Alfama District: Tours and Guided Visits

The steep twisting streets of Alfama are a maze of treasures and charm. This once-derelict district has taken on a whole new life with an artistic flair and eclectic spirit.

It is loaded with historic gems but navigating the complicated network of cobbled alleys is no small feat.

Instead, join a guided tour through the Alfama District in Lisbon to see every precious corner and make your way through this striking neighborhood in the most efficient way.

Continue reading to find out more about Alfama District, one of the most captivating options for sightseeing tours in Lisbon.

What are the best Alfama District tours in Lisbon?

There are several tour options to discover the magic of the Alfama District.

Alfama District walking tour

An Alfama District walking tour is one of the most popular ways to explore the neighborhood. Despite its steep inclines, it is still a walkable area and there is plenty to uncover including Sé Cathedral and Praça do Comércio.

Learn about Portuguese culture, and the history of the city and the country and soak in marvelous views across the city. Join a group excursion in the Alfama District or book a private guide for a customizable and intimate experience.

Alfama District Segway tour

A Segway tour of the Alfama District is the best way to explore this hilly neighborhood.

Uncover the Moorish architecture and vibrant spirit of Old Lisbon with ease as you whip up the steep hills with ease thanks to your trusted 2-wheeled steed.

Conquer the hill to reach São Jorge Castle and wind back down through the Mouraria neighborhood, taking in all the small charming details of the city along the way.

You can also book this as a private tour if you enjoy a more personalized experience.

Alfama District tuk tuk tour

Forget about breaking a sweat as you try and defeat the hills of Alfama and hop on board a nippy tuk tuk for an effortless tour.

Meet your guide in the center of the city or arrange hotel pickup and simply sit back to enjoy an engaging and stress-free tour of the Alfama District.

Your guide will give running commentary as you pass by the city’s top attractions and make your way into Alfama.

Alfama District foodie tour

Combine your love for food and your fascination with history by taking a food tour of the Alfama District.

This is one of the top social areas of Lisbon and you can choose to eat your way through the neighborhood while whizzing around on a Segway or take it slow with a nightlife-tasting tour.

Indulge in bites like Salada de Bacalhau and sip on Ginjinha while learning about the city’s history and culture.

Tram 28 tour

Explore the many hills of Lisbon the old-school way by electric tram on a Tram 28 tour.

Enjoy panoramic views over the city without having to make the treacherous hike by foot. You can book a 24-hour ticket to hop-on and hop-off as you please or book a guided tour to understand the historical context of the charming sights on your route.

Tickets for the Tram 28 tour also give you access to all the other trams and funiculars in the city, including the Santa Just elevator.

What are the highlights in the Alfama District?

A tour of the Alfama District takes you to all the nooks and crannies of one of Lisbon’s most beautiful districts.

You will pass by landmarks like the Lisbon Castle and the Roman Amphitheater as well as the cathedral and several notable attractions.

The most important part of a tour in the Alfama District is feeling the infectious spirit of Lisbon and appreciating all the small details that make this neighborhood so captivating.

What are the prices of Alfama District tours in Lisbon?

Walking tours in the Alfama District is the least expensive and there are free walking tours available.

For a more comprehensive experience, book a guided walking tour for around €20 per person on €120 for a private group booking of up to 6 people.

Food tours in the Alfama District cost between €70 and €80 per person and include a select few food samples and drinks along the way.

Segway tours in the Alfama District are ultra-popular and cost around €50 per person or you can pay €140 per person for a longer private tour.

Booking a tuk-tuk is also a convenient way to explore the neighborhood and it costs €170 for a private ride for up to 6 people.

What is included?

Basic walking tours only include a guide to take you through the neighborhood. If you book a Segway tour you will have the use of a Segway and a helmet and you will have a safety demonstration before starting the tour.

Some tours offer a coupon for a beer after your tour but this is dependent on the tour operator. Food tours do include a few drinks and snacks as you discover the gems of Alfama.

Where do Alfama District tours start?

Tours in the Alfama District all have different starting points but they are all centrally located. Popular starting points include various places along Rua dos Fanqueiros or a landmark like Rossio Square. Your guide will be easy to spot with a bright umbrella, a sign or a bright item of clothing.

How long do they usually last?

The shortest tour in Alfama District is a 1-hour walking tour.

There are walking tours as long as 3 hours too, depending on your interests and the route you want to follow.

Segway tours also range from 1.5-2.5 hours while food tours usually last 3 hours.

When is the best time to go on an Alfama District tour in Lisbon?

Book your tour of Alfama as one of the first excursions you take to get a good idea of the city’s layout and culture. These tours are best in the morning before it is too hot as a lot of walking is involved.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes to walk the steep hills.
• Bring a water bottle along- you can refill it as the free public drinking fountains.
• Look at the weight and height restrictions of Segway tours before booking- they are usually capped at 110 kg.
• Notify your tour operator if you have dietary restrictions if you are taking a food tour.