São Jorge Castle Tickets

Learn all about Lisbon’s history at St. George’s Castle. Climb to the top and see panoramic views of the city and get insights into its medieval past.

Getting started

Arrive at São Jorge Castle early to avoid crowds, with the best time to visit being in the morning. Your entry ticket is valid for the entire day, so you can explore at your own pace.

What to expect

• São Jorge Castle: A historic fortress perched on a hill, famous for its spectacular views of Lisbon and its significant role in the city’s medieval history.
• Panoramic views: Capture stunning views of Lisbon, including the Tagus River, Alfama district, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
• The Castle walls & towers: Walk along the ancient castle walls, with access to various towers offering sweeping views of the city and beyond.
• Gardens & peacocks: Relax in shaded gardens and spot peacocks roaming freely, adding charm to the historic setting.
• Camera obscura: Experience Lisbon through a unique lens at the Ulysses Tower’s Camera Obscura, offering a live projection of the city in real-time.

Wrapping up

Take your time exploring the castle grounds and enjoy a peaceful stroll in the gardens before exiting. Be sure to check out the gift shop or grab a snack in the café while soaking up the atmosphere.

São Jorge Castle Tickets

Discover São Jorge Castle on this sightseeing tour that includes a multilingual audio guide and access to the Permanent Exhibitions section, where you can learn about its history as a military base and explore beautiful art like the sculpture of Afonso I. This 11th-century landmark is one of Lisbon's most famous attractions, with tickets granting entry to an area spanning over 5 acres in size, offering stunning views from its highest point at 230 feet above sea level. The castle features a total of 26 towers and walls that stretch for about 450 meters around the site. Built in 1041 by King Duarte I, São Jorge Castle was heavily fortified during the Siege of Lisbon in 1147 when it played a crucial role as the Portuguese army's stronghold against the Moors. Visitors spend approximately one hour exploring its intricate architecture and historical artifacts, making it unique compared to other medieval fortresses due to its well-preserved Islamic elements and strategic location overlooking the city. This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone interested in Lisbon’s rich past.

Explore São Jorge Castle

Your tour stops at São Jorge Castle where you can marvel at its impressive 11th-century architecture and learn about its pivotal role during the Siege of Lisbon in 1147. Covering over 5 acres, this fortress includes 26 towers with walls stretching for approximately 450 meters around the site. Visitors will see historical artifacts such as sculptures depicting King Afonso I, along with early Islamic architectural elements that showcase the castle's complex history. Guests spend about an hour exploring these features and learning from a multilingual audio guide or local expert who provides rich commentary on the castle’s military past and cultural significance. Unlike other medieval castles, São Jorge Castle stands out for its well-preserved structures and breathtaking views of Lisbon, making it essential for any tour focused on Portugal's historical landmarks.

Discover Permanent Exhibitions

At São Jorge Castle, guests can explore the Permanent Exhibitions section where they learn about the castle’s past as a military base through interactive displays and artifacts. The exhibitions cover an area of approximately 10,000 square feet and include detailed information on historical events such as the Siege of Lisbon in 1147. Visitors spend around 30 minutes here engaging with various exhibits that highlight the castle's strategic importance throughout Portuguese history. This section is unique due to its comprehensive approach to showcasing military life and cultural heritage, providing a deeper understanding of São Jorge Castle’s significance compared to similar sites.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Permanent Exhibitions at São Jorge Castle
• Visit 26 towers in 450 meters of walls
• Audio guide available in English, Portuguese, German, French, Spanish
• Discover early Islamic architecture elements throughout the castle
• See sculpture of Afonso I, first king of Portugal
• Enjoy panoramic views from highest point at 230 feet above sea level
• Access to historical artifacts and interactive displays covering military history
• Convenience including skip-the-line entry for a smoother visit

Perfect for history enthusiasts, photography lovers, and culture buffs, this sightseeing tour provides an in-depth look into Lisbon’s landmarks through guided commentary. The 1-hour format allows you to explore São Jorge Castle's towers, walls, and historical artifacts while enjoying panoramic views of the city, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Portugal's rich past.