exit from the Santa Apolónia metro station and climb the steep streets up to the castle. Be sure to take the number 28 tram at least once as well.

Another unique way to get around Alfama is by tuk tuk! Asia isn’t the only place you can zip around in these three-wheeled auto rickshaws. Tuks tuks are perfect for navigating the narrow, undulating streets and make for an exciting and fun way to experience the city.

What to eat

Lisbon is a foodie’s delight and you can’t come to Portugal’s capital without sampling the following dishes, many of which can be found in Alfama: bacalhau (the Portuguese national dish of salt cod), caldo verde (a green soup made with cabbage, onions, potatoes and chourico sausage), carne de porco Alentejana (Portugal’s version of surf and turf featuring pork and clams), queijo de serra (a creamy sheep’s milk cheese), and of course the famous pasteis de nata (custard tarts), which can be found all over the city!

Where to stay

If you’re looking for a central Alfama hotel with a focus on good design, the Memmo Alfama is the place to stay. Located in the heart of the neighbourhood and only steps away from the Sé Catheral and Castelo de São Jorge, the Memmo Alfama is already considered one of Lisbon’s finest hotels and is also the first boutique hotel in the city’s historic quarter. The wine terrace and rooftop pool offer some of the best views over Alfama. Its contemporary feel, minimalist design and high standards make it a great base for your stay in Alfama.

Have you been to Alfama in Lisbon? What did you love about it?

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The Top 9 Attractions in Lisbon's Alfama Neighborhood

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba 

Lisbon is a beautiful city, full of crumbling old buildings, narrow cobbled streets, and endless opportunities to enjoy a glass of wine and a stunning view. Nowhere is that more true than Alfama, the oldest part of the Portuguese capital.

Most first-time visitors to Lisbon end up there at some point, whether they're staying in the area or just eating, drinking, and exploring this historic part of the city. If you're heading there yourself, these are the top nine things to do in the Alfama neighborhood.

Take in the View From Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Lisbon is a city of viewpoints, and one of the best and easiest to get to is Miradouro das Portas do Sol. With stunning views over red roofs out to the Tagus river, and a convenient kiosk serving beer, wine, and snacks, there's no better place to watch the sun go down and relax after a long day of sightseeing.

If you're looking for the same view amid more upscale surroundings (or if all the tables at the kiosk are full), pop into the Portas do Sol bar and restaurant alongside. Either way, don't forget your camera!

Explore the Castelo Sao Jorge

One of Lisbon's must-visit attractions, you can see the Sao Jorge castle from almost anywhere in the old town. It's a solid climb up through Alfama's winding streets to get there, so pack good walking shoes (or take a taxi instead!).

Once there, you'll have unrivaled 360-degree views, plus the chance to wander the old castle walls, check out the old cannons on display, visit the camera obscura , and more. Plan to spend 1-3 hours inside, and arrive early or late in the day to avoid long ticket lines.

Food and drinks are available inside, and tickets cost €8.50 for adults and children 10 years and over.

Visit the Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon’s cathedral ( Sé ) is the oldest church in the city, with construction starting in the 1100’s on the site of an even older Moorish mosque. Grand and imposing, it offers a cool refuge from the heat of the Portuguese summer, with the highlight being the beautiful stained glass windows.

Entry is free, although as with most churches, donations are always appreciated.

Hitch a Ride on the 28 Tram

Chances are if you've seen a postcard of Lisbon, it'll have a yellow tram on it. While these rattling old methods of public transport get plenty of use from locals, the number 28 in particular has become a tourist attraction in its own right.

Winding from Martim Moniz to Campo do Orique, the #28 tram winds through the Alfama neighborhood for much of its route. It's a good way of getting close to the castle without having to climb the steep streets, as well as getting a great overview of the downtown area.

It gets very busy and crowded in summer, however, and pickpockets can be a concern. Here's how to make the most of the experience .

Learn About Local Sounds at the Fado Museum

Spend any time in Alfama in the evenings, and you'll undoubtedly encounter the soulful sound of the city's famous  fado  music. Whether you're walking past a fancy tourist restaurant or a tiny hole-in-the-wall bar, the centuries-old musical style can be heard almost anywhere in the neighborhood.

If you'd like to know more about it, head to the small, highly-regarded Fado museum ahead of time. Full of information about the history and meaning of the music, the five euro entry fee includes an audioguide that helps put everything in context. Expect to spend up to an hour inside.

Ascent the Santa Engracia National Pantheon

Sitting atop a hill in Alfama, the white dome of the National Pantheon is a dramatic feature of the Lisbon skyline.

The history of the construction process is almost as interesting as the building itself, with work beginning in the 1600’s, and remarkably, not finishing until nearly three hundred years later. It took so long that the phrase obras de Santa Engrácia  ("Saint Engrácia's works") became a synonym for a project that never ends!

After snapping a few photos of the exterior from nearby viewpoints, head inside to climb to the top of the dome, and view the tombs of some of Portugal's most famous people. Entry is free on Sundays, with tickets otherwise costing €3 from Tuesday to Saturday. The Pantheon is closed on Mondays.

Shop at the Thieves Fair

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Despite the name, vendors at Lisbon's most famous flea market insist that nothing on display has been stolen. Whether that's true or not, you'll find an astonishing array of items for sale at the Feira da Ladra , with stalls sprawling over a wide area near the Pantheon and Saint Vincent's church.

One person's trash is another's treasure, as they say, and with the mountain of offerings, you'll almost certainly find something to take home as a souvenir. Get there early for the best pickings, as the most unusual and interesting items are gone by breakfast time.

The fair runs on Tuesdays and Saturdays, from 6 am until sellers have had enough and head home.

Snap a Picture at the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

 TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Can't get enough of the city views (or walking uphill?) Head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, the highest point in the downtown area, and have your camera at the ready. Like all good viewpoints in Lisbon, it's particularly popular at sunset, and that's no surprise: the views are the best in the city. 

Towering old trees offer welcome shade, and nearby cafes and bars are well-stocked with cold drinks to help recover from the steep walk to the top. If you really can't handle the thought of yet another climb, though, tuk-tuk drivers also prowl the bottom of the hill, offering rides for a few euros.

