Alfama, Lisbon's medieval district

Incredibly charming, Alfama is a village within the city with its white houses and churches descend a hill towards Tagus river

This quaint medieval district that was once the Moorish and Jewish quarter is the oldest neighbourhood in Europe. Alfama spreads through charming streets and alleys where the eyes get lost in the magnificent views over the Tagus river.

The Portuguese capital is one of the few cities in the world that has its own music, Fado, that can be heard in every corner in Alfama. The typical Portuguese music expresses the opening of the heart by exposing emotions to the sound of a guitar. 

There is more to see than wander around the amazing alleys and taste the exquisite local gastronomy. On the belvederes of Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia, the views are breathtaking. On top of Alfama, there is the famous  Castelo de São Jorge, which is undoubtedly worth visiting on a trip to Lisbon. The main monuments are the Sé de Lisboa, the Church of Santo Estevão and the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora.

This enchanting village is not only known for its restaurants and fado houses, but also for Santos Populares, a typical Portuguese celebration held on the night of Santo António from 12th to 13th June.