What to do in Alfama, Lisbon

Known for being the oldest district in the portuguese capital, Alfama has influenced writers and musicians. It is said to be the birthplace of fado culture in Lisbon, as seen in the houses that night after night pay tribute to this nostalgic musical expression.

If you want to discover one of the most traditional and authentic places in the city, Alfama is amongn the essential places to visit in Lisbon.

What to Do in Alfama

The origin of the name Alfama is Arabic and means “spring,” referring to the area’s thermal waters. Getting lost here means wandering through antique markets and structures that, although marked, withstood the terrible Lisbon earthquake of 1755.

The primary thing to keep in mind when visiting Alfama is wearing comfortable shoes. You’ll need them for the hills and cobbled streets that adorn the city, which can catch many travelers off guard.

That said, tie your shoelaces tight and go out to enjoy postcard views, explore the temples, and head to the castle for the best sunsets in Lisbon. 

Here are some of the most important things to do and see in Alfama.

St. George’s Castle

 

Considered a national monument, this fortress is located at the highest point in the city and is one of the main landmarks on Lisbon’s tourist map.

St. George’s Castle, or the Castle of the Moors, is a historical reference: built in the 11th century during the Muslim occupation of the city, it served as the court space during the 13th century and as a royal palace in the 16th century. From its esplanade, you get one of the most impressive views of the city.

National Pantheon

 

Built over the remains of the old Church of Santa Engracia, the National Pantheon in Lisbon rises with its majestic marble dome over the Alfama neighborhood. From its dome, you get one of the best 360° views of the entire city.

It’s worth visiting this imposing building inside, where the remains of presidents, football players, writers, and artists lie, including the fado singer Amália Rodrigues.

Feira da Ladra

Take home a souvenir from one of the city’s most famous markets: Feira da Ladra. Located near the National Pantheon and the Santa Clara Market, this fair is one of the oldest in Lisbon.

The translation of its name in English is “thief’s market,” as it originally sold stolen goods. Here, you can find furniture, decorative items, tiles, clothing, books, magazines, and a long list of antiques.

It takes place every Tuesday and Saturday from early morning until 6:00 PM.

Sé, Cathedral of Lisbon

 

The Cathedral of Lisbon is the oldest and most iconic church in the city. It is one of the must-visit sites in Alfama.

Commonly known as the Sé de Lisboa and officially as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maior, its chapels house various pieces of medieval funerary sculpture. Don’t miss the “treasure” of the Cathedral, where the remains of St. Vincent rest.

Listening to Fado in Alfama

The Alfama neighborhood is one of the places chosen by tourists to enjoy the thrilling notes of fado. Not only is it considered its birthplace and home to the Fado Museum, located near St. George’s Castle, but it also offers various options to enjoy a magical night with Lisbon’s residents in their traditional fado houses.

Here are some of the most traditional fado houses in Alfama:

• La Tasca do Chico (Rua dos Remédios, 83) 

• Boteco da Fà (Rua do Vigario, 70e)

• Fora da Moda (Largo de Santo Estevão, 9)

The Best Viewpoints in Lisbon

Santa Lucia Viewpoint in Alfama

 

Some viewpoints in Alfama offer the best views in Lisbon. Close to the Cathedral, the Portas do Sol Viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Tagus River, the colorful streets of the city, and tourist monuments such as the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora.

Another viewpoint we recommend visiting is the Santa Lucia Viewpoint; near St. George’s Castle, this spot offers unmissable views of the fortress, surrounded by charming chipped tiles, typical of Lisbon’s corners.

Shaped like a balcony, the Senhora do Monte Viewpoint is considered one of the highest and the best in the city, according to many tourists. From there, you can see all the buildings of Lisbon at your feet, as well as the valleys and the large estates of nearby localities.

If you’re in Alfama and want to try one of the famous pastéis de nata, there are several bakeries in the neighborhood that make them exquisitely. These include Pastelarias Santo António (R. do Milagre de Santo António 10), Alfama Doce (R. da Regueira 39), and Alfacinha (R. dos Remédios 181).

Another option we recommend is visiting the Belém neighborhood and trying the original pastéis de nata at the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém.

How to Get to Alfama

 The historic tram No. 28

 

One of the most traditional ways to reach Alfama is by using the tourist trams of Lisbon. For the traditional experience, we recommend boarding the historic tram No. 28, which winds through the narrow streets of the neighborhood from Baixa.

You can also walk from this point and take the blue metro line to the Santa Apolonia station.

Do you prefer a guided tour? We think this is the ideal option to explore Lisbon, especially Alfama, without worrying about tired feet. We recommend this tour of the best of Lisbon with transportation.

Discover everything the vibrant city of Lisbon has to offer. Ensure an unforgettable day with these tours and excursions.