See the National Tile Museum

Beautiful blue and white  azulejo  tiles can be found on buildings throughout Portugal, and the National Tile Museum does a great job of displaying and explaining their five centuries of history.

You'll pay five euros to enter, and can easily spend two hours or more exploring the museum's various collections. There's a free companion app for iOS and Android (and Wi-Fi in the lobby to download it), which provides additional information and acts as an audio guide in Portuguese and English.

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Things to See and Do in Alfama

Alfama is one of Lisbon's oldest neighborhoods. It sits on a hill overlooking the Tagus River and is characterized by mazes of steep, narrow streets.

You'll find beautiful, brightly colored residences, as well as churches, and plenty of terraces and viewpoints from which to see the city centre.

• Plan Your Visit 
• Things to See  
• Free Walking Tours
• Things to Do in Lisbon
• Tourist Concessions

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO ALFAMA

Alfama is one of Lisbon's oldest and most photogenic communities in the city. It is known for its narrow, steep, and winding cobblestone streets.

You'll find multiple scenic viewpoints that give you a bird's eye view of nearby cathedrals, classic red roofs, and the Tagus River. It's a place made for photos. We suggest starting with one of the many free tours of Alfama available to you. Most tours run 2-3 hours.

We suggest planning a total of taking 4 - 6 hours to explore, which leaves time to grab some delicious food as well as go into a few of the churches and rest at a viewpoint.

Everything listed here is part of Day 2 of our 3-day Lisbon itinerary .

Getting Here from Lisbon’s City Centre

If you’re starting in the middle of Lisbon, you won't need to travel far to get to Alfama.

The trip should take between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on where you start.

Take a Tram

We recommend starting your exploration of Alfama at the viewpoint furthest away from the river, Miraduoro da Graça ( map ), which is the first point on our map below.

The ride takes under 20 minutes with the tram from Praça do Comércio to Miraduoro da Graça.

The vintage Tram 28E is also a fun way to get around Alfama if you're looking to go to the Castle or various cathedrals.

TIP : Public transport is included with the Lisboa Card . 

The  hop-on-hop-off bus is a great way to include Alfama in your Lisbon explorations.

Lisbon Sightseeing’s Castle Line includes several of the stops we have listed below such as the Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, and St. Anthony's Church.

Get Lost in the Labyrinthian Streets

The streets of Alfama can be a bit difficult to navigate, but sometimes it’s fun to just walk around and see what you can find. 

You never know what random restaurant or store you’ll find while wandering around these often narrow and interesting roads.

In addition to the various businesses, you may also stumble upon a variety of different architectural styles including classic Portuguese tiling, cobblestone stairways and more.

However, here is a step by step guide from the Portos do Sol viewpoint downhill toward the Baixa . It's a slight detour off the route at the end of our self-guided tour below.

TOP 15 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN ALFAMA

We have a list of the top 15 places to go in the Alfama neighborhood. The first 12 are laid out in a self-guided tour format, with the last 3 spots included as optional detours to take.Here is a map, and below are some instructions to get you started!

• Start : Miraduoro da Graça
• End : Igreja de Santo António de Lisboa

Click on the image for an expanded and interactive map.

TIP : If you prefer being led by an entertaining guide, there are multiple daily pay-what-you-like tours of Alfama that you can book! Check out the list of companies below.

1. Miradouro da Graça

If you want a great vantage point from which to see the city, head up to Miraduoro da Graça. This terrace is a popular spot!

It has a few trees for shade as well as an open-air cafe which is great for giving your feet a rest.

The terrace sits on the hill above one of the city’s oldest Baroque churches and overlooks central Lisbon, the castle, and the river. 

It’s easy to reach by walking or taking Tram 28E ( map ). 

2. Church of São Vicente of Fora

The church sits lower down on the same hill as the Miraduoro.

It was built in 1582 on the same spot as the old battlefield church monuments where Portuguese and European crusaders were buried.

• Hours from Mondays - Saturdays : 9:00 am - 20:00 
• Hours on Sundays : from 9:00 am - 12:30 pm and 15:00 - 17:00  
• Adult - 5 € Senior - 2,50 € Student - 2,50 € Children Free until (age) - 12

3. Campo de Santa Clara

Campo de Santa Clara is a square surrounded by beautiful architecture - including two churches. 

Every Tuesday and Saturday there is a famous pop-up flea market called Feira da Ladra, or “Thief’s Market.”

If you’ve been walking for a while, you can take a breather in the small garden in the middle. 

4. National Pantheon

The National Pantheon is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.

It was inspired by Italian Renaissance design, which can be seen in the colorful marble and flowing shape of the walls.

The central nave has access to multiple tomb rooms where important national figures are honored, such as explorer Vasco de Gama and Fado legend Amelia Rodriguez.

Many writers, artists, former presidents, and military figures are also at rest here.

We also suggest making your way up to the terrace, from which there is yet another breathtaking view of Lisbon.

Here's a short video of how wonderful the interior is.

• Hours : Tuesdays - Sundays from 10:00 am - 18:00 
• Closed : January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, and Christmas Day

TIP : Admission free with the Lisboa Card . 

5. Amália Rodrigues Mural

The mural of Amália Rodrigues is one of the most well-known pieces of street art in Lisbon.

Known as the Queen of Fado, Amália Rodrigues was a Portuguese actress and singer who helped popularise fado all over the world.

It is a mosaic that wraps up onto a wall, blending into the cobbled street immediately below it.

Thanks to the way the mosaic pieces are laid, if you manage to see it in the rain, Amália looks like she is crying.

If you look closely, there are other murals of the singer around Lisbon.

6. Fundação Ricardo do Espírito Santo Silva

This museum of decorative arts showcases the luxurious style of 17th- and 18th-century Portuguese interior design and art. 

The 17th-century palace is full of breathtaking color and design. You’ll find preserved furniture, china and table settings, framed artwork and paintings, and other design staples. 

There are even a few carriages, tapestries, and furniture from other places around the world.

• Hours : Wednesdays - Mondays from 10:00 am 17:00
• Closed : January 1, May 1, and Christmas Day
• Price :   €4 per adult

Note that large backpacks and bags aren't allowed inside. We have a full post on where you can store your luggage while sightseeing here.

