Discover Soul of Lisbon: 15 Top Things to Do in Alfama

15 best things to do in Alfama, Lisbon

1. Start with Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon Cathedral, also known as the Sé de Lisboa, is one of the city’s most significant historical and architectural landmarks. Situated in the heart of the Alfama district, it simply has to be added to your Lisbon itinerary.

It is built on the ruins of an old Mosque that dates back to the Moorish domination of the city. Its construction started in 1148 and it is considered the oldest church in Lisbon. The church is one of the few buildings that has survived the great earthquake of 1755.

The cathedral, having undergone numerous renovations throughout the years, features a striking circular window that dominates its facade. The scene of an iconic yellow tram passing in front of this historic structure creates a perfect scene for a Lisbon postcard.

The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with its vaulted ceilings, elegant columns, and a mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements. But let me point out that it is very simple and dark. While in the past it was open to the public, now you need to pay an entrance fee.

⏰ It is open from 10 am to 6 pm. The Cathedral is closed on Sundays.

💶 The entrance fee is 5 euros. Buy your ticket here.

2. Visit Castelo de São Jorge

São Jorge Castle dominates Lisbon and overlooks the city from the top of the hill. The castle is a real must-visit in Alfama as it is one of the most characteristic landmarks of the Portuguese capital.

Initially constructed as a defensive stronghold, the castle has transformed in purpose over the centuries. Today, it stands as one of Alfama’s most popular landmarks, offering visitors some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the city.

The castle’s grounds encompass a variety of historical and architectural features, including its robust battlements, imposing towers, and well-preserved walls. It is perfect for every history lover visiting Lisbon.

You should plan 2-3 hours to visit the entire castle. I recommend visiting a few hours before sunrise, so you can end your tour with a sun setting over Lisbon and enjoy the colorful sky from the viewpoint.

⏰ Castle is open every day and here are the opening hours:

• From March 1st to October 31st it is open from 9 am to 9 pm, with the last entry at 8.30 pm.
• From November 1st to February 28/29th it is from 9 am to 6 pm, with the last entry at 5.30 pm.

💶 An adult ticket costs 15 euros. If your trip is less than 90 days away, you can buy your ticket here. Or access the castle for free with a Lisbon card. Either way, make sure you get your ticket before, so you don’t have to wait in a massive line.

3. Soak the views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of the most beautiful places in Alfama and a mandatory stop for whoever visits Lisbon.  This poetic viewpoint treats its visitors with a fantastic view over the roofs of Alfama and the blue waters of the Tagus River.

As the viewpoint is one of the hot spots in Lisbon it tends to be pretty lively. It’s common to find artists, musicians, or just tourists enjoying the breathtaking views.

For an extra romantic experience, you can come at sunrise and enjoy a surreal atmosphere and have the viewpoint all to yourself. The sunset is also one of the most romantic spots in Alfama to finish your day.

Praça Júlio de Castilho and Igreja de Santa Luzia boast some of the best azueljos in Lisbon like a representation of the Terreiro Do Paço before the 1755 earthquake and Martim Moniz. During warm months, bougainvillea takes over the garden.

This viewpoint is public and accessible at any time of the day. You don’t need to buy a ticket to visit Miradouro de Santa Luzia either.

4. and Miradouro das Portas do Sol

A few steps from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, find the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, which is another famous attraction in Alfama. The view from Portas do Sol is so similar to the one of Santa Luzia and yet so different!

While the Santa Luzia viewpoint offers a higher, more distant perspective, highlighting the rooftops and the church of Santo Estêvão, the Miradouro de Portas do Sol presents Alfama like a living painting, with the entire district spread out before you.

From Portas do Sol, you also get an amazing view of the National Pantheon and the church of São Vicente de Fora, which aren’t as clearly visible from Santa Luzia. 

Just like all viewpoints in Lisbon, Miradouro das Portas do Sol is free and accessible any time of the day.

5. Stop by Chafariz d’El-Rei

Palacete Chafariz d’El-Rei, built in a neo-Moorish style, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful palaces in Alfama. It dates back to the end of the 19th century and is famous not only for its exteriors but an Art Nouveau Brazilian interiors. 

Today, Chafariz d’El-Rei serves as a boutique hotel, offering a unique stay for those who appreciate history and aesthetics. Even if you’re not staying there, you can still experience the palace’s charm by enjoying afternoon tea or brunch inside its elegant rooms.

At the base of the palace, in Cais de Santarém, you can see the remnants of Lisbon’s oldest fountain, which ceased functioning after the earthquake.

