Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros)

Overview

The Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros) is a historic hilltop castle offering panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding landscapes. It is a testament to the medieval history of the region and is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The castle played a strategic role in the defense of the region during the Moorish occupation and is a key landmark in Portuguese history.

Historical Site Castle Hiking Trail

Location

Address

R. de Santa Maria

Neighborhood: Sintra Old Town

Coordinates

38.805800, -9.388200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€8

Children

€6.50 (ages 6-17)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• flowers
• gardens

summer

hot

• extended hours
• night tours

autumn

cool, crisp air

• fall colors
• harvest festival

winter

cold, rainy

• holiday lights
• winter market

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecast
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets comfortable shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella raincoat

not allowed

large bags drones pets (except guide dogs)

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate, some uphill walking

• uneven surfaces
• stairs
• steep trails

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards, debit cards

Currency

EUR

Typical Costs

entry €8

parking €5

food €10-15

souvenirs €5-20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, breathable clothing, walking shoes, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• at least 1 week
• official website, authorized ticket vendors
• 48 hours for full refund
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Visit Sintra App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Events calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main entrance

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Lisbon Portela Airport

Distance: 28 km

Travel Time: 30-40 minutes

taxi

€35-45 30 min

public_transport

€2-3 50 min

From City Center

Distance: 25 km

train

€2.25 40 min

bus

€2 30 min

taxi

€25-35 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful views, peaceful atmosphere

Historical Significance: Important events happened here, strategic location during Moorish occupation

Insider Tips

Best views from the highest viewpoint
Visit on a weekday for fewer tourists
Local cafés offer great pastries

Local Recommendations

• Try pastries at a local café
• Visit nearby Pena Palace
• Ask for guide João

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá

thank_you Obrigado/Obrigado

where_is Onde está

how_much Quanto custa

beautiful Lindo

ticket Bilhete

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for dramatic views

Result: Great shot of the castle entrance

#CastleOfTheMoors #Sintra #Portugal

Viewpoint

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide angle for panoramic views

Result: Stunning sunset over Sintra

#Sunset #SintraViews #CastleViews

Moorish ruins

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Details of the ancient walls

Result: Unique textures and history

#History #AncientRuins #Sintra

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints, gardens

prohibited areas inside buildings, restricted zones

flash photography not allowed in certain areas

commercial photography permit needed for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy allowed in designated areas, restricted during peak hours

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Pena Palace

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Palace

Quinta da Regaleira

Distance: 1.5km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Garden/Palace

Sintra National Palace