City: Central Portugal
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10 Castles in Central Portugal That You Shouldn't Miss
1. Quinta da Regaleira
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13,313 reviews
Classified as World Heritage by UNESCO and built at the turn of the 20th century, this romantic architectural complex is comprised of a Palace, a Chapel, and gardens with grottos.
Reviewed By richardb552016 - London, United Kingdom
This palace is a must for anyone visiting Lisbon. Within easy reach by train and bus, the gardens are a delight with many follies, chapels, delightful views and what is called an Initiation Well which is an absolute must including stepping stones and looking through a waterfall amongst other attractions. The cafe affords a lovely outdoor seating area with views of the palace and gardens. The architecture of all of the buildings are magical in appearance. Allow at least 2 hours. The walk to the top of the garden area is fairly steep but worthwhile. Then it is all downhill from there!
2. Castelo de Monsanto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By Lisabarrier - Taumarunui, New Zealand
Well worth the steep climb to get to the top. Best first thing in the morning when you have the place to yourself. Amazing views of the area, could see how they lived on top of the hill.
3. Park and National Palace of Pena
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18,360 reviews
Reviewed By bluecarrot - Los Angeles, United States
While not as old as so many other sights in Portugal, this palace and its surrounding grounds are truly awe-inspiring! If youre able, plan to go on a day with good weather and spend the day hiking around the stunning grounds and through the hundreds of paths and trails that wind all through the wooded area at the base of the palace! Seeing the palace itself is also quite interesting, but, for me, the outside of it is more amazing than the inside. The remaining furniture inside comes from a number of different styles and periods and the detail and craftsmanship are some of the finest Ive ever seen but try to go through the inside of the palace before it gets crowded if you want to see anything at all! Sintra is an easy day trip from Lisbon and this palace and its grounds are the gem of that trip, its absolutely worth the time!!
4. Castelo dos Mouros
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,492 reviews
The Moorish Castle is a military fortification that bears witness to the Islamic presence in the region, and was probably constructed between the eighth and ninth centuries and later expanded after the Reconquista. Overlooking the town of Sintra, it served as a watchtower, guaranteeing the protection of Lisbon and its surroundings.
Reviewed By howardform
Everyone comes to Sintra for Pena Palace and frankly I liked the Moorish Castle alot more, its really cool. Be aware there is alot of walking up stairs and hill climbing , so you have to be in shape The views are amazing, you can get the best photos of the castle from the castle and you can also get great photos of Pena Palace from here as well It is less crowded than Pena Palace
5. Palacio Nacional da Ajuda
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,295 reviews
This is a collection of decorative arts including furniture, tapestries and statues in an unfinished palace.
Reviewed By nobukof347 - Yao, Japan
This palace is about 10-15 minute walk from Mosteiro dos jeronimos. There were a few tourists in the palace when I visited it. Although it is still used, visitors can see inside the palace and are allowed to take pictures. The inside of the palace is gorgeous and can imagine how royal family or people in high classes lived. This palace is on the uphill but not so steep. It is interesting to look around the buildings with tile walls. A Botanical Garden is nearby the palace.
6. Castelo de Leiria
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 829 reviews
This place is temporarily closed.
Reviewed By michaelc0llins77 - Dublin, Ireland
A very nice castle with an amazing view over the city, and loved the activities happening inside the castle - some kind of medieval market!
7. Medieval Town of Ourem, Portugal
8. Castelo de Tomar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,130 reviews
Reviewed By O180DVjacks - Melbourne, United States
From the first moment you arrive in Tomar, Hold on to your hat, you are in for an experience of a lifetime. The Town of Tomar is a myriad of sweet smelling small passages, streets and squares, cafe's, shops, and small restaurants and eateries to cater to every taste. The food is authentic and delicious....be prepared to gain a few pounds in weight. The Old Town of Tomar is steeped in history, and the best way to see this is a guided tour in a Tuk Tuk., its like a magical mystery tour and the drivers/tour guides are fluent in English, French and German. The Templar Castle and the Convent of Christ is the Icing on a very big cake. Go and be amazed. I will leave it at that.
9. Castelo de Montemor o Velho
10. A Ginjinha d'Castelo de Ourem
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 140 reviews
The house "Ginginha The Castle" is a business for almost 100 years. From traditional old grocery store, in 1993 it became the Bar - Traditional Tavern "Ginjinha The Castle", making it one of the landmarks to visit for those in the historical area of Ourém. Taste the traditional cherry liqueur and treat yourself!
Reviewed By hans-jaguar - Santa Comba Dao, Portugal
Just in front of the church and on the way to the castle, you have the old house who is called the "Ginginha The Castle" . This old shop is existing already for more than a 100 years. In that time it was a traditional old grocery store, which you will see on the interior with still the original old balcony etc. But in the year 1993 it got turned into a Bar - Traditional Tavern "Ginjinha The Castle", make a short stop over in the shop, you will like it, after you have taste the traditional cherry liqueur!