TIP : Admission is only €3.20 with the Lisboa Card . 

7. Miraduoro das Portas do Sol

Alfama, situated on a hill and is full of prime lookout points over the city.

Miraduoro das Portas do Sol is one of them that has a beautiful view of red rooftops and the Tagus River.

On a clear day, you'll be able to easily see the hills and mountains on the other side of the water. 

As you stand on the terrace, the São Vicente of Fora Monastery is visible as well. 

8. Miraduoro de Santa Luzia

If you haven’t had enough of impressive city views, Miraduoro de Santa Luzia is another terrace from which you can observe the beautiful architecture of Alfama as it slopes down toward the Tagus River. 

The deck itself is covered with a trellis that supports beautiful vines during the spring and summer. It is also surrounded by decorative tiles and holds a small, calming garden and pond.

From here, you can spot multiple domes and towers of nearby churches.  

9. St. George's Castle

The castle was first established by romans in 200 bc and was fortified, changed hands, or captured by other groups many times over the years, including the moors and crusaders..

It was also destroyed by an earthquake in the mid-1700s. The last major restoration project was completed in 1944. 

This makes it one of the most historically significant buildings in the city!

The Downhill Lisbon Tour is a great option that includes admission to São Jorge Castle, Sé Cathedral, and the Cathedral Bell Tower.

If you're only interested in St. George Castle, we suggest a skip-the-line castle ticket that includes a short guided intro before allowing you to enjoy exploring the rest at your own pace.

• Hours November - February : from 9:00 am - 18:00
• Hours March - October : from 9:00 am - 21:00 
• Price : €10 adult / €5 student / FREE under 12

TIP : Don't forget that the easiest way up to the castle - Tram 28E - is included in the public transportation perks on the Lisboa Card .

10. Igreja de São Miguel

This Catholic church has been a part of the community since Alfama was an established neighborhood, though it was completely rebuilt before the mid-1700s. 

The nave is ornately decorated, which makes the interior a must-see for visitors interested in religious architecture.

While all services are conducted in Portuguese, attending mass will also allow you a chance to hear the choir and enjoy the local community atmosphere.

• Saturday Mass : 17:00
• Thursday Mass : 18:00 (Only between mid-September and mid-June.)

11. Museu de Lisboa - Teatro Romano

Located in a former leather bag factory and a printing press building, the Museum of Lisbon stands over an archeological dig site and houses interesting artifacts and information about an ancient Roman Theatre. 

Stepping into the museum will take you back to when Emperor Augustus ruled over Lisbon, then called Olisipo.

In addition to the excavated ruins, there are also 3D models and videos of what the structure looked like when it was in use.

• Hours : Tuesdays - Sundays from 10:00 am - 18:00
• Tours : Tuesdays and Thursdays at 15:00, English and Spanish
• Price : €3 per adult, free for children anytime and free for everyone on Sundays before 14:00

12. Lisbon Cathedral ( Sé Cathedral)

The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major or the Sé Cathedral , is the oldest church in Lisbon.

It was built in 1147 but renovated and modified after a mix of earthquakes, fire, and the natural passage of time.

The mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture is breathtaking, but the church also holds some impressive artwork.

That includes sculptures resting on tombs, intricate windows, and other embellishments and paintings.

• Hours : Daily from 9:00 am - 19:00
• Mass Times : Sundays at 11:30 am and 19:00, Tuesdays and Saturdays at 18:30

13. Go to the Museum of Resistance and Liberation (Cadeia do Aljube)

Dig deep into the history of Portugal at this museum and former prison to learn about how the country fought against dictatorship and eventually liberated itself.

The Museum of Resistance and Liberation , located near the Se Cathedral, houses both a permanent exhibition and temporary exhibits which frequently change every few months.

Although most adults will require a ticket, admission is quite affordable and there are concessions for both young adults (13-25) and senior citizens (65+). 12 and younger are free.

14. Igreja de Santo António de Lisboa

This mid-1700s Catholic church was built on the spot where historians believe Saint Anthony was born.

Its beautifully bright exterior is complimented by high arched ceilings and a dome that lets in lots of natural light.

Rebuilt several times from its original 15th-century construction, The Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon is now a national monument.

There is also a statue of the saint in the square in front of the church, which was blessed by Pope John Paul II in 1982.

The church's crypt rests on his birthplace, where the home used to sit. You'll also be able to see a canvas with Saint Anthony's most authentic facial depiction. If you're in Lisbon on June 13, you can witness the annual procession that starts at the church and winds through Alfama for Saint Anthony's "patron saint day."

• Hours : Saturdays and Sundays: from 8:00 am - 20:00, Mondays - Fridays from 8:00 am - 19:00
• Mass on Saturdays and Sundays : at 11:00 am, 17:00, 19:00,
• Mass from Mondays - Fridays : at 11:00 am and 17:00

THE REMAINING STOPS ON THIS TOUR ARE LOCATED IN THE LOWER SECTION OF ALFAMA. YOU CAN SKIP THESE IF YOU WANT TO HEAD INTO THE BAIXA 

15. Lisbon Army Museum

The Museu Militar de Lisboa holds the world's largest artillery collection and sits where a 16th-century shipyard once functioned.

You'll find Portugal's military history told through illustrated tiles, paintings, documents, and gear.

Subjects include World War I, Vasco da Gama's discovery of his route to India, and the Peninsular War.

The museum building itself is also a point of interest as a great example of lavish Baroque style.

• Hours : Tuesdays - Sundays from 10:00 am - 17:00
• Price : €3 adult / €1 senior or child

TIP : Receive 20% off of admission prices with the Lisboa Card . 

16. Museum of Fado

Museu do Fado celebrates Portugal's best fado musicians and singers. Fado became popular in Lisbon in the early 1800s, though its roots go back even further.

Now, fado is an emotional, somber genre that can often be heard in Portuguese pubs and restaurants. The subject of the lyrics often revolves around fate, longing, and the sea.

The museum holds instruments - especially guitars used for fado - and artwork that illustrates how this music helped shape Lisbon culture.

There are interactive exhibits, audio guides, and occasionally live performances in the museum or the attached restaurant to help you understand this mournful genre.

