São Jorge Castle, Lisbon

Castle in Lisbon

CC BY-SA 3.0 / GNU

Perched high above the terracotta rooftops of Lisbon, São Jorge Castle is one of the best places to visit in Lisbon for anyone drawn to sweeping city views and centuries of layered history. From Phoenician remnants to Moorish walls and medieval battlements, the castle tells the story of a city shaped by countless cultures and kingdoms.

Strolling through its courtyards and ramparts feels like stepping into a living timeline, and the surrounding Alfama streets offer an atmospheric continuation of your journey into old Lisbon. It's often visited on walking tours of Lisbon, but taking your time here easily fills a whole morning.

History and Significance of São Jorge Castle
Things to See and Do in São Jorge Castle
How to Get to São Jorge Castle
Practical Tips on Visiting São Jorge Castle
Where to Stay Close to São Jorge Castle
Is São Jorge Castle Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting São Jorge Castle
Nearby Attractions to São Jorge Castle

History and Significance of São Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle traces its origins back to the fifth century, when the Visigoths constructed a small defensive structure atop the city's highest hill. The Moors expanded it into a more substantial fortification in the eleventh century, establishing the basis for the fortress we know today. After the Christian reconquest led by Afonso I, the castle evolved into a Royal Palace during the twelfth century, later serving as a residence for Portuguese kings and even the Bishop during the sixteenth century. Archaeological discoveries reveal even deeper history, with traces of Phoenician, Greek, and Carthaginian occupation beneath its foundations. Today, its layered past and impressive silhouette make it one of the top sights in Lisbon.

Things to See and Do in São Jorge Castle

Walk along the castle walls and climb its eleven towers for some of the most striking panoramas over the Tagus River and historic neighborhoods below. Explore the small museum displaying artifacts uncovered on-site, then wander through the remnants of ancient settlements revealed by archaeological excavations. After taking in the battlements, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the on-site restaurant before continuing your journey into the heart of Alfama. Don't miss the chance to head downhill afterward to Lisbon Cathedral, just a few minutes' walk away and an ideal continuation of your historical exploration.

How to Get to São Jorge Castle

Visitors typically arrive in Lisbon via Humberto Delgado Airport, which offers straightforward metro, taxi, and bus connections to the city center. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Lisbon on Booking.com.
From central Lisbon, trams and buses run regularly toward Alfama, with stops a short walk from the castle entrance, and trains to nearby stations simplify connections from other neighborhoods. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
If you choose to drive, be aware that parking in Alfama is limited and streets are narrow, though some paid lots are available near the lower parts of the neighborhood. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting São Jorge Castle

Suggested tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle grounds include uneven stone paths and steep stairways.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.
Entrance fee: Adult: €15.00
Opening hours: 9am-9pm Mar-Oct, to 6pm Nov-Feb
Official website: https://www.castelodesaojorge.pt/
How long to spend: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the grounds, museum, and views.
Accessibility: Some areas are challenging due to steep inclines and uneven surfaces.
Facilities: On-site café, restrooms, shaded seating areas, and a restaurant with panoramic views.
Photography tip: Capture the castle at sunset from the western battlements for golden light over Lisbon.
Guided tours: Available on-site and provide deeper insight into the castle’s multi-layered history.
Nearby food options: Alfama’s winding streets hide plenty of traditional taverns perfect for a meal after your visit.

Where to Stay Close to São Jorge Castle

Staying near São Jorge Castle places you in the atmospheric heart of old Lisbon. For boutique charm, Santiago de Alfama - Boutique Hotel offers elegant rooms within walking distance of the castle. Travelers looking for something historic yet stylish may enjoy Solar do Castelo, a unique hotel built within the medieval walls. Another excellent option is Memmo Alfama Hotel, known for its terrace views and proximity to Alfama’s winding alleys.

Is São Jorge Castle Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Its commanding views, centuries of history, and atmospheric setting make it a highlight of any walking tour of Lisbon. Whether you're interested in archaeology, panoramic photography, or simply soaking up the soul of the city, São Jorge Castle offers an experience that lingers long after you descend the hill.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (97,825)

Castelo de São Jorge sits atop one of Lisbon's highest hills in Alfama, offering sweeping views over the red rooftops, Baixa and the Tagus River; the site combines palace ruins, ramparts and towers you can walk, archaeological areas with a small museum, gardens where peacocks roam, and a handful of on-site cafes, though expect cobbled, steep approaches and narrow walkways that can get crowded and some less pleasant restroom access; guided tours (bookable at the ticket office) are recommended to see the archaeological ruins, and many visitors suggest arriving early or before sunset to enjoy photo opportunities and avoid long queues.

