Alfama is the oldest and most traditional neighborhood in Lisbon. Strolling through Alfama is to discover the true atmosphere of a traditional Portuguese village. The neighborhood is a labyrinth full of pleasant surprises, with alleys, flowery streets and refuges where you can hear genuine fado.

In this article, we have chosen some of the places that you cannot miss.

1 – Portas do Sol Viewpoint

Alfama Portas do Sol

This viewpoint offers a breathtaking view. Those who pass by the Portas do Sol viewpoint have a complete view of the neighborhood, the houses, the National Pantheon, as well as offering an incredible view of the Tagus.

2 – Santa Luzia Viewpoint and Church

Alfama Miradouro de Santa Luzia

A fantastic landscape, adorned with a pergola adorned with flowers and tile panels that represent the conquest of Lisbon from the Moors, are elements that transform this viewpoint into a true romantic corner.

3 – São Miguel Church

Alfama Igreja de S. Miguel

Located in the heart of Alfama, this church dates from the 12th century. It was rebuilt in 1673 and has a Mannerist and Baroque style, with wooden ceilings and ornamental panels.

4 – Fado Museum

Alfama Museu do Fado

Inaugurated in 1998, the Fado Museum is a cultural space that displays temporary and permanent exhibitions on the history of Portuguese fado and guitar, with emphasis on the famous interpreters of this traditional musical style. The environment has a Digital Sound Archive that gives visitors access to thousands of sound records since the beginning of the 20th century.

5 – Fado Show (Páteo de Alfama)

Fado Alfama

Alfama offers several Fado houses. Páteo de Alfama is a restaurant with typical dishes of Portuguese cuisine and a show house that promotes pleasant nights with fado singers to the sound of instruments that over time have come to accompany those who sing fado: the Portuguese Guitar.

6 – Church and Monastery of São Vicente de Fora

Alfama Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora

Located between Alfama and Campo de Santa Clara, this church is one of the largest and most important religious monuments in Lisbon. Its construction began in 1582, completing the work only in 1629. It has a Mannerist style, with Gothic and Baroque details.

7 – Church of Santa Engrácia – National Pantheon

Alfama Igreja de Santa Engracia
IPPAR – Instituto Português do Património Arquitectónico
PN003 – Panteão Nacional
Fotografia de Luis Pavão

Whoever is getting to know the neighborhood, the Pantheon is a must for anyone. It began to be built in 1568 and was only completed in the middle of the 20th century. The duration of the work was due to several reasons, such as the death of the architect and the 1755 earthquake. The place is home to some of the greatest Portuguese historical personalities, such as former Presidents of the Republic and writers.

Alfama impresses all the people who visit this typical Lisbon neighborhood and nothing better than to deepen this experience with a night tour that will lead you to immerse yourself in the melody of Fado. Find out how Go2Lisbon can make your experience unforgettable.