If you email the museum ahead of time, you can book a guided visit in Portuguese, Spanish, English, or French.

• Hours : Tuesdays - Sundays from 10:00 - 18:00, Final Admission at 17:30
• Price : €5 adult / €2.50 young adult 13 - 25 / FREE under 12 
• Paid Tours : €3 per 1-hour tour ( Book in Advance )

TIP : Admission is €4 with the Lisboa Card . 

FREE WALKING TOURS OF ALFAMA

Several companies offer tours that focus exclusively on Alfama and neighboring Mouraria, while other companies include Alfama as shorter parts of longer tours. 

These walking tours are popular and affordable, thanks to their pay-what-you-like model.

There is no up-front fee to make a reservation or go on the walk! Instead, you pay what you feel the experience was worth at the end of the tour.

Sights and Topics on Most Tours Include: 

• National Pantheon
• Castle of São Jorge
• Viewpoints (or Miraduoros) including Santa Luzia
• Lisbon's Cultures
• Cathedral of Lisbon
• Rebuilding After Earthquakes
• The Medieval Walls

Take Lisboa

Take Lisboa offers a free walking tour of Alfama & Mouraria, two of Lisbon’s historic districts that have characteristic winding streets and long histories. 

You'll see plenty of street art as well as learn about the Patron Saint of Lisbon.

• Daily at 15:30
• Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays at 10:00 am
• Language: English
• Tour Length: 2.5 Hours
• Book the tour here .

Live History

Live History also offers a walk of some of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. They focus on the area's multiculturalism and rebuilding after the great earthquake.

If you go on a Tuesday or Saturday, you’ll get to end up at the famous flea market. 

On the other days, the Castle will be the endpoint.

• Daily at 10:30 am
• Language: English + Spanish
• Tour Length: 3 Hours

Hi Lisbon’s tour will give you a great overview of the city’s 3,000-year history and the people groups who established the Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods.

The guides also focus on today's culture in these districts, as well as where to find the best food.

• Daily at 11:00 am and 15:30

RELATED POSTS :

• Free Walking Tours of Lisbon
• Guide to Belém
• Guide to Bairro Alto and Chiado
• Guide to Baixa
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours
• Tourist Attraction Concession Pass

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Cultural guide to Alfama: what not to miss

One of the best things that can happen to you in Alfama is to get lost! But today we present you with a map of the places you really must visit.

This neighborhood is synonymous with Lisbon , and one of the oldest you’ll find in the capital city, with a thousand and one places to see and visit. In this list, we’re going to give you a cultural guide to Alfama, to some of the places that, if you don’t already know them, you really have to visit to become the number one fan of Alfama lisbon’s most traditional and picturesque neighborhood.

Come with us on this journey through various churches, viewpoints, centuries-old stories and even a house of Fado very special.

Table Of Contents

Casa dos Bicos

Lisbon cathedral, mural of amália rodrigues, alfama gate, viewpoint and church of santa luzia, portas do sol viewpoint, santo estevão church and viewpoint.

• St. Peter's Tower

Church and Monastery of São Vicente de Fora

• St. Michael's Church

Feira da Ladra

• National Pantheon - Church of Santa Engrácia

Fado Museum

Tile museum, cultural map of alfama, and the list for your mobile.

Few people know that inside the Casa dos Bicos there is a totally free museum,  but, in fact, this historic building in Lisbon is home to more than just the José Saramago Foundation (which has a €3 entrance fee).

On the first floor is the Casa dos Bicos Archaeological Center, part of the Lisbon Museum network, which tells the story of the city from the Roman occupation to the 18th century .

There,  you’ll find Roman remains (such as cetaria), sections of the late Roman wall and the medieval wall,  as well as objects collected during the various archaeological campaigns that have passed through the site, such as pipes and vases.

A Lisbon Cathedral,  or Church of Santa Maria Maior, is the seat of the Patriarchate of Lisbon and the Sé Parish.

Its construction began in the second half of the 12th century, after the city was conquered from the Moors by King Afonso Henriques, and today it is a mixture of architectural styles and has been classified as a National Monument since 1910 .

The typical and traditional Alfama is also home to one of street artist Vhils’ best-known works: the mural depicting fado singer Amália Rodrigues .

The work, located in Rua de São Tomé and entitled “Calçada”, is entirely made in portuguese sidewalk.

A Alfama Gate has centuries of history, since the Moors were here.

It is located on Rua de São João da Praça and has existed since the 11th century. At the time it was called Bāb al-Hamma by the Arabs,  or Porta das Termas, because there was a spa there.

Even though it is visited by thousands of tourists every day,  this viewpoint manages to be one of the most romantic spots in the neighborhood , not only because of the beautiful views, but also because of its flowered pergola.

Next door is the Church of Santa Luzia, built in the 18th century , where the tile panels (on the outside) depicting the conquest of Lisbon from the Moors in Praça do Comércio before the 1755 earthquake stand out.

It’s one of the most popular viewpoints in Lisbon and it’s easy to see why: it’s Alfama’s authentic balcony , with incredible views of the neighborhood’s houses, but also of the National Pantheon, for the Tagus and for south bank.

Unlike the two previous viewpoints, this one still manages to escape (as far as possible) the tourist invasion .

It’s a hidden, quiet corner in the middle of the neighborhood, overlooking the red roofs and the Tagus, in the shadow of the Church of Santo Estevão.

It was built in 1733 and is a fine example of the Portuguese Baroque of the time .

St. Peter’s Tower

Not far from Porta de Alfama, a three-minute walk along Rua de São Miguel, is another interesting spot in this neighborhood: the St. Peter’s Tower, the perfect place to rest while you wander the narrow streets and alleys of Alfama .

Between Alfama and Campo de Santa Clara, the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, full of secrets, is one of the grandest and most imposing religious monuments in Lisbon.

It began to be built in 1582 and was completed in 1629 , featuring a Mannerist style with Gothic and Baroque details.

Inside, it’s worth admiring the tiles depicting La Fontaine’s Fables and the church’s high altar,  while at the top of the building is one of the most incredible (and unknown ) viewpoints of the city.

St. Michael’s Church

Right in the heart of the neighborhood, between alleys,  there is this church with origins in the 12th century, but rebuilt in 1673 .

