When you think about what to do in Portugal, castles might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, Portugal is home to a multitude of incredible castles spread across the country. While many people associate Portugal with its stunning beaches, charming villages, and bustling cities like Lisbon, overlooking its castles would be a mistake. In fact, there are so many castles that you could spend weeks exploring them during a road trip!
I’d like to highlight some favorite castles that I think you’ll enjoy discovering. While you may be familiar with a few, I hope there are others you haven’t heard of and will find intriguing.
Let’s begin with one of the most well-known: Pena Palace. Located atop a hill in Sintra, its vibrant colors and fairy-tale appearance make it a must-see. Although called a palace, Pena Palace is actually a Romanticist castle. The distinction is that castles are generally defensive structures, whereas palaces serve as residencies and often symbolize wealth. When you visit Pena Palace, don’t miss exploring the other captivating sights in Sintra.
Another castle in Sintra, the Castle of the Moors, offers one of the best views of Pena Palace and Sintra as a whole. This significant site is a UNESCO World Heritage location and deserves a visit alongside Pena Palace.
Montemor-o-Velho is an ancient castle that predates Portugal as a nation. It’s an essential stop for history enthusiasts, with a rich past marked by battles between Christians and Muslims. Its size alone warrants ample time to explore.
Moving to Guimarães, this historical castle was central to the Battle of São Mamede, which led to Portuguese independence. After his victory, Alfonso became the first king of Portugal, making this site the birthplace of the nation and steeped in history.
Constructed by the Knights Templar, the Castle of Tomar is worthwhile not just for its own history but also for its surroundings, including the impressive Convent of Christ.
In Obidos, another remarkable castle awaits. Nestled in a picturesque village, it’s perfect for wandering and enjoying the scenery. Make sure to set aside enough time to explore both the castle and the charming village.
Almourol Castle, set on the Tagus River banks, is best viewed from across the river, especially at sunset. Its history intertwines with the Knights Templar, rebuilding it many years ago.
No visit to Lisbon would be complete without seeing the iconic hilltop castle with fortifications dating back over 2,000 years. It’s a top destination in the city’s exploration.
There are also castles like the famed Gothic Castle, which played a pivotal role in ending a civil war, and the ancient ruins offering a wealth of historical insights and stunning countryside views.
Bragança, with its medieval town and castle, makes for a delightful day trip, providing a glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
Despite being smaller, the tower-like structure in Monsanto is a must-see, showcasing the transition from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Marvão offers a wonderful medieval castle and gardens with breathtaking views. This beautifully preserved site is perfect for an afternoon exploration.
On Portugal’s border with Spain lies Sabugal, where you can explore a fascinating castle that played a role in historic border negotiations.
The lesser-known Leiria castle stands proudly in one of Portugal’s scenic cities. It once hosted the King and Queen of Portugal, making it a noteworthy destination.
Finally, in Penedono, the medieval castle is the main attraction. Although the area may not offer much else, the castle justifies the visit on its own.
Don’t forget Monserrate Palace in Sintra, a stunning villa and park that was once the summer residence of the Portuguese court. Even though it’s a palace rather than a castle, it’s undeniably worth visiting.