Top Castles in Portugal: Beautiful Palaces & Must-See Places to Visit in Portugal

Portugal is full of breathtaking castles, but how do you choose the best one to visit? The country has it all, from fairy-tale palaces to medieval fortresses. Portugal’s castles are packed with history, power, and architectural beauty.

With so many options, deciding where to go can be confusing. Some castles overlook charming towns. Others sit atop cliffs. A few are hidden gems just waiting to be found. Whether you are a history lover or a romantic traveler, this guide will help you find the best castle to visit in Portugal.

In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the 15 beautiful castles in Portugal. You will also find their history, architecture, and why they’re worth visiting. Plus, I’ll share travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Key Takeaways

1. Portugal has many pretty castles, like the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle in Sintra.
2. You can visit the Castle of the Moors in Sintra and the Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon.
3. Many castles, like the ones in Sintra, overlook beautiful places like the Tagus River.
4. These castles were home to knights and kings, like the Knights Templar.
5. You can visit castles in Portugal in spring or fall when it’s not too hot or crowded.

Why Visit Portugal Castles?

Portugal’s castles are over 1,000 years old. The country has some of the best medieval treasures in Europe. Many of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They highlight a beautiful blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline architecture.

Many castles were built by the Knights Templar. This gives these stunning sites a unique historical charm. Some castles, such as Óbidos Castle, are now luxury hotels. Visitors can sleep within medieval walls for a unique experience.

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Top 15 Best Castles to Visit in Portugal

1. Pena National Palace – The Fairytale Castle of Sintra

• Location: Sintra, Portugal

Why Visit?

The National Palace of Pena is one of the most colorful and beautiful castles in Portugal. It has bright colors, magical towers, and amazing views. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens. It is one of the best castles in Portugal.

History

Pena Palace was built in the 19th century by the King of Portugal. It was made to look like a dream castle.

Highlights

• Stunning Romanticist architecture
• Incredible views from the top of the castle.
• Lush gardens in Sintra’s UNESCO-listed landscape

Pena  Palace Tickets

1. Day Tour from Lisbon: Pena Palace Tickets
2. Pena Palace day tours from Lisbon with the Regaleira Palace.
3. Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca day tour tickets.
4. From Lisbon: Cabo da Roca and Cascais Guided Tour

2. São Jorge Castle – São Jorge Castle – Iconic Fortress of Lisbon

• Location: Lisbon, Portugal

Why Visit?

This is one of the most beautiful castles in Portugal. São Jorge Castle is at the top of the castle hill in Lisbon. It has amazing views of the city. The castle is worth a visit if you love history and great views.

History

São Jorge Castle was built in the 11th century by the Moors. Later, it was taken by the first King of Portugal.

Highlights

• Amazing views of Lisbon
• Important heritage in Europe
• Castle walls to explore

Entry Tickets: São Jorge Castle Skip-the-Line Tickets

3. Obidos Castle – A medieval gem

• Location: Óbidos, Portugal

Why Visit?

Óbidos Castle is a preserved medieval fortress. The castle and town will make you feel like you are back in time. The small streets, stone walls, and towers make it one of Europe’s best destinations for history lovers.

History

The castle was built in the 12th century. It was home to Portuguese queens.

Highlights

• Medieval fairs and festivals
• Stay in the castle (it’s now a hotel)
• The castle and surrounding village are magical.

4. Almourol Castle – The Knights Templar Fortress

• Location: Middle of the Tagus River, Portugal

Why Visit?

This medieval castle is located in the middle of the Tagus River. It looks like a scene from a movie. The castle was built by the Knights Templar and is one of the most beautiful castles in Portugal.

History

King Afonso Henriques was Portugal’s first monarch. In 1171, he granted the castle to the Knights Templar. They rebuilt the castle in a military style to defend against the Moors.

Highlights

• Boat ride to the castle.
• Stunning views of the river.
• Castle walls that you can walk on.

5. Guimaraes Castle – The Birthplace of Portugal

• Location: Guimarães, Portugal

Why Visit?

This castle is one of the most important in Portugal because the first king of Portugal was born in this palace. The castle is one of the best places to learn about the history of Portugal.

History

This castle was built in the 10th century by Mumadona Dias. The reason was to protect the local monastery and population from Viking and Moorish attacks.

Highlights

• Castle walls with a great view.
• Important in the history of Portugal.
• Visit the city of Templar history.

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6. Marvao Castle – A Scenic Hilltop Fortress

• Location: Marvão, Portugal

Why Visit?

This castle is breathtaking. It is built on the top of the mountain. It provides one of the best views in Portugal. It is one of the best castles and fortresses to visit for nature lovers.

History

Christian forces led by King Afonso I captured Marvão from the Moors in the 12th century. It was built in the 13th century as a defensive castle.

Highlights

• Panoramic views
• Surrounded by nature
• The Castle is open every day.

7. Monserrate Palace – A Romantic Escape

• Location: Sintra, Portugal

Why Visit?

Portugal has many palaces and castles, but this palace is one of the most beautiful in Portugal. It has stunning gardens, towers, and a mix of many different styles. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk.

History: Built in the 19th century as a royal summer home.

Highlights

• Beautiful palace and gardens.
• Romantic and peaceful atmosphere
• Near Sintra Town

Interesting Facts:

• Monserrate’s architecture combines Moorish, Indian, and Gothic styles.
• The gardens have over 3,000 plant species from around the world.

8. Castle of Santa Maria da Feira – A Medieval Experience

• Location: Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal

Why Visit?

A preserved medieval castle where you can see medieval fairs and learn about Portugal’s history.

History

The castle was built in the 11th century as a fortress. It played a key role in the fight against Moorish invasions.

