Alfama
Lisbon, Portugal
Sprawling down the southern slopes of Lisbon, Alfama is the capital’s oldest and most picturesque district, with steep cobblestone lanes and a sea of terracotta roofs below the high walls of Castelo de São Jorge. Head there in the daytime to take in the sights, browse the flea market, and ride the historic tram, then come back after dark to soak up the atmosphere at the many fado bars.
The Basics
The colorful Alfama neighborhood is a highlight of any Lisbon sightseeing tour, and the maze-like quarter is best explored on a walking tour. For an even more unforgettable experience, ride the famous Tram 28 up the hill, zip around on a Segway tour, take in the views from afar on a Tagus River cruise, or attend an evening fado show with dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
Wear comfortable shoes, as steep sidewalks and cobblestone lanes are the norm in the Alfama district.
Getting around Alfama can be tricky for wheelchair users, so it’s best to book a taxi or join a tour.
How to Get There
The Alfama district is located around 2 miles (3 kilometers) south of downtown Lisbon, on the Tagus riverside. The easiest way to get there is to catch the No. 28 tram from Martim Moniz Square.
When to Get There
Alfama is a lively place to visit at any time of the day or night, but the most atmospheric time to explore is around sunset, when the district’s many bars, cafés, and fado restaurants spring to life. It can be busy during the summer months, so get an early start to avoid the crowds.
A Walking Tour of Alfama
Start your tour by riding Tram 28 up to the Miradouro da Graca, then walk down, stopping to admire the views from the Portas do Sol viewpoint, the Sao Jorge castle, and the National Pantheon. After browsing the stalls at the Feira da Ladra flea market, learn more about Portugal’s renowned folk music at the Fado Museum, and pay a visit to the Lisbon Cathedral, St. Anthony’s Church, and Sao Vicente de Fora church.
Ways to explore
The colorful Alfama neighborhood is a highlight of sightseeing in Lisbon, which is why it’s featured on so many city tours. This maze-like quarter is best explored on a walking tour, allowing you to take in the sights and flag the major attractions you plan to visit in more depth later.
Other memorable experiences include riding the famous Tram 28 up the hill, zipping around on a private tuk-tuk tour, taking in the views from afar on a Tagus River cruise, and attending an evening fado show with dinner. No matter how you plan your time in Alfama, it has more than enough to keep you busy for a day or more.
Accessibility
Steep sidewalks and cobblestone streets make Alfama a difficult place to navigate for wheelchair users.
Age limits
All ages can enjoy Alfama, though the district’s steep hills may wear out young children.
What to pack
Camera, bottled water, cash for a tram ticket
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat
Not allowed
Don’t park at the Feira da Ladra parking lot on market days, Tuesday and Sunday; cars will be towed.
Amenities
Restaurants, cafés
Address
The Alfama district is about 1–2 miles (2–3 kilometers) east of downtown Lisbon, on the banks of the Tagus River. Visitors can easily walk there from the city center or take public transportation; driving around Alfama is more complicated.
Driving
Most roads in Alfama are one-way streets, and there is no parking in the heart of Alfama. Instead, park at one of the many lots along the Tagus River, such as outside Santa Apolónia Station.
Public transportation
Take the 28 tram, which stops throughout much of Alfama, in either direction from Martim Moniz Square or the downtown Baixa area. Alternatively, use the 10B and 737 bus to get in and around the district.
Best times to visit
Alfama is lively both day and night, but around sunset is the most atmospheric time to explore, when the district’s many bars, cafés, and fado restaurants spring to life.
Best days to visit
Fridays and Saturdays are usually the busiest evenings, when locals come out to enjoy the weekend. Some restaurants and bars may be closed on Sunday or Monday, so check ahead if you’d like to visit on one of these quieter days.
Best months to visit
Shoulder season on either side of summer, including April, May, and October, is when you can still enjoy nice weather without the downside of overcrowded attractions.
Special events
Caixa Alfama, a big local festival that celebrates the art of fado, takes place annually, generally at the end of September.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!