The most traditional and oldest neighbourhood of Lisboa composed of a maze of narrow streets, tortuous alleys and steep flights of stairs. It’s the birthplace of ‘Fado’, a traditional song of Lisbon, wish UNESCO classifies as World Cultural Heritage. Alfama is known internationally for its Fado Houses and the Popular Saints’ Festival held in Lisbon throughout June.
The main area of interest is Praça do Comércio, one of the largest squares in Europe, and for many centuries, the main entrance of the city of Lisboa. With a marvellous view of the Tagus River, it extends to the unmissable Cais das Colunas. This square is full of terraces and restaurants where you can enjoy the landscape and Lisboa’s pace. To get to the city center, you must go through the Arc de Triomphe and walk along Augusta street.
Considered the ‘Heart’ of Lisboa. The Baixa neighbourhood was reconstructed after the massive earthquake of 1755 with neoclassical-style buildings and innovative anti-seismic structures. Its streets are covered in Portuguese pavement, a traditional-style pavement made with small flat pieces of stones arranged in a pattern or image, like a mosaic.
Chiado was refurbished as a project of the Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, after a great fire in 1988. It became the place of choice for many intellectuals and artists of the new generation. Chiado has an eclectic mix between contemporary and traditional shops, but also a strong historical and cultural component.
The most picturesque districts of Lisboa where the coexistence of older and younger people originated a peculiar atmosphere. This is reflected in the local businesses: you will find small shops, designers’ ateliers and tattoos and piercings parlors. Bairro Alto is also famous for its many restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Have fun on the night of Lisboa!
Belém is the launching point for the Portuguese discoveries, with significant historic monuments in a beautiful open riverside setting. Here you can visit the Belem Tower, the Discoveries Monument, visit the church of the Jerónimos Monastery and taste the world-famous “Pastel de Belém”.
