Évora – Full Day

Begin your journey at Évora's most iconic monument, the magnificent Roman Temple, commonly known as the Temple of Diana. Constructed in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus, this remarkably preserved structure stands as one of the best-preserved Roman temples on the entire Iberian Peninsula and throughout the former Roman Empire. Its fourteen elegant Corinthian columns rise dramatically against the Alentejo sky, bearing witness to nearly 2,000 years of history. Your expert guide will provide fascinating historical context about the Roman occupation of Lusitania (ancient Portugal) and explain how this temple survived centuries of wars, earthquakes, and transformations—at one point even serving as a medieval slaughterhouse before being recognized as the architectural treasure it truly is. This stunning monument offers exceptional photographic opportunities and sets the perfect tone for your historical exploration of Évora.

Visit Portugal's largest medieval cathedral, an imposing Gothic masterpiece begun in 1186 and consecrated in 1204. The Sé Catedral de Évora represents a stunning transition between Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, featuring massive fortress-like towers, an exquisite rose window, and a beautiful cloistered courtyard. The cathedral's interior houses impressive religious art, ornate chapels, and the remarkable organ dating from the Renaissance period. For those seeking extraordinary views, climb to the cathedral's rooftop terrace (optional additional ticket), where panoramic vistas reveal Évora's whitewashed houses, terracotta rooftops, and the vast Alentejo plains stretching to the horizon. This spiritual and architectural gem has witnessed coronations, royal weddings, and eight centuries of Portuguese history, making it an essential stop on your Évora journey.

Experience one of Portugal's most unforgettable and thought-provoking monuments—the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), located within the Church of São Francisco. This unique 16th-century chapel confronts visitors with mortality in the most direct manner: its walls and pillars are entirely covered with carefully arranged human bones and skulls from approximately 5,000 monks, exhumed from nearby cemeteries. Above the entrance, the famous inscription reads: "Nós ossos que aqui estamos, pelos vossos esperamos" (We bones that are here, await yours). Created by Franciscan monks in the 16th century as a meditation on the transience of earthly life and the certainty of death, this macabre yet strangely beautiful space challenges visitors to reflect on mortality, spirituality, and what truly matters in life. While initially unsettling, the chapel's message of memento mori (remember you must die) has profoundly moved millions of visitors, making it one of Évora's most emblematic and memorable attractions.

Embark on a leisurely walking tour through Évora's enchanting medieval heart, perfectly preserved within ancient Moorish walls. Start at the magnificent Praça do Giraldo, the city's main square since the Middle Ages, featuring elegant arcades, a Renaissance fountain, and the Church of Santo Antão. Wander narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with traditional Alentejo blue and yellow trim, discovering hidden courtyards, charming cafés, and artisan workshops. Admire the exquisite Manueline and Baroque architecture that characterizes the historic center, from ornate doorways to intricate tilework. Browse authentic Alentejo handicrafts including cork products (Portugal is the world's largest cork producer), hand-painted ceramics, traditional leather goods, and regional gourmet specialties. Your guide will share fascinating stories about Évora's history as a center of Portuguese Renaissance humanism, home to one of Portugal's oldest universities, and the residence of Portuguese kings during the 15th and 16th centuries. This immersive walk captures the authentic essence of Alentejo life.

Savor the authentic flavors of Alentejo cuisine during a leisurely lunch at a traditional regional restaurant, where hearty portions and bold flavors reflect the agricultural richness of Portugal's breadbasket. Choose from classic Alentejo specialties including açorda alentejana (bread stew with garlic, cilantro, poached egg, and sometimes seafood), succulent porco preto (acorn-fed black Iberian pork), tender ensopado de borrego (lamb stew with herbs), or migas com carne (fried breadcrumbs with pork and garlic). Complete your meal with traditional doçaria conventual (convent sweets) such as sericaia (cinnamon-flavored egg pudding) or pão de rala (almond and pumpkin cake). Optionally pair your meal with outstanding Alentejo wines—the region produces some of Portugal's finest reds and whites. This gastronomic experience offers deep insight into Alentejo's culinary traditions, where simple ingredients are transformed into memorable dishes through centuries-old recipes passed down through generations.

Conclude your Évora adventure with a visit to one of the region's prestigious wine estates (selected based on availability and your preferences): Herdade do Esporão, Cartuxa, Adega da Fita Preta, or Herdade da Ravasqueira. The Alentejo region has emerged as one of Portugal's most acclaimed wine-producing areas, earning international recognition for its full-bodied reds, crisp whites, and innovative winemaking techniques that blend tradition with cutting-edge technology. Embark on a guided tour through historic cellars, modern production facilities, and sprawling vineyards stretching across the sun-drenched plains. Learn about the unique terroir, indigenous grape varieties like Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Antão Vaz, and the passionate winemakers who craft these exceptional wines. Your experience culminates in a professional wine tasting, sampling several award-winning wines while your guide explains tasting notes, food pairings, and the stories behind each bottle. This elegant conclusion perfectly captures the sophisticated side of Alentejo culture, where ancient winemaking traditions meet contemporary excellence.