Moorish Castle Tours

Moorish Castle featuring tranquil scenes and a castle
Moorish Castle showing tranquil scenes, heritage elements and chateau or palace
Moorish Castle featuring a castle
Moorish Castle featuring chateau or palace, tranquil scenes and landscape views
Moorish Castle featuring landscape views and tranquil scenes


Set amid the forests of the high Portuguese countryside, the crumbling ruins of this gray stone castle offer commanding views of the surrounding region. 

Though the Moorish Castle of Sintra has been reduced to ruins, it is still a powerful presence on the forested slopes of the Sintra Mountains. Wander up to the hilltop ruins, trekking past fortified stone walls and precariously placed ramparts. Enjoy views that extend over the surrounding hills of Serra de Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean.

To help put the ruins into context, read up on the history of the castle before you visit. The structure was originally built by the Moors in the 8th and 9th centuries and was conquered by the Christians in 1093. The conquest was, however, only temporary, with the Moors regaining control of the fortress the following year. In 1147, the Christians returned once more and took the castle, this time for good.

Over the following centuries, the castle fell into disrepair, with several natural disasters, including an earthquake and a fire started by a lightning bolt, helping to accelerate the process of decay. In the 19th century, King Ferdinand II took ownership of the castle and began stabilizing and restoring key parts of the complex. As you stroll around the site today, note that much of what you see is the result of Ferdinand II’s 19th-century restoration project.

The castle stands on a hilltop about 1,300 feet (400 meters) above sea level. Because of its elevated position, the site offers incredible views of the surrounding region. Walk along the castle walls for views of the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The colorful Pena Palace is perched on a nearby hill.

Before leaving, take some time to properly explore the Visitor Support Centre. Browse the on-site store, have a snack in the cafeteria and ask staff to tell you about recent restoration efforts.

The Moorish Castle is located about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from Sintra. Choose from several ways to reach the Moorish Castle. If you’re feeling fit, embark on a steep uphill route on foot, winding up the hillside past several attractive gardens. Alternatively, ride a bus or take a tuk-tuk.

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Rossio Terrace
Blue Tide - Two Bedroom Apartment

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Best Lodging Options Near Moorish Castle

NH Sintra Centro

NH Sintra Centro

4 out of 5
Praca da Republica, Sintra
NH Sintra Centro
Quinta Das Murtas B&B

Quinta Das Murtas B&B

3 out of 5
Rua Eduardo van Zeller, 4, Sintra
Quinta Das Murtas B&B
Villas de Cintra

Villas de Cintra

3 out of 5
Rua Conde Ferreira, 11 A, Sintra
Villas de Cintra
Lawrence's Hotel

Lawrence's Hotel

5 out of 5
Rua Consiglieri Pedroso, 38-40, Sintra
Lawrence's Hotel
Palácio de Sintra Boutique House

Palácio de Sintra Boutique House

4 out of 5
Rua Consiglieri Pedroso, 23, Sintra
Palácio de Sintra Boutique House
Casa da Pendôa

Casa da Pendôa

4 out of 5
Rua da Pendôa nº 17, Sintra
Casa da Pendôa
Villa Bela Vista

Villa Bela Vista

3.5 out of 5
R. Mal. Saldanha 17, Sintra, Lisboa
Villa Bela Vista
Casa do Vinho Sintra Guest House

Casa do Vinho Sintra Guest House

4 out of 5
Rua Consiglieri Pedroso, 17, Sintra
Casa do Vinho Sintra Guest House
Sintra Boutique Hotel

Sintra Boutique Hotel

4 out of 5
Rua Visconde de Monserrate, 48, Sintra
Sintra Boutique Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Moorish Castle

While visiting Moorish Castle in Sintra, you can enjoy various activities, including golf in the surrounding area. The castle itself offers stunning views and a rich historical experience, perfect for exploring the fascinating architecture and picturesque landscapes. Don't miss the chance to capture breathtaking photos and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this iconic site.

Food and drinks

While visiting Moorish Castle, indulge in the famous Pastéis de Belém, a delightful sweet treat 12 miles away. For a romantic experience, explore the Quinta Das Carrafouchas and Quinta de Pancas wineries, both offering exquisite wines and entertainment, located 12 and 13 miles from the castle, respectively.

Shopping

While visiting Moorish Castle, don’t miss the Cascais Municipal Market, just 6 miles away, showcasing local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Colombo Shopping Centre, located 11 miles away, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Penha Longa Golf Course, just 2 miles from Moorish Castle, surrounded by stunning landscapes. For relaxation, visit Estoril Wellness Center, 6 miles away, offering rejuvenating body treatments to unwind and revitalize your spirit.

Adventure

At Moorish Castle, you can rev your engines at Estoril Racetrack, located 3 miles away, for thrilling motor racing. For a high-flying adventure, visit Adventure Park, 9 miles away, featuring an exhilarating zipline ropes course. For water sports enthusiasts, Clube Nacional de Natac-o, 14 miles away, offers an array of aquatic activities.

Nightlife

Experience the thrill at Estoril Casino, just 6 miles from Moorish Castle, where romance meets city vibes. For a family-friendly night, visit the Calouste Gulbekian Planetarium, located 12 miles away, or enjoy some fun at the Bowling Playcenter, 11 miles from the castle.

Find the best attractions near Moorish Castle

When visiting Moorish Castle in Sintra, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history by exploring nearby attractions like the stunning historic palace and beautiful piazzas. Beach lovers can also enjoy the coastal scenery. Don't miss the chance to see the remarkable Castle of Evora Monte, known for its incredible architecture. This area offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it an ideal vacation spot.

  • Pena Palace: Nestled atop a hill, Pena Palace is a colorful and romantic 19th-century castle that boasts breathtaking views and stunning architectural styles. Explore its lush gardens and vibrant interiors, immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage.
  • Quinta da Regaleira: This enchanting estate is known for its mystical gardens, hidden tunnels, and ornate architecture. The intriguing symbolism and the Initiation Well create a magical atmosphere, making it a must-visit for lovers of history and nature.
  • Rossio Square: Located in the heart of Lisbon, Rossio Square is a lively gathering place filled with cafes, shops, and beautiful fountains. Experience the vibrant city vibes and enjoy the stunning wave-patterned cobblestones, perfect for people-watching.

Best time to go to Moorish Castle

Visitor numbers around Moorish Castle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Moorish Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July71.1°F (21.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.0°F (22.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September70.3°F (21.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Moorish Castle

To save money during your visit to Moorish Castle, consider the free nearby attractions like Guincho Beach and Adraga Beach. The best time to book your trip is between December and February for lower hotel rates. Use Expedia to find deals by filtering for your budget and preferences, and check for last-minute offers. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings can lead to additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership provides access to exclusive discounts and future cash rewards. Always compare rates and read reviews to secure the best deals on accommodations.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Moorish Castle are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and August to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Moorish Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations at Moorish Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.