Exploring the 15 Most Beautiful Castles in Portugal
Portugal, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Among its most captivating sights are the castles that dot the country’s rolling hills and rugged coastlines. These fortresses, steeped in history and romance, offer glimpses into Portugal’s storied past.
Here, we explore fifteen of the most beautiful castles in Portugal, each with its unique charm and historical significance. This list of the 15 best castles in Portugal includes a medieval castle, a national monument, a royal palace, a military fortification, and archaeological finds. Read on to find out more about Portugal’s Most Beautiful Castles.
A brief history about the First King of Portugal:
Afonso I, also known as D. Afonso Henriques, was the first King of Portugal, reigning from 1139 to 1185. Born in 1109, he was the son of Count Henry of Burgundy and Teresa of León. Afonso I played a pivotal role in establishing Portugal’s independence from the Kingdom of León, notably achieving a decisive victory at the Battle of Ourique in 1139. Following this triumph, he declared himself King of Portugal, a title later recognized by the Pope in 1179. His reign laid the foundation for the nation’s sovereignty and expansion, marking the beginning of a new era in Portuguese history. Afonso I’s leadership and military prowess are celebrated for forging the path to a unified and independent Portuguese kingdom. Many magnificent castles were built during his reign.
Logistics
Renting a Car to Visit the Castles
The best way to travel at your own pace to these beautiful castles and the surrounding areas is by renting a car. We always rent vehicles from Discover Cars, which is super easy and affordable. Discover Cars is a great place to rent a car. Rental Car,
Our favorite car rental aggregator is DISCOVER CARS. Click HERE to get the best rates on car rentals. DISCOVER CARS LINK
1. Castle of São Jorge (Castelo de São Jorge aka São Jorge Castle)
Located in the heart of Lisbon, the Castle of São Jorge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal’s capital. Perched atop a hill, it offers panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. The castle’s origins date back to the Moorish occupation in the 11th century. Today, its well-preserved ramparts, towers, and gardens attract countless visitors eager to step back in time.
How to get here: Walk the steep hills of Alfama to reach this castle or take a rideshare or bus 737 from Praça da Figueira
Hot tip: This is one of my favorite viewpoints of Lisbon. The sunset views are fantastic. Also, make sure to take photos of the resident peacocks, who live in the trees.
Where to eat: One of my favorite vegan restaurants is nearby: Al Sanpietrino.
where to stay in lisbon
- 3 bedroom comfy apartment in the city center
- Awesome location + great price
- Comfy + close to metro and city center
- Luxury + great location and price
- Amazing location + sustainable loft
- Super budget friendly + nice hostel
Fun Paid Activities in Lisbon
- Lisbon 3-Hour Tuk Tuk Tour – a great way to see the entire city
- Urban Revolution Visit – if you love street art, then you will love this exhibit. I went recently and greatly enjoyed it.
- Lisbon Card – one of the best things you can buy if you plan on using public transportation and visiting museums!
- Lisbon History, Stories and More Walking Tour – perfect way to learn more in-depth info about Lisbon
- Lisbon Sunset Boat Tour with DJ – see the gorgeous holiday lights from the water
2. Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena)
A fairytale come to life, Pena Palace in Sintra is a vivid example of 19th-century Romanticism. Its vibrant colors, eclectic architecture, and lush surrounding park make it one of the most visited and photographed castles in Portugal. King Ferdinand II transformed the ruins of an old monastery into this whimsical palace, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles. The National Palace of Pena is one of the most famous castles in Portugal.
How to get here from Lisbon: Take the train from Rossio station to Sintra, then take a rideshare, bus or tuktuk.
Hot tip: Go EARLY in the morning before all of the tour groups. You must get your entrance ticket ahead of time.
Where to eat: Mela Canela
where to stay in sintra
- Maria Saudade Apartment (penthouse apartment right in the middle of town)
- Sintra1012 Boutique Guesthouse (unique and local guesthouse)
- Charming Home in Sintra (spacious and uber close to downtown)
- Chalet Saudade (super charming and colorful hotel)
- Sintra Marmoris Palace (unforgettable, luxurious stay)
FUN PAID EXPERIENCES IN SINTRA:
- Sintra Day Trip – includes some of my favorite places – Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais
- Quinta da Regaleira – skip the line entry and audioguide – this will save you serious time not waiting in line!
