We're looking for our 4-night airbnb rental in Lisbon, and we notice that Rick's guidebook seems to favor staying in Baixa or Chiado neighborhoods. But my wife and I are intrigued by the old, tangled streets of Alfama. We like medieval areas. I'm wondering if the disadvantage of the Alfama is because it's farther from the main train station (we'll be flying into Lisbon and, on our way out, taking the train to Coimbra) and maybe a little more difficult to find and get to the apartment, and also a little farther from the top sights, or if it's because the neighborhood can maybe be a little seedy at night. I'm just curious if anyone has stayed in Alfama and what you thought about it. In our four days in Lisbon, we will visit Sintra and go to Belem but otherwise mostly just eat and wander our way through the various neighborhoods: Barrio Alto, Biaxa, Chiado, and Alfama.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1826 posts
The biggest challenge of Alfama is less public transport and the hills - plus, more tourists crammed into the small streets. I don’t think there is an issue with safety - other than pickpockets. If you are prepared for the hills, it would likely be a fine place to stay - especially if you like old areas.
Posted by
Guernsey
741 posts
We stayed there and loved it☺️
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
1715 posts
We did not stay in the Alfama, but our day spent visiting the Sao Jorge Castle and wandering through the Alfama was our favorite day/experience in Lisbon. We were there in April 2018. The area around the castle was crowded, but once we ventured further away from the castle, there were very few tourists. The narrow lanes were not crowded at all; in fact, most people we saw were locals. We bought the ginginja (cherry liqueur) from a woman who set up a small table under a tree. Saw clothes drying outside on clotheslines; young children playing outside; heard radios/tv's coming from open apartment windows. We sort of followed Rick's walking tour through the Alfama.
Regarding transportation, taxis are very inexpensive in Lisbon.
Posted by
Calgary, AB, Canada
567 posts
I've stayed twice in what is either the Alfama, or close to, depending on maps. We were near the Sao Jorge Castle, just below it. We like the area, we have not found it seedy, but mostly quiet at night. The only thing I'd suggest is looking at where in the Alfama it is. Part of the area is now close to the cruise ship terminal, and I noticed was quite busy in the day. If you get a bit up the hill you are better.
Posted by
OP
Irvine, CA, United States
28 posts
Thank you for all the thoughtful responses. I like the idea of staying on old, narrow, hilly streets away from the tourist crowds. But I will check the proximity to the cruise terminal and/or the cruise schedule before making any selection. Appreciate all the comments. ... Keep on travelin'!