In Mannerist and Baroque style, it is richly decorated with gilded woodwork .

A Feira da Ladra is one of the oldest flea markets in the country and is therefore considered one of the most important and well-known in Lisbon.

Created in the 13th century, this market has been in various locations,  but it was only in 1903 that it began to “inhabit” Campo de Santa Clara .

Here you can find everything you can imagine,  from decorative objects to books, clothes, furniture and even the most unusual goods  – there are prescription glasses and even dentures!

National Pantheon – Church of Santa Engrácia

O National Pantheon it’s not exactly in Alfama, , but it’s so close that it’s an obligatory part of any cultural guide to Alfama and the surrounding area , fundamentally because it serves as the final “address” for some of the country’s greatest figures , such as former Presidents of the Republic and writers.

Founded in 1568, it wasn’t completed until the middle of the 20th century , due to various reasons (such as the death of the architect or the 1755 earthquake) which gave rise to the famous expression “works of Santa Engrácia” .

Among the many fado houses which Alfama is home to, we highlight this one because it is linked to traditional and genuine fado vadio, making it a must-have in this cultural guide to Alfama.

Right in the heart of the neighborhood, it has an unparalleled ambience and atmosphere, with guitars and fados à la carte, always with a glass of wine on the table .  

Tasca do Chico and Mesa de Frades are other houses in the neighborhood that live and breathe fado.

O Fado Museum was inaugurated on September 25, 1998 and is a great tribute to the whole universe of fado and the guitar, making it an essential part of this cultural guide to Alfama.

This museum is a real tribute to the musical genre that has already  graced many concert halls all over the world .

Nowhere else in the country are there so many panels, murals and even building façades (almost) completely covered with these little works of art.

O Tile Museum is currently housed in the former Madre Deus Convent, founded in 1509 by Queen Leonor, and presents the entire history of tiles in Portugal from the second half of the 15th century to the present day .

Bairros de Lisboa: Alfama, o mais tradicional e pitoresco da capital

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Lisbon/Alfama

• 5.2 Mid-range
• 5.3 Splurge

Alfama is a district in Lisbon , Portugal .

The most popular and most fun way to travel into and through Alfama is on the   12E   and   28E   trams.

All these are around the Castelo de S. Jorge:

• 38.711364 -9.134798 1 Restaurante Santa Rita , Rua de São Mamede 24c , ☏ +351 21 808 4412 , [email protected] . Authentic, cheap Portuguese dishes in a very busy, shared-table restaurant. Mains €5-9 (May 2017) . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.710594 -9.134412 2 Velha Gaiteira , R. Pedras Negras 17 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.713822 -9.135708 3 O Trigueirinho , Largo dos Trigueiros 17 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.715999 -9.134079 4 Café Parreirinha , R. da Guia 4B . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.711485 -9.135691 5 As Bifanas do Afonso , Portugal, R. da Madalena 146 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.714637 -9.135904 6 Taste of Pakistan , R. de São Pedro Mártir 46 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.7116 -9.134 7 Chapitô à Mesa , Costa do Castelo 7 , ☏ +351 21 887 5077 , [email protected] . M–F 12:00–00:00, Sa Su 19:30–24:00 . Great views are the main feature if you reserve terrace seat in advance. Good atmosphere; international-menu food is tasty but nothing special. €15-35 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.71178 -9.13063 8 Farol de Santa Luzia , Largo de Santa Luzia, 5 ( near 28/12 tram stops ), ☏ +351 21 886 3884 , fax : +351 218 885 356 , [email protected] . M-Sa 17:30-23:00 . Great place to have typical Portuguese food before climbing to Castelo S. Jorge. ~ €20/person .  
• 38.7109 -9.1293 9 Malmequer Bemmequer , Rua de São Miguel 23-25 , ☏ +351 21 887 6535 . Tu 19:00–21:00, W–Su 12:00–15:00 & 19:00–21:00 . Friendly and inexpensive; long menu of traditional Portuguese dishes. Mid-range . ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.70947 -9.13301 10 Mestiço , Arco das Portas do Mar, 9 ( near Casa dos Bicos ), ☏ +351 963660756 . What used to be a Nepalese curry house is now a very friendly African eatery with authentic food. In the evening musicians play for an even more atmospheric setting. €8-12 .  
• 38.712266 -9.135154 12 Zambeze , Calçada Marquês de Tancos ( Alfama ), ☏ +351 21 887 7056 , [email protected] . A Mozambique restaurant on a "miradouro", viewing spot, offering a great view of the river, the Baixa area, and beyond. An elevator can bring you up and down the deep slopes, making it easily reachable from the nearby Baixa area. ( updated May 2022 )
• 38.71495 -9.12058 1 Lux Fragil , Av. Infante D. Henrique, Armazém A , ☏ +351 21 882 08 90 , fax : +351 21 882 08 99 , [email protected] . Th-Su 23:00-06:00 . It's in a former warehouse and part owned by American actor John Malkovich. ( updated May 2017 )
• 38.70946 -9.13184 2 Pois Café , Rua S. João da Praça, 93-95 ( on the side street of cathedral Sé ), ☏ +351 21 886 2497 , [email protected] . Tu-Su 10:30-23:00, M 12:00-23:00 . It's a place to relax, read a book, drink a coffee and plan your way around Lisbon. Also offers toasts, pastas, quiches and salads; features late breakfasts. ( updated May 2017 )
• 38.711939 -9.130035 3 Portas do Sol , Largo das Portas do Sol ( Alfama ), ☏ +351 218 851 299 , [email protected] . A cafe and bar on a "Miradouro", viewing spot, and thus offer a spectacular view over the Alfama rooftops down to the river. ( updated Nov 2017 )

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Tourist map of The Alfama

The best and most beautiful way to get to Alfama and visit all the beauties of this place is by tram number 28. This is also the most beautiful ride in the city of Lisbon and we definitely recommend it to our visitors.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

I went to Lisbon with my Gen Z niece – this is what I learned about multi-generational travel

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When I invited my 19-year-old niece for a weekend away to Lisbon , I have to admit I was a little nervous.