Highlights

• Medieval events and fairs
• Amazing stone towers
• Great for history lovers.

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9. Sabugal Castle – The Five-Towered Fortress

• Location: Sabugal, Portugal

Why Visit?

Sabugal is one of the most stunning castles, with five big towers. It is a well-kept medieval fortress. Its history goes back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

History

Sabugal Castle was first built by the Moors. Then, during the Reconquista, Christian forces captured it. It was built in the 13th century for protection.

Highlights

• Five huge towers
• Castle walls to explore.
• Beautiful stone structure

10. Arraiolos Castle – The Round Castle

• Location: Arraiolos, Portugal

Why Visit?

Arraiolos is a medieval fortress with an amazing history. This castle is one of the most unique because it is round. It has amazing views and is surrounded by green hills.

History

In the 14th century, King Denis built the castle. This helped strengthen Portugal’s defenses in the south.

Highlights

• Rare round shape
• Peaceful and scenic location
• Nice place for walking.

11. Setubal Castle – A Coastal Beauty

• Location: Setúbal, Portugal

Why Visit?

Setúbal Castle, also known as Castelo de São Filipe. It is located by the sea. It offers a stunning view of the ocean and the charming city of Setúbal.

History

The castle was built in the late 16th century to defend against pirates and foreign naval forces.

Highlights

• Sea views
• Castle walls to walk on.
• Nice café inside.

12. Castle of Leiria – A Stunning Medieval Castle

• Location: Leiria, Portugal

Why Visit?

Castelo de Leiria, or Leiria Castle, is one of the best castles in Portugal. It has great views and a beautiful old town surrounding it.

History

The castle was originally built by the Moors during the early Middle Ages. The hilltop location provided a strategic view, making it ideal for defense.

Highlights

• Great views of Leiria.
• Lots of history.
• Beautiful towers

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13. Sintra National Palace – A Royal Gem

• Location: Sintra, Portugal

Why Visit?

The Sintra National Palace is located in Sintra, Portugal. It is a well-preserved medieval royal residence with a rich history.

History

The palace originated in the 10th century as a summer home for Muslim rulers. It took its current form in the 12th century after Christians regained the region.

Highlights

• Unique twin chimneys
• Beautiful inside and out.
• Near other Sintra castles.

Sintra Palace Tickets

• Day Tour of Lisbon: National Palace of Sintra
• Sintra Walking Tour Tickets

14. Quinta da Regaleira – A Magical Place

• Location: Sintra, Portugal

Why Visit?

One of the most beautiful and mysterious places in Portugal. The gardens are full of secret tunnels and towers.

Highlights

• Secret tunnels and gardens
• Magical towers
• Romantic and mysterious

Tickets Tips: Entry ticket to Quinta da Regaleira with a guided tour

15. Governors Castle – A Coastal Fortress

• Location: Lagos, Portugal

Why Visit?

A beautiful castle by the sea in southern Portugal. It has great views and a small museum.

History

The castle was built during King João II’s reign (1481-1495). It served as a fort to protect the city and its coast from invaders.

Highlights

• Great sea views.
• Historical museum
• Nice place for a walk.

Here are five more stunning castles you can visit in Portugal:

1. Moors Castle – Sintra, Portugal
2. Castelo de São João da Foz – Porto, Portugal
3. Castelo de Penedono – Penedono, Portugal
4. Castelo de Aljezur – Aljezur, Portugal
5. Castelo de Montemor-o-Velho – Montemor-o-Velho, Portugal

Pro Tips: Moors Castle is very famous. Book your ticket in advance for visiting.

How to Choose the Best Castle to Visit in Portugal

When choosing a Portuguese castle, consider what matters most to you: history, beauty, or adventure.

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Best Time to Visit Portugal’s Castles

Spring (March-May):

• Why it’s great: Mild weather means fewer tourists and the castles bloom with flowers. It’s perfect for a peaceful visit without crowds.

Summer (June-August):

• Why it’s great: Expect more visitors during peak tourist season. The sunny weather makes the castles shine.

Fall (September-November):

• Why it’s great: The weather is still nice, but there are fewer tourists than in summer. This creates a great balance of weather and smaller crowds for a good experience.

Read more on  Best Time to Visit Portugal for an Unforgettable Trip.

Travel Tips for Visiting Portugal’s Castles

1. Book your flights to Lisbon early.

Book Lisbon flights early to save money and ensure availability.

2. Rent a car for easier access.

Portugal has many castles in hard-to-reach areas. With a rental car, you can visit more of them freely.

3. Overnight Stays at Some Castles

Some castles, like Óbidos Castle, offer the unique experience of overnight stays. Experience it.

4. Use Public Transport

Use public transport to reach castles near cities like Lisbon and Porto. It’s convenient and cost-effective.

5. Look for castle passes.

Visit multiple castles with a discounted castle pass, a money-saving option.

FAQs – Common Questions About Portugal’s Castles

1. What is the most famous castle in Portugal?

Pena Palace in Sintra is among the most beautiful castles due to its colorful architecture and stunning views.

2. What is the oldest castle in Portugal?

Guimarães Castle is considered one of the oldest and most historically significant castles.

3. Which castles in Portugal allow overnight stays?

Óbidos Castle operates as a Pousada, where visitors can stay overnight.

4. What is the best way to get to Sintra’s castles?

Trains from Lisbon to Sintra run regularly. You can also use buses or tuk-tuks to discover the most beautiful castles of Portugal.

Conclusion

Portugal is home to some of Europe’s best destinations for castle lovers. No matter if you love history, want a romantic escape, or just wish to see Portugal’s beautiful castles, there’s a perfect place for you.

Ready to explore?