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Old Lisbon: Alfama and Sao Jorge neighborhood 3-Hour Walking Tour

About this experience

Join us on a trip to the Castelo São Jorge’s (Saint-George’s Castle) neighborhood and the Lisbon Cathedral overlooking the Tagus River and the oldest quarter of Lisbon.

This tour takes you back to the Roman times with its amphitheater and the thermal waters of Alfama, named later on “Al-Hamma” by the Moors.

This quaint part of the city remains an authentic labyrinth of alleys, interior patios, stairways, and tiny squares.

Judaism, Islam, and Christianism are still the three major religions in Portugal.

Alfama was also a fisherman district. Its spirit oozes on every corner where Fado sings. This walking tour takes you to the most authentic local life of the city.

At a glance

  • Duration: 3 hr

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

OLD LISBON FR 2023
Old Lisbon - FR: Explore Lisbons oldest and most charming areas on a 3-hour french guided tour of the Alfama and São Jorge Castle.
OLD LISBON PT 2023
OLD LISBON ESP 2023
Afternoon departure in Spanish: Explore Lisbons oldest and most charming areas on a 3-hour Spanish guided tour of the Alfama and São Jorge Castle.
OLD LISBON ALE 2023
German guided tour: Explore Lisbons oldest and most charming areas on a 3-hour German guided tour of the Alfama and São Jorge Castle. Enjoy panoramic views of the Tagus River and city center.
OLD LISBON ING 2023
English guided tour: Explore Lisbons oldest and most charming areas on a 3-hour English guided tour of the Alfama and São Jorge Castle. Enjoy panoramic views of the Tagus River and city center.

Plan your experience

Time on the tour3 hr
Guide languagesGerman (live guide), Portuguese (live guide), English (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • Professional guide
  • Liability and personal accident insurance
  • Entrance and guided tour at Lisbon Cathedral
  • Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) - Mask and Desinfectant gel

Not included

  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks

Itinerary and highlights

Discover Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood on a half-day tour of Alfama, following the path of the city walls and Moorish castle of São Jorge.

Meet at the historic Casa dos Bicos (“House of the Spikes”), built around 1523 and a rare survivor of the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake. See evidence of the old Roman salting tanks at the Cetária.

Next, go to Lisbon Cathedral, built in the 12th century and modified in a mix of architectural styles. Enjoy panoramic views from the Portas do Sol belvedere.

Travel back to Roman times, when Lisbon was known as “Olisipo,” and learn how the Romans discovered the thermal waters of Alfama before the Muslims gave them the name “Al-Hamma.”

Wander a labyrinth of alleys and interior patios to discover secret stairways and hidden squares that lead to what used to be Lisbon's Jewish Quarter. Learn about the birth of Fado music, and experience one of the city's oldest customs as you pass through Largo do Chafariz de Dentro.

Visit Castle's quartiers

Along the way, learn about the origins of the city and experience the daily lives of its residents. Your guide will also advise you on the best places to visit for the rest of your stay.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Directions: Campo das Cebolas: Casa dos Bicos...It is the house covered in spikes

Languages and tickets

  • German — Guide
  • Portuguese — Guide
  • English — Guide
  • French — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Lisboa Autêntica

Accessibility and practical details

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Tour available in multiple languages, please select at time of booking

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 3 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
Which guide languages are listed?
German (live guide), Portuguese (live guide), English (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 1–12; Adult tickets: age 13+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Service animals allowed
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveller reviews and photos

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