Image by Rudy and Peter Skitte
Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon (the part where you’re almost always accompanied by Fado music) - a collection of narrow cobbled streets between the Moorish castle and the Tejo river and estuary. As well as the castle, this is where you’ll find the cathedral, the National Pantheon and St. Anthony’s Church - consecrated on the birthplace of the patron saint of Lisbon. The charm here is somewhat dilapidated, but the 6 best hotels in Alfama have bags of character and the location is certainly perfect if you’re here to visit historic Lisbon.
This is the kind of district you should stroll without a map. There’s so much to discover: lots of tiny plazas with adorable cafes, inventive galleries or boutiques and fantastic views - both of the river and port and of Lisbon. If you find yourself at a tram stop, catch the number 28, it’ll show you around!
The castle is certainly a highlight of Alfama, but there are several churches of great note too, plus the National Panthenon and the remains of a Roman amphitheatre, and the Museu de Artes Decorativas, which has its home in a glorious former palace. There’s also the Military Museum and a Fado Museum, as well as numerous Fado bars, plus a fantastic twice-weekly market.
The Solar do Castelo is the only hotel within the stone walls of St. George Castle. Its 20 rooms blend their original features with the modern decor beautifully - think dark wooden beamed ceilings, stone walls, heavy bricks and all the mod. cons.. There’s also a garden, a charming courtyard and Medieval remains.
Just a short distance from the coast, the Santiago de Alfama offers boutique accommodation combining old with new, whilst it's also just a short distance from many of the city's sights.
Memmo Alfama features clean lines and contemporary colours, offering great rooftop and terrace views of the city as well as the river Tagus. Minutes away from trendy Chiado and bohemian Bairro Alto.
The Palacio Belmonte is a beautiful, ten room B&B. There are fantastic sea views, in many of the rooms - including the enormous family rooms and suites, which also have original tiles, oil paintings, large marble bathrooms and private balconies. The smaller rooms and suites are just as romantic - if not more so.
The Solar dos Mouros is another ten rooms B&B, this time with breathtaking views over the castle, city and river, and walls colourful with African art and bold coloured paint.
The Hotel Convento do Salvador is a trendy hotel with contemporary styling and 43 white, minimalist rooms - the idea being not to distract you from the sea views. There’s a bar with pop-art and plenty of modern art throughout the hotel. You’re also well located, and rooms start from around £85 per night.
The Lisboans are impeccably designed apartments featuring a great balance of thoughtfully sourced artisanal and contemporary pieces, and upcycled or vintage furniture. The effect is a sophisticated home-away-from-home, with tasty breakfasts delivered each morning. A great base for discerning, independent guests.
Still not sure?
Lisbon
A unique historical setting for 14 individually decorated contemporary bedrooms. The old blends with the new - stone walls, pale woods, heavy bricks, all the mod cons. Charming inner courtyard and garden with Medieval remains. The only hotel within St. George's Castle walls.
Lisbon
Extremely attractive B&B with breathtaking views from the castle rampart over the city and the river. Colourfully decorated with walls covered in African art work. A perfect getaway for a weekend exploring.
Lisbon
One of Lisbon’s hidden secrets, this palace dating back to the 15th century offers a Lisbon of yesteryear, surrounded by bougainvillea-filled gardens and beyond that, the narrow, atmospheric, streets of Moorish Alfama. Many rooms have original tiling, oil paintings and large marble bathrooms.
Lisbon
Tucked away in the higgledy-piggledy streets of Alfama, the city’s most atmospheric district, this hotel is a surprise. Designer-cool and surprisingly large with pool and stunning views. Bright white and cream rooms and suites have wooden floors, clean lines, and private balconies.
Lisbon (2 B 1100-465 Lisboa Santa Maria Maior )
A trendy contemporary hotel in the historic Alfama district. The minimalist white washed rooms draw the eye to the stunning sea views. Unwind in the expansive lounge and slick bar, decorated with large pieces of pop-art. Walking distance to many of the cities best attractions. A chic choice.
Lisbon
A meticulously crafted boutique hotel that seamlessly combines old and new. Constructed from Roman-era ruins using the original ancient blueprint. Vibrant, hand-picked interior design by owner Heleen Uitenbroek. Extensive breakfast menu served by some of the friendliest staff in Lisbon.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.