Visiting the Moorish Castle in Sintra

The Moorish Castle’s stone walls snake along a ridge high above Sintra, with spectacular views over Pena Palace, the town and the Atlantic. It’s less visited than Pena, but for many people it’s the highlight of a Sintra day. Here’s how to visit.

Quick answer: allow about 1 to 1.5 hours and wear good shoes, as there are lots of steps. Take bus 434 from Sintra station, walk up from the old town (about 45 minutes) or take a tuk-tuk. The ramparts give the best view of Pena Palace. See Moorish Castle tickets and tours.

About the castle

The Moors built the castle around the 9th and 10th centuries to guard the region. It was taken by Christian forces in the 12th century and later fell into ruin. In the 19th century, King Ferdinand II, the builder of Pena Palace, restored the walls as a romantic feature of his estate. It’s part of the Sintra UNESCO World Heritage site.

What to see

• The ramparts: climb along the battlements between the towers.
• The Royal Tower: the highest point, with views to Pena, the coast and on clear days towards Lisbon.
• Archaeological remains: traces of the medieval village and grain silos.
• The forest walk up from the old town.

Tips

• Combine with Pena: the entrances are close together on the same road. See the Pena Palace guide.
• Weather: it’s windy and often misty on the ridge. Come on a clear day if possible.
• Not for vertigo sufferers: some sections are steep and exposed.
• Photos: see Sintra photo spots.

Getting there

From Lisbon, take the train from Rossio to Sintra. See Lisbon to Sintra. Then take bus 434, a tuk-tuk, or walk up the forest path from the old town.

More: visiting Sintra, castles in Portugal and the best Sintra tours.

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