The top castles to visit in Portugal

Portugal has a luxurious collection of castles, some more imposing than beautiful, but certainly a very charming feature of Portugal. Built during times where land protection was needed, the castles are part of the Portuguese military structure which have helped to define the Portuguese frontiers which are one of the oldest in Europe. Loosing yourself inside these walls is like travelling in time through a journey of achievements, princesses and kingdoms.

Here we present you the Top Castles to visit in Portugal. Take a look!

Óbidos is a small and glamourous village about 30 minutes from Lisbon and its castle is perhaps one of the most promoted ones, as it was nominated one of the seven wonders of Portugal in 2007. Within its walls we can learn about local cuisine as well as crafts and it also hosts some thematic events such as the chocolate or the medieval fair.

The most romantic ones will be amazed with Almourol's Castle located in the middle of the small Island in the Tagus river. This castle hosts the most romantic legends with princesses and kings.

So if you like adventurous and brave tales with kings, why not take a walk down the Sintra hills to the Moorish Castle? You won’t find a princess looked in the walls, but for sure you will find a privileged view to lose sight of the mountains that extends to the Atlantic Ocean.

On a journey through northern Portugal, you can’t lose Leiria Castle, on a Gothic style and with stunning views through the city of Leiria which is rich in tradition and in gastronomy. Further up on the map we will find the medieval castle of Santa Maria da Feira, ideal for warrior’s spirits who would like to see an architecture of a castle that mirrors the military architecture built in the eleventh century, completely ready to defend their city. And since we are driving north, and after passing by Porto and Braga, we reach Guimarães, a city where the First King Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born, worthy of an imposing castle.

The north of Portugal hosts many castles but do not think that the south does not have any. Having been conquered later then the north, the south has built these monuments a little later in time . But this does not mean they are less impressive. The village of Monsaraz, one of the most beautiful of Alentejo´s region, is surrounded by the castles walls with narrow streets dotted with corners made of schist and whitewashed walls. Just next to the Guadiana river, and from the village we can see the beautiful Alentejo.

Whatever region you select in Portugal you will definitely find a charming and enchanted castle to visit.

Let us plan your next trip to Portugal to visit the best castles, together with some unique experiences!