Is the Moorish Castle included in a guided tour Sintra package?

While many tour operators include it, this self-guided walk allows you to explore the castle independently at your own pace. You will need to purchase a separate entrance ticket at the gate or online.

Is this Sintra walking route difficult?

Yes, it is considered challenging. The route involves a sustained uphill climb on a mix of paved roads, forest trails, and stone stairs at the castle battlements.

Can I see the Pena Palace from the Moorish Castle?

Absolutely. The Moorish Castle offers one of the most famous viewpoints of the Palácio da Pena, located on the adjacent peak. It is a prime spot for photography.

What is the best time to visit the National Palace of Sintra?

The best time is right at opening (9:30 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 4:30 PM) to avoid the peak crowds from day-trippers arriving by train.

Are there places to eat along this walking tour Sintra route?

Yes, there are many options in Sintra-Vila at the start, the Ferraria Taproom for drinks/snacks, and several traditional Portuguese restaurants in São Pedro at the end.

Is the Moorish Castle worth the climb?

Yes, it is highly recommended for the views alone. Unlike the colorful palaces, the castle offers a more rugged, medieval experience that highlights the ancient history of the region.

Can I use a stroller on this walking route?

No, this route is not suitable for strollers due to the steep forest paths and the narrow, uneven steps along the castle walls. A baby carrier is recommended instead.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Perched upon the misty peaks of the Serra de Sintra, this self-guided walk invites you to peel back the layers of Portugal's royal and military history. Sintra is often celebrated for its Romanticist palaces, but this walking route focuses on the rugged foundations that defined the region long before the 19th-century boom. Starting in the heart of the historic center, you will encounter the iconic twin chimneys of the National Palace of Sintra, a structure that served as the continuous residence of the Portuguese monarchy for centuries. The journey then transitions from royal domesticity to medieval defense as you begin the steep ascent toward the clouds. This neighborhood stroll is as much a physical challenge as it is a historical deep-dive, taking you through the winding, forested paths that lead to the ancient fortifications. You will explore the Moorish Castle, a silent witness to the Islamic presence in the Iberian Peninsula and the subsequent Christian Reconquista. The route concludes in the quieter, local atmosphere of São Pedro, where the architecture shifts again toward the ecclesiastical and the Manueline. While many visitors stick to the main squares, this walking tour Sintra experience provides the context necessary to understand how a defensive Moorish outpost evolved into a playground for kings. Expect breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic coastline and the Pena Palace from afar, making every step of the uphill climb worthwhile. This is an independent exploration designed for those who want to feel the weight of history under their boots and witness the architectural echoes of civilizations that shaped the modern Portuguese identity. Whether you are a history buff or a photography enthusiast, this self-guided adventure offers a comprehensive look at the medieval soul of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights

The iconic 33-meter high conical chimneys of the National Palace of Sintra

Ancient 8th-century battlements and towers of the Moorish Castle

Sweeping panoramic views of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

The intricate Manueline portal of the Church of São Pedro de Sintra

A refreshing stop at a local taproom before the steep uphill climb

Tour Stops (4)

National Palace of Sintra

Welcome to the heart of Sintra-Vila. Before you stands the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, easily recognized by its two massive white chimneys. This is the best-preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal, inhabited almost continuously from the 14th to the 19th century. Its architecture is a fascinating blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Mudéjar styles—a testament to the Moorish influence that remained even after the Christian conquest. Look closely at the windows and doorways; the intricate stonework reflects the wealth of the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Inside, the palace houses the largest collection of Mudéjar azulejos (tiles) in the world. As you begin your self-guided walk, take a moment to imagine the royal court bustling through these halls while the scent of game roasted in the kitchens beneath those giant chimneys.

Ferraria Taproom

Before we begin the serious climb toward the castle, we stop at a modern touchpoint in this ancient town. The Ferraria Taproom is a local favorite that highlights Portugal's burgeoning craft beer scene. While Sintra is famous for its sweet 'travesseiros' pastries, this spot offers a savory, contemporary counterpoint. It is located near the start of the 'Caminho de Santa Maria,' the pedestrian path that winds up the mountain. Use this stop to hydrate and prepare for the incline ahead. The taproom often features brews inspired by local ingredients, reflecting a new generation of Portuguese artisans who are just as dedicated to their craft as the stonemasons who built the palaces above us.

The Moorish Castle

After a vigorous uphill trek, you have reached the Castelo dos Mouros. Established in the 8th and 9th centuries during the Islamic period, this fortress was a strategic lookout for the city of Lisbon and the surrounding coastline. The walls you see snaking across the granite boulders were largely restored in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II, who wanted to create a romantic ruin to complement his palace nearby. Walk along the battlements to see the 'cistern'—a sophisticated water storage system that allowed the defenders to survive long sieges. From this height, you can see why the Moors chose this spot; the 360-degree views made it nearly impossible for an enemy to approach undetected. It is a place where the wind carries the history of the Reconquista.

Church São Pedro de Sintra

Descending from the castle, we arrive at the Church of São Pedro de Sintra. This area was once a separate village and remains a hub for local life. The church itself dates back to the 12th century, founded shortly after Afonso Henriques conquered Sintra from the Moors. While the 1755 earthquake damaged much of the original structure, the side portal remains a stunning example of the Manueline style—Portugal's unique late-Gothic architectural flourish. Inside, the 18th-century tile panels depict scenes from the life of Saint Peter. This stop offers a peaceful conclusion to your walking route, surrounded by traditional houses and small antique shops that retain an authentic atmosphere away from the main tourist hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The path, known as the Caminho de Santa Maria, is quite steep and covers about 2 kilometers with significant elevation gain.