Alfama 

Modern Lisbon came about as a direct result of the 1755 Earthquake, which completely leveled most of the city. Except for Alfama. If you want to know Lisbon before the grand squares, go get lost in Alfama’s warren of narrow streets. Settled by in the Bronze Age, and then by the Romans (followed by the Visigoths) before becoming a Jewish district before they the 15th-century purge (much of Lisbon’s history is not great), Alfama’s twists and turns are from another time.

Lifelong residents and first-time visitors stroll the streets here. The area has gentrified quite a bit, but still retains its sense of history and tradition. You can hear it in the Fado music. Here is where you will find some of Lisbon’s greatest hits, as well a delicious place to get lost.