☝️Did you know? The name “Alfama” originates from the Arabic “Al-hamma,” meaning “the baths” or “the fountains.”

6. Get a bargain at the Feira da Ladra

Feira da Ladra is one of the best free things to do in Alfama. This is the oldest flea market in Lisbon and originally it was a market for thieves who came to sell the stolen goods. In fact, the name in English is “Thieves’ Market”.

Over the centuries, the market has moved locations several times before settling in its current spot at Campo de Santa Clara in the 19th century.  It starts from the monastery of São Vicente de Fora and ends at the National Pantheon.

The market is known for its eclectic mix of goods, ranging from antiques and vintage items to modern crafts and everyday objects. Stalls are brimming with old books, vinyl records, vintage clothing, hand-crafted jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and much more. 

📅 Feira da Ladra is held twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, from early morning until the afternoon. Even if you are not planning to buy anything, just walking around the stalls and checking out the historical objects is one of the best free things to do in Lisbon.

7. Go on a self-guided street art tour in Alfama

Alfama is an open-air gallery, with murals and graffiti that tell stories, express emotions, and add a colorful dimension to the urban landscape. A self-organized street art tour is an ideal way to explore street art and it is one of the best free things to do in Alfama.

One of the most iconic pieces is the Mural Graffiti Fado Vadio. This mural is a tribute to Fado, the soulful music genre that originated in Lisbon. The artwork captures the essence of Fado with its melancholic and nostalgic tones.

Nearby, on Rua São Cristóvão, you can find several other interesting murals, including one dedicated to “ginginha,” a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur. 

Another must-see in Alfama is the Mural de Azulejos by Botto Machado. Located near the National Pantheon, this mural is a modern take on traditional Portuguese tile art, known as azulejos.

Rua de São Tomé in Alfama features a unique contribution to Amália Rodrigues that you dont want to miss. My personal favorite is the History of Lisbon Mural by Nuno Saraiva between Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

While there is more street art in Lisbon, these places mentioned above can be easily implemented in your Alfama itinerary.

8. Discover the stories of Fado

Alfama (together with Mouraria) is the best place to learn more about Fado. Fado, which means “fate” in Portuguese, is a form of storytelling that reflects the profound emotions of life, love, and loss. 

A visit to the Fado Museum in Alfama is a must. The museum offers insights into the history and evolution of Fado, making it a great starting point. The entrance fee is 5 euros.

If you’re looking to experience Fado live, you have two main options: a full dinner or just petiscos (Portuguese tapas) with drinks. A full dinner typically comes at a higher cost, while petiscos are more budget-friendly.

Unfortunately, nowadays Alfama is filled with tourist traps playing live fado music, so you need to be very careful when picking out the place. Even some well-known Fado houses have seen a drop in food quality while prices have surged. 

🎶 Here are some great fado restaurants in Alfama.

O Corrido – Casa de Fado offers a set menu for 20 euros and a fado performance for 30 euros. Drinks are not included. However, don’t get discouraged by the set menu, because it is one of the best-rated fado houses in Alfama.

Tasca do Chico is definitely the most popular place if you are looking for petiscos and drinks as you enjoy the sound of fado. Fado is free as the restaurant hosts new rising stars. However, the place is very small and it fills up quickly, so it is not easy to get a table at the Tasca do Chico.

O Segredo D’Alfama is another option in the area, known for its intimate setting and authentic Fado performances. The set menu costs 50 euros and includes a couvert, starter, main course, dessert, coffee, and fado show.

Want to learn more about Fado?

–> book this free walking tour with a real Fadista
–> join this guided tour that includes dinner at our recommended O Segredo D’Alfama

9. Try Ginjinha from a local source 

Ginjinha, often simply called “Ginja,” is a cherry liqueur and a symbol of Lisbon. Sipping Ginjinha in the streets of Alfama is one of the activities that you shouldn’t miss.

Made by infusing sour cherries in alcohol, Ginjinha is typically served in small shot glasses, either “com elas” (with cherries) or “sem elas” (without cherries).

In Alfama, you might across elderly women who make and sell their own Ginjinha. They might be sitting by a small table outside their doors or serving through a window. 

If you speak a bit of Portuguese, I am sure you will love to chat with these women and learn a thing or two about their secret recipes.

In case you don’t find any of these local ladies selling Ginjinha in Alfama, you can try it at A Ginjinha near Rossio Square. This is a true institution of Ginjinha in Lisbon. 

