ALFAMA
Breathtaking views and a medieval maze; the village within a city; the historical soul of Lisbon
See Alfama on a Segway with these Lisbon Segway Tours!
Alfama is Lisbon's most emblematic quarter and one of the most rewarding for
walkers and photographers thanks to its medieval alleys and
outstanding views.
Because its foundation is dense bedrock, it survived the 1755 earthquake,
and a walk through this old-fashioned residential neighborhood is now a step
back in time. It is a village within a city still made up of narrow streets,
tiny squares, churches, and whitewashed houses with tile panels and wrought-iron balconies
adorned with pots of flowers, drying laundry, and caged birds.
It was settled by the Romans and Visigoths (it was also an important
Jewish quarter in the 15th century), but it was the Moors who gave the
district its atmosphere and name (alhama means springs or bath, a
reference to the hot springs found in the area). They were also responsible
for its web of streets created as a defense system, while at the same time
enabling their homes to remain cool in the summer.
Most of the older residents have lived here all their lives and retain a
strong sense of community, although their rent-controlled homes are now
dilapidated,
and an increasing number of wealthier people are investing in
their properties and moving in. Other renovated buildings directly below
the castle have been converted into some of the city's most
atmospheric and unique hotels.
However, if you really want to enjoy the charms of Alfama like a local, why not stay in an Alfama Apartment? Check out our Alfama holiday rentals here!
Alfama has influenced poets and novelists, and although Bairro Alto is
the city's traditional Fado quarter, it is Alfama that has always
been the inspiration for Fado songs, and is becoming just as popular with
Fado Houses.
The district has an intangible quality that needs to be experienced to be
truly appreciated, and the best way to get to know it is to get a little
lost (something almost impossible to avoid), and wander around admiring the
postcard-perfect views, visiting the churches, and walking up to the castle
for the most breathtaking panorama of the city and the greatest sunsets.
Contrasting with these timeless images is a trendy modern development by
the waterfront across from Santa Apolonia train station. It houses stylish
design shops, restaurants, and one of Europe's top clubs, "Lux."
Put away your map and follow this suggested itinerary through the most picturesque streets and alleys of Alfama: Alfama self-guided walking tour itinerary
See many of Alfama's attractions and ride Lisbon's metro, buses, and trams for FREE with the Lisboa Card.
Alfama TIPS
The area's top 3 sights: Saint George's
Castle, The Tile
Museum, Sao Vicente de
Fora Church
Don't forget to: Stop at the miradouros of Portas do
Sol and Graça.
Off the beaten path: Although popular with hip locals, Doca do
Jardim do Tabaco's stylish alternative shops and trendy eateries are
still relatively new and unknown to visitors.
Transportation: It is best to walk around, returning on a tram.
Recommended HOTELS: Olissipo Castelo,
Solar do Castelo
Recommended RESTAURANTS:
Chapitô,
Bica do Sapato
MAP of Alfama: Where to locate all of Alfama's sights
Alfama ACCOMMODATION
Hotels:
Solar do Castelo,
Olissippo Castelo Hotel
Hostels:
Alfama Patio
Apartments: Many Alfama apartments
here, and we can also recommend the Alfama River Apartments.
Alfama ATTRACTIONS
Saint
George's Castle - Overlooking the city from millennium-old walls.
The
Cathedral - The city's oldest building.
Miradouro das
Portas do Sol - Standing over Alfama's rooftops, domes, and church towers.
Miradouro de
Santa Luzia - Views of the river and Alfama.
Sao
Vicente de Fora Church - A 16th century monastery with an exceptional tiled interior.
The
National Pantheon - The domed church that took centuries to complete.
Santo
Antonio Church - Saint Anthony's birthplace.
Graça Church
and Miradouro - A panoramic view to the castle and the city.
Casa
dos Bicos - A 16th century architectural curiosity.
The
Roman Theater - The archaological remains of a once large Roman theater.
Decorative
Arts Museum - A captivating decorative arts collection.
Fado
Museum - The story of the national music.
Military
Museum - A testament to the country's battles.
The Tile
Museum - An ancient art form in a lavish old convent.
Doca do
Jardim do Tabaco - Sleek restaurants and club on the waterfront.
See all these attractions on our map of Alfama sights
Lisbon DISTRICTS
Baixa -
Broad squares, 18th century architecture, patterned pavements, popular
cafes
Bairro
Alto & Chiado - Vibrant nightlife, picturesque streets, classic and
alternative culture, chic shopping, restaurants
Belem -
The Age of Discovery, grandiose monuments, museums
Alfama -
Medieval maze, spectacular views, an imposing castle, the sounds of Fado
Uptown -
Masterpieces and museum treasures, shopping malls
Parque
das Nações - The 21st century by the Tagus; futuristic architecture
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