Discover the Enchantment of The Moorish Castle
Explore the stunning Moorish Castle in Sintra, a historical gem with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered.
The Moorish Castle, known as Castelo dos Mouros, is a striking historical landmark situated in the enchanting hills of Sintra, Portugal. This medieval fortress, constructed in the 8th century during the Moorish occupation, is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. As you approach the castle, the impressive stone walls and turrets emerge dramatically from the lush greenery, offering a breathtaking sight that is sure to captivate any visitor. Once inside, you can wander through the ancient pathways and explore the remnants of the castle's past, while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the vibrant town of Sintra below. Visitors to The Moorish Castle will find a unique blend of history and nature. The castle's strategic location atop a mountain provides stunning vistas that stretch across the Sintra mountains and even out to the Atlantic Ocean. As you roam the castle grounds, you’ll encounter various viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the scenery. The surrounding lush gardens and forests enhance the experience, inviting you to appreciate the beauty of the natural landscape. To make the most of your visit, consider timing your trip to coincide with the early morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight casts enchanting shadows across the ancient stones. A stroll along the castle walls will reward you with unforgettable views, and you may also wish to bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings. The Moorish Castle is not just a historical site; it is a place where the past and present intertwine, providing a magical experience for all who venture here.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited amenities inside the castle.
- Check the weather before your visit; clear days offer the best views.
- Consider combining your visit with a tour of nearby attractions like Pena Palace and the Sintra National Palace.
A brief summary to The Moorish Castle
- Sintra, 2710-405, PT
- +351219237300
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Bus
From Cascais, head to the Cascais Bus Terminal located near the central train station. Take the Scotturb bus number 403 towards Sintra. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. You will arrive at the Sintra bus terminal. From there, walk towards the main street and follow the signs to the Moorish Castle.
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Train and Walk
Make your way to the Cascais train station. Board a train heading towards Sintra. The train ride will take about 40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Sintra train station, exit and follow the signs to the Moorish Castle. It is a 30-minute walk uphill through the beautiful streets of Sintra.
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Walking
If you are already in Sintra, head towards the center of town. Locate the Praça da República square and from there, follow the signs toward the Moorish Castle. The walk is approximately 20 minutes and involves some uphill paths, so wear comfortable shoes.
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Taxi or Ride-sharing
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app from anywhere in Cascais to the Moorish Castle. Just provide the address '2710-405 Sintra' to the driver. The drive will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to The Moorish Castle
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Penedo da Amizade
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Ticket Office of the Moorish Castle
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Villa Sassetti
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Miradouro - Viewpoint
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Fonte da Sabuga
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Parque das Merendas
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Marco Histórico Carlos França
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Church of Santa Maria
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Fonte dos Pisões
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Quinta Santo Antonio da Serra
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Palácio Valenças
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NewsMuseum
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Comboio Turístico de Sintra
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Palácio e Parque Biester
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Sintra Mitos & Lendas
Landmarks nearby to The Moorish Castle
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Castelo dos Mouros
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Cisterna
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Fonte da Pipa
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Sintra Welcome Centre
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Gardens of Parque da Pena
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Dr. Gregorio Almeida Statue
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Praça da República
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National Palace of Pena
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Sintra National Palace
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Torre da Regaleira
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Initiation Well
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Quinta da Regaleira
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Pelourinho de Sintra
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Largo Dr. Virgílio Horta
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Miradouro de Santa Eufémia