Faten Al Kadiri

in the last week

"I don’t usually like visiting castles and historic spots, but this castle was breathtaking. I highly recommend visiting it. My teenage boys alsoliked it. We enjoyed the kastana outside the castle. We took the hop on hop off green line to reach there which stopped exactly opposite to the castle. The area around was beautiful. Beautiful old town 💕..."

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Da y W

2 months ago

"After visiting the Lisbon cathedral, we walked up to the arch entrance of the castle - it’s walkable but be wary of a steep trek from the cathedral.We were able to use our Lisboa Card for free entry, which was a great bonus. The castle grounds offer incredible views across the city and plenty of historic areas to explore. There are loads of great photo opportunities, and the grounds are home to around two dozen peacocks and peahens. I’ve never seen so many in one place before, and they really add to the atmosphere. The small museum inside is interesting and gives some insight into the history of the castle, including who built it, what it was used for, and a look at some of the pottery and tiles found on site. It’s also well air-conditioned, which makes it a nice break from the heat outside. Be warned that the toilets are pretty unpleasant and located down some narrow, slightly sketchy stairs. The main castle area itself is mostly empty, with only the walls open to walk along. The views are fantastic from up there, but it’s definitely not ideal if you’re afraid of heights. The walkways are narrow and can get crowded, and there’s only a railing to hold on to. We left just before sunset, and as we did, the queue to get in had grown a lot. Leaving early worked out well, as we were able to catch the bus back to the Rua with no hassle..."

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A J Bashha

a month ago

"Castelo de São Jorge is a stu ing medieval fortress situated on one of Lisbon’s highest hills, providing visitors with magnificent panoramic views ofthe city, including the Alfama district, the Baixa area, the Tagus River, and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. The castle itself has a rich history, originally serving as a Moorish citadel before becoming a royal palace and later a military stronghold. Visitors can explore vast ramparts, eleven towers, archaeological sites, and remnants of the former royal palace, all set within beautiful gardens that are home to roaming peacocks, adding a unique and charming touch to the experience. The castle's grounds feel like a living museum where one can marvel at medieval defensive architecture, walk along ancient walls, and enjoy peaceful spaces shaded by olive trees and dotted with historical artifacts. Surrounding the castle, the neighborhood of Alfama offers a vibrant yet authentic atmosphere with narrow, winding streets, traditional tiled houses, cozy cafes, and small shops steeped in local culture. The area is known for its lively yet intimate vibe, enriched by the sounds of Fado music and the daily rhythms of local residents. Travelers often find themselves enchanted by the blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making the approach to the castle a meaningful journey in itself. The castle’s elevated position allows for stu ing sunrise and sunset views across Lisbon, creating memorable photo opportunities and moments of reflection against the backdrop of terracotta rooftops and the sparkling river below. Visitors are recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds, as the castle tour, including its museum and archaeological areas, can take one to two hours. The pathway includes some steep climbs, but the well-preserved structures and the sweeping city vistas make the effort worthwhile. There are also small cafes within the castle grounds where visitors can pause and enjoy refreshments while taking in the scenic surroundings. Overall, Castelo de São Jorge offers a rich, immersive experience of historical, cultural, and natural heritage, making it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Lisbon’s fascinating past and vibrant present. The castle’s majesty, along with the lively charm of its surroundings, creates an unforgettable visit that reflects both the resilience and spirit of Lisbon...."

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FAQs for Visiting São Jorge Castle

Most visitors spend between two and three hours exploring the grounds, museum, and viewpoints.

Yes, though parents should watch young children near the ramparts and uneven surfaces.

Yes, guided tours can be booked on-site and provide valuable historical context.

Summer evening hours allow for sunset and early-night visits, offering beautiful city views.

Yes, there is a café and a restaurant with scenic outdoor seating.

Nearby Attractions to São Jorge Castle

Lisbon Cathedral: A Romanesque landmark just downhill, perfect to pair with your castle visit.
Alfama District: Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, filled with narrow lanes and traditional fado music.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia: A beautiful viewpoint overlooking Alfama and the river.
National Pantheon: A majestic domed monument housing tombs of notable Portuguese figures.
Fado Museum: A cultural stop dedicated to Portugal’s most iconic musical tradition.

The São Jorge Castle appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Lisbon!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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