Lisbon · Castle, Alfama and Graça
Alfama
The oldest quarter of Lisbon, a tangle of lanes, stairs and small squares below the castle. There is no list of things to tick off here. You walk, get lost and stop for a coffee.
- 3 h 30
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Castle, Alfama and Graça
Data checked on October 4, 2026
Alfama is the district that came through the 1755 earthquake with the least damage, which is why its medieval street plan is still there. Lanes turn into stairs, houses lean over alleys, and small squares open with no warning. It is a place for walking without a route. Fado is sung in the evening, and in the morning you hear more washing lines than traffic.
What to look for
- The lanes between the cathedral and the Portas do Sol
- Tiled house fronts and washing lines
- Small squares with fado in the evening
- Miradouros at the top of the hill
Opening hours
Always open.
Source: Turismo de Lisboa (Visit Lisboa), checked October 4, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
Santa Apolónia Metro station and tram 28E are the two usual ways in, and the walk down from the castle takes about 15 minutes.
Tip
Walk it downhill from the castle. In the morning the lanes are quiet; at night fado venues open.