- Pena Palace Entry Ticket – this will save you time as you will be able to enter right away with this ticket!
- Sintra Historical Jeep Tour – this is a great way to get to know the magical town of Sintra
- All Day Sintra Tour from Lisbon – makes it super easy to visit Sintra, you don’t even have to worry about how to get there!
3. Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros aka Moorish Castle)
Also in Sintra, the Castle of the Moors stands in stark contrast to the flamboyant Pena Palace. This ancient fortress, built by the Moors in the 8th century, offers a rugged and majestic experience. Its walls snake along the hilltops, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Atlantic Ocean.
Hot tip: After you visit Pena Palace, you can hike over to this castle. Hiking in this area provides gorgeous views of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and Sintra. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Lisbon.
4. Óbidos Castle (Castelo de Óbidos)
The picturesque village of Óbidos, encircled by medieval walls, is home to one of Portugal’s most charming castles. Óbidos Castle, with its imposing keep and crenelated walls, dates back to the 12th century. The town itself, with its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, feels like a step back in time. HOT TIP: You can STAY at the Obidos castle. Here’s the link for the Pousada Castelo de Obidos.
How to get here from Lisbon: Rent a car, take a guided tour or take the bus. I highly recommend that you rent a car so you can tour around the area.
Where to eat: Drive to Caldas da Rainha to eat at Botellini. It’s worth it!
5. Almourol Castle (Castelo de Almourol)
Set on a small island in the middle of the Tagus River, Almourol Castle is one of the most scenic and atmospheric castles in Portugal. Built in the 12th century during the early days of the Portuguese Reconquista, the castle’s isolated location adds to its mystique. Accessible by boat, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
How to get here from Lisbon: Train to Tancos, but I highly recommend that you rent a car. Once you arrive to Tancos, you can take a small boat to reach the castle.
6. Guimarães Castle (Castelo de Guimarães)
Guimarães Castle is often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal. This 10th-century fortress played a crucial role in the formation of the nation. Its imposing keep and sturdy walls symbolize the country’s medieval past. The city of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This Northern Portugal towns is one of my favorites.
How to get here: Rede Expressos bus to Guimarães takes 4.5 hours, but if you rent a car, you can save yourself an hour. Guimarães is one of my absolute favorite towns in Portugal. I highly recommend a visit.
Where to eat: DaTerra
7. Monsaraz Castle (Castelo de Monsaraz)
Overlooking the Alqueva Dam, Monsaraz Castle offers stunning views of the Alentejo region. The village within the castle walls has preserved its medieval charm, with narrow streets and traditional houses. The castle itself, built in the 13th century, provides a serene and picturesque setting.
How to get here: Rent a car and drive. That’s really the best option. Then you can also explore the surrounding gorgeous countryside. The drive is a little over 2 hours from Lisbon.
8. Beja Castle (Castelo de Beja)
In the heart of the Alentejo region, Beja Castle stands as a testament to Portugal’s turbulent history. Originally a Roman fortress, it was later rebuilt by the Moors and then by the Christians in the 13th century. The castle’s 40-meter-high keep is one of the tallest in Portugal, offering commanding views of the surrounding plains.
9. Bragança Castle (Castelo de Bragança)
Located in the northeastern corner of Portugal, Bragança Castle is a formidable medieval fortress. The castle complex includes a keep, watchtowers, and a well-preserved cistern. The medieval village of Bragança within the castle walls adds to the historical ambiance.
How to get here: Bus from Lisbon takes an alarming 6-7 hours. You can drive in 4 hours 45 minutes. Bragança is tucked away in the far NE corner of Portugal so I highly recommend that you rent a car and explore the area.
Where to eat: Rosina
WHERE TO STAY IN BRAGANÇA
- Pousada de Bragança – an extra special stay at a gorgeous hotel with lovely views
- Solar de Santa Maria – this is a lovely, affordable place to stay that is high on sustainability
- Mimo da Se – a gorgeous 1-bedroom apartment for a wonderful price
- Hotel Tulipa – perfectly located, comfy hotel right in the middle of town
- Casa do Javali – an incredibly affordable apartment in town, comes highly recommended
10. Tomar Castle (Castelo de Tomar)
Tomar Castle, part of the Convent of Christ, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Portuguese architecture. Founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, it played a significant role during the Age of Discoveries. The castle’s blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles makes it a fascinating site to explore.
