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.
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 : Friday 7th Jun 20242:30 PM
Next departure in Spanish : Friday 7th Jun 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 ComércioOpen in Google Maps
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Customer reviews
Superb Tour of the Alfama region with Fred!!
We signed up for the Alfama Tour with Sandemans after we enjoyed the free tour of Lisbon the morning before. We paid 14€ for the tour and I have to say that it was worth every penny as it was amazing! Learnt a lot about the history of Alfama, met amazing local people of Portugal and managed to try some of the local food+drinks as well, which was not included in the tour price. Our tour guide Fred was so friendly and made everything about the tour very personal and engaging! He was very passionate about his stories and did everything he could to make the tour great for us! Highly recommended tour!!! Make time for it!!!
We had a wonderful time with Sandemans. We did the free tour with Sophia, and the Alfamatour with Fred. I would highly recommend them both. We have done Sandemans tours all over Europe, and I can say that Lisbon is among my favorites.
I've done Alfama tour with Rita and what an experience it was! She's a charismatic and authentic character who with passion tells about this hidden gem and takes you to those narrow streets that only locals know. Expect to try local ginja (cherry brandy) for 1€ a shot which is delicious. Great value for money!
Really enjoyed our tour of the Alfama with Fred. He is very passionate and funny and keeps you interested. It felt like a more homey, beyond the scenes, local tour of Alfama. We got to experience local things that we would not have tried on our own. He makes an effort to amazingly remember everyone’s names and where they are from right from the beginning. Exploring Alfama would not have been as enriching if we were on our own. Definitely recommend this tour!
Awesome tour with Rita! Super friendly, energetic, and knowledgeable about the city of Lisbon. Rita kept everyone involved by asking “quiz” questions which made things fun. Her English is excellent and she was extremely professional. Answered all questions and shared numerous stories about Lisbon’s past. Highly recommend! She made us want to stay for her next tour in Alfama. She is amazing!! Go Rita!
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
Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Lisbon's fascinating history and must-see sites with your private ...
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€ 350
Customise Your Private Tour!
Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.
Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Lisbon's fascinating history and must-see sites with your private ...
Info & Booking
€ 350
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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