Alfama district

The Alfama district in Lisbon can be called the soul of the city. It is not only the oldest and most typical district of Lisbon but also the second oldest district in Europe, after El Pópulo in the Spanish city of Cadiz.
The name of the area comes from the Arabic al-hamma, which means "baths" or "fountains". Even today, despite the influx of tourists, the Alfama area resembles a villa within the city, not only because of its typical architecture but also because of the old-timers - mostly old, poor Lisbon families live.
The Alfama area survived the 1755 earthquake.
Alfama is made up of narrow streets and alleys that run up and down, with buildings closely aligned with azulejo ceramic tiles. From here opens onto the Tagus River. We recommend the viewpoints Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia.
In the Alfama area, there are many tashek (small restaurants) where you can listen to traditional Fado chanting and music in the evenings. In June, a major holiday is held here in honour of the patron saint of the city of Santo António - Feshtas Populares. During this period, the area is filled with noise, fun and the smell of grilled sardines, a traditional dish.
The Alfama area is also home to the Castle of St. George, the Sé Cathedral, the churches of Santo Estêvão and São Vicente de Fora, as well as the National Pantheon, under whose walls are the most famous flea market in Lisbon - Feira da Ladra.
Despite the fact that the atmosphere in Alfama reigns as if you were in a few centuries ago, it is a safe area visited by both Portuguese and foreign tourists.
There are several attractions in Alfama: we recommend everyone to see the National Pantheon and visit the Church of St. Anthony and the Cathedral of Se. In the area, tourists have an excellent opportunity to ride an old tram, visit a flea market, and in the evening, look into a restaurant and listen to fado - a national romance. Travellers have advised to go to Alfama in comfortable shoes and spend at least 2 hours visiting this place.

How to get to the Alfama district in Lisbon
Metro station Baixa-Chiado or Terreiro do Paço blue line Azul, then walk or take tram 28.