Castelo de São Jorge

The Basics

The highest point in Lisbon has always been dominated by fortresses; various castle remnants here are attributed to the Romans, Visigoths, Moors, and Portuguese. Today you can spot these invaders’ ruins as you stroll around the castle grounds, learn about the citadel’s tumultuous history, and see recent discoveries at the complex’s small archaeological museum.

Many sightseeing and themed tours stroll past the castle (or whiz by it on Segways) while visiting Alfama. For more detailed information about the castle, book a private tour and delve deep into Lisbon’s oldest district. Hop-on hop-off bus tours, which enable you to explore the city at your own pace, stop here.

Things to Know Before You Go

• St. George’s Castle is a must-visit for history buffs and all first-time visitors to Lisbon.

• The castle is perched on the highest hill in Lisbon, so wear comfortable shoes for the climb (if you walk up), and to walk around the grounds and walls.

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to explore the grounds, which can take a few hours.

• It gets cold in Lisbon during the winter months (December to about March). Be sure to dress warmly as you tour the castle, which is exposed.

• Due to steps and uneven cobblestones, the castle is not readily accessible to those with limited mobility.

How to Get There

St. George’s Castle sits atop an Alfama hill, which you can walk up in about 15 minutes from Rossio Square (Praça do Rossio) or Martim Moniz Square (Praça Martim Moniz). Alternatively, take tram 28 to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia stop or city bus 737 to Castelo.

When to Get There

The castle is open daily from 9am to 6pm November 1 to February 28, and to 9pm March 1 to October 31. The castle is closed January 1, May 1, and December 24, 25, and 31. Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the long lines that form by midday.

The Long-Standing Castle

From ancient times, São Jorge hill has held some type of fortress to protect the city from unwanted invaders. Phoenician, Greek, Carthaginian, and Roman ruins have been found in the area among the Moorish and Portuguese “renovations.” Much of what you see today was fixed and added during the early 20th century to renovate and shore up the historically significant castle, which was damaged in the Great Earthquake of 1755.

Ways to explore

The Castelo de São Jorge is one of Lisbon’s most visible and popular attractions—a major draw for first-time visitors and history buffs. Allow a couple of hours to visit the castle, and save time by booking skip-the-line tickets in advance, so that you can go when it suits you.

Many sightseeing and themed tours stroll past the castle (or whiz by it on Segways) while visiting Alfama. For a more in-depth experience, book a private tour and immerse yourself in Lisbon’s oldest district. Hop-on, hop-off bus tours, which let you explore the city at your own pace, also stop at the castle.

Accessibility

The castle is not easily accessible to those with limited mobility, due to steps and uneven cobblestones.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water, camera

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, hat, warm clothes in the winter

Not allowed

Non-service animals, feeding the peacocks

Amenities

Gift shop, food trucks, restaurant, Wi-Fi

Address

The Castelo de São Jorge stands at the top of an Alfama hill, close to the center of Lisbon. It can be reached by walking—roughly 15 minutes from downtown areas—and public transportation; driving to the castle is possible, but difficult, with no immediately nearby parking.

Driving

The castle entrance is on Rua do Chão da Feira, a minor one-way street that’s accessible off Largo de Santa Luzia. The nearest paid public parking lot is at Chão do Loureiro, just west of the castle.

Public transportation

Take tram 28E to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia stop, a short walk from the entrance, or city bus 737 to Castelo, right outside.

Best times to visit

Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the long lines that form by midday.

Best days to visit

The Castelo de São Jorge is open daily, except on certain holidays; Sundays are the best day for family visits, when the castle often hosts all-ages activities.

Best months to visit

Visit during the shoulder months of April–June or September–October for nice outdoor weather, with fewer people than in the busy summer season.

Special events

Each June, the castle hosts one or two nights of special fado concerts with leading performers, in an event called Fado at the Castelo.