How to Skip the Line at São Jorge Castle
Buy your ticket online on the official castle site to skip a summer ticket queue that can take 30-60 minutes, or use the Lisboa Card, which includes entry. Arrive at the 9 am opening or after 5 pm, and skip the packed tram 28 by taking bus 737 or walking up through Alfama.
- Ticket
- About €15-17 adults, half price for 13-25s, free under 12 (check official)
- Lisboa Card
- Free entry
- Hours
- 9 am to 9 pm (March-October), 9 am to 6 pm (November-February)
- Best time
- 9 am opening, or after 5 pm for sunset
- Busiest
- Late morning to mid-afternoon in summer
- Closed
- 1 January, 1 May, 24 and 25 December
- Time to allow
- 1.5-2 hours
How long are the lines at São Jorge Castle?
São Jorge is one of Lisbon's most visited sights, and in summer the ticket queue at the gate can take 30-60 minutes from late morning. With an online ticket or Lisboa Card, you'll mostly skip it. Inside, the castle is spread out, so the crowds gather on the main viewpoint terrace, particularly at sunset.
Before you go, check how busy São Jorge Castle is likely to be. BeatTheCrowd shows the live crowd level and an hourly forecast for any date, adjusted for Portuguese holidays, school breaks and weather.
Check today’s crowds at Castelo de São Jorge →