Sintra:

Explore Alfama: Lisbon’s most emblematic neighborhood

There is a saying that Portuguese towns look like a bride’s wedding-day finery: something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. We will see whether this adage holds true while walking around Alfama and exploring Lisbon’s old town.

Alfama is Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhood and it is truly a feast for the eyes. It is full of brightly-painted, albeit weathered, houses with their pretty flowers bursting from balconies. Not to mention the impressive tiling that decorates almost every inch of the district, another hallmark of this particular place.

From the Rossio Train Station, we walk to Portas de Santo Antão and Rossio. Santo Antão is the liveliest area of Baixa district at night, peppered with renowned restaurants and theatres frequented by locals.

Rossio, on the other hand, is famous for its wave-patterned stone pavement which stretches the length of the square.

Continue to the heart of downtown to one of the most memorable churches in the city, Igreja de São Domingues. Built in 1241, it was the location of important events like royal weddings, inquisition trials, fairs, and markets. Despite having been nearly destroyed by two earthquakes and a massive fire, this beautiful but macabre church survives to attract more visitors each year. Its dim interior is painted a deep orange color, and it contains a mix of modern and ancient architecture, making it a truly interesting destination for any tourist.

Visit the outside of the São Vincente De Fora Monastery (Monastery of St. Vincent), one of the most important monasteries and mannerist buildings in Portugal. This magnificent place definitely represents one of the highlights of this well-organized walking tour.

Reach the Roman Theatre, where your tour guide will tell you the Roman history of Lisbon. The Roman Theatre Museum is unique as it is in two buildings in two different areas, giving visitors insight into the roots of Lisbon and a perfect example of industrial architecture.

Explore the Lisbon Castle which rises majestically above Lisbon. Learn about the turbulent history reflected throughout the Castle’s fortified battlements, medieval royal quarters, and seaward viewpoints. The latter inspired uncharted explorations in countless Portuguese kings and now affords fantastic views over the Baixa district.

We will continue our walk to Portas do Sol, or “Gate to the sun.” Located in the historical center of Lisbon, this exact spot attracts visitors from all around the world. From there, you can see amazing views across the rooftops of Alfama to the river Tagus.

From here we will visit Lisbon Cathedral, Lisbon’s most important and iconic religious building. See its exterior,  resembling a fortification more than a religious center, with massive solid walls and two imposing clock towers.
No holiday to Lisbon is complete without a visit to this wonderful ancient complex that is steeped in history.

Throughout the tour, your guide will touch on important cultural and historical influences, like Moorish rule, Lisbon’s working class, and of course, Fado music, history and culture. We will pass by Fado houses and finish our walking tour at the entrance of the Fado Museum.

The Age of Discovery In Lisbon: Private Walking tour of Belém

Join us for a walking tour of Belém, the district in Lisbon that played a significant role in the Age of Discovery. Here, you will find a perfect blend of historical landmarks, captivating museums, and immaculate parks. The district is situated along the cool waters of the Tejo estuary, making for a lovely backdrop.

Discover the history of the iconic Café Pasteis de Belém, where Catholic monks from the Jerónimos Monastery created the famous egg tarts that date back to the pre-18th century. ( Please note that during high season, we will only pass by the café from outside due to its overwhelming crowds.)

The extravagant Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a monastery funded by the 5% tax levied on spices exported to Portugal, is another landmark that adds to Belém’s reputation. Originally designed to be a modest monastery, excessive trade wealth extended its construction by 50 years, ultimately creating one of the most ornate religious buildings in Portugal. It’s no surprise that it is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

The historically significant Discoveries Monument is another landmark that commemorates the great Portuguese explorers and promotes national pride. It’s an iconic monument of Lisbon that showcases figures such as Vasco da Gama, who spent his last night in Belém before embarking on his epic journey to India.

Explore the charming Torre de Belém, a small defensive fortification that once stood at the center of the Tejo Estuary, guarding the city against sea-bound attacks. The Torre de Belém was constructed with intricate craftsmanship and adorned with beautifully carved stonework. Today, it remains an emblem of Lisbon.

Belém is also home to numerous charming cafés and restaurants, many of which offer outdoor terrace seating. Before the end of your tour, please feel free to ask your guide for recommendations on where to dine.