Alfama on foot
The oldest quarter, all slopes, stairs and washing at the windows. Getting lost on purpose is the right method.
Duration
2 hrs – 4 hrs
Best time
Late afternoon
Open
Every day
Entry price
Free
Alfama is the only quarter the 1755 earthquake left standing, because it sits on rock rather than fill. Its layout has not changed since the Moors: lanes too narrow for a car, stairs instead of streets, washing strung between windows.
There is no route to follow. Climb towards the castle, come down whichever way you like, and let the miradouros stop you — Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol both look over the Tagus, two minutes apart.
Getting there
Tram 28E from Martim Moniz, or on foot from the Baixa up past the Sé. The tram is packed: board at the terminus if you want a seat.
What to bring
- Walking shoes
- 1.5 L of water
Rules on site
Smooth cobbles and steep slopes: shoes with grip change the day. Tram 28E is the city's main pickpocket ground.
Other places in Lisbon
Jerónimos MonasteryManueline at its purest, and the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
Santa Maria de Belém churchThe monastery nave, its palm vaults and the royal tombs — without paying for the cloister.
- Belém TowerThe sentinel of the Tagus, standing out over the water, from where the caravels sailed.
Sintra for the dayRomantic palaces and damp forest forty minutes away by train. Book the Pena Palace entry in advance.