Hidden Lisbon Tour: Alfama & the Walled City
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start your journey at Lisbon’s iconic Praça do Comércio, the city’s grand riverside square full of history and charm. From here, we wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood.
As we explore its maze of alleys, we’ll uncover traces of the city’s many layers — from hidden walls behind modern façades to ruins preserved beneath the surface. We’ll step into ancient spaces beneath churches and find secret corners where unexpected stories await. Who knows what secrets lie behind doors we open, what tales are hidden behind façades, or what remnants of the past rest beneath our feet?
Along the way, you’ll hear legends and mysteries that reveal Lisbon’s hidden past and the secrets it still holds.
This walk is not just about monuments, but about feeling the true soul of Lisbon — a city full of surprises, history, and hidden corners in every alley.
We finish at the beautiful Miradouro da Graça, the perfect spot to take in the charm of Lisbon.
Available options
Hidden Lisbon Tour: Alfama & the Walled City
What's included
Guided walking tour with a local expert — full of history, culture, and stories.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Lisbon’s grand riverside square, once the site of the royal palace and now a symbol of the city’s rebirth after the 1755 earthquake.
2
Beneath this modern car park lies something unexpected — a surprising archaeological secret from Lisbon’s distant past.
3
A 16th-century building with a striking diamond-shaped façade, now home to the José Saramago Foundation.
4
A restored gateway that once connected the medieval city to the river, echoing the days of old Lisbon.
5
Stop 5
Built on the birthplace of Lisbon’s patron saint, combining Baroque and neoclassical styles.
6
Stop 6
The city’s oldest church, a majestic blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture.
7
Stop 7
Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, traditional Fado music, and Moorish roots.
8
A hidden archway marking one of the ancient entrances to Alfama, steeped in medieval atmosphere.
9
Stop 9
A small but beautiful church at the heart of Alfama, known for its devotion and simplicity.
10
Stop 10
A favorite local spot for sunset views over Lisbon, with a relaxed atmosphere and sweeping vistas of the castle and river.
11
Stop 11
One of Lisbon’s most iconic viewpoints, offering panoramic views over Alfama, the Tagus River, and red-tiled rooftops
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Spot our guide easily – just look for someone in a green shirt or coat, with a Lisbon Free Tours identification badge, stationed right in front of the Lisboa Story Centre.
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
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