Top Things to do in Faro District
What to do and see in Faro District, Algarve: The Best Castles
Discover the best top things to do in Faro District, Portugal including Municipio de Silves, Feira Medieval de Silves, Governor's Castle (Castelo dos Governadores), Castelo de Tavira, Castelo de Castro Marim, Castle of Alcoutim, Paderne Castle, Castle of Aljezur, Castle of Salir.
Restaurants in Faro District
1. Municipio de Silves
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 92 reviews
The SILVES MEDIEVAL FAIR takes place in August, in the historic centre of this Algarve city. Ten days of historical re-enactment of the medieval era of the ancient capital of the Kingdom of the Algarve. Silves Municipal Council, the fair's organiser, continues its support of this nationally renowned event, which promises to be one of the most exciting events on the region's summer calendar.
Reviewed By xxluvleaxx - Chester, United Kingdom
(Actually visited with my sister and adult daughter but for some reason trip advisor doesn't give just a 'family' option ????♀️) Silves was really one of the highlights of our recent trip to the Algarve. We first visited on a coach trip historical tour but had less than an hour there, we decided there was much more we wanted to see/do/photograph so we made a decision to visit again by local bus from Albufeira. Lots of nice shops selling things you don't see in the more popular towns, beautiful buildings and nice historical places to visit that cost a couple of €'s We visited the castle, archeology museum and cathedral as well as the roman bridge and walked to the cross of Portugal on the outskirts of town. We had lovely Bifanas in a cafe for just €1.75 and the absolute best thing about it all was the Storks nesting everywhere! Such a beautiful place. would be an absolute dream to live in such a place.
2. Feira Medieval de Silves
3. Governor's Castle (Castelo dos Governadores)
4. Castelo de Tavira
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 485 reviews
Reviewed By Mairwen1
Don’t expect an actual castle. These are only the ruins of a medieval fortress castle and there’s not a lot left other than the walls. Being a fortress, it was of course built at the highest point in Tavira where they could guard against attacks from North African raiders and pirates. Today this means that if you climb the walls, you get excellent views across Tavira as far as the Rio Formosa. History is a bit fuzzy around the dates but it possibly dates from the 8th century. What you see here now is more likely from the 11th century and it we know that it was re-modelled and reinforced after the Christian crusaders arrived in 1242. 500 years later, it was very badly damaged in the devastating 1755 earthquake, leaving it in its current state of disrepair. Inside the walls is a very pretty garden with vibrant purple bougainvillea, lavender hedges and showy orange flame vine with its long trumpet flowers. The steps up to the castle walls are a little dodgy and walking around the battlements is not for the faint hearted. If you’re not good with heights, the old metal railings might not feel entirely safe. The views are definitely worth it though. The castle is right next door to the Church Santa Maria do Castelo which has a great bell tower (for those not already tired of climbing stairs) and an excellent small museum. TIP: we kept seeing a chap who stood out the front as if to collect an entry fee. You can safely ignore him as entry is free and he is just chancing his luck that some people will pay him.
5. Castelo de Castro Marim
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 299 reviews
Reviewed By LMCHD - Lisbon, Portugal
Bird Friendly Lovely Welcoming Flowers Local Weather Report Radio Motorway Medieval Information Center Families
6. Castle of Alcoutim
7. Paderne Castle
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By Lesterbeach - Winnipeg, Canada
The castle is now well marked as you cross the narrow bridge before entering Paderne. Turn right and follow the signs, passed the fonte and then through the fields of olive trees until you come to the gravel road heading up the hill. This year the road was quite rough but it will probably be graded soon. There is lots of parking at the top. The castle is not open to visitors often but sometimes there are special events or school tours and the gates ate open. Walk around the castle and enjoy the view. Carob and olive trees surround the parking area and the field is full of wild thyme- great to add in your cooking.
8. Castle of Aljezur
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 331 reviews
The remains of the Moorish 10th century castle can be seen high on the hill over the old town and the views from there are fantastic. I do not think this has been reviewed on trip advisor but I would suggest you let me do one
Reviewed By lesleyg320 - Portugal, null
Great 360degree views. You’re able to clamber around as much as you want and there are lots of information panels telling the history and myths surrounding this castle.