Yes, we regularly spend time together, and growing up she was the apple of my eye – but that didn’t necessarily mean that we’d be able to get through a city break without wanting to kill each other.

Perhaps rather unfairly, I had flashbacks to her getting car sick as a child and waking up teary-eyed in the middle of the night whenever she was away from home. I wondered if she’d be okay going away, if she’d get homesick or struggle with the journey over to Portugal . But she’s not a kid anymore , I had to remind myself – a fact that still hasn’t quite sunken in, even as she nears her 20th year.

In the days leading up to the trip, I FaceTimed her to go through what she was packing. In stark contrast to my minimal, streamlined suitcase – that had plenty of room to spare – hers was overflowing with ‘options’, from floaty dresses and linens to every form of SPF you could imagine. I ended up having to be the stern voice of reason. ‘Bloody hell, Ruby! We’re only going for two nights’, I sighed, sounding more like my mother than I care to admit.

The thing that reminded me most of our thirteen-year age gap, however, was her comment as we went through airport security. Having placed her bag and gadgets in the tray, she wore a forlorn expression on her face as her things were carted off on the conveyor belt. 

On the other side of the scanner I asked her: ‘What’s up?’ She replied, in all seriousness, ‘That’s the longest I’ve ever been without my phone.’ So strong was my eye roll that it was practically audible to those around us.

Once on the plane and settled into our seats, I gave her a brief summary of what to expect – this was her first time flying, after all. Although she made several jokes and seemed to be in good spirits, I could sense her nervousness – which in turn made me feel anxious. 

I don’t particularly mind flying and am much more used to it than her, but suddenly the weight of responsibility pressed down on me. What if something bad happens while she is in my care? What if it puts her off flying for the rest of her life? What if my sister hates me forever for not looking after her daughter?

Just as I had done when she was a little girl, I offered her my hand and hoped to god that it would be a smooth flight. For me and for her. But mostly for her.

Thankfully the flowing booze and boujee business class meal after takeoff was enough to ease both our nerves. So enamoured with the experience was she – after the initial climb above the clouds, that is – that she took a flurry of snaps of the sunset on her phone, using up most of her storage before we had even reached Lisbon. I was suddenly experiencing everything anew, through her lens.

A rather tame Friday night

When we landed in Lisbon some three and a half hours later, we were both ready for bed. So our arrival at the Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel in the Bairro Alto neighbourhood was made all the better when we learned that our room had been upgraded to a suite – complete with sitting area, hers and hers sinks, a king-sized bed with plush pillows and silky cotton sheets, and a TV that appeared at the press of a button.

Hotels.com's Perfect Somewhere award

This expert-chosen selection of hotels includes the Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel in Lisbon.

Chosen from the top 1% of properties on Hotels.com, based on guest reviews and experiences, the collection showcases and celebrates the best options available to travellers. You can find your perfect somewhere here .

Rooms at the Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel start at £254 per night on Hotels.com, and our spa treatments cost £84 each. All in all, we spent about £300 each on eating out, drinks and coffees, and activities while we were there.

When we awoke the next day, refreshed from our sumptuous slumber, we had a bit of a ‘pinch me’ moment – and I definitely scored myself some serious auntie points. It occurred to me to warn her that not all holidays would be as luxurious as this, but I decided against it and instead revelled in her excitement.

As heavenly as the hotel was, we quickly got ready – to my surprise, Ruby didn’t take an age – and headed out in search of espresso and pastel de natas. Although I had visited the city before, I wanted to ensure we saw and did as much as possible during our stay, and that she got to experience the many delights of Portugal.

A day exploring Lisbon centre

Luckily Ruby is just as much the coffee fiend as I am, and didn’t mind taking a little detour to a top-rated cafe. The queue of locals waiting for their daily loaves was a very good sign, and the pastries certainly lived up to the hype.

After our morning pick-me-up and a scout of the wares on offer at the nearby open-air market, we headed towards the Bica funicular – an endearing little elevator built in 1892 that takes some 3.5 million passengers up the hill every year. At the top, the little yellow cart offers views of the Tagus river and the terracota rooftops of the sprawling port city.

From there, we took a quick wander along the Rua Cor de Rosa (or pink street), renowned for its fuchsia-coloured pavement and multicoloured umbrellas, suspended from thin wires above, and took a few pictures. Gimmicky though it may be, it’s one of those things most people have on their to-do lists – and it’s close by to everything else.

Although we perused the Time Out Market on the waterfront and I did pick up a deliciously juicy peach from the old farmer’s market adjacent to the street food hall, we decided to enjoy a glass of vinho verde and some tapas at the nearby Vila Bica instead.

As I explained to Ruby; Lisbon doesn’t have lots of landmarks in the same way most European cities do, but it is full of charming architecture, Azulejo tiles and great food – and also enjoys long bouts of sunshine.

With that in mind, we whiled away the hours in that same spot, catching up, drinking the green wine of northern Portugal’s Minho province, and snacking on croquettes. It was quite easy to forget in this moment that she is a teenager and not one of my 30-something girlfriends.

The afternoon was spent tackling the steep hills, as we made our way past the castle and on to the Alfama neighbourhood – Lisbon’s oldest and, in my opinion, prettiest. While we were there, we couldn’t resist stopping by the Casa São Miguel patisserie and grabbing yet more custard tarts and sweet treats.

As construction was underway for the upcoming Santo António Festival, or Festival of Sardines as it is also referred to, we decided to head back to the hotel to freshen up, then try somewhere local for dinner.

Having had our fair share of tapas by that point, we decided to go for Mexican at Coyo Taco Príncipe Real – but not before we witnessed the sunset at the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara viewing point and enjoyed a schooner of vintage Taylor’s port. It was the perfect end to the day.

Sunday strolls – and a bit of sangria

When the hotel offered us two treatments at the adjoining Caudalie spa , we of course had to take them up on it. We had walked over 15,000 steps the day before and the steep inclines had left us weary and achy – me more so, given that I am much older than my dear niece.

Donning our bath robes and slippers, we went down in the lift and landed straight outside the treatment rooms in the basement, the smell of neroli and ginger welcoming us.

