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.

Located in Sintra (Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim), the iconic Castelo dos Mouros is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Sintra or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Portugal.

Sintra is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Sintra offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra National Palace, Initiation Well, and Park Liberdade.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Sintra has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Sintra - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

Castelo dos Mouros is located in Sintra, Portugal, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 13.8 miles (22.21 km) away from Sintra. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the town, where Castelo dos Mouros is located.

If you’re already in Sintra, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the castle. The exact address of the attraction is 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Castelo dos Mouros. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Castelo dos Mouros and other top attractions in Sintra at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Castelo dos Mouros!

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.

No visit to Sintra is complete without a trip to Castelo dos Mouros, one of the most iconic attractions in Portugal drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique castle, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Castelo dos Mouros starting from 15 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Sintra and top attractions like Castelo dos Mouros with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Castelo dos Mouros and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Sintra, Portugal, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind castle in Portugal.

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Castelo dos Mouros becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 19 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the town of Sintra, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Portugal's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Sintra and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, OK Mobility currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 4.41 EUR per day or 30.88 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Rua Da Guiné, 24, 2685-337 in Lisbon, this rental option ensures you can explore Portugal's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Sintra by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the town. With the town's most famous attractions like the stunning Castelo dos Mouros just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Sintra.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Castelo dos Mouros below.

Sintra offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the town has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Sintra, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Sintra National Palace.

National Palace of Pena is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Sintra, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 80,071 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of National Palace of Pena is Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira. This is just like National Palace of Pena, one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 50,820 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this museum is R. Barbosa du Bocage 5, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal.

Sintra National Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Sintra. This palace and top attraction in Sintra has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,051 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Sintra National Palace creating core memories of the town. This attraction is located at the address of Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Sintra below.