How to get here: Take a bus or train from Lisbon in 2 hours, then walk to the castle. OR rent a car and explore more. This is one of my favorite day trips from Lisbon or weekend trip.
Where to eat: Girassol
WHERE TO STAY in tomar
- Del Rey Guest House – lovely + affordable one-bedroom house
- Varandas do Nabao – two-bedroom apartment right in the middle of town for an amazing price
- Templar Spot – fantastic location and view
- Arcos 61 – charming + comfy one-bedroom apartment in town
11. Évora Monte Castle (Castelo de Évora Monte)
Évora Monte Castle, with its unique cylindrical towers, stands proudly in the Alentejo region. Built in the 14th century, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and countryside. The castle’s distinctive design and its strategic location make it a notable landmark.
Where to eat: Salsa Verde in Evora
12. Marvão Castle (Castelo de Marvão)
Perched atop a granite crag in the Serra de São Mamede, Marvão Castle offers some of the most dramatic views in Portugal. The castle, with its medieval walls and watchtowers, dates back to the 9th century. The village of Marvão, nestled within the castle walls, is a labyrinth of narrow streets and charming houses.
How to get here: I would combine this castle with the Monsaraz Castle. It takes 2.5 hours to drive here from Lisbon. The public transportation options aren’t good, so rent a car!
Where to eat: Hokkaido
13. Leiria Castle
Leiria Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the city of Leiria, is a magnificent fortress that embodies Portugal’s medieval past. Originally built in the 12th century by King Afonso Henriques, the castle played a crucial role in defending the newly established kingdom from Moorish incursions. Over the centuries, it underwent several expansions and renovations, particularly under King Denis, who transformed it into a royal residence. The castle’s striking Romanesque and Gothic architectural features, including its imposing keep, elegant cloisters, and panoramic battlements, provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. Today, Leiria Castle is a prominent landmark and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
How to get there from Lisbon: You can take the bus – Rede Expressos or Flix. Or you can rent a car and drive.
Where to eat: Kukicha
WHERE TO STAY IN LEIRIA
- General link to all stays in Leiria
- Incredibly affordable 1 bedroom apartment downtown
- Super spacious 3 bedroom apartment close to downtown
- Incredibly charming boutique hotel near downtown
- Elegant B&B with free breakfast
14. Castle of Santa Maria da Feira
Castle of Santa Maria da Feira, located in the northern Portuguese town of Santa Maria da Feira, is a remarkable example of medieval military architecture. Built in the 11th century on the site of an earlier Roman fortification, this castle played a pivotal role in the Reconquista, the Christian effort to reclaim Iberian territories from Moorish rule. Characterized by its distinctive polygonal shape, robust towers, and fortified walls, the castle also features a stunning keep and a large central courtyard. The structure reflects various architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic, illustrating its long and varied history. Today, the Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is not only a symbol of local heritage but also a vibrant cultural venue, hosting medieval fairs, historical reenactments, and other events that bring history to life for visitors and locals alike.
How to get there: Rent a car and drive.
15. Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira, located in the enchanting town of Sintra, Portugal, is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and mystical symbolism. Constructed in the early 20th century by the visionary António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro and the Italian architect Luigi Manini, this whimsical estate is renowned for its stunning palace, lush gardens, enigmatic grottoes, and ornate initiation wells. The property is imbued with esoteric references, drawing from a diverse array of influences, including Freemasonry, Templar symbolism, and alchemy. Visitors are captivated by the intricate stone carvings, hidden tunnels, and secret passageways that create an aura of mystery and adventure. Quinta da Regaleira is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the eclectic and imaginative spirit of its creators, offering a unique and immersive experience into the magical world of Sintra.
How to get here: Follow the instructions above for the other Sintra Castles – Pena Palace and Moorish Castle.
Where to eat: Mela Canela or A Praça
Exploring Portugal’s castles is a journey through time, revealing the country’s rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. Each castle tells a story, offering a glimpse into the lives of knights, kings, and ordinary people who once walked their halls. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking breathtaking views, Portugal’s castles are sure to captivate your imagination.
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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Portugal, then check out Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – do you want to learn some Portuguese/Spanish before traveling to Portugal/Spain? Then, we recommend iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
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