You will either love or hate Alfama–there’s no half measures! It will either seem an exhausting array of steep streets that slowly climb towards the Castelo de São Jorge or a charming hillside neighbourhood with quaint houses, traditional shops and businesses, lookout points, fado music houses and tiles, tiles and more tiles.
At the Gat Rossio hotel, which is located just a 20-minute walk away, we’re crazy about Alfama, and want to share our favourite things about this amazing area with you.
First, the views
Begin your tour in Martim Moníz Square, where the Tram 28 is ready to take you through the neighbourhoods of Rossio and Baixa to Portas do Sol in Alfama, the stop closest to the castle.
When you alight, head towards the Santa Lucía lookout point before visiting the impressive Castelo de São Jorge, which dates back to the time the city was under Moorish rule (Monday-Sunday, 09:00-21:00).
From the castle, look for Rua do Recolhimento to find the hidden-away lookout point, Miradouro del Jardim do Recolhimento.
Get ready for a thrilling descent!
Enjoy the treasures you discover along the way as you meander back down the hill to the hotel, such as the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, the steps down from Rua de São Miguel, Lisbon Cathedral (Monday-Sunday, 10:00-19:00), the Renaissance palace Casa dos Bicos or the Roman theatre (Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-18:00).
@viamichelin
If the main attractions are the body of Alfama, you need the soul
From Tuesday to Sunday, between 19:00 – 23:00, head over to Tasca do Jaime to enjoy the most authentic fado music house experience in the city (see more fado music houses here).
Finally, if you’re in Lisbon on a Tuesday or a Saturday, you can’t leave without visiting the renowned flea market, Feira da Ladra (for more Lisbon markets, click here).