Castle of Sao Jorge, Portugal

Castle of Sao Jorge

Lisbon DistrictPortugal

Why You'll Love Castle of Sao Jorge

The Castle of Sao Jorge is a historic fortress located in Lisbon, Portugal. Dating back to the 11th century, it offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River. The castle stands on the highest hill in the historic center of Lisbon, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the city's colorful architecture and winding streets. Within its walls, you can explore the castle's various towers, admire ancient artifacts in the museum, and stroll through the beautiful gardens. The Castle of Sao Jorge is a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and heritage of Portugal.

Getting to Castle of Sao Jorge

To get to the Castle of Sao Jorge from Lisbon city center, you can take a short taxi ride or use public transportation. Several buses and trams serve the area, providing easy access to the castle. If arriving by air, Lisbon Portela Airport is the closest international airport, and you can reach the castle by taking a taxi or using public transportation.

The closest city to Castle of Sao Jorge is Lisbon, in Lisbon District.

Travelling from Lisbon Portela Airport to Castle of Sao Jorge

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Castle of Sao Jorge is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. The summer months can be quite hot, and the castle can get crowded with tourists. Winter months may have cooler temperatures, but the castle offers indoor attractions as well.

Weather and Climate

The weather at the Castle of Sao Jorge is typically mild throughout the year. Summers (June to August) are warm with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). Winters (December to February) are mild with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). It is advisable to check the weather forecast before visiting as temperatures can vary.

Costs When Visiting

In Portugal, the currency is the Euro.
Some sample costs when travelling around Castle of Sao Jorge are:

Sample Accommodation Costs

Accommodation options near the Castle of Sao Jorge range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. On average, a basic guesthouse or hostel room can cost around $30-$50 per night. Mid-range hotels typically charge $70-$150 per night, while high-end hotels can cost $200 or more per night.

Sample Food Costs

Food costs in the vicinity of the Castle of Sao Jorge vary depending on the type of establishment. A simple meal at a local restaurant can cost around $10-$15 per person, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost $20-$40 per person. If you prefer to cook your own meals, groceries for a week can cost around $50-$70 for a single person.

Safety Rating

Portugal, including Lisbon and the Castle of Sao Jorge area, is generally considered safe for tourists. The crime rates are relatively low, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any major safety issues. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Portugal has made significant progress in promoting LGBTQ rights and tolerance, although it is recommended to exercise discretion in public displays of affection.

Local Population

Lisbon, the closest city to the Castle of Sao Jorge, has a population of approximately 547,000 people. The city is known for its diverse demographics, with residents representing various ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. The majority of the population identifies as Catholic, but there is also a growing presence of other religious groups. Portuguese is the official language spoken in Lisbon, and English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

Things to Do

Common activities for tourists at the Castle of Sao Jorge include exploring the castle's towers and walls, visiting the museum to learn about the history of Lisbon, enjoying panoramic views of the city and the river, and strolling through the castle's beautiful gardens. There are also regular cultural events and live performances hosted within the castle grounds, offering visitors a chance to experience Portuguese music, dance, and art.