Castillo de Silves
Castillo de Silves things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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the Castelo de Silves, and it was an incredible experience. Located just a short detour from the A22 motorway, it's definitely worth the stop if you’re traveling by car. The castle is massive and, like most castles, sits atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Parking is conveniently located near an Aldi store, with a large car park that even accommodates campervans. If you're driving a small car and feeling lucky, you might find a spot near the main gate, but be prepared for a 5-minute walk uphill if you park in the main lot. The walk is more than worth it—the views from the castle are absolutely stunning! One of the unique aspects of this visit was the presence of storks flying at eye level as you walk around the castle walls. It adds a magical touch to the experience. The entry fee is very affordable at just €2.80 per person, making this a low-cost, high-reward visit. Inside the castle, there’s a fascinating archaeological exhibit, as well as a restaurant with a modern water feature and trees that create a calm and serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a meal while soaking in the historical surroundings. If you’re looking for a break from the beach, Castelo de Silves is the place to visit. With its beautiful views, low cost, and rich historical significance, it’s a wonderful destination for all ages. The nearby cathedral and small park with plenty of shade from the trees only add to the charm. I highly recommend visiting this castle for anyone interested in Portugal’s history or simply seeking a peaceful and educational day out.
Andrzej SAndrzej S
00
We went in October and it was a cloudy day which was a good thing because we started to get quite hot doing a lot of walking and hiking. I'd imagine it gets really hot in the summer as it can be a sun trap. But, the actual structure is beautiful to look at and admire from the outside. Looking out at the views is really nice too, from the top of the castle, you can take in sweeping panoramas of the surrounding countryside, from the Arade River to the rolling hills and orange groves that stretch as far as the eye can see. If you're looking for a true taste of Portugal's rich history and culture, then Castelo de Silves is an absolute must-see, especially since there is not much else to explore around the town of Silves. But be warned: the climb to the top of the castle is not for the faint of heart! The steep, narrow staircases and uneven terrain can be a bit treacherous, especially on a hot day. But trust me, the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment when you reach the top are more than worth it. The safety isn't the best as is the case in most historical sites in Portugal. All in all, Castelo de Silves is a fascinating and rewarding destination for history buffs, architecture aficionados, and anyone looking for a truly authentic taste of Portugal's storied past. So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera and some sturdy shoes, and get ready to step back in time!
algarve life (algarvelife.eu)algarve life (algarvelife.eu)
00
The castle walls have been extensively restored during the 1920's and 1930's. This makes the castle look in much better condition than you would expect from an eleventh century castle. The views, however, from the walls are quite stunning. The is very little left of the internal structures, but the excavations do give an idea of how the place might have looked. There was a display of stone carrying there when we visited that added to the interest of the place. We bought the combined ticket which also have us access to the archeological centre, just down the road, which was also interesting, especially the deep Moorish water cistern over which the centre was built. The same ticket also got us a free wine tasting at a small kiosk nearby. Considering the ticket only cost 3.80 Euros it was definitely worth the three hours we spent there.
Gareth MorganGareth Morgan
00
Nice but not great. People (staff) seemed like they would rather be someplace... Any place else. The Castle is beautiful, not much history on display other than the walls. There is an entrance fee (very reasonable) and an additional fee for the Museum. Maybe all the history is in the museum, I didn't go. It was very cool that the was a cafe inside the castle ( though it takes away from the history) which is nice to relax inside. After just coming from Ponferrada (Knights Templar Castle) this kinda disappointed. For the price it's nice but not a multiple day trip. I'm less than an hour or so (unless your getting coffee ☕) you'll be done. Personally I recommend going to Cafe Ingles just outside the castle entrance for coffee and pizza after you tour the grounds inside.
Jason NastJason Nast
30
We parked on a side street a little way away and walked up the hill to the castle, past the faded cathedral built on the site of the mosque. Entrance with the museum was about €7 and we walked out of the gates into the courtyard. The centre of the castle is now a mix of garden and archeological dig although the gardens are a bit neglected after the tourism decline due to Covid. We walked a full circuit of the walls and then had a drink in the cafe before looking at the gardens. One of the towers had an exhibition of castle photography which I obviously loved! The cisterns, in use as the towns water source until the 1990's, are now an exhibition of the decline of the Iberian Lynx and the work being done to protect and reintroduce it.
Marcus HurleyMarcus Hurley
40
You get to experience 360 degree gorgeous views of the town, but you also have a lovely, well-kept garden inside. With various trees bearing different fruits, allowing you to see what the Portuguese weather offers this agricultural land of the Algarve. Trees growing figs, grapes, bananas, and lemons, which we picked off for some fresh lemon water to have back at the villa. It only cost €4.60 for the both of us, but to break it down, it was €1.20 for students and over 60s, €2.40 for adults and free for residents. I'd recommend coming in the low seasons, where you can walk freely and at your own pace, enjoying the tranquility and beautiful views of the town.
CatCat
00
Nearby Attractions Of Castillo de Silves
Praça Al-Mutamid
Café Silves Castle
Museo municipal de arqueología de Silves
Igreja da Misericórdia de Silves
Praça Al-Mutamid
4.4
(358)Click for details
Café Silves Castle
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Museo municipal de arqueología de Silves
4.3
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Igreja da Misericórdia de Silves
4.4
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Nearby Restaurants Of Castillo de Silves
Marisqueira Rui
Churrasqueira Valdemar
Café Inglês
Recanto Dos Mouros
Restaurante Mosaiko
Restaurante Ponte Romana
Art'aska - Restaurante Bar and wine shop
Cruz de Portugal
Burger Ranch de Silves
Marisqueira Casa Velha
Marisqueira Rui
4.6
(2K)$$
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Churrasqueira Valdemar
4.4
(1.1K)Click for details
Café Inglês
4.5
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Recanto Dos Mouros
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
R. do Castelo, 8300-135 Silves, Portugal
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Phone
+351 282 440 837
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Website
cm-silves.pt
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Overview
4.4
(6.1K reviews)
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Description
The Castle of Silves is a castle in the civil parish of Silves in the municipality of Silves in the Portuguese Algarve. It's believed that the first fortifications were built upon a possible Lusitanian castro, by the Romans or Visigoths.
attractions: Praça Al-Mutamid, Café Silves Castle, Museo municipal de arqueología de Silves, Igreja da Misericórdia de Silves, restaurants: Marisqueira Rui, Churrasqueira Valdemar, Café Inglês, Recanto Dos Mouros, Restaurante Mosaiko, Restaurante Ponte Romana, Art'aska - Restaurante Bar and wine shop, Cruz de Portugal, Burger Ranch de Silves, Marisqueira Casa Velha
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