Welcome to one of the oldest and most authentic corners of Lisbon — Alfama. We'll begin our tour in the lively square of Rossio, right in the heart of the city. From there, our first stop will be the powerful and historic Igreja de São Domingos, a church marked by tragedy and resilience. I’ll share with you its turbulent history, from royal weddings to earthquakes and fires, and how it still stands today as a hauntingly beautiful symbol of survival.
From São Domingos, we’ll head uphill toward the impressive São Jorge Castle, where we’ll explore the exterior walls . I’ll tell you about the castle’s role in the city’s defense and the many stories it has witnessed over the centuries.
Then we descend into the heart of Alfama, a district that withstood the 1755 earthquake, preserving its narrow, winding streets and timeless charm. Did you know the name “Alfama” comes from the Arabic “Al-hamma,” meaning hot springs or baths?
As we stroll through its maze of alleys, you’ll see stunning azulejo tiles, smell the aromas of home-cooked Portuguese dishes, and hear the soulful sounds of Fado music echoing from hidden corners. We’ll pause at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon, offering a sea of red rooftops leading to the Tagus River.
Finally, we’ll end our walk at the majestic Lisbon Cathedral, where centuries of history converge.
By the end of our time together, you’ll have not just walked through Alfama, you’ll have felt its heartbeat.