Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric must see district
“Cascading down Lisbon’s southern slopes, Alfama is the capital’s most picturesque and oldest neighborhood with an ocean of terracotta roofs over steep cobblestone lanes.”
Its name is Arabic in origin, from "Al-hamma" referring to public baths. It is the oldest neighborhood of Portugal, and Europe’s second oldest with its origins dating as far back as the 8th century to the times of the Phoenicisns and Moors.
Under Roman rule, because of its proximity to the port and sea, it became the center of fishing related businesses and with that, it became the home of sailors and fisherman and the poor uneducated “lower classes” who worked for those businesses.
Like the people who lived there, the neighborhood was colorful and full of life, and also tough - surviving the earthquake, fire and tsunami of 1755 that destroyed surrounding areas and killed 60,000 people in Lisbon alone.
These days you can browse the flea market, ride a historic tram, wander around through ancient alleyways and cobblestone streets, then come back after dark to soak up the atmosphere at the many fado bars - as Portuguese as it gets.
Alfama is a lively place at any time of the day or night, but the most atmospheric time to visit is around sunset when the neighborhood’s many bars, cafés, and fado restaurants come to life.
Take note that it is very busy during the summer months, so it’s advisable to get an early start to avoid the crowds.
The colorful neighborhood offers a highlight to any Lisbon sightseeing with the maze-like quarter best explored on foot, by yourself with GPS, or as part of a walking tour.
There are also other ways to explore Alfama - ride the famous Tram 28 up the hill; take a Segway tour; or enjoy the views on a Tagus River cruise.
The Alfama district is located around 3 kilometers (2 miles) south of downtown Lisbon, on the Tagus riverside. The easiest way to get there is to catch a tram from Martim Moniz Square, or Uber or Taxi.
Postcards from Alfama
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