12 Beautiful Castles in Portugal You Can’t Miss

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Make sure to make time for the Portuguese castles, if you are traveling to Portugal. Whether you are into history, architecture, or picture-perfect scenes, there will be something for you in every castle you visit in Portugal.

However, Portugal has 150 castles, and you can only visit some of them in one go, especially if your time is limited in this country. We have, therefore, selected the most beautiful and history-soaked castles you cannot afford to miss during your visit to Portugal.

Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon

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Perched atop Lisbon’s highest hill, Castelo de São Jorge offers stunning views and a glimpse into Portugal’s rich history. Originally built by the Moors, the castle has witnessed countless battles and served as a royal residence for centuries. Its strategic position made it a crucial stronghold for both the Moors and Portuguese royalty, adding to its historical significance.

Today, the sprawling ramparts and gardens are open for exploring. As you wander the grounds, you’ll discover remnants of its long history, from statues to the ruins of a royal palace.

Castelo de São Jorge is especially enchanting at night when it’s lit up against the dark sky. Find a spot along the ramparts, gaze out at the sea of orange rooftops below, and imagine what life was like in this medieval fortress.

Castle of Óbidos, Óbidos

Castles in Portugal Castle of Obidos, Obidos — © dudlajzov / Adobe Stock

Óbidos has one of the most picturesque castles in Portugal. Located on a hilltop in the town of Óbidos, about 85 kilometers north of Lisbon, its strategic position has allowed it to withstand the test of time.

Originally built as a fort in the 8th century, it was reconstructed in the 14th century and remains in great shape even today. Walking through the gatehouse into the citadel, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and colorful flowers create a charming scene.

Find a cozy restaurant along the ramparts to dine while overlooking the sea of red-tiled rooftops below. A visit to the Castle of Óbidos is like wandering into a fairytale. No wonder it’s considered one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal!

The Moorish Castle, Sintra

The hilltop Moorish Castle offers stunning views of the Tagus River, Pena Palace, Sintra, and even the city of Lisbon. Originally built by the Moors in the 8th century, it was later renovated by King Denis I in the 13th century. It has served as a royal palace, prison, and military barracks.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Moorish Castle is open for visitors to explore its ramparts and take in the panoramic vistas. The views from its towers and walls are well worth the climb. You’ll see the city sprawling below, with terracotta rooftops, church spires, and the river in the distance. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset, as the fading light casts a golden glow on the city’s skyline.

Guimarães Castle, Guimarães

Castles in Portugal Guimaraes Castle, Guimaraes — © Danhua / Adobe Stock

If you want to feel like royalty exploring the countryside, head to Guimarães Castle. This medieval castle is considered the “birthplace of Portugal” since the first king of Portugal was born here. It is open daily and is also among the seven wonders of the nation.

You’ll love wandering the ramparts and taking in the sweeping views of the city below. Besides stone towers and battlements, it also features beautiful carvings, well-kept gardens, and underground cisterns waiting to be explored.

After exploring the castle, stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the historic center of Guimarães, grab a coffee at an outdoor cafe, and soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Almourol Castle, Almourol

Located on a small island on the Tagus River, Almourol Castle is one of the most picturesque castles in Portugal. The Knights Templar built it in the 12th century to defend the border from the Moors. Its strategic location on an island made defending from invaders easier.

You can take a short boat ride to reach the island and climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside. Its robust walls and towers provide a glimpse into the military strategies and construction techniques of the Middle Ages. Moreover, the vantage points offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate its strategic location.

Castle of Marvão, Marvão

Castles in Portugal Castle of Marvao, Marvao — © malajscy / Adobe Stock

Visit the Castle of Marvão, which has a rich history dating back to the 8th century. It is a well-preserved example of medieval military architecture. Visitors can explore its robust fortifications, towers, battlements, and the keep. Its intricate design and construction are significant proof of the engineering skills of the period.

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Perched on a high, rocky hill in Marvão municipality, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Alentejo plains and the Spanish border. After a tour, explore the quaint municipality of Marvão, which features narrow, cobbled streets and whitewashed houses.

Monsaraz Castle, Évora

Castles in Portugal Monsaraz Castle, Evora — © dudlajzov / Adobe Stock

Monsaraz Castle, perched on a hilltop in the Alentejo region of Portugal, is a destination that draws visitors from around the globe. The robust walls and towers, constructed from local stone, have stood the test of time. Its parapets and battlements offer stunning views of the Alqueva Dam and the vast plains of Alentejo, making it a photographer’s paradise.

The best time for photos is early morning or sunset when the golden light illuminates the walls.

The village of Monsaraz, below the castle walls, has also been well preserved. Explore the village’s cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and charming cafés.

Castillo de Silves, Silves

A trip to the Castillo de Silves offers a glimpse into the rich history of southern Portugal. This Moorish-style sandstone castle is a must-see for any history buff. The Moors first constructed it in the 8th century, but it was rebuilt in the 13th century.

Currently, it is considered one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Portugal. It houses a small archaeological museum containing artifacts from the region. The castle has stood for over a millennium, a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires.

Whether enjoying views from its fortifications or exploring its artifacts, the Castle of Silves offers you a perfect opportunity to explore the history of Southern Portugal.

Castle of Penedono, Penedono

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique travel destination, the Castle of Penedono has something to offer you. It was a significant stronghold during the Christian Reconquista, serving as a defense against Moorish invasions.

This Gothic-style castle is renowned for its robust construction and strategic location. Its polygonal shape and towering battlements offer a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

You can walk through its ancient corridors and climb the towers to enjoy stunning vistas. The rocky interior courtyard allows tourists to envision the medieval life that once thrived within these walls.

Castle Bragança, Bragança

This Gothic-style castle in the Military Museum of Bragança has been remodeled several times over the centuries and is an excellent example of military architectural prowess.

Surrounded by a double line of walls and 15 towers, the castle was built on a hilltop with sweeping views of the countryside below. The views from its heights are as breathtaking now as they were centuries ago for guards.

The Domus Municipalis, an irregular pentagonal building, is among the must-visit spots within the grounds. Additionally, Torre da Princesa, one of the 15 towers, offers spectacular views of the region and a glimpse into the defensive mechanisms.

National Palace of Pena, Sintra

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A vibrant example of Portuguese Romanticism, the National Palace of Pena is a must-see when visiting Portugal. This castle was built in the 19th century on the site of a former monastery. Endowed with vivid colors and eclectic architectural styles, it looks like something out of a fairy tale. The building incorporates Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance elements, among them stone carvings of gargoyles.

The palace’s interior is as beautiful as its exterior, filled with period furnishings, artworks, and other decorative touches like patterned tiles. The Sala dos Cisnes, or Swan Room, is particularly striking; do not miss it during your visit.

The National Palace of Pena is set within 200 hectares of forested parkland, and it offers a serene escape with exotic plants, lakes, and walking trails. Whether you are into architecture, nature, or history, it has something to offer you.

Castle of Évoramonte, Evoramonte

The Castle of Évoramonte is a striking example of a transitional fortress, mixing Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. It has been a site of numerous historical events, including the signing of the Concession of Évoramonte in 1834, which ended the Liberal Wars in Portugal.

Moreover, it features a unique quadrangular layout with cylindrical corners, enhancing its defensive capabilities. The rooftop offers sweeping vistas of the Alentejo plains. Whether you are looking for Instagram-worthy areas to explore or somewhere to admire the sunset, this rooftop would be a great spot for you.