Almourol Castle (Castelo de Almourol)

Overview

Almourol Castle is a striking medieval castle located on a small island in the Tagus River. It is a well-preserved example of the architecture of the Knights Templar, known for its strategic position and historical significance.

The castle played a crucial role in the Christian Reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula and is an important symbol of the Templars' presence in Portugal.

Historical Site Architectural Landmark

Location

Address

Praia do Ribatejo, Almourol, Santarém

Neighborhood: Praia do Ribatejo

Coordinates

39.483300, -8.450000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€5

Children

€2.50 (under 12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photographs

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Blooming flowers
• Lush greenery

summer

Hot and sunny

• Extended opening hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Autumn foliage
• Harvest views

winter

Cold and rainy

• Holiday decorations
• Cozy indoor exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book boat tickets in advance
Bring identification
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Boat ticket

seasonal

Jacket for cooler months Umbrella for rainy days

not allowed

Large bags Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, due to uneven surfaces and stairs

• Uneven stone paths, stairs

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry €5

boat transport €10

food €10-15

souvenirs €5-20

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, Walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance, especially in peak season
• Official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available with online booking

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Almourol Castle Official App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide with historical information, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, café

Charging Stations: Visitor center and café

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)

Distance: 120 km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Taxi or private transfer

€100-120 1.5 hours

Public transport

€20-25 2.5-3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

Walking

Free 10 min

Taxi

€5-10 5 min

Bicycle

€2-3 for bike rental 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Almourol Castle is a symbol of local pride, representing the region's rich history and the legacy of the Knights Templar

Historical Significance: The castle was a strategic stronghold during the Christian Reconquest and remains an important link to Portugal's medieval past

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience
The café near the boat dock serves excellent coffee and local pastries
Check for special events or reenactments during your visit

Local Recommendations

• Try the local pastries at the nearby café
• Ask for the guide named João, known for his engaging storytelling
• Visit the small museum on the island for a deeper historical context

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá

thank_you Obrigada/Obrigado

where_is Onde está

how_much Quanto custa

beautiful Lindo/Linda

ticket Bilhete

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main courtyard

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the castle walls from a low angle

Result: Stunning shots of the medieval architecture

#AlmourolCastle #MedievalCastle #Portugal

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, main courtyard, towers

prohibited areas Interior rooms during guided tours

flash photography Not allowed in certain areas

commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Convent of Christ in Tomar

Distance: 20 km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Historical Site

Santarém Historic Center

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Cultural Attraction

Reviews

4.5

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book boat tickets in advance"
"Visit early to avoid crowds"
"Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven terrain"

Contact Information

+351 249 310 094

info@castelodealmourol.pt

www.castelodealmourol.pt

Social Media

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