Where to eat in Lisbon & Cascais

• Bairro do Avillez – Portuguese
• Yakuza – Japanese
• Tram 28 – Chinese
• Prado – Portuguese
• Bahr – Portuguese
• Belcanto – Portuguese

Although my niece and I didn’t visit Cascais during this trip, I did go there the last time I was in Portugal. The picturesque riviera resort not only has cute coves and sandy beaches, it’s chock-full of fine dining experiences – and well worth a visit. I’d recommend booking the following restaurants in advance, for either lunch or dinner:

• Hifen – Portuguese, seafood, sea views
• Cantinho do Avillez – Portuguese, seafood
• Kappo – Japanese, fresh sushi
• Moules and Gin – Portuguese, seafood

We each opted for the Vinotherapist Sculpting Massage, a 50-minute treatment that works the entire body and plunges you into deep relaxation. This was another first for Ruby, and she was positively blown away by the experience. ‘My back’s never felt so good!’ She exclaimed as she met me back upstairs in our room afterwards. I went to say, ‘Wait until you get to my age,’ but swiftly decided against it, already feeling ancient in comparison.

As it was our last day and we were catching a flight later that evening, I decided to take her to LX Factory once we were dressed. I knew she’d love the knick-knack stores, the bilingual bookshop and its general ‘hipster’ vibes.

Located about 15 minutes from our hotel by Uber, we had plenty of time to mooch the stalls and enjoyed a slow lunch in the sunshine – and a few glasses of white sangria, naturally.

When it was time to leave, I felt a pang of sadness. We hadn’t spent such an intense period of time together before and, although at times she got on my nerves and me hers, this trip had allowed us to bond and reminded me just how special our relationship is. I’m thankful that we got to experience Lisbon together and create such wonderful memories.

In spite of the differences in our age, our tastes in music, food and, well, just about everything, there is something very strong that unites us: love.

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These Are the 10 Best Hotels in Lisbon to Book Right Now

M uch like Lisbon has grown to accommodate a recent influx of international visitors in recent years, so has its hotel scene. This list of 10 of the best hotels in Lisbon-part of Afar's Hotels We Love series-could easily be twice as long, given the range of options for amazing value.

Fancy a night in a restored palace? Take your pick. Or a boutique hotel on a charming, tree-lined street? Throw a stone, you'll hit one. (Maybe don't throw anything; everything's historic.) Portugal is also developing a reputation as one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe, so we'd be remiss not to include a few kid-friendly spots, including best-in-class apartments with hotel amenities. Let this list inspire your next trip to the City of Seven Hills.

Bairro Alto Hotel

• Neighborhood: Chiado/Bairro Alto
• Why we love it: For its prime location, fresh pastries, and rooftop bar
• Loyalty program: Leaders Club (Leading Hotels of the World)

When the Barrio Alto Hotel opened in 2005 at the intersection of theater and shopping district Chiado and nightlife quarter Bairro Alto, it quickly became a welcoming, laid-back place to unwind after a day of touristing. Occupying a five-story, 18th-century building painted that cheery Lisbon yellow seen all over the city, it's a historic boutique hotel like so many others. Yet Portuguese designers leaned into fun, colorful textiles and geometric patterns to update the interiors.

Spacious guest rooms and suites mix both classic and contemporary features (think antique tubs and heated bathroom floors) and have views over the popular Largo do Camões and the River Tagus. A patisserie on the ground floor serves freshly made Portuguese pastries all day, and the rooftop bar has one of the city's best sunset cocktail spots. The hotel also offers a single-occupant rate for business travelers, digital nomads, or solo travelers who may just be passing through. From $326 for a single room

Hotel das Amoreiras

• Neighborhood: Jardim das Amoreiras
• Why we love it: It's a hotel at the corner of charming and serene
• Loyalty program: Invited (Small Luxury Hotels of the World)

Hotel das Amoreiras sits on the garden square of Jardim das Amoreiras, four charming blocks that seem fit for a Wes Anderson movie. To understand the neighborhood is to understand the hotel: Within the Jardim are Lisbon's first mulberry trees, planted by the Marquis of Pombal in the 18th century-the seeds (pardon the pun) of the city's silk industry.

Surrounding homes served the local silk workers, though the restored silk factory is now the Arpad Szénes-Vieira da Silva Museum , honoring a contemporary Portuguese artist and her Hungarian husband, who was also a painter. On the same block, the hotel has 17 bright, peaceful guest rooms and two attic suites bathed in natural light. A la carte breakfast is served daily until noon in the living room–style comfort downstairs or outside in the courtyard. Garden strolls are practically required. From $217

The Lisboans

• Neighborhood: Baixa
• Why we love it: Apartment-style digs (with room service and breakfast delivery) and the hip restaurant Prado next door

Set within a former factory in a quiet residential neighborhood between Alfama and Chiado are the kind of stylish, spacious apartments (with Juliette balconies!) you may never want to leave. Artists, writers, and fashion designers have been known to check into the Lisboans , as well as families who need a little extra space and autonomy.

The 15 one- and two-bedroom apartments have high ceilings and large windows, letting plenty of natural light into the tastefully decorated living room, which has a mix of handcrafted throws and rugs and flea market finds. What's best about the Lisboans? The serviced apartments come with the comforts of home-microwave, stove top, dishwasher-as well as daily housekeeping and breakfast basket deliveries. A staffer sits in the downstairs "lobby" and can answer any questions, recommend a dinner spot, or plot a path through the nearby Praça do Comércio. But you needn't go far for a good meal. Just out the front door is the celebrated farm-to-table restaurant Prado, and around the corner is the upscale Prado grocer and wine bar, selling farm-fresh eggs, produce, juices, and natural wines. From $357

Martinhal Lisbon Oriente

• Neighborhood: Park of Nations
• Why we love it: Ideal for extended stays, a home away from home with multiple pools and a baby concierge

Ever since the debut of its first beachside resort in Sagres in 2010, the Martinhal collection of hotels, resorts, and residences has shown its competitors how to truly marry luxury and family friendliness. Kids are always central to the mission, with nods both practical (bunk beds, kid-size utensils) and playful (a Fiat inside the café to play in).

