Évora is a city that takes us back in time. With its imposing walls and narrow cobblestone streets, the city invites us to explore its history and feel the pulse of one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions. My recent visit to this Alentejo treasure with my family was an unforgettable experience, and I want to share with you an itinerary that combines history, gastronomy, and unforgettable moments.
If, like me, you are passionate about travelling in Portugal, this guide is for you! For more inspiration and tips, don’t forget to check out my other article about Travel to Oxford.
Where to Stay: Charming and Comfortable Accommodations
Évora offers a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets, from luxury hotels to rural tourism lodges.
- For a historic centre experience: Staying within the city walls allows you to explore the city on foot, soaking in its unique atmosphere. We’ve stayed in the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel. Other Hotels like the Convento do Espinheiro Historic Hotel & Spa offer luxury and tranquillity just outside the city, while options like Casa do Escritor provide a more cosy and family-friendly stay.
- For a nature retreat: The Alentejo is synonymous with vast and peaceful landscapes. If you prefer to escape the hustle and bustle, consider rural tourism in the Évora surroundings. Herdade do Vau or Casa de Juromenha are great choices for those travelling with children and looking for space to play and relax amidst nature.
Tour Itinerary: What to Explore in Évora
Here is a three-day itinerary so you don’t miss anything the city has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival and Immersion in Millennial History
- Morning: Start your day at Praça do Giraldo, the city’s heart. Take a photo at the Renaissance fountain and observe the city’s movement. Just a few steps away, you will find the Évora Cathedral, one of Portugal’s most impressive churches. Climbing to the rooftop of the cathedral is a must, offering stunning 360-degree views of Évora and the Alentejo landscape. Have your lunch at Vinho e Noz.
- Afternoon: The next stop is the iconic Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana. With its Corinthian columns, this monument is a testament to the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. Continue your walk to the Public Garden, an ideal place for children to run and burn off energy.
- Evening: For dinner, aim for a restaurant that serves authentic Alentejo food. I recommend O Moinho do Cú Torto.
Day 2: Culture and Mystery
- Morning: Prepare for one of the city’s most fascinating and, at the same time, macabre places: the Chapel of Bones. This chapel, part of the Church of São Francisco, has its walls lined with human bones and skulls. The inscription at the entrance, “We bones that are here, await yours”, is an invitation to reflect on life.
- Afternoon: After an intense morning, the rural Alentejo awaits. About 15 km from Évora, you will find the Almendres Cromlech, a set of prehistoric menhirs. It is one of the largest and most important megalithic complexes in Europe. The place is magical and perfect for an afternoon of family exploration, away from the city’s hustle.
- Evening: Return to Évora for dinner and look for a restaurant with a more relaxed atmosphere, like A Tasca Fina.
Day 3: A Farewell with an Alentejo Flavor
- Morning: Before leaving, set aside some time to explore the city on foot, discovering its streets and craft shops. Don’t forget to visit the Municipal Market, where you can buy local products like the famous Évora cheese, Alentejo bread, and quality olive oil.
- Afternoon: For the last meal, enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the city. For dessert, try one of the region’s conventual sweets, such as Pampilhosas or Sardinhas Albardadas.
- Farewell: Saying goodbye to Évora is difficult. It’s a city that leaves you wanting to return and explore even more. The memories we created with my family are unforgettable, and this guide is a small taste of what this city has to offer.
I hope this guide helps inspire your next adventure in Évora, we have more travel guides. What part of the itinerary excites you the most? Our video reviews will be on social media, so you can see for yourself.