Tours & activities in Lisbon

Alfama Free Walking Tour

See the original Lisbon district and meet the locals of Alfama

ABOUT THE Alfama Free Walking Tour

Join us as we explore the oldest and most atmospheric area in Lisbon. The only part of the city to survive the Great Earthquake of 1755, we descend the hills through Alfama's ancient narrow streets and staircases, which create a uniquely charming district throwing back to the Lisbon of old.

 

Your 2.5-hour Alfama district tour starts by the monument at Praça do Comércio and usually finishes by Lisbon Cathedral. Weave your way past the monastery, the cathedral, the castle and more, all of which have been silent witness to past glory and tragedy, which have given way to the birth of the nation of Portugal. We never cancel; tours run rain, hail or shine.

 

Discover the origins of Lisbon

On this tour you will walk along the tiny streets of Alfama, and will be transported back in time to a city of old. You will see the Lisbon Cathedral, which was built in the 12th century, the Moorish walls of the St. George Castle, and you'll see some of the best views of the city.

The old buildings and walls however, are not the most authentic part of this district; make sure you look up and wave at the friendly locals watching you from their balconies. Many of them have been living in the area for generations and are very fond of the guides we work with, so do not be surprised if they come out to say hello!

Fado and the culture of Alfama

Fado is a melancholic but beautiful traditional Portuguese genre of music that originated from the streets of Alfama. There is no word in English that describes it, so the only way to experience it is to have a listen for yourself. Your guide will go through the history of Fado and point you in the direction of the best bars to hear it.

Free Tour concept

The tips-based model of the Free Tour allows guests to support and reward only the highest quality tours, and to ensure that the tour fits within their expectations, and within their budget.

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Image for meeting point

The Alfama Walking Tour starts by the monument at Praça do Comércio

  • Walk along the walls of the Moorish St. George’s Castle
  • See the oldest church in the city, Lisbon Cathedral
  • Explore the historical area of Campo das Cebolas
  • Learn about the human rights efforts of the José Saramago Foundation
  • Visit St Anthony’s Church, the birthplace of the saint
  • Learn about the history of traditional Portuguese Fado music
  • Take in the views of the old city at Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia
  • Discover the legend of the Seven Hills

TOUR SCHEDULES

Today

This tour doesn‘t run today

Next departure in English : Wednesday 24th Jan 20242:30 PM
Next departure in Spanish : Saturday 27th Jan 20243:00 PM
PHOTOS
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
  • Local English-speaking guide
What’s not included
  • Gratuities for the guide (optional)
Additional Information
  • Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible
  • Our business is connecting great guides and smart travelers, and we're proud that so many local guides employ us to welcome travelers like you on their journey through some of the world's best cities. No two tours are alike, and the sites, stories, and length of the tour will vary depending on what your freelance guide decides is best. That's why the tours we promote never get stale or feel scripted, and why both independent guides and savvy travelers prefer SANDEMANs
MAP
The Alfama Tour starts by the monument at Praça do Comércio Open in Google Maps
Tour start Tour starts here
End start Tour usually ends here
Tour usually covers

Customer reviews

What is a Free Tour?

 

The Free Tour is the best introduction to Lisbon! A general overview tour including many of the highlights of the city, the Free Tour usually lasts around 3 hours and is provided by a local freelance guide in partnership with SANDEMANs NEW Europe, so tour content can vary depending on your guide’s particular area of interest and expertise.

The Free Tour is a walking tour with no need for public transport and is designed for independent travellers, not groups. You can book your spot in advance online or simply show up at the start point on the day. There is no payment necessary at the start of the tour but you are welcome to tip your guide at the end!

We believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Lisbon's best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style. They'll never pressure you to tip; we believe that, if money is given, it should be voluntary and in direct proportion to the quality of the tour and the budget of the traveller.

Why join the SANDEMANs FREE Tour?

  • Expert local guides
  • Theme specific tours
  • Location specific tours
  • The Free Tour is guaranteed to fit within your budget
  • The guides performing tips-based Free Tours are incentivized to perform every time

WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN LISBON

  • Free Tours
  • Private Tours

Participation in tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe is strictly on a voluntary basis. Neither SANDEMANs NEW Europe, nor the self-employed freelance guides who are the providers of the tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe, will be held responsible in any way for injuries to body or property incurred during tours. The tour guides reserve the right to deny participation in any tour, to any person, for any reason. Thank you for your understanding.

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