Published on Apr, 2024
Our guide Daniel met us at the meeting place promptly and told us what to expect for the tour. Since we have a slight mobility problem, we adjusted the walking tour. We went through the old Moorish part of the city and went up to a scenic spot that gave us a panoramic view. Daniel pointed out many points of interest and explained the historical significance. He introduced us to a very charming man who has opened a small tavern since 1974 and served us a wonderful sour cherry liquor, ginghua, and told us some stories regarding Sr. Antonio. We then continued our tour to the Alfama district and showed us the area where Fado was born in the early 1800s. He told us about the origin and some of the godfathers and divas of Fado. The music has a rich history rooted in the pain and passion of the people in Alfama, and Daniel expressed it in his narrative. We then proceeded to a small restaurant that serves typical Portuguese food and drinks and features performances by leading Fdo artists, including one of the co-owners. We were fortunate to be there on a night when the artist playing the Portuguese guitar who happened to be a godfather of Fado who had accompanied the "second Diva" of Fado. During the entire dinner and performances, Daniel discussed the pieces being performed and why he had the tour company allow him to select this restaurant, and Fado show over "touristy" spots. Daniel is truly a gem of a guide, and we highly recommend his Fado and Dinner walk excursion when in Lisbon.
