Moorish Castle Sintra
Explore the 10th-century Moorish Castle's ancient ramparts for breathtaking panoramic views of Sintra and Pena Palace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Moorish Castle Sintra
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 10th-century Moorish Castle's ancient ramparts for breathtaking panoramic views of Sintra and Pena Palace.
"Walk along the ancient walls for breathtaking, sweeping views of Sintra and the surrounding landscape."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and inclines! Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the ramparts.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Skip the lines by purchasing your tickets in advance for the Moorish Castle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ramparts
Castle Walls
Walk along the ancient walls for breathtaking, sweeping views of Sintra and the surrounding landscape.
Strategic Fortifications
Castle Exterior
Marvel at the impressive 10th-century military architecture, a testament to its historical significance.
Views of Pena Palace
Castle Viewpoints
Capture iconic photos of the colorful Pena Palace from various vantage points within the Moorish Castle.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Castle
Conquer the Hills: Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and inclines! Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the ramparts.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Skip the lines by purchasing your tickets in advance for the Moorish Castle.
🚶♀️ Walk from Pena Palace
It's a scenic 10-15 minute walk between Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on-site.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and inclines! Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the ramparts.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Skip the lines by purchasing your tickets in advance for the Moorish Castle.
🚶♀️ Walk from Pena Palace
It's a scenic 10-15 minute walk between Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on-site.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible; don't forget your camera for stunning photos!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Moorish Castle for its stunning panoramic views, particularly of Pena Palace, and its historical significance. The ancient ramparts offer a unique perspective on Sintra's landscape. Some find the uphill climbs challenging, and recommend comfortable shoes and planning transport wisely.
"The climb up to the Moorish Castle was beautiful, especially with a flutist playing as we walked. Although steep and tiring, it was absolutely worth it. The walls are impressive, and the views from the top are truly spectacular. A memorable experience in Sintra!"
Sonia Hermosin
"It was a very cool experience being able to visit this castle. Breathtaking views and well preserved ruins. However, we did bring our toddler and there were some parts where I felt a little unsafe because he could fall off a wall or I could fall easily while holding him"
Jasmin Woodruff
"We visited the place in very hot weather, the humidity was very high, so it was not easy to climb the stairs. Not to mention getting up to the entrance. But the view is definitely worth it, the whole area is visible and there is a nice view of the Pena Palace."
Marcell Bertalan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a train from Lisbon's Rossio station to Sintra (approx. 40-45 minutes). From Sintra train station, you can take a bus (like the #434 tourist bus), an Uber, or a tuk-tuk to reach the Moorish Castle. Some visitors also choose to walk uphill from the town center, but be prepared for a steep climb. +2
It's a significant uphill walk, approximately 30-40 minutes, and can be quite strenuous. Most visitors opt for public transport (bus #434) or ride-sharing services like Uber to get closer to the castle.
While some sites are walkable, the terrain is hilly. The #434 tourist bus connects major attractions like Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. Ubers are also a popular and often more affordable option than tuk-tuks, especially for groups. +1
Driving directly to the Moorish Castle can be challenging due to narrow roads and limited parking. It's generally recommended to park in Sintra town and use public transport or walk.
The walk between the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace is relatively short, about 10-15 minutes. It's a scenic route, though it involves some uphill and downhill sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance ticket is required to access the Moorish Castle and its ramparts. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Parques de Sintra website or at the ticket office on-site. Buying online is generally advised for convenience and to guarantee entry.
The Moorish Castle typically opens around 9:30 AM and closes in the late afternoon or early evening, with variations depending on the season. Always check the official Parques de Sintra website for the most up-to-date opening hours.
Parques de Sintra offers various ticket options, including combined tickets for multiple attractions. Check their website for current offers that might include the Moorish Castle along with Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira.
The main attraction of the Moorish Castle is its exterior fortifications and the panoramic views from the ramparts. While there isn't a separate ticket for just the exterior, the standard entrance ticket grants access to walk the walls.
📸 📸 Photography
The ramparts offer incredible panoramic views of Sintra, Pena Palace, and the surrounding countryside. Look for vantage points along the walls to capture the iconic silhouette of Pena Palace.
Absolutely! The Moorish Castle provides some of the most classic and breathtaking views of Pena Palace, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historical sites and national parks in Portugal. It's best to check the specific regulations for Sintra's parks and monuments before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. These times also tend to be less crowded.
Photography is generally permitted within the accessible areas of the Moorish Castle. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in enclosed spaces if it might disturb others.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You'll need about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the ramparts, enjoy the views, and take photos. This doesn't include travel time to and from the castle.
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the castle walls and imagining themselves as knights. However, the steep inclines and stairs require supervision.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available near the entrance. Food and drink options are limited on-site, so it's advisable to bring your own or plan to eat in Sintra town.
The Moorish Castle was originally built in the 10th century by the Moors during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. It served as a strategic military fortification to defend the region and maritime routes.
Many visitors find the Moorish Castle highly worthwhile for its historical significance, impressive architecture, and stunning panoramic views, especially of Pena Palace. It offers a different perspective than the more ornate palaces. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are stairs and inclines, the open spaces allow for running around. Consider bringing snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The views are also a great way to keep younger ones engaged. To make the visit easier, consider using a stroller for very young children or a carrier for infants, though navigating some of the steeper paths might be challenging. Opting for a bus or Uber to get closer to the entrance can reduce the amount of uphill walking.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water is a great way to cut down on costs, as on-site food options can be pricey. Many visitors find that enjoying the exterior views and walking the ramparts of the Moorish Castle provides immense value without needing to pay for entry into every single palace.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Wear comfortable, supportive footwear and bring plenty of water. The ramparts themselves are extensive and provide a great opportunity for exploration. You can spend a good amount of time traversing the walls and enjoying the varied perspectives of the landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Sintra's Hills: Transport Options
Uber is frequently recommended as a more comfortable and often cost-effective alternative to tuk-tuks, particularly if you're traveling with a companion. It offers flexibility and can take you directly to the castle entrances.
Some travelers suggest starting at the furthest point and working your way back, or vice versa, to manage crowds. For instance, heading to Pena Palace first thing in the morning and then walking to the Moorish Castle is a common strategy.
A Glimpse into History: The Moorish Castle's Past
Over the centuries, the castle has witnessed various historical periods, including the Christian Reconquista. While much of its original structure remains, it has undergone periods of both decay and restoration. Today, exploring the castle allows visitors to walk along its ancient ramparts, imagining the defensive strategies and daily life of its past inhabitants. The well-preserved fortifications offer a tangible connection to the region's medieval past.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at the Moorish Castle
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the colors and textures of the castle and the surrounding scenery, creating a magical atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit