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Castle of the Moors

★ 4.9 (10K+ reviews) • 9K+ booked
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Castle of the Moors Reviews

4.9 /5
10K+ reviews
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Razel ******
2 Nov 2025
Our tour from Lisbon was absolutely fantastic! Sintra, a fairy-tale town full of charm and history. Pena Palace was breathtaking — the colours, views, and romantic architecture made it feel like something out of a dream. We also visited Quinta da Regaleira, with its mysterious gardens, tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well — definitely a highlight for anyone who loves history or photography. The drive to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe, offered stunning ocean views and dramatic cliffs. Finally, we ended the day relaxing in Cascais, a beautiful seaside town perfect for a coffee or gelato by the beach. Emilio our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the day easy and enjoyable. We had enough time at each stop. I highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Lisbon — it’s the perfect mix of history, nature, and coastal beauty!
2+
Yau ****************
27 Oct 2025
Portugal is like a Disney template, with medieval kings & queens castles, even the stables are held to a high standard.
1+
Wiguna *****
27 Oct 2025
The daytrip was so fun and our experienced was great. Our tour guide Hugo was so kind and his explantions along the tour was very helpful and meaningful. Thanks Hugo for this great trip.
chiang *****
27 Oct 2025
Purchasing Sintra tickets through Klook is convenient; you can directly scan the barcode on your voucher for entry. However, remember the voucher states "There is no delay tolerance," so arrive early to queue for entry. The Google Maps distance from the park entrance to Pena Palace is a 10-minute walk, but it's actually a *steep hill*, so allow extra time to walk there at a leisurely pace. There's also a shuttle bus in the park that runs every 15 minutes (the bus takes 3 minutes to reach Pena Palace). However, the Klook ticket doesn't include the bus, so if you want to ride it, remember to buy a ticket at the park entrance first. Otherwise, even if you've waited in line and are about to board, you'll be turned away (they only accept it if you go back to buy a ticket and rejoin the line; you can't pay on the bus). So, manage your time well, or you might end up sprinting up the steep hill like I did, fearing you'd be late and denied entry. But, I actually bought an 11:00 AM ticket, and after running up, I realized they hadn't even started letting the 11:00 AM group in yet. Everyone with 11:00 AM tickets was still outside waiting to enter. So, if you're feeling bold, you might be able to arrive at the palace gate by 11:30 AM (but this might be because it was a holiday and more crowded...). Anyway, to be safe, allow plenty of extra time!
Ng ********
23 Oct 2025
The itinerary allows for ample time (bought only Pena Palace outer area tickets), the tour guide is humorous, the explanations are clear, and the driver's driving skills are superb!
Hiu ****************
22 Oct 2025
The Sintra, Pena Palace, and Cascais full-day trip was an amazing experience! Everything was well-organized, and the guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and gave great insights into Portuguese history and culture. Pena Palace was absolutely stunning, and having the tickets included made things super convenient. Sintra was charming, with plenty of time to explore the narrow streets and shops, and Cascais was the perfect relaxing stop to end the day. Highly recommend this trip for anyone visiting Lisbon who wants to see the highlights in one unforgettable day.
1+
Klook User
19 Oct 2025
Hugo was really funny, during the transit from one location to the other, he was able to engage us with the history of each location in an interesting way.
travel **
19 Oct 2025
I participated in the tour because I thought it would be difficult to do it all in one day using public transportation. At the time of purchase, only the Pena Palace & Quinta da Regaleira (without tickets) plan was available. Immediately after purchasing, I was contacted by the tour guide, and I was able to enter the grounds of Pena Palace (the palace interior was not included) and Quinta da Regaleira as well. I paid the guide €30 by credit card on the day. The guide was cheerful. Pena Palace was foggy at first, but the sun came out. There were many highlights and it was great. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.

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What to know about Castle of the Moors

Perched majestically atop the Sintra Hills, the Castle of the Moors offers an enchanting glimpse into Portugal's rich medieval past. This 10th-century fortification, built during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, captivates visitors with its rugged granite walls and breathtaking views. As you wander through this millennium-old fortress, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the Atlantic coastline and the lush floodplain below. Originally founded under Islamic rule, the castle served as a strategic stronghold for defending Lisbon's maritime access routes. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of cultures that have shaped its storied past. A visit here promises a journey through time, with the added allure of panoramic vistas stretching from the lush hills to the azure Atlantic Ocean, inviting travelers to step back in time and explore the echoes of history that resonate through its ancient corridors.
Moorish Castle, Way of Saint Mary, Chestnut Farm, Sintra (Santa Maria and São Miguel, São Martinho and São Pedro de Penaferrim), Sintra, Lisbon, Portugal

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Parapet Walk

Embark on a journey along the Parapet Walk at the Castle of the Moors, where every step unveils breathtaking vistas of Sintra's enchanting landscape. This elevated path offers a front-row seat to the majestic Palace of Pena and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean in the distance. Perfect for photographers and nature lovers, the Parapet Walk promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Sintra's beauty.

Panoramic Views

Prepare to be mesmerized by the Panoramic Views from the Castle of the Moors. As you stand atop the ancient walls, the sweeping scenery unfolds before you, showcasing the lush Sintra Mountains, the charming town below, and, on clear days, the distant horizons of Mafra and Ericeira. This vantage point is a haven for those seeking to capture the perfect shot or simply soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Royal Tower

Ascend the Royal Tower at the Castle of the Moors for a regal experience like no other. This towering structure offers a commanding view of the historic town of Sintra and its picturesque surroundings. As you climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic spectacle that highlights the castle's strategic significance and the natural beauty that envelops it. A visit to the Royal Tower is a must for anyone eager to explore the heights of Sintra's storied past.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Castle of the Moors is a fascinating journey through time, standing proudly as a symbol of the Iberian Peninsula's rich history. Originally constructed in the 8th century by the Moors, this architectural gem played a pivotal role during the Reconquista. As you wander through its ancient walls, you'll feel the echoes of its past as a formidable defensive stronghold. Now a National Monument and part of the Sintra Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle's history is a tapestry of Islamic and Christian influences, with the Knights Templar leaving their mark during medieval times. The 19th-century restoration by King Ferdinand II added a romantic touch, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.

Dog-Friendly Experience

For those traveling with furry friends, the Castle of the Moors offers a delightful experience. Dogs are welcome to explore the castle grounds, making it an ideal outing for pet lovers. Imagine strolling through the ancient ruins with your canine companion by your side, adding a unique twist to your historical adventure.

Architectural Marvel

The Castle of the Moors is an architectural wonder, showcasing the strategic brilliance of its Moorish builders. Its irregular military design, complete with a double line of walls and various towers, speaks to its historical role as a defensive bastion. Over the centuries, the castle has been remodeled, enhancing its romantic allure and offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Archaeological Discoveries

Since 1976, ongoing archaeological excavations at the Castle of the Moors have uncovered a treasure trove of artifacts, revealing the diverse cultures that once thrived here. The Archaeological Research Field, established in 2009, continues to provide fascinating insights into the site's historical significance, making each visit a journey of discovery.

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