From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Chloe Rose Enard
US

Chloe

United States
Jan 2026

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Portugal never dissapoints and Sintra was no different! Just a 40 minute train ride from Lisbon, these beautiful sights were just breathtaking. I've never been so immersed in beauty, the Castle of the Moors and Quinta da Regaleira were beyond beautiful. You need to devote 2-3 hours to walking each because there's so much to take in. We even went on a rainy day and it was still just stunning, we were encapsulated in a cloud at one point which was really cool too. Highly recommend both places and Sintra in general!
Marcella Giaconi
IT

Marcella

Italy
Jan 2026

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I recommend booking in advance, even though we were lucky enough to find tickets during the New Year period. However, the place is very beautiful and popular with tourists from all over the world, so it's worth thinking about it in advance. The initiation well is truly exciting and well worth a visit.
MARGARET TAYLOR
NZ

Margaret

New Zealand
Jan 2026

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Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo deRoca's glorious settings and architecture are why we all go to experience the beauty. That beauty was immeasurably enhanced by tour guide Bruno. He was flawless in his knowledge, could answer every question.... And like Ginger Rogers he did much of the steep hill climb walking backwards the better to be able to address the tour . Good communication, own time to explore at leisure and recommendations for eating . The complete package
Jacy Bryn Woodruff
US

Jacy

United States
Jan 2026

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Sintra was definitely the highlight and I would have liked to spend more time there. The tour says 8 hours, but plan for 9-10. If you buy yours complete with entry tickets, note that the ticket goes to your guide and not to you, limiting free time for exploration. Was happy to see so much of Portugal!
DANIEL SPILLANE

Daniel

Jan 2026

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The view from the castle is amazing. This historic location is one that should no be missed. It is a great visit with or without a guide.
Oscar Ranilla

Oscar

Jan 2026

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A unique experience, 100% recommended, ideal for families or couples to learn about the history of Lisbon and enjoy unbeatable views!
Sahil Sharma
IT

Sahil

Italy
Jan 2026

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Pena Palace is pure magic—bold colors, fairytale architecture, and breathtaking views over Sintra. Every corner feels alive with history and romance. A must-see that truly inspires awe.
Stefania Mercuri
IT

Stefania

Italy
Jan 2026

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It felt like stepping into a fairy tale: you reach the top of the hill, and suddenly you find yourself in front of a yellow and red castle. The whole thing is deliberately kitsch and eclectic, but that's what makes it so spectacular and irresistible. A romantic and somewhat surreal atmosphere, with views of the ocean and the whole of Sintra. It's a shame about the wind and the crazy cold, which prevented us from taking a walk in the gardens.

TL;DR: Moorish Castle tickets at a glance

Perched high above Sintra’s misty hills, the Moorish Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends centuries of history, architecture, and breathtaking views. Before you book your tickets, here’s everything you need to know:

  • Ways to explore: Choose from flexible entry tickets, guided tours in English, or combo passes with nearby attractions like Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira.
  • Additional access: Add a multilingual audio guide to your entry ticket for historical insights at your own pace.
  • Queues and access: Entry queues average 15–30 minutes during peak hours; guided tours offer smoother entry with on-site assistance.
  • When to book: Weekends and summer months (June-September) sell out fast, book at least a few days in advance for combo or guided options.
  • Good to know: You can stay as long as you like once inside; expect moderate climbs and uneven paths.
  • Best upgrade: Go for the Pena Palace + Moorish Castle combo for a full Sintra experience and better value.
  • Ready to choose? Jump to the ticket comparison section to find your match.

What to expect at Moorish Castle

Ancient stone walls of Moorish Castle with scenic views in Sintra, Portugal.
Moorish Castle ruins with steps and flags, Pena Palace in background, Sintra, Portugal.
Pathway through lush forest near Moorish Castle, Sintra, Portugal.
Moorish Castle walls with tourists, Pena Palace visible in the background, Sintra, Portugal.
Ancient Moorish Castle walls overlooking Sintra city, Portugal, with lush greenery and flags.
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Step into a medieval stronghold

Begin your visit at the ancient stone gates of this 8th-9th century fortress, where your tickets will be validated before entry. From here, follow winding paths along weathered ramparts that once defended Sintra’s hilltops. The rugged stones and sweeping views instantly transport you to another era.

Climb the ramparts and towers

Walk along the castle walls, stopping at panoramic watchtowers that overlook the Pena Palace, the lush Sintra forests, and even the Atlantic Ocean on clear days. It almost feels like you are standing on top of Portugal.

Stroll through the Serra da Sintra forest

The castle is surrounded by dense woodland, where the scent of pine and the cool breeze create a peaceful retreat away from Sintra’s crowds. You can hike through these scenic stone trails and shaded pathways.

Discover ancient ruins and artifacts

Visit the Archaeological Interpretation Centre to see medieval remnants and Moorish pottery uncovered during excavations, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once guarded these walls.

Experience living history

Learn how Viking-age military designs, Islamic influences, and Romantic-era restorations shaped the castle’s unique architecture, which stands testimony to an evolving blend of strength and beauty.

Things to know before booking Moorish Castle tickets

  • Prebook for guaranteed entry: Tickets can be purchased online or at the site, but during weekends and summer months, they often sell out early. Book in advance if you want entry on your preferred date.
  • Standard ticket gets you full access: Standard entry tickets give you access to all public areas of the castle—the ramparts, towers, trails through the Sintra forest, and the Archaeological Interpretation Centre. You can enter anytime between 9:30am and 6pm and stay as long as you like, until closing. 
  • Audio guides vs guided tours: The audio guide option is perfect for flexible exploration, pausing to soak in the views and atmosphere. Guided tours, on the other hand, are ideal if you enjoy learning through conversation, meeting fellow travelers, interacting with an expert, and getting your questions answered on the spot.
  • Combo options nearby: Combine your Moorish Castle visit with Pena Palace (a 13-minute walk away) or Quinta da Regaleira (around 20 minute walk away). Both are UNESCO-listed gems that complement the castle’s medieval charm perfectly. You can explore both in one day or spread them over two.
  • Day trips from Lisbon: For a seamless experience, join a guided day trip to Sintra that includes round-trip transfers in an AC coach, attraction entries, and an optional visit to Cabo da Roca or Cascais. It’s the easiest way to explore multiple highlights without planning logistics.
  • Accessibility & terrain: Due to uneven stone paths and steep climbs, the castle is not wheelchair accessible. Comfortable shoes are essential, and visitors with mobility issues may find certain sections challenging.

Which Moorish castle ticket should you choose?

Entry tickets

Duration: Flexible duration

Why go for it?

  • Book a date and enjoy complete flexibility—arrive when you wish and soak up the views without the rush to leave.
  • You can also add an optional multilingual audio guide for stories and history that bring the ruins to life.

Recommended tours:

  • Moorish Castle entry tickets

Guided tours

Duration: 1 hour

Why go for it?

  • Enjoy hassle-free entry with assistance from your guide.
  • Your English-speaking guide will take you through the castle’s Moorish roots, medieval defenses, and royal legends, showing how the story of this fortress reflects Sintra’s broader history.

Recommended tours:

  • Guided tour to Moorish Castle

Combo tickets

Duration: Flexible duration

Why go for it?

  • Save time (and money) with combo tickets that include nearby Sintra highlights, making it easy to explore two attractions in one day or split them across two days.
  • The Moorish Castle is just a 10-minute walk away from Pena Palace and a 20-minute stroll away from Quinta da Regaleira. 

Recommended tours:

  • Moorish Castle + Quinta da Regaleira tickets
  • Moorish Castle + Pena Palace and Park tickets

Day trips

Duration: 9 hours

Why go for it?

  • This is the easiest way to explore Sintra from Lisbon. Sit back in a comfy AC coach and visit fairytale palaces and seaside towns, with tickets, itinerary, and transfers all arranged.
  • These tours are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, and Italian.

Recommended tours:

  • Day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais from Lisbon

Moorish Castle highlights

The main gate

Step through the ornate and impressive gateway adorned with horseshoe arches and intricate tilework, a striking introduction to Moorish splendor. Part of the overall military fortification, the main gate gives you a glimpse into the castle’s military history.

The silos

Crater-like pits where the castle’s residents stored food and grain show how they had to keep themselves prepared in the event of a conflict. This method has also been described in various Arabic treatises.

Islamic settlements

Material remnants discovered at the site hint at the presence of an Islamic settlement. They offer fascinating insights into the lives of the castle’s original Moorish residents.

Tomb

A solitary tomb discovered within the castle suggests the burial of a significant individual. Its exact origins remain a subject of research, with archaeologists wondering whether these are Moorish or Christian human remains.

Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim

This 12th-century chapel was constructed after the Christian reconquest of Sintra. It stands as the oldest Christian religious building in the area. Currently, it houses the Moorish Castle Interpretation Centre, displaying archaeological finds.

Cistern

An impressive feat of engineering, the cistern ensured a reliable water supply during sieges. Constructed from granite blocks, it could hold approximately 600 cubic meters of water, and its design includes ventilation chimneys for air circulation.

Ramparts and watchtowers

Walk along the ancient stone walls and climb the watchtowers for unbeatable panoramic views of Sintra, the Atlantic coast, and Pena Palace perched on the nearby hill.

Serra da Sintra Forest

Surrounded by dense, misty woodlands, the castle offers a peaceful escape amid the UNESCO-protected Serra da Sintra, where cobbled paths wind through ferns, oaks, and moss-covered boulders.

Archaeological Interpretation Centre

Step inside the centre to see artifacts uncovered from the castle grounds, from medieval ceramics to Moorish relics. It also gives you a glimpse of how this fortress evolved through the centuries.

Plan your visit to Moorish Castle

Moorish Castle in Sintra, Portugal, with lush greenery and historic stone walls.
  • Opening hours: Daily from 9:30am to 6pm
  • Last entry: 5:30pm
  • Closed on: The castle remains closed on December 24 and 25, and on December 31 and January 1

The ticket office remains closed from 12pm to 1pm, but automatic ticket vending machines are available.

Check Moorish Castle hours before visiting

Address: 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal

Find on Google Maps

How to get to Moorish Castle:

  • By bus: You can take bus number 434 from Sintra station to reach the castle.
  • By car: You can take the IC19 from Lisbon, the IC30 from Mafra, or the EN9 from Cascais via the A5. 
  • Hiking: There are a total of three hiking trails you can use: the Santa Maria Trail, the Seteais Trail, or the Villa Sassetti Trail.
Detailed directions to Moorish Castle
Tourists with guide exploring Moorish Castle, Sintra, Portugal, highlighting historical architecture.
  • The Moorish Castle is located on uneven terrain with steep slopes and cobbled pathways, which may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
  • Some sections, especially the ramparts and towers, require climbing narrow stairs and may be difficult for those with limited mobility.
  • The entrance area and some viewpoints are more accessible and offer great scenery without needing to climb.
  • Visitors using wheelchairs or strollers are advised to bring assistance, as paved paths transition into rugged trails.
Restroom sign with symbols for men, women, and wheelchair accessibility.
  • The ticket office and information center are located near the main entrance for on-site ticket purchases, upgrades, and visitor assistance.
  • Restrooms are available near the entry area and at designated points along the walking route.
  • The on-site café at the Moorish Castle (run by Parques de Sintra – Monte da Lua) offers hot dishes, salads, sandwiches, pastries, regional sweets, hot drinks, beer, and wine.
  • The gift shop is a great place to shop for Moroccan-style décor, souvenirs tied to the castle’s Moorish legacy (e.g., tile-patterns, decorative objects), and local craft souvenirs like cork/leather bags or ceramics.
  • Signage in multiple languages (Portuguese and English) guide you through the site’s history and highlights.
  • Seating areas are placed along the paths and viewpoints, so you can rest between climbs.

Curry & Nigiri

9-minute walk away | Find on Maps

Get ready for a creative fusion of Indian and Japanese cuisines. Think sushi rolls with a spicy twist, flavorful curries, and colorful plating in a sleek, contemporary setting.

Caffè Bottega

10-minute walk away | Find on Maps

A warm café atmosphere with artisanal coffee, pastries, and light Italian fare. Perfect for a mid-day break or a quick refuel before heading to the next Sintra attraction.

Tapas by Gauchos

13-minute walk away | Find on Maps

Lively and casual, this restaurant serves up shareable Spanish-style tapas with a Portuguese touch. Great for groups looking to unwind over sangria and small bites.

The Little Rock Restaurant & Bar

13-minute walk away | Find on Maps

Enjoy scenic views with Mediterranean-inspired plates and refreshing cocktails. The airy terrace and chill ambience make it ideal for a long, lazy lunch.

Tips for visiting Moorish Castle

  • The Moorish Castle is located roughly 16km away from the town of Sintra. However, the site doesn’t allow for private parking, making public transportation your best bet to reach the castle. However, there are parking spots reserved for those with disabilities.
  • If you plan to hike up to the castle, remember that it will take at least one hour to get there. Only choose this hike if you are physically fit enough.
  • Wear sturdy trekking or walking shoes as you’ll need to navigate various rocky stretches while exploring the castle. 
  • Arrive early, as the castle can get fairly busy during the middle of the day, and especially during the peak season. 
  • The castle is open to pet dogs, but there are certain rules you’ll have to follow. You can find them here
  • Don’t miss out on the Historical Interpretation Centre of the Moorish Castle, located in the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim. It tells the stories of the many people who lived in and around the castle through a number of archaeological finds.
  • Make sure to walk up to the Royal Tower. It offers stunning views of Sintra, the Atlantic Ocean on the horizon, and even the iconic Pena Palace. Visit during Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) for the best views. 

Beyond the Moorish Castle

Pena Palace & Park

Completed in the 19th century, this palace sits on the crown of the Sintra hills and is surrounded by 200 acres of lush forests that are part of the palace’s park.

Distance: 5km

By car: 17 minutes

Explore Pena Palace & Park

Quinta da Regaleira

Known for its Romantic architecture, intricate gardens, and the mystical Initiation Well, the Quinta da Regaleira was designed by well-known architect Luigi Manini in the late 1800s.

Distance: 18.4km

By car: 40 minutes

Explore Quinta da Regaleira

National Palace of Sintra

Easily identified by the two conical chimneys that tower over the royal kitchen, the National Palace of Sintra’s history dates back to the 10th or 11th centuries when Sintra was under Moorish rule.

Distance: 3.7km

By car: 15 minutes

Explore National Palace of Sintra

Frequently Asked Questions about Moorish Castle

You can book tickets online in advance to skip queues and enter directly. Same-day entry is usually available, but advance booking is recommended during weekends and peak season.