Explore Sintra’s Magical Hiking Trails: Moorish Castle to Pena Palace Park
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderate fitness; some uphill walking and uneven terrain
Overview
Journey through Sintra's UNESCO Cultural Landscape on a 3.5-hour guided hike that takes you from the ancient Moorish Castle through lush Pena Palace Park. Discover historic ruins, stunning gardens, and breathtaking viewpoints on this accessible trail for all ages.
Hiking in Sintra
For all ages • +3.5 Hours • Magical & Mysterious Sintra!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 3.5-hour tour through Sintra's UNESCO-protected Cultural Landscape. Explore vibrant streets, stunning gardens, and breathtaking viewpoints while walking the walls of the Moorish Castle and the enchanting Pena Palace's Park. With expert guidance, immerse yourself in the rich history and landscape architecture of this romantic destination.
Pena Palace's Park, Moorish Castle, and outstanding gardens and views
Duration
3 hours & 30 minutes
About
In this tour you will experience the reason why the Cultural Landscape of Sintra is protected by the UNESCO. By walking through the town's vibrant narrow streets we will see some buildings which created the first centre of European Romantic Architecture. While climbing the hill, the fresh air of the Sintra's microclimate will fill our lungs, but the viewpoints from the trail will take your breath away, especially while walking on the walls of the Moorish Castle, and through the park of Pena Palace. I will be guiding you not only on the trail, but also inside both Moorish Castle and Pena Palace's Park, sharing with you my passion about history and landscape architecture. If you like the idea of a tour to Sintra with a different approach, book now and take this tour with me!
Itinerary
Meeting point - Staircase of Palácio da Vila de Sintra Short stroll through the town Gardens of Villa Sassetti Pena Palace's Park Moorish Castle Walk back down to the town - End of the tour
Estimated Local Cash Needed:
No cash is needed for this tour
What's Included
Guiding Services Admission Tickets Other: All insurances required by the Portuguese Tourism Office
What's Extra
Personal Expenses Souvenirs Public Transportation Tickets Food, Drinks, Snacks
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy footwear
The trails can be uneven; hiking shoes with grip will help you navigate safely.
Bring water and snacks
Carry enough water and light snacks to stay energized during the 3.5-hour hike.
Start early to avoid crowds
To enjoy quieter paths and better photographic light, start your hike in the morning.
Carry a waterproof jacket
Weather can shift quickly, so pack a light rain jacket just in case.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Iberian green frog
- European robin
History
Sintra became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, recognized for its unique blend of natural landscapes and man-made palaces dating back to the Middle Ages and Romantic period.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving the delicate ecosystems within Pena Park and managing tourist impact on historic sites while promoting sustainable hiking practices.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Sintra
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide good traction and ankle support on rocky, uneven paths.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the hike in the warm Portuguese climate.
Light rain jacket
spring specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture stunning views and architectural details along the trail.