The kids club caters to six month olds all the way up to early teens, with babysitting services, stocked playrooms, and pajama parties. A baby concierge is on call with all the supplies you forgot at home. And at Martinhal's newest location- Lisbon Oriente , about 30 minutes outside the city center by the Park of Nations-studios and apartments are available for extended stays with the same bespoke hotel-style amenities. There are indoor and outdoor pools, playrooms and co-working spaces, a fitness center with yoga for ages 12 and up, and a kids club with supervised drop-off (ages six months to eight years). From $296

The One Palácio da Anunciada

• Neighborhood: Lisbon city center
• Why we love it: A high-design hotel that merges Old World Lisbon with the modern traveler's needs
• Loyalty program: I Prefer (Preferred Hotels & Resorts)

The second property from Spanish hotel chain H10 offers an oasis amid Lisbon's city center. Set on a cobblestone street just off Avenida da Liberdade, the restored One Palacio da Anunciada is in a 16th-century palace a short walk from restaurants, cafés, and Bairro Alto nightlife, yet it avoids the clamor that normally comes with such a convenient location.

Large windows fill nearly every space with natural light, from the marble-filled lobby to the spa's indoor pool to the 83 guest rooms. Suites feel more like elegant apartments than hotel rooms. Custom hand-painted ceramics decorate the walls, while gentle lighting and soft edges abound in the bedrooms. On the perimeter of the hotel's idyllic courtyard and gardens are the exceptional spa and O Jardim Wine Bar, an upscale restaurant that serves contemporary twists on classic Portuguese dishes. From $563-Nicole Antonio

Palácio Príncipe Real

• Neighborhood: Príncipe Real
• Why we love it: For its bonhomie and all-day breakfast in the private garden

"New" hotels in Lisbon are often still centuries old-but lovingly restored, as is the case with Palacío Príncipe Real . Built in 1877, the rose-colored mansion served as a family home-and, as legend has it , the site of many memorable high-society parties-until the 1980s. Current owners/U.K. expats Gail and Miles Curley honored the home's joie de vivre when they reopened it in 2021; there are no check-in or check-out times, breakfast runs until early afternoon (or whenever you wake up) and can be served on the terrace or by the infinity pool, which is heated by the hotel's solar panels.

The 25 guest rooms ("cozy," "dream bath" with copper tubs, "dream garden" with balconies and garden views, and signature suites) are elegantly done-Gail is an interior designer- and come stocked with Byredo amenities, Dyson hair dryers, and mini-fridges filled with complimentary Portuguese snacks, wine, and beer. From $538

Palácio Ramalhete

• Where : Janelas Verdes
• Why we love it: All the beautiful detail and its location, opposite the National Museum of Ancient Art

Palácio Ramalhete has the soul of a historic property-Manuel II, Portugal's last king, and Britain's Duke of Windsor were once guests-without any of the attendant stuffiness. Set in an 18th-century palace on the handsome Rua das Janelas Verdes, each of the 16 accommodations has its own unique character. The Oak Suite, for instance, features wood wall paneling with an ornate carved-stucco ceiling, while the spacious Dove Room, which occupies the palace's former chapel, is lined with original hand-painted blue-and-white azulejos (ceramic tiles).

There are three tiered internal courtyards; the highest has a small heated outdoor pool with a massive palm tree for shade and River Tagus views in the distance. Art lovers, take note: Opposite the hotel is the National Museum of Ancient Art, filled with important Portuguese works that include 15th-century painter Nuno Gonçalves's famous Panels of St. Vincent. From $292 -Ratha Tep

Pestana Palace Lisboa

• Neighborhood : Santo Amaro
• Why we love it: The "pond pool" and sumptuous Regency style

Just a short ride from the historic Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Cultural Center, Pestana Palace Lisboa is itself a designated national landmark. The 194-room hotel occupies a carefully restored 19th-century manor that once belonged to the cocoa baron Marquis of Valle-Flôr, and now caters to queens of pop like Madonna (she reportedly stayed in a Royal Suite).

"Lavish" is the key adjective here: The manor is set within an immaculately manicured private park filled with palms, subtropical plants, sculptures, a former pond-turned-swimming pool, and a spa with an indoor pool and Turkish baths. Palace interiors give the air of a gilded cocoon-all ornate ceiling frescoes, soaring stained-glass windows, and magnificent oil canvases-while the main restaurant, Valle Flôr, has Regency airs and Portuguese fare. Guests may linger on Saturdays for a "chic-nic" lunch on the lawn by the pool. From $359 -R.T.

Santa Clara 1728

• Neighborhood : Alfama
• Why we love it: It's the design darling of Lisbon

Santa Clara 1728 is set within an 18th-century palace that's now the (impeccably designed) home of hotelier João Rodrigues, whose family occupies the top two floors. Downstairs are six suites, where guests can enjoy spa-like serenity thanks to the minimalist design of famed Portuguese architect Manuel Aires Mateus-think natural woods and eggshell-blue walls, sitting rooms and river views. High-end linens make you want to stay in bed awhile (though there's no air conditioning, so throw open those windows and listen for the market vendors in the square below). Guests are invited to dine at Ceia, a nine-course meal at the hotel's communal table, Wednesdays to Saturdays. From $543 per night, two-night minimum

Santiago de Alfama

• Why we love it: A family-run boutique hotel in Lisbon's medieval center

Lisbon's oldest district is known for its labyrinth of narrow streets, abundant fado bars, and historical attractions. Opened in 2015, Santiago de Alfama is a draw in its own right. The former 15th-century palace is just below São Jorge Castle. Its 19 guest rooms offer views of the River Tagus or courtyard garden, as well as unique configurations, including interconnecting bedrooms that would be ideal for families. Most accommodations combine traditional features such as wood-paneled ceilings and intricate cornices with modern comforts like rain showers and bespoke linens.

With so few rooms, the staff will always know your name, though it's unsurprising in this family-run hotel that functions like a more intimate B&B. Be sure to dine in the café/bistro Audrey's, named after the owners' daughter and serving seasonal dishes using fresh produce from the kitchen garden. From $353 -R.T.

Laura Dannen Redman is Afar's editor at large. She's an award-winning journalist who can't sit still and has called Singapore, Seattle, Australia, Boston, and the Jersey Shore home. She's based in Brooklyn with her equally travel-happy husband and daughters.