Climb the rugged walls of the Moorish Castle in Sintra for sweeping views, medieval history, ticket prices, and key travel tips.
With priority admission, skip the long lines and dive right into this historic wonder as you explore Sintra’s magnificent Moorish Castle. Situated in the verdant hills of Sintra, the castle provides unparalleled sweeping views that extend beyond Sintra and, on a clear day, as far as Lisbon. Explore the enigmatic subterranean rooms, stroll the historic […]
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Draped across the hills above Sintra, the Moorish Castle is a reminder of Portugal’s medieval past. Its stone walls and towers wind along the mountain ridge, offering panoramic views of Sintra, the Atlantic Ocean, and even Lisbon on clear days. A climb here feels like stepping back into the era of knights and conquests.
Built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors, the castle was strategically positioned to defend the region. After the Christian reconquest, it was reinforced by Portuguese kings but later fell into ruin. In the 19th century, King Ferdinand II restored sections of the castle as part of his Romantic vision for Sintra. Today, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage landscape and remains one of the town’s most dramatic landmarks.
Follow the winding stone ramparts that stretch across the hilltop, with breathtaking views in every direction.
Reach the highest points of the fortress for the best vantage points over Sintra, Pena Palace, and the surrounding forests.
Discover the remains of ancient dwellings, silos, and cisterns that reveal the castle’s centuries-old history.
Wander through pine and oak forests surrounding the castle, where nature and history meet in a peaceful setting.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Estrada da Pena, Sintra, Portugal |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry 6:00 PM) |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays, spring or autumn for mild weather |
| Ticket Price | From €8 (adult) |
| Nearest Transport | Sintra Station + local bus or 20-min uphill hike |
| Duration Needed | 1.5–2 hours |
| Accessibility | Limited — steep climbs and uneven terrain |
