Alfama: The Kaleidoscopic District - Private Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Alfama is where it all started, the oldest and most picturesque district of Lisbon. The core of the old town was built and enlarged, then shaken and destroyed, reborn and rebuilt again, only to start all over again, for more than two thousand years.
That’s why we propose an unusual tour, with a good deal of improvisation and a handful of dazzling discoveries. All-time favorites include a restaurant framed by Roman walls, public restrooms six feet below -with a residential building inside-, a majestic royal palace converted into a dark prison, or a collection of decorative tiles that no one knows (not even thieves) whether they are cheap replicas or precious originals. By the way, does anyone still live in what increasingly resembles an amusement park for tourists?
Available options
Alfama: The Kaleidoscopic District - Private Walking Tour
Option 1: 3 hr walking tour
What's included
Local guide
Professional local photographer guide
Private walking tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Ore first stop offers an open view over Alfama whimsical skyline, the majestic Straw River and its South Bank
2
Stop 2
First and only Romanesque monument remaining in town, the Lisbon Cathedral is half a church, half a fortress. Some say it's almost a new medieval cathedral, as it was radically rebuilt in the 30's of the 20th century.
3
An awesome medieval fake window, opened in south wall of the Cathedral's Cloister and, on the other side of the road, a XIXth century smithy with a facade covered with rare ceramic tiles
4
A place of miracles and public hangings. One of the best fado houses and also a wonderful baroque small church are just around the corner
5
Stop 5
That's where you finally found out what "Alfama" means, in the midst of a dazzling urban puzzle, including a fado restaurant with an archaeological museum inside
6
One of the rare surviving manor houses of the Age of Maritime Exploration, now also hosting Foundation José Saramago. Astonishing archeological findings in the ground floor.
7
Stop 7
The old Onion Market now converted into a garden and all the refurbished shops around it. At this very moment, it's certainly one of the most lively places in town.
8
One of the 12 doors that where daily opened in Medieval Lisbon, framed by two noble houses, one waiting to be refurbished, the other a five stars hotel with its own archeological treasures
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Use of bicycle
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
9 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
I'll wait for you next St. Vincent statue
Important notes
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
About Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm climate. With its charming streets, historic trams, and breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.
Top Attractions
Belém Tower
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century tower is an iconic symbol of Lisbon's Age of Discoveries.
Historical
1-2 hours
€6
Alfama District
Lisbon's oldest district, known for its narrow, winding streets, Fado music, and historic charm.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Sintra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra is a romantic town with stunning palaces and castles.
Historical
Full day
Varies by attraction, around €10-€15 per site
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bacalhau à Brás
Shredded codfish with eggs, potatoes, and onions
Main Dish
Contains fish and eggs
Pastel de Nata
Custard tart with a flaky pastry crust
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Francesinha
A sandwich with meat, cheese, and a beer-based sauce
Main Dish
Contains meat, cheese, and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in Sintra
Surfing in Ericeira
Parasailing in Cascais
Beach lounging in Costa da Caparica
Spa day in a luxury hotel
Picnic in Jardim da Estrela
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending Fado performances
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time, WET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Humberto Delgado Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Santa Apolónia, Oriente
By bus
Sete Rios, Jardim do Campo Grande, Gare do Oriente
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and clean, with four lines connecting major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alfama
Baixa
Bairro Alto
Day trips
Sintra
25 km from Lisbon • Full day
A romantic town with stunning palaces, castles, and lush gardens.
Cascais
30 km from Lisbon • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Óbidos
80 km from Lisbon • Full day
A medieval town with a well-preserved castle, narrow streets, and charming shops.
Festivals
Santos Populares • June 13th
Festival dos Oceanos • June to September
Arraial do Alfoz • June to September
Pro tips
- Visit the Time Out Market for a variety of local and international cuisines
- Take a day trip to Sintra and Cascais for a mix of history and beach relaxation
- Explore the LX Factory for a unique shopping and dining experience
- Ride the historic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city
- Visit the MAAT museum for a blend of art, architecture, and technology
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
