Boutique design hotel in historic Alfama with stunning Tagus River views from the rooftop terrace. Modern minimalist interiors contrast beautifully with the medieval neighborhood, offering a sophisticated urban retreat.
Memmo Alfama Hotel is a boutique design property set within a cluster of restored Moorish-era buildings on Travessa das Merceeiras 27, deep in Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood. The hotel's architecture embraces Alfama's steep, labyrinthine streets: terraces cascade downward through three interconnected houses, offering unexpected sightlines over medieval rooftops, São Jorge Castle, and the broad silver curve of the Tagus River. Thirty-two rooms and suites are finished in a restrained palette of white, grey, and wood — a deliberate contrast to the colourful, fado-filled lanes outside — and feature Portuguese-designed furniture alongside contemporary bathrooms with rain showers. The rooftop bar is among the most photographed viewpoints in Lisbon, drawing guests and visitors for morning coffee, afternoon wine, and evening cocktails as the sky over the Tagus changes colour. A curated wine cellar stocking regional Portuguese bottles is accessible to guests, and the hotel partners with local food producers to offer a continental breakfast with regional cheeses, charcuterie, and pastéis de nata from a nearby traditional bakery. A dedicated concierge arranges private Fado dinners at family-run tascas, guided Alfama walking tours, and tickets to the nearby São Vicente de Fora monastery. The property is reached on foot via Alfama's stone steps or by taxi; the Santa Apolónia train station and Alfama's tram stops are both within ten minutes on foot.
Amenities
- rooftop bar
- wine cellar
- concierge
- free WiFi
- breakfast included
Location
Travessa das Merceeiras 27, 1100-348 Lisboa
38.7128, -9.1298 View on map
Highlights
- Rooftop bar with sweeping views over São Jorge Castle, Alfama, and the Tagus River
- 32 design rooms in restored Moorish-era buildings within Alfama's historic core
- Curated wine cellar showcasing Portuguese regional bottles
- Breakfast featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, and pastéis de nata from neighbourhood bakeries
- Concierge-arranged Fado dinners, walking tours, and cultural experiences in Alfama
Tips for visiting
- The rooftop bar is popular at sunset — arrive by 6 pm on summer evenings to secure a table.
- Wear flat, grip-soled shoes; the stone steps leading to the hotel become slippery after rain.
- Taxis and rideshares can drop off on Largo das Portas do Sol, a 3-minute walk away.
- Request a room on the upper floors for partial river views without sacrificing interior quiet.
- The concierge can recommend genuine Fado houses in Alfama that do not charge tourist premiums.
Accessibility
The hotel's hillside setting within Alfama's medieval street network presents significant accessibility challenges. Multiple stairways connect the buildings and terraces, and there is no lift. Guests with mobility impairments are advised to contact the hotel before booking to assess suitability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the hotel accessible by car?
Alfama's narrow medieval streets make car access to the hotel entrance impractical. Guests typically arrive by taxi to Largo das Portas do Sol and walk approximately 3 minutes along stone steps to the property.
Is breakfast included?
Breakfast is included in most room rates and is served on the terrace when weather permits, featuring regional Portuguese products.
Is the rooftop bar open to the public?
Yes, the rooftop bar is open to non-guests during service hours. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer evenings.
How far is it from Santa Apolónia station?
Santa Apolónia, Lisbon's main international and intercity rail terminal, is approximately 1 km east — around a 12-minute walk downhill through Alfama.