Alfama is Lisbon's buzzing barrio
When you choose an Alfama vacation rental, you get to enjoy one of Lisbon's oldest and most atmospheric districts up close. Once one of the poorest neighborhoods, perched just outside ancient city walls, Alfama's narrow, cobbled streets are now home to buzzing bars, lux nightclubs, fabulous restaurants and artisan boutiques. From your Alfama vacation rental it's easy to experience the wonderful sights, sounds and tastes of Portugal's vibrant capital city. From eating custard tarts by the Torre de Belem, exploring the imperious 15th-century Mosteiro dos Jeronimos and Lisbon's magnificent cathedral or taking in the art collection at Museu Gulbenkian – it's all accessible from an Alfama vacation rental.
Cultural and historical attractions in Alfama
The National Fado Museum is an Alfama highlight. As well as being able to visit the museum dedicated to this most soulful of music, you can catch live concerts and Fado performances at the museum's small concert hall. History buffs will love riding the iconic yellow no 28 tram up the hillside from the heart of Alfama to the 11th-century Sao Jorge Castle. The oldest parts of its thick stone walls date back to the 6th century. It has been home to Visigoths, Romans, Moors and Portuguese royalty. Today, you'll find a small archaeological museum, a little restaurant and fabulous views of the city.
Alfama's golden views
For a great view of the neighborhood, head to Miradouro das Portas do Sol. The picturesque view over the rooftops of Alfama down towards the river from the church of Sao Vicente de Fora is well worth the uphill climb. In the corner of the square, the Museum of Decorative Arts, housed in the 17th-century Azurara Palace, offers a glimpse into aristocratic life in the 18th and 19th centuries, including beautiful tiles and tapestries. Close by, the balcony of Miradouro de Santa Luzia delivers similarly spectacular views of Alfama and the river – can you spot your own Alfama vacation rental among the tangle of rooftops?
Seasonal events near Alfama
In spring, the colorful parades and fireworks of Carnaval draw crowds to Lisbon. But the city hosts a packed itinerary of events, live music, artistic performances and festivals throughout the year. Two of the most popular are the Super Bock Super Rock festival in Parque De Nacoes and NOS Alive festival just outside town on the Oeiras coast, both held annually in July. An Alfama vacation rental is perfect for enjoying any of these events, but it really comes into its own in June, when Alfama celebrates St Anthony. Balconies are decked in lights and streamers and the air is fragrant with the smell of fresh, oily fish grilling on churrascos outside neighborhood restaurants.
