Portugal is one of the oldest countries in the world, so it’s full of fantastic places to visit, including many historical sites. From north to south, if you’re a fan of time travel and, in particular, medieval times, then you really must read this article. These are some of the most beautiful castles near Porto.
Some are closer to Invicta, others just over an hour away (or less). Either way, these are some of our favorite castles in the northern region. How about taking advantage of these tips for a family getaway , or even as a couple? Let’s (re)discover some of their history and curiosities.
Table Of Contents
Lindoso Castle
The Peneda-Gerês National Park is already a resident on any itinerary through the north of Portugal. However, in this case the main role doesn’t belong to its viewpoints or waterfalls, but to Lindoso Castle.
Located in the village of the same name, Lindoso Castle is one of Portugal’s most important military monuments. The name comes from the Latin “Limitosum”, which means limit. In fact, this name is more than appropriate, or Lindoso wouldn’t be close to the border with Spain.
In this list of the most beautiful castles near Porto, Lindoso, in the municipality of Ponte da Barca, is the furthest away, about 1h25 by car. However, we believe it’s worth hitting the road. Once in Lindoso, take the opportunity to visit the famous community granaries, which make this village a picture-worthy setting.
📍 Lugar do Castelo, 4980-020 Lindoso
Arnoia Castle
Located on the summit of a mountain, Arnoia Castle is relatively small, but its size in no way minimizes its charms. Just over an hour away from Porto, this monument belongs to the municipality of Celorico de Basto and is a worthy representative of the Romanesque style.
Once you’ve visited the medieval building, don’t leave too soon, as you can also visit the Arnoia Castle Interpretive Center. Also, take the opportunity to try the local gastronomic delicacies. Or you can always wander through the town’s narrow streets and admire its traces of yesteryear.
The army that wasn’t
Castles are traditionally places of legend and endless stories. And Arnoia Castle is no exception. It is said that once upon a time, when fierce battles were being fought, Arnoia Castle was surrounded by a vast Moorish army.
Compared to the enemy forces, Arnoia’s military garrison was at a huge disadvantage. But what did the soldiers do? Well, they asked the local population for help and, as night fell, they lit torches which they tied to the horns of the goats of the village’s herds.
In the distance, the Moors saw so many lights on the castle hill that they counted each goat by two men. The result? According to legend, the Moors gave up and retreated.
📍Place of the Castle, Arnoia, Celorico de Basto
Lanhoso Castle
In this list of castles near Porto, Lanhoso deserves a mention, as it is closely linked to the foundation of the kingdom of Portugal. Built on top of Monte do Pilar, Lanhoso Castle offered an enviable location for military defense.
More than a thousand years old, this fortification is interesting not only for its antiquity, but also for the stories it holds. In the past, Lanhoso Castle served more than once as a refuge for D. Teresa, mother of D. Afonso Henriques.
📍 Rua do Pilar, 4830-513 Póvoa de Lanhoso
Guimarães Castle
This list wouldn’t make sense without the inclusion of Guimarães Castle. Located just over 40 minutes by car from Porto, in the heart of the Cradle City, this is perhaps one of the most symbolic national monuments.
Originally made of earth and wood, Guimarães Castle was built to protect the local inhabitants from Norman and Moorish invasions. This fortification plays an important role in the history of Portugal, or it would not have been the scene of the Battle of S. Mamedein 1128, which was won byAfonso Henriques.
In addition to the Castle, you can also visit the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, which is right next to the medieval building. Alternatively, you can always get lost in the charms of the city center.
📍Rua Conde D. Henrique, 4800-412 Guimarães
Santa Maria da Feira Castle
The fortified castle of Santa Maria da Feira is the closest to Porto. About half an hour from Invicta, a visit to this monument is always worthwhile. Today, it is particularly well known for being the stage for one of Europe’s largest medieval re-enactments.
However, in other times, this was the seat of the “Lands of Santa Maria”, which stretched as far as the current municipality of Arouca. The castle is still considered one of the most complete testimonies of Portuguese medieval architecture, between the 11th and 16th centuries.
The well-preserved Castelo da Feira stands on top of a hill and is surrounded by extensive woodland. It looks like it belongs in a fairytale setting.
📍Alameda Roberto Vaz de Oliveira, 4520-201 Santa Maria da Feira
Penedono Castle
This is probably the castle mentioned in the article that is furthest away from Porto, at around 160 km, the equivalent of a 1h50 drive. However, I think it’s worth visiting not only this fortification, but the town of Penedono itself.
Located in the district of Viseu, this village has the typical charms of Beira, in a kind of immersive journey through time. In fact, to talk about the origins of Penedono Castle, you have to go all the way back to the 10th century. However, over the centuries it has undergone various interventions.
Penedono Castle stands out due to its hexagonal structure and the mixture of defensive and residential functions. The noble Coutinho family once lived here, playing a leading role in the dynastic crisis of 1383-85.
📍25 de Abril Square, Penedono