10. Unlock the secrets of São Vicente de Fora

Despite its convenient location in the heart of Alfama, most tourists miss out on the gems that are hidden inside the São Vicente de Fora. Many would appreciate the façade as they pass by or check out the church itself but there is more.

Inside the church, you will be greeted by a lavish interior decorated with altars, woodwork, and beautiful frescoes. The main altar is dedicated to Saint Vincent. The church also houses the tombs of several Portuguese kings and queens, including King Afonso VI and Queen Maria I.

The complex also includes a cloister, a chapter house, and a library. The monastery is known for its stunning tile panels, which depict scenes from the life of Saint Vincent and other biblical stories. 

You can also climb to the top of the monastery’s dome for panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. I am sure these Alfama views will take your breath away.

An adult ticket costs 8 euros, but you can get a reduced fare if you are under 25, over 65, or have a Lisbon Card. Children under the age of 12 can visit for free. It is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm and the last admission is at 5 pm.

11. Don’t miss the National Pantheon

The National Pantheon is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the historic Alfama district, this majestic building stands out with its striking white dome, which can be seen from many parts of the city.

Inside, you’ll find the final resting places of notable figures like Amália Rodrigues, the queen of Fado, and presidents such as Manuel de Arriaga and Óscar Carmona. There are also cenotaphs for Luís de Camões and Vasco da Gama, among others.

⏰ It is open from 10 am to 5 pm. The Pantheon is closed on Mondays.

💶 The entrance fee is 8 euros and you can buy your ticket here.

12. Jump on the Tram 28

When exploring the top things to do in Alfama, riding Tram 28 is on every bucket list. This tram route lets you experience the heart of the city and its beautiful sights, including some other districts, like Graça, Baixa, and Estrela. 

Tram 28 route in Alfama includes São Vicente de Fora, Portas do Sol, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and Lisbon Cathedral. If you don’t feel like jumping on the tram, you can simply follow this route and maybe snap some photos of the iconic Tram 28.

However, if you want to experience the ride on Tram 28, you will want to read these travel tips. Basically, you will want to take Tram 28 from a final stop in Campo Ourique, near the Prazeres Cemetery, and not from Martin Moniz.

Unless you are visiting Alfama early in the morning or during the low season, you probably won’t be able to jump on the Tram 28 in Alfama, so please go through the guide above and make the most of your ride.

13. Appreciate Casa dos Bicos

Located in the historic Alfama district, this remarkable structure stands out with its unusual façade, covered in diamond-shaped stones, giving it a spiky, almost otherworldly appearance. In fact, the name translates to the House of Spikes.

The design was inspired by Renaissance architecture, particularly from Italy, and was commissioned by Brás de Albuquerque, the son of a prominent Portuguese explorer.

Despite being heavily damaged in the 1755 earthquake, Casa dos Bicos was partially restored in the 20th century, preserving its iconic exterior. Today, it serves as the home of the José Saramago Foundation, celebrating the life and work of the Nobel Prize-winning author.

I recommend adding Casa dos Bicos to your Alfama itinerary. It won’t take long to appreciate its unique design, but it is definitely worth a stop.

14. Take a photo at the Escolas Gerais

Some of the most famous pictures of Tram 28 in Lisbon are taken at the Escolas Gerais street. This narrow street lies in the heart of Alfama and it’s a fantastic location to create your Lisbon postcard.

What makes it so special? The narrow bend with the colorful pastel houses and the view of the church of São Vicente de Fora perfectly captures Alfama’s vibes. Your camera can thank me later for this recommendation.

Also, if you are ready for a break, you can stop by the São Vicente Brunch&More and take one of the tables on the street. Sipping a cup of coffee as trams pass by? Doesn’t get more Alfama than that.

Read next: 10 Amazing Tram 28 Photo Spots in Lisbon

15. Find the Rua da Galé

Rua da Galé is a small alley hidden in the Alfama district. Alfama is a great place to wander around and discover secret spots in Lisbon, but I wanted to point out this location because it is tucked away and can be easily missed.

And while you are there, don’t miss Casa São Miguel. It is one of the cutest pastry shops in Lisbon and serves great quality local goodies. Initially, I wanted to add it to the list of hidden gems in Lisbon, but I feel like it has gained a lot of popularity nowadays.

Final thoughts…

This is the end of the best things to do in Alfama and I am sure you are fully prepared to explore this unique district of Lisbon. Have fun!

I would love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a comment below. If you need further help with planning, check out these Lisbon travel tips, hotel recommendations, or food guides.