Travel to Lisbon Portugal and Discover the enchanting ancient Alfama district. I walked the maze of cobblestone streets with the taxi’s yielding to the trams bustling up and down the streets. Sunset is getting close and I wanted to have a premium view over Lisbon. I had lingered a bit longer than anticipated at the perfect street side cafe for a lite Mediterranean dinner. Now I need to make my way to Castelo de S. Jorge for an evening atop a hill with a royal sunset view. I would hear the strum of the mandolin and soulful Fado singing fading in and out as I climbed the hilly alleyways of Alfama. With the windows wide open on this last day of May, each dinner show held a packed house captivated by the unique Fado artist entertainment. Rounding a corner on these ancient narrow streets, I quickly turned to stand sideways against the buildings and pause as I watched the iconic Lisbon tram wisk on. The Alfama district dates back before 711 when the Moors settled here. Little has changed in the labyrinth of narrow alleys and streets. A unique and charming neighborhood, it is the oldest settlement in Lisbon.
Arriving at the Castelo just in time for sunset, I saw peacocks strolling the beautiful gardens and enjoyed beautiful view over Lisbon and the waterfront. The Castelo and surroundings is an 11th century Moorish royal residence with a citadel and an architectural museum surrounded by beautiful gardens. Daylight is still on my side so I shopped and meandered down the cobbled streets and hidden alleyways to the waterfront. I passed ancient homes 3 stories high covered entirely in tiles, entire walls covered in tiles in painted to tell a story of fishing or battle. Tiles naming every historic site I passed, tiles everywhere! This viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Luzia was a beautiful magic hour with lights shimmering on the water and live music coming from outdoor cafe’s and a cool ocean breeze. My hotel just around the corner was recently renovated with views that glide toward the sea, tram stop 28 right here and an ancient Roman excavation site that is also a museum.
Must try: Portuguese pastel de nata. This tasty treat is so popular that no eatery can survive without them. Other fantastic Portuguese cuisine with fresh fish and also influenced by Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy a lavish meal serving authentic delicious Portuguese cuisine with famous Fado music! Something you will only experience in Portugal!
Portuguese are proud, friendly and welcoming. I look forward to my next time in Lisbon!
