The Alfama district is one of the oldest areas in Lisbon. The streets of Alfama are circuitous, tangled, narrow, and hilly. Walking this neighborhood, you can get completely lost in the crazy web of narrow windy streets, but that is part of fun as a traveler. The district extends from the São Jorge Castle and the Rio Tejo or Tagus river, so keeping the river in mind, you cannot get truly lost.

The Baixa district is over 2000 years old, and is named after the architect who designed many of its elegant buildings. This neighborhood is Lisbon’s true downtown area with shopping, dining, and hotels. It is conveniently located between Alfama, Chaido and Bairro Alto, with easy access to transportation and landmarks. The main street Rua Augusta leads to the Triumpal arch and the Commercial Plaza-—a large and beautiful public square on the waterfront.

Bairro Alto dates back to the 1500s and has traditionally been the city’s bohemian haunt. The streets are cobbled and the buildings have facades that are beautifully decorated in ceramic tile and are colorfully painted with graffiti. The Bairro Alto comes alive at night teeming with people enjoying the dining scene and Fado restaurants or “casa de Fado.” Plus, two of the city’s most beautiful churches are located in this neighborhood: São Roque with its magnificent baroque interior and the romantic gothic ruins of Carmo Church.

The Chiado district is centrally located in the historic center of Lisbon. It is over 2000 years old and has been inhabited since Roman times, but today, it is known for its historic landmarks and churches, former convents, luxury shopping, and two notable museums including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Archaeological Museum.

For centuries Belem was the launching off place for explorers and navigators leaving Lisbon on perilous voyages to far off places. Today, it has much to offer and see, and makes for a great and worthy day trip. There are several important landmarks including the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, the Belem Palace (the official residence of the President of Portugal), a beautiful park, and two excellent museums—the National Coach Museum and the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT). Be sure to enjoy a long stroll along the waterfront of the Tagus River. Belém is easily reached from the city center by train, bus or tram.