Castle of São Jorge

Castle of Sao Jorge featuring a coastal town, boating and a bay or harbour
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This medieval fortress offers insight into Lisbon’s long history as well as stunning views of the city and river below.

The Castle of São Jorge is a huge medieval structure that overlooks the city. Take a guided tour to learn about Lisbon’s past and enjoy views across the capital from the castle’s grounds.

The Castle of São Jorge is a challenging walk from the centre of Lisbon, but the rewards are worth the effort. Stroll past clubs where traditional Portuguese ballads are performed nightly. Stop at an outdoor café with a view and sip a glass of port wine. Admire the glazed tiles on the historic buildings and pottery in the windows of charming shops.

You can see this 6th-century Moorish fortress from almost anywhere in the city. Stop to admire the immensity of the structure as you approach the stone gate that marks the entrance. The castle was the Moorish royal residence until Portugal’s first king, Alfonso Henriques, took it over in 1147. The fortress continued to serve as the royal palace until another palace was built in Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) in the city center.

Take a guided tour for a fee or stroll on your own through the gardens and up into the medieval towers. While much of the original castle has been destroyed, there’s still a long extension of stone walls and 18 towers. Climb the towers and walk along the terraces for views of the city and the River Tagus. The sight is particularly breathtaking at sunset, when the fading light reflects off Lisbon’s whitewashed houses. Visit the Tower of Ulysses, which houses the Câmara Escura, a periscope where you can enjoy views from around the city.

The Castle of São Jorge is located above the Alfama district. It is accessible by bus or on foot.

The castle is open daily and there is an entrance fee. Stay for a meal at the on-site restaurant and shop for souvenirs at the gift shop.

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Reviews of Castle of São Jorge

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
401
" "5 - Excellent 52.4869109947644%
4 - Good
300
" "4 - Good 39.26701570680628%
3 - Okay
57
" "3 - Okay 7.460732984293194%
2 - Disappointing
5
" "2 - Disappointing 0.6544502617801047%
1 - Terrible
1
" "1 - Terrible 0.13089005235602094%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
11 Mar 2020

Go at sunset. Pay to go in. Best view of the city, very romantic.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
16 Oct 2019

It has sky-high estuarial views like Edinburgh, + peacocks. It has an archaeology section excavated to 3 earlier layers of occupancy, back to Phoneciians 700BC - tours into it at displayed times, but you can see the Middle Ages bishop's palace remains at all times. It disappointingly lacks any surviving internal buildings inside the castle itself. It's just the shell of castle walls. Not well signposted for pedestrians, and you can't see it in the narrow streets around it, but if you follow the logic of keeping heading uphill, from the side of the hill where the 28 tram goes, you will reach it.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
14 Oct 2019

ask a tuk tuk to give you a tour of the old town and drop you at the castle , a great experience , and also walk back down afterwards , its not as far as you think , especially downhill

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
6 Oct 2019

Did not go there

5/5 - Excellent

Aileen
11 Sep 2019

Went here in the evening it was less busy and therefore more relaxed. A very steep climb in parts if you are walking but has the best views by far over the whole city. Great place to see the sun setting and get pics.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
21 Jun 2019

Allow an hour or so and enjoy views either during the day or would be nice at sunset but last entry is 8.30 p.m. and closes at 9.00 p.m.

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