São Jorge Castle
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The Alfama (Portuguese pronunciation:) is the oldest neighborhood of Lisbon, spreading on the slope between the São Jorge Castle and the Tagus river. Its name comes from the Arabic al-ḥamma (الحَمّة), meaning "hot fountains" or "baths," akin to "hammam" (حَمَّام).
Explore Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, in 2024. Discover historic sites like São Jorge Castle and Se Cathedral in this guide. Experience the charm of its cobbled streets, traditional houses, and panoramic views. Ideal for tourists seeking Alfama's rich heritage and unique character.
- Philip Giddings
- What to See and Do in Alfama
- How to Get to Alfama
- Where to Eat and Drink in Alfama
- Where to Stay in Alfama
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St. George's Castle
Crowning Lisbon for over a millennium, this castle offers breathtaking viewsof 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, wh...
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 Figuei...
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 d...
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 neighbo...
Alfama is one of Europe’s oldest neighborhoods, with a rich history and culture. Explore its cobbled streets, viewpoints, monuments, fado music and festivals in this comprehensive guide.
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- Take in the View From Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Address. Largo Portas do Sol, 1100-411 Lisboa, Portugal. Get directions. Phone +351 915 225 592. Web Visit website.
- Explore the Castelo Sao Jorge. Address. R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal. Get directions. Phone +351 21 880 0620. Web Visit website. One of Lisbon's must-visit attractions, you can see the Sao Jorge castle from almost anywhere in the old town.
- Visit the Lisbon Cathedral. Address. Largo da Sé 1, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal. Get directions. Phone +351 21 886 6752. Web Visit website. 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.
- 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.
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Alfama is a historic and charming area with narrow streets, stunning views, and Fado music. Learn about its history, attractions, and how to get there by tram, bus, or metro.
Alfama is Lisbon's most emblematic quarter with medieval alleys, stunning views, and a rich history. Learn about its attractions, Fado culture, and how to get there with the Lisboa Card.
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest and most charming neighborhood, with a history going back many centuries. Learn about its attractions, viewpoints, fado music, and traditional cuisine in this comprehensive guide.
