City: Portugal
Top Things to do in Portugal
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Top 10 Castles in Portugal, Portugal
– in Europe (green & dark grey)
– in the European Union (green)
Restaurants in Portugal
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. 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!!
3. 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
4. Castelo da Rainha Santa Isabel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 439 reviews
Reviewed By Headedwestboy - Frederick, United States
Driving up to the castle we began to see the lovely walled town of cobblestone streets. The castle sitting atop the hill became our hone for two nights and what a home it was! Lovely rooms with updated bathrooms, appropriately decorated. Ours had a little sitting room and a beautiful view of the vineyards below. The restaurant serves good regional food and a plentiful breakfast. I hope we’ll be back some day!
5. 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!
6. Castelo de Braganca
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,027 reviews
Reviewed By PByrd990
Arriving from Spain and stoping in Braganca is a definite surprise. The castle is amazingly beautiful. The small houses surrounding the main tower, the people, the food you can find....it`s just a nice way to begin your trip.
7. Paco dos Duques de Braganca
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,845 reviews
Reviewed By iolandaa21 - Lisbon, Portugal
Built in the first quarter of the 15th century its inner space is divided in several rooms, whose artifacts are just stunning - such as those in the Banquet Hall or the Hall of the lost steps, to mention just a few. The roof designed as the interior wooden keel of a boat is worth being admired. I was fortunate enough to have equally watched a temporary exhibit on Medieval torture instruments in one of the upper floor rooms.
8. Castelo de Palmela
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 491 reviews
Reviewed By sos_kss - Sesimbra, Portugal
Really easy castle to walk. Lots of open space for large groups. The inclines aren't that steep, so it's good for kids and stroller/wheelchair access. Not as slippery and narrow as other castles. Has a rather fancy hotel/restaurant attached. Ample parking. Free activity.
9. Castelo de Santa Maria da Feira
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 476 reviews
Reviewed By 64beckim - Sao Bartolomeu de Messines, Portugal
Came here for a few hours with my boyfriend and our friend, the castle is located in a lovely town at the top of the hill offering great views of it below. The grounds are beautifully kept and the castle itself is in great condition, plus your able to walk inside and up to the top. This is my second time here and I'd definitely come again. The church next to the castle is also beautiful and worth a visit.
10. 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.
