Alfama

Alfama is one of the few parts of Lisbon to escape damage during the 1755 earthquake. It is picturesque with narrow winding streets and flowers flowing over balconies. Around every corner, you can find beautiful sights reminding you of its fishing port heritage and Arabic influence. This humble neighborhood was once the most desirable quarter of Lisbon. During the middle ages the wealthy residents for fear of earthquakes moved away from Alfama leaving it for the fishermen and peasants. Restoration is underway but despite the modernization, the quarter still retains a largely traditional life of its fishing community, compact houses lining steep streets and stairways with washing strung on patios.

The Castelo de Sao Jorge is atop Lisbon’s eastern hill. What was once a royal palace is now a popular promenade and attracts a lot of visitors. To the northeast is Santa Engrácia, a mannerist church with a vast dome which was finally completed in 1967. It was later modified in the 18th century in baroque style. It houses cenotaphs of important personalities in Portuguese history such as Vasco da Gama, Luis Vas de cameos and Afonso de Albuquerque. Inside, the giant cupola emanates a feeling of space. An elevator up to the dome provides a fantastic 360-degree panorama of the city.

There are a number of interesting sights around Alfama, The Feira da Ladra, Lisbon's flea market, draws a crowd to the Campo de Santa Clara. The richly ornamented lgreja de Santo António da Sé was built in 1812 in St Antonio's alleged birthplace. The saint's feast day is Lisbon's largest holiday. In the square beyond the church is a 12th-century cathedral known as the Sé. The sheer antiquity and relic filled treasury makes it an interesting visit.

The Castelo de São Jorge is a beautiful castle which offers spectacular views of Lisbon and the ocean. This castle was the home of the royal family from the 14th to 16th centuries. The Museu das Artes Decorativas is an art museum with rooms filled with impressive furnishings, decorations and art which convey a feel of the 18th-century palatial luxury.