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Lost amidst the enchanting labyrinth of Lisbon's narrow streets and historic neighborhoods? You're not alone. Many visitors find themselves bewildered by the maze-like layout of the city, especially when trying to navigate their way to the iconic Castelo de São Jorge. Fear not, for in this comprehensive guide, we're here to rescue you from confusion and uncertainty. We'll provide a step-by-step walkthrough from various starting points, ensuring you reach the castle with ease. So, grab your map (or smartphone) and let's embark on this adventure together.
Different starting points:
1.Starting Point: Baixa District
If you find yourself in Lisbon's bustling Baixa district, fret not; reaching Castelo de São Jorge is simpler than you think. Begin your journey at Praça do Comércio, the grand square facing the Tagus River. From here, head northeast towards Rua da Madalena until you reach Largo do Chão do Loureiro. Ascend the stairs beside the church and continue along Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo until you reach the castle entrance. Here is a visual guide:
1.This is where you come up the elevator from the supermarket called Pingo Doce. From here you have to walk up and turn right.
2. When you turn right go up the street where the arrow points (which is on the left side of the road)
3. Keep walking up the same road and when you see a left turn, turn left and go up until you see the Castle's entrance.
TUK TUK:
2.Starting Point: Martim Moniz
Begin your journey at Martim Moniz square, a bustling hub of cultural diversity and lively activity. Take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere before setting off towards your destination.
As you face the square, head towards the corner where you'll find an escalator discreetly nestled into the streetscape. You will see the iconic tram 28 stop right close to that escalator. This hidden gem will whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of the square, offering a convenient shortcut to your destination.
Ascend the escalator, marveling at the seamless transition from the lively streets below to the tranquil pathways above. As you reach the top, take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views unfolding before you, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the adventure that lies ahead.
Take the escalator up. Navigate your way towards the Castle with the aid of your google maps. After a couple of minutes of following your google maps route, you will see a set of stairs. When walked up the stairs navigate like this:
2. Walk up the stairs. Then you will see a big sign on the building saying Vila do Castle. Note that this HAS NOTHING TO DO with the castle. Just walk up the slope and continue your way towards the Castle as shown in the picture by the black arrow on the LEFT.
3. Continue walking up the same street.
4. When you reach this point, keep right and continue walking down along the wall.
5. Continue walking the road shown in the previous image. When you reach the image above, just keep left. Remember from here always keep left until you reach the entrance of the Castle.
The rest of the instruction is exactly like the instruction for the first starting point. For further image-based guides you could easily scroll up this blog post and follow the rest of the images. (refer to image number 3 under Baixa district)
3.Starting point: Alfama and Santa Luzia View Point
From Alfama, make your way towards the iconic Santa Luzia viewpoint, one of the most picturesque spots in Lisbon. If you are at Rua Norberto de Araújo, walk your way up the stairs and you will be at Santa Luzia view point. As you reach the viewpoint, pause to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the city, with the Tagus River stretching out before you.
If in Alfama, walk up Rua Norberto de Araújo stairs. On top of the stairs you will reach the main street and the breathtaking view is awaiting you at Santa Luzia view point. From the top of the stairs walk to the LEFT side until you see the image below:
2. On your left there is Santa luzia's romantic view point where many movies have been filmed. To go to the Castle, go to the right and enter Rua da Santiago and keep walking up the road.
3. Continue walking to where the road connects to Largo dos Lóios. Keep going up.
4. When you reach this point where you see the bakery, turn right and go up. The Castle's entry is up there.
4. Starting Point: Where three points meet: Calçada da Graça, Rua da Costa do Castelo and Calçada de Santo André
1.Calçada da Graça 2.Calçada de Santo André 3.Rua da Costa do Castelo
Calçada da Graça: Calçada da Graça is a street in the Alfama district known for its steep incline and historic charm. It connects the Graça neighborhood with other parts of Alfama and offers stunning views of the city along its winding path.
Calçada de Santo André: Calçada de Santo André is a cobblestone street that intersects with Calçada da Graça and Rua da Costa do Castelo. The base of this street starts from the corner of Martin Moniz square. When you walk this long road up you will end up at our meeting point where you see a large pink building. This is where Calçada de Santo André meets Rua da Costa do Castelo.
Rua da Costa do Castelo: Rua da Costa do Castelo is another street in Alfama, located near the São Jorge Castle. This street runs along the base of the castle hill and provides access to various attractions in the area.
So, the starting point where these three points meet is essentially a crossroads, where individuals can begin their journey towards Castelo de São Jorge from different directions within Alfama. From this junction, visitors can choose their path based on their starting point. Here is how to go to the Castle from any of these starting points:
1.Locate yourself here, where you see a small round about and a pink building which is called ALTAR.
2. Only a few meters from your walking point you will see a small steep street on your right. Take it up and you will see the parking are at the Castle with a guard sitting in a booth. He will orient you towards the castle entrance which is like this:
3. From the Castle's parking area follow the map and walk up to the ticket office (5 minutes walk) and there you are!
Conclusion:
Navigating the labyrinthine streets of Lisbon can be a daunting task, especially when trying to find your way to Castelo de São Jorge. However, armed with this step-by-step guide, you'll navigate the city's twists and turns with confidence. Whether you're starting from Baixa, Alfama, Chiado, or Costa do Castelo, rest assured that reaching the castle is within your grasp. So, lace up your walking shoes, embrace the adventure, and prepare to discover the medieval splendor of Castelo de São Jorge amidst the enchanting streets of Lisbon.
*Exclusive land and sea bus tour of the Castle with a full ride in Tagus river. (Pick up and skip the line included)