Pegões Aqueduct
A monumental 17th-century aqueduct near Tomar, Portugal, offering stunning views and a walk through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Pegões Aqueduct
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental 17th-century aqueduct near Tomar, Portugal, offering stunning views and a walk through history.
"Impressive aqueduct that was commissioned by King John the III of Portugal in 1590 to supply water to the nearby Convent of Christ."
Free Entry & Parking
:moneywithwings: Entry is free! There's a parking area conveniently located beneath the aqueduct.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must if you plan to walk on top of the aqueduct.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Arches
Main section of the aqueduct
Marvel at the sheer scale of the 168 arches, a testament to Renaissance and Mannerist engineering.
Walking the Top
Top of the aqueduct
Experience breathtaking panoramic views as you walk along the top of this historic structure.
Historical Significance
Near Tomar
Discover the fascinating history of this 17th-century aqueduct built to supply water to the Convent of Christ.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Safety on the Aqueduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Parking
:moneywithwings: Entry is free! There's a parking area conveniently located beneath the aqueduct.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must if you plan to walk on top of the aqueduct.
Mind the Heights
:warning: The aqueduct is very high with no railings. Exercise extreme caution, especially with children.
Drone Views are Epic
:camerawithflash: Capture stunning aerial shots; many visitors use drones for unique perspectives.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Parking
:moneywithwings: Entry is free! There's a parking area conveniently located beneath the aqueduct.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must if you plan to walk on top of the aqueduct.
Mind the Heights
:warning: The aqueduct is very high with no railings. Exercise extreme caution, especially with children.
Drone Views are Epic
:camerawithflash: Capture stunning aerial shots; many visitors use drones for unique perspectives.
Combine with Tomar
:world_map: Easily accessible from Tomar, pair your visit with the Convent of Christ for a full day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and historical significance of the Pegões Aqueduct, often describing it as a breathtaking architectural marvel. The ability to walk on top offers spectacular views, though the lack of safety railings is a notable concern for some. Free entry and convenient parking add to its appeal.
"Beautiful long aqueduct. It looks small from the ground, but then you go up the stairs and realize how long it is.
And there is a parking platz under it. Free entry. The was a man playing hand-pan (Rui).
Not very adequate for children as they might fall."
Raquel Karolyi Machado
"Impressive aquaduct that was commissioned by King John the III of Portugal in 1590 to supply water to the nearby Convent of Christ and the town of Tomar.
It has 168 arches and was built in the renessance and mannerist style."
Seimen Burum
"A very large and impressive aqueduct. The view from above is spectacular, it is worth going up and walking along it."
Rachel Dagan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pegões Aqueduct is located about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Lisbon. You can rent a car or take a train to Tomar and then a taxi or local bus to the aqueduct. Many visitors find driving the most convenient option.
Yes, there is a parking area located directly under the aqueduct, making it very accessible for visitors arriving by car.
While it's possible to reach Tomar by train, getting directly to the aqueduct via public transport might require a taxi or a local bus service from Tomar. Renting a car offers more flexibility.
The aqueduct is situated just a few minutes away from the city of Tomar, making it a very convenient addition to a visit to the Convent of Christ.
Many visitors enjoy driving to the aqueduct and then exploring the surrounding landscape on foot. The area offers beautiful natural scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Pegões Aqueduct is completely free. You can explore the site without any admission fees.
As an outdoor historical monument, the aqueduct is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for walking on top of the aqueduct. The entire site is free to access and explore.
While official guided tours might not be readily available, many visitors explore independently. You can find historical information online or hire a local guide in Tomar.
Yes, the aqueduct is an open-air historical site and is accessible year-round. However, weather conditions might affect the comfort of your visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The most iconic shots are from below, showcasing the scale of the arches, and from the top, offering panoramic views of the valley. Drone photography is also very popular.
Be extremely cautious when taking photos on top of the aqueduct, as there are no safety railings. Focus on your footing and be aware of the drop.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hours, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Yes, many visitors use drones to capture unique aerial perspectives of the Pegões Aqueduct. Ensure you are aware of any local drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arches. A drone can provide spectacular aerial shots.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how much you want to walk on top and how long you spend taking photos.
While children can visit, walking on top of the aqueduct is not recommended due to the significant height and lack of safety barriers. Supervise them closely.
The area around the base is relatively flat, with parking available. Accessing the top involves stairs or a path. Walking on the aqueduct itself is on stone.
There are no facilities directly at the aqueduct. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any food or drinks in Tomar before your visit.
The aqueduct was built in the 17th century to supply water to the Convent of Christ in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a more accessible historical experience, the nearby Convent of Christ in Tomar offers a UNESCO World Heritage site with more controlled environments and historical exhibits that might be more engaging and safer for kids. The aqueduct can be a quick photo stop, but the main exploration might be better suited for older children or adults.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 For truly unique shots, many visitors utilize drones to capture aerial views, showcasing the aqueduct's length and its integration with the natural surroundings. Walking on top of the aqueduct provides a different, yet equally compelling, photographic opportunity. The panoramic views of the valley are spectacular, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, which offer soft, warm light and fewer crowds.
Photographers should be mindful of the lack of safety barriers when composing shots from the top. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the full scope of the arches and the expansive scenery. 🚶 Adventurous Travelers
The feeling of freedom and the raw connection to history as you traverse this ancient structure are unparalleled. Travelers who enjoy exploring off the beaten path will appreciate the free entry and the relative lack of crowds, especially during weekdays. The challenge of navigating the uneven stone surface at height adds to the adventurous appeal. Just remember to prioritize safety: wear sturdy shoes and be acutely aware of your surroundings due to the significant drop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Engineering Marvel of the 17th Century
+3Built from limestone blocks, the aqueduct showcases the architectural styles of the Renaissance and Mannerist periods. Its sheer scale is often underestimated from ground level, with visitors expressing surprise at its length and height once they ascend. The design and construction reflect the advanced engineering capabilities of the era, aimed at solving practical challenges of water supply for significant institutions.
Today, the Pegões Aqueduct stands as a testament to Portugal's rich architectural and historical heritage. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with the past, not just by viewing it, but by walking upon it, experiencing its grandeur firsthand. The surrounding landscape also adds to the appeal, providing a scenic backdrop to this historical monument.
+1Experiencing the Aqueduct: Safety and Views
However, it's crucial to be aware of the safety considerations. The aqueduct is very high, and there are no railings or safety barriers along the top. This makes it potentially hazardous, especially for children or those with a fear of heights. Visitors are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution, wear sturdy footwear, and remain vigilant while walking on the structure.
Despite the safety warnings, the opportunity to walk on such a historic and grand structure is a major draw. It allows for a unique perspective and memorable photo opportunities. Many recommend visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds, enhancing the overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit