Tickets Sintra
Explore
About
Visit

Moorish Castle Tickets

4.6(46,804)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Moorish Castle Tickets
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌

From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+
Jonathan Munn
CA

Jonathan

Canada
Oct 2025
5/5
‌
review-image
‌
review-image
‌
review-image
Amazing views, stunning architecture. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Moorish Castle! It is well worth the walk up to the top of the battlements.
Carrie Liuzzo
CA

Carrie

Canada
Oct 2025
4/5
‌
review-image
‌
review-image
‌
review-image
The ease of having the combo of the two sites was great and we LOVED our visit. The views were amazing. The Audio portion of the adventure proved to be a challenge with the head out app. We used it successfully with Moorish, but we could not access the Pena Palace. We did however use the FREE audio offered on site. Recommendations would be to arrive at Pena one hour prior to booking time. Once you get in the first gate, tour the grounds and then line up for your scheduled entry tour time 30 minutes before. We thought we were "in the tour" after the first entry point.
Caroline Roussel
CA

Caroline

Canada
Oct 2025
5/5
Wow what can I say about our guide Nelson who was very interesting and friendly. His French was impeccable and he passed on his subject (history) in a thoughtful way. He's passionate about what he does and it shows.
Denis Levasseur
CA

Denis

Canada
Sep 2025
4/5
Back to the Pena bus via the forest. Restaurant suggestion was a buffet formula which was a very good idea and we were well received. The stop at the westernmost point Cabo da roca was a good one. The stop at Cascais was less relevant. We would have preferred more time at other points.

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.
1/5

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?

Moorish Castle in Sintra, Portugal, viewed from a walking path amidst lush greenery.

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

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
Pena Palace and Moorish Castle in Sintra, Portugal, with lush gardens and historic architecture.

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
Walls of the Moorish Castle with Pena Palace in the background, Sintra, Portugal.

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

Door of Betrayal in Moorish Castle with scenic view of Sintra landscape.

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.

Moorish castle stone walls and tower in Sintra, Portugal, with scenic hillside views.

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.

Visitor climbing steps at Moorish Castle, Sintra, Portugal.

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.

Moorish Castle stone walls and tower overlooking Sintra landscape.

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.

Moorish Castle Sintra with stone arches and lush greenery.

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.

Ancient stone arches and moss-covered walls in Moorish Castle Cistern, Sintra, Portugal.

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.

Stone pathway along the walls of Moorish Castle, Sintra, with scenic valley view.

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.

Former stables in Moorish Castle, Sintra, with scenic hilltop views.

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.

Moorish Castle in Sintra, Portugal, with stone walls and towers overlooking the landscape.

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.
Copper bowls with Indian curry, rice, and yogurt dishes on a wooden table.

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.

Barista pouring milk into coffee cup at a coffee shop.

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.

Portuguese rustic tapas with clams, chorizo, and yellow rice on a wooden table.

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.

Cocktails on bar at Gold Coast buffet lunch, featuring lime, pineapple, and espresso drinks.

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 pathway with view of colorful castle in Sintra, Portugal.

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
Sintra town road to Quinta da Regaleira, Portugal, surrounded by greenery and historic architecture.

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 exterior with twin chimneys and intricate architectural details in Sintra, Portugal.

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

How do I buy tickets for the 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.

How long does it take to visit the Moorish Castle?

Most visitors spend 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the castle walls, towers, and viewpoints. If you plan to hike or combine it with nearby attractions, set aside 3–4 hours.

Can I visit the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace on the same day?

Yes! The two landmarks are just a 10-15 minute walk apart, making it easy to see both in one day. Combo tickets are available to save time and money.

Is the Moorish Castle accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Due to steep, uneven paths and staircases, the site is not fully accessible. However, some viewpoints and entrance areas are easier to access with assistance.

Are guided tours available at the Moorish Castle?

Yes, guided tours in English are available and are a great way to understand the castle’s Moorish origins and centuries of history.

What is the best time to visit the Moorish Castle?

Autumn and winter are typically the best times of the year to visit the Moorish Castle. We’d recommend layering up as it can get cold on top of the towers. On the other hand, June, July, August, and early September are typically the peak months.

Are pets allowed at the Moorish Castle?

Yes, you can bring your pet dogs to the Moorish Castle. However, you will have to follow certain guidelines, such as properly disposing off their waste, and only bringing one dog per person.