Lisbon’ s São Jorge Castle is one of its most beautiful landmarks. But there are many more medieval fortifications outside the capital waiting to be “discovered”. After all, Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe. So it’s not surprising that there are so many castles, fortresses and walls all over the country.
Some are better preserved than others, but all have a charm all of their own.
Castles have a mystical aura all of their own, capable of taking us back in time on a journey to an enchanted kingdom inhabited by kings and Templars.
If you like series like “Game of Thrones” and “The Witcher”, then you’ll love this medieval tour of the most beautiful castles outside Lisbon. An ideal setting for a family getaway or one with your partner.
The list presented has no order of preference, or geography. But there is one thing that all the spots have in common: the charm of other times.
Table Of Contents
Moorish Castle in Sintra
Sintra is already a ‘must-see’ on any itinerary in the south of Portugal, and it couldn’t be any other way. Its beautiful landscape includes the Moorish Castle, one of the 15 must-see places in the municipality.
With a privileged view over the Atlantic and the Serra de Sintra, this is a medieval fortification of Muslim origin. The Moors remained there until 1147, when the castle was handed over to King Afonso Henriques.
In 1995, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, which includes the Moorish Castle. A journey through time just over half an hour’s drive from Lisbon.
Address: 2710-405 Sintra
Palmela Castle
Just over 40 minutes’ drive from Lisbon, Palmela Castle is one of the ‘must-see’ sites in this charming town. Located on top of a hill, the building has Islamic origins.
In the 12th century, Palmela Castle was conquered by King Afonso Henriques and definitively recovered by King Sancho I. A little later, in the 15th century, the fortress became the headquarters of the Order of Santiago until its extinction in the 19th century.
The past of conflicts and ‘lookout posts’ is long gone. Today, Palmela Castle offers a privileged view over the town; a delight for all visitors.
Address: Avenida dos Cavaleiros de Santiago e Espada, 2950-317 Palmela
Óbidos Castle
This national monument is one of the best reasons to visit Óbidos. Like the castles already mentioned, the fortress was reconquered as part of the enlargement of the kingdom of Portugal.
It is said that Óbidos Castle was later given by King Dinis to his wife, Queen Santa Isabel. From then on, it belonged to the House of Queens until the 19th century.
Today, the Castle houses a luxurious Pousada. History lovers can venture around the walls and contemplate the view over the town, which takes on greater splendor at sunset.
Address: Rua Josefa de Óbidos, 2510-001 Óbidos
Almourol Castle
Located about 1.5 hours from Lisbon, Almourol Castle is one of the most cinematic in Portugal. Built on a small craggy islet in the middle of the River Tagus, it is one of the symbols of the Christian Reconquest.
After being reconquered, Almourol Castle was guarded by the legendary Templars. In fact, this whole area is important for learning more about history’s most famous ancient warrior monks.
The journey to Almourol Castle is made on board a small boat; another interesting fact for a medieval getaway outside Lisbon.
Address: Ilhota do Rio Tejo Praia do Ribatejo – Vila Nova da Barquinha
Porto de Mós Castle
We believe that Porto de Mós is one of the most peculiar and surprising castles in Portugal. This castle stands out for its green towers.
Located about 1h40 by car from Lisbon, this fortress played an important role in the defense of the cities of Leiria and Coimbra during the Christian Reconquest.
Address: Rua do Castelo 3, Porto de Mós
Leiria Castle
To end this list on a high note, how about a little getaway to the center of Portugal? About 1.5 hours away by car, you can visit the Castle of Leiria, now one of the tourist attractions in the area, especially after the restoration work carried out in recent years.
Classified as a National Monument since 1910, Leiria Castle is truly one of the most impressive in Portugal, standing out for its Gothic style.
It has also been home to several Portuguese monarchs, including the well-loved King Dinis, who later gave the town and its castle to Queen Isabel. Note also the panoramic view over the city and the River Lis from the top of the castle.
Address: Largo de São Pedro, Leiria
Map with castles near Lisbon, and a list for your cell phone!
Esta é a Área Metropolitana de Lisboa que não sabias que existia