Castle of the Moors travel guide

The Castle of the Moors, a gem of Sintra, dates back to the 8th century during the period of Muslim Iberia. Built by the Moors, the castle was a strategic military point during the Reconquista, and its hilltop location offered a commanding view of the surrounding area.

However, the castle fell into Christian hands after the conquest of Lisbon by Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, in 1147. Despite its significant military value, the castle was abandoned in the 15th century in favor of Sintra's more comfortable royal palaces.

Over the years, the Castle of the Moors deteriorated. It wasn't until the 19th century, under the initiative of King Ferdinand II, that the castle was restored, transforming it into a romantic ruin for aesthetic and historical value. Today, the Castle of the Moors stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting thousands of tourists with its stunning panoramic views and rich history.

The Castle of the Moors, perched atop the lush green hills of Sintra, showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, having been built and modified by various cultures over the centuries. One of its most distinctive features is the fortified wall, which extends across the mountainous landscape, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean. The castle's layout is another unique aspect, with the irregularities in its design dictated by the uneven terrain of the hill. The castle’s two square towers, which once served as watchtowers, offer breathtaking views. Visitors can also explore the castle's Christian chapel, a testament to the religious influence of the castle's history. Furthermore, the Castle of the Moors also boasts an impressive rain-fed cistern, a key source of water during sieges. Around the castle, you'll find a diverse range of vegetation, which adds a touch of greenery to the stone edifice. The Castle of the Moors’ unique features make it a standout attraction in a region rich with historical sites.

Discover Castle of the Moors, a prime feature of Sintra, in the vibrant Sintra (Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim). Castle of the Moors is situated at 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal, just a short distance from Villa Sassetti and Sintra National Palace, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Castle of the Moors, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Sintra, a town in Portugal rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town from the comprehensive Sintra travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Castle of the Moors is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Sintra, Portugal. If you're flying in, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 13.8 miles (22.2 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Castle of the Moors by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Sintra, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Castle of the Moors, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. Its exact address is 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Castle of the Moors!

The best time to explore Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal, is during the spring months of April and May, or the fall months of September and October. These periods offer pleasant weather with less rainfall compared to other months, enhancing your experience as you wander through the castle's ancient stone walls and admire the breathtaking views. Additionally, these off-peak seasons are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the castle's rich history. For a special experience, plan your visit to coincide with Sintra's annual festivals such as the World Heritage Sites Marathon in October or the Music Festival in May. These events bring a unique atmosphere to the town and the castle. If you're a fan of sunsets, an evening visit during summer offers a spectacular view as the sun sets over the Atlantic ocean. Be sure to check the castle's opening hours as they vary between seasons.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Sintra, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Castle of the Moors.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic castle in Portugal.

Choosing the right accommodation near Castle of the Moors from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Sintra can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Castle of the Moors, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Castle of the Moors, Sintra boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to establishment, the top attractions in Sintra offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira, located at R. Barbosa du Bocage 5, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal. This well-known museum enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Sintra National Palace is worth seeing when you're in Sintra. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, Portugal.

This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Quinta da Regaleira, R. Barbosa du Bocage 9, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Sintra below to discover even more incredible places to explore.