Located just 130 km from Lisbon, Évora is a must-see for anyone exploring Portugal’s history and culture. This fascinating town is famous for its Roman Temple and the fascinating Chapel of Bones, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can reach Évora in about 1.5 hours by car or train, making it an easy day trip from Lisbon. Once there, you’ll enjoy wandering the narrow streets, visiting historic sites, and savoring local Alentejo cuisine along with the region’s renowned wines. Plan for at least one full day to take in Évora’s unique mix of history, architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a destination you won’t want to miss!
Day Trip from Lisbon to Évora: History, Wine & Travel Tips
If you’re planning to travel from Lisbon to Évora, there are several convenient options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best one.
Travelling from Lisbon to Évora is easy, with several convenient options. The most popular way is by train, with regular departures from Lisbon’s Entrecampos or Sete Rios stations. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and offers a scenic and comfortable ride through the Alentejo countryside.
Another option is to take a bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios station, with a similar travel time. Buses run frequently and provide a budget-friendly option for reaching Évora.
If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car allows you to drive at your own pace. The trip takes about 1.5 hours and gives you the chance to explore some beautiful countryside along the way.
For a quicker route, private transfers or booking a private tour from Lisbon to Évora are excellent options, offering a personalized experience with the convenience of door-to-door service.
Best Things to Do and See in Évora
Get Local at Praça do Giraldo
Praça do Giraldo is the beating heart of Évora, the perfect starting point for exploring the city. Surrounded by historic arcades, charming cafes and the beautiful Church of Santo Antão, it’s a great place to relax and people watch. The square’s iconic fountain, once the main source of water, is now a symbol of the city. Whether you enjoy a coffee on one of the terraces or just take a walk, this lively spot offers a insight into Évora’s rich history and local life. Don’t miss it on your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage city!
Step inside the haunted chapel of Évora
The Chapel of Bones in Évora is one of the city’s most unique and haunting attractions. Built in the 16th century by Franciscan monks, the chapel’s walls and columns are lined with the bones and skulls of over 5,000 people, creating a unique and creepy display. Its purpose was to remind visitors of the ephemeral nature of life, with the chilling inscription at the entrance reading, “We bones that are here, await yours.” Located next to the Church of São Francisco, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Évora’s rich history.
Admire the Roman Temple
The Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. It was built over 2,000 years ago in the 1st century AD and was originally dedicated to Emperor Augustus, not the goddess Diana as once thought. Situated in the heart of Évora, near the cathedral, its towering Corinthian columns serve as a stunning reminder of the city’s Roman past. Despite the missing roof and some parts, the temple remains incredibly well-preserved and is a must-see for anyone visiting Évora.
Climb to the top of the Cathedral
Évora Cathedral, the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal, is a stunning fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it’s famous for its magnificent architecture and rich history. Climb to the roof for panoramic views of Évora and the surrounding countryside. Inside, explore the impressive interior, beautiful cloisters and a small museum of sacred art. Don’t miss this iconic landmark and its panoramic terrace, one of the city’s best spots.
Visit Portugal's Stonehenge
The Almendres Cromlech, located just outside Évora, is a fascinating prehistoric site often referred to as the “Portuguese Stonehenge.” Dating back around 7,000 years, it features nearly 100 oval stones arranged in a circle, making it one of the largest megalithic complexes in Europe. This remarkable monument offers a unique insight into ancient rituals and astronomical observations. The site is easily accessible by car, with a scenic drive through cork forests. Don’t miss the nearby Visitors Center, which shares the rich history of the Cromlech and other megalithic sites in the region.
Learn about Évora's rich history
The Évora Museum, located in a former archbishop’s palace, is a must for history enthusiasts. It houses a fascinating collection of Roman sculptures, Visigothic artefacts and stunning Portuguese and Flemish paintings. The museum offers a unique insight into the history of the region, featuring ancient objects and works of art that reflect Évora’s rich cultural heritage. Situated in front of the cathedral, it’s an easy stopover while exploring the city’s historic centre. A visit here gives you a unique perspective on centuries of local history and art.
Go wine tasting in Évora
Évora is the perfect place to explore the renowned wines of the Alentejo region. You can begin by visiting the Cartuxa Winery, which is just a short walk from the city center. They offer guided tours and tastings that allow you to learn about the wine-making process. For a more complete experience, you can explore the Alentejo Wine Route, where you can visit local wineries and enjoy tastings of exceptional reds and whites. If you’re short on time, the Rota dos Vinhos tasting room in Évora’s center provides a great way to sample a selection of wines without leaving the city.
Explore the public garden
Évora’s Public Garden is a peaceful spot in the city centre, perfect for relaxing in the shade or wandering through its green spaces. As you explore, you’ll find the remains of a medieval wall and the beautiful 16th-century Royal Palace of Évora. The garden is also home to colourful peacocks that roam freely around the park. Don’t miss the ‘fake ruins’ built in the 19th century, which make an interesting backdrop for photographs. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some of Évora’s historic sights.
Where to Stay in Évora
We have curated a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference, from charming hotels to cozy apartments and enchanting guest houses. Our selection process involved considering the location of the accommodations, reliable reviews from our partner Booking.com, and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, which has 40 thousand enthusiastic members. These options have been selected carefully to make sure that your stay in Évora is truly memorable.
Recomended Hotels:
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Transportation in Évora
Getting around Évora is simple and convenient. The best way to explore the city’s historic center is on foot, as most attractions are within walking distance. For faster transport, taxis and tuk-tuks are widely available, offering easy rides between different sights. Local buses also run through the city, connecting various neighborhoods and landmarks. If you’re coming from Lisbon, there are regular train and bus services that bring you directly to Évora, making it easy to plan a day trip or longer stay.
Best Restaurants in Évora
We have curated a list of the best restaurants in Évora, inspired by the region’s rich culinary and cultural traditions. To create this list, we used trusted TripAdvisor reviews and insider tips from our amazing Lisbon Friends Facebook group, where over 40,000 members share their favourite recommendations.
Vinho E Noz
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
Lombardo
Mediterranean, European, $$$$
Tábua & Barro Do Naldo
Mediterranean, Gluten free options, $$ – $$$
Origens
Mediterranean, Healthy, $$ – $$$
Best Tours in Évora
We have selected a diverse range of tour options to suit all budgets and preferences. Our selection was based on the reliable reviews of our partner GetYourGuide and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, with 40,000 passionate members. These options have been carefully selected to ensure that your stay in Évora is truly memorable.
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