12 Best Things to Do in Evora, Portugal 🇵🇹 (The Ultimate Travel Guide)

Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region, Évora captivates visitors with its blend of Roman grandeur, medieval charm, and modern Portuguese life. As I wandered through its narrow, winding streets, I discovered a city where every corner tells a story – from the mysterious Chapel of Bones to the majestic Roman Temple that has watched over the city for centuries.

🏠 Where to Stay in Évora

• ✨ 5-Star: Convento do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa
• 🏨 4-Star: Evora Olive Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Casa Do Vale Hotel
• 💸 Cheap: Peacock House
• 🏢 Apartment: Apostolos Loft
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Lavradores Boutique Guesthouse
• 🏩 For Couples: MouraSuites Hotel

My journey through Évora revealed why this UNESCO World Heritage site is more than just a day trip from Lisbon. Whether you’re sipping local wine in a historic square, watching the sunset paint the white-washed buildings in golden hues, or exploring ancient megalithic sites just outside the city walls, Évora offers experiences that stay with you long after you leave. Let me share with you the secrets of this enchanting Portuguese gem, where time seems to slow down and history comes alive.

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Évora Private Tour with Monument Tickets from € 85 (⭐4.8/5)
• Évora Private Walking Tour from € 130 (⭐4.9/5)
• Évora Tales and Legends Walking Tour from € 25 (⭐4.7/5)
• Évora Best Of Tour from € 65 (⭐4.8/5)

Best Things to Do in Evora, Portugal

1. Roman Temple of Évora

First Impressions. Walking through Évora’s winding streets, the Roman Temple suddenly appears like a mirage – its magnificent Corinthian columns rising against the blue Portuguese sky. I’ve visited countless ancient sites, but this 1st-century temple, often mistakenly called the Temple of Diana, never fails to take my breath away.

Architecture Spotlight. The temple stands on an impressive granite base, with 14 original granite columns topped by Corinthian capitals. My tip: visit during golden hour when the sun makes the limestone glow. The preservation is remarkable – it’s one of the best-preserved Roman structures on the Iberian Peninsula.

Practical Details. The temple is free to visit and open 24/7. I recommend coming early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid tour groups and get the best photos. The surrounding plaza offers plenty of space to admire the temple from different angles.

Local Secret. Few visitors know about the small café hidden in a corner of Jardim Diana, right next to the temple. I love grabbing a pastel de nata (€1.20) and watching the sunset behind the columns.

⭐ Best tour

• Evora Roman Legacy Tour – The same way “Rome wasn’t built in a day” neither was Évora. With more than 2000 years of existence, and about 500 years of roman rule, the roman Ebora represents one of the most interesting places to understand the importance of the roman cultural legacy in Portugal.

2. Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)

Unforgettable Entry. Stepping into the Capela dos Ossos, I was immediately struck by the inscription above the entrance: “Nós ossos que aqui estamos, pelos vossos esperamos” (We bones that are here, await yours). This 16th-century chapel, built by Franciscan monks, is both haunting and fascinating.

Interior Experience. The walls and pillars are decorated with over 5,000 human bones and skulls. My tip: look up – even the vaulted ceiling features carefully arranged bones creating intricate patterns. The natural light filtering through small windows creates an ethereal atmosphere.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
• Entry Fee: €5 for adults, €3 for students/seniors
• Duration: Plan for 30-45 minutes to fully appreciate the details

Photography Tips. While photos are allowed, I found that the best shots come from the corners of the chapel where you can capture the full scope of the bone arrangements. Morning light through the windows creates the most dramatic effects.

Cultural Context. The chapel isn’t meant to be macabre – it’s a powerful meditation on life and death. I noticed many locals still come here for quiet reflection, especially during early morning hours.

Hidden Detail. Look for the two complete skeletons hanging from chains – one of an adult and one of a child. They’re a sobering reminder of human mortality, though most tourists miss them entirely.

⭐ Best tour

• Private Tour: Évora, Chapel of Bones Tickets – This UNESCO-listed area features a number of unique landmarks such as the Chapel of Bones, the Roman Temple of Diana, and the Moorish architecture of Giraldo Square. Check out the 6th-century aqueduct before heading back to Lisbon.

3. Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora)

First Look. As Portugal’s largest medieval cathedral, the Sé dominates Évora’s skyline. I was immediately struck by its fortress-like appearance – a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture that speaks volumes about Portugal’s turbulent history.

Rooftop Experience. The highlight of my visit was climbing to the cathedral’s roof (€3 extra). The panoramic views of Évora’s terracotta rooftops and the Alentejo plains are simply breathtaking. My tip: go either early morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect for photos.

Architectural Gems

• Gothic cloisters with intricate stone carvings
• 18th-century high altar of marble and gold
• Portugal’s largest medieval cathedral organ
• Stunning granite dome (unique in Portuguese architecture)

Hidden Treasures The cathedral’s museum houses one of my favorite discoveries – a 13th-century Virgin Mary statue carved from ivory. Most visitors rush through, but I recommend spending at least 15 minutes here.

⭐ Best tour

• Private Walking Tour of Highlights Locations in Evora – Visit the extraordinary Museum city and enjoy the overview of major and significant events that marked history in Evora and Portugal. You also get to see the largest Portuguese gothic cathedral, the traditional commerce Street of Evora, one of the oldest temples in the city, an ancient alcove, and more.

4. Praça do Giraldo

Heart of the City. This vibrant square has been Évora’s beating heart since Roman times. I love starting my day here with a bica (Portuguese espresso) at one of the traditional cafés, watching the city come to life.

Architectural Features

• Eight fountains representing the eight streets leading to the square
• The stunning Igreja de Santo Antão with its Manueline-style portal
• Historic marble water fountain dating from 1571

Insider Tips. Visit the square during market days (Tuesday-Sunday mornings) when local farmers sell fresh produce and regional specialties. My favorite find: locally produced honey and olive oil at surprisingly reasonable prices.

Evening Atmosphere. As the sun sets, the square transforms. The cafés fill with locals enjoying petiscos (Portuguese tapas), and sometimes you’ll catch impromptu fado performances. I recommend trying the local black pork at any of the traditional restaurants around the square.

Budget Tip. The tourist information office on the square offers free walking tour maps. I’ve found these more detailed than most guidebooks, especially for discovering the hidden corners around the square.

⭐ Best tour

• Évora: Private Walking Tour – Feel the past as you walk along ancient walls, explore the living history of the University of Évora and the mystery of the Chapel of Bones, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Praça do Giraldo.

5. Almendres Cromlech

Ancient Mystery. Just 15km from Évora, I discovered what many call ‘Portugal’s Stonehenge’. With 95 granite monoliths arranged in an oval pattern, this 7,000-year-old site is actually older than its famous British cousin.

Practical Tips

• No entry fee (rare for a site this significant!)
• Hire a local guide (around €45) for fascinating astronomical insights
• Wear sturdy shoes – the ground is uneven
• Download offline maps as mobile signal is patchy

Photography Secret. I found the best photos come from lying on the ground with a wide-angle lens, capturing the stones against the dramatic Alentejo sky.

⭐ Best tour

• Mysterious Megaliths Tour – Explore ancient megalithic sites with professional archaeologists on this fascinating half-day tour.

Historical Sites and Monuments

1. Aqueduto da Água de Prata

First Impressions. The 16th-century aqueduct stretches like a stone serpent through Évora. What fascinated me most were the houses and shops built right into its arches – a unique example of practical urban integration.

Local Experience. Walking along the aqueduct, I discovered several small family-run taverns built into the arches. My favorite is a tiny wine bar where local vintners often stop by for impromptu tastings.

Insider Tips

• Best photo spot: Rua do Cano intersection
• Visit at sunset when the stone glows orange
• Free guided walks every Saturday morning

⭐ Best tour

• From Celtics to Romans Quest Experience in Evora – Explore Aqueduto da Água de Prata, Largo do Chão das Covas, Palácio de Condes de Sortelha and lesser-known places. Visit the ancient town centre of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and uncover the mysteries of the largest Gothic cathedral in Portugal.

2. University of Évora

Historic Academia. As Portugal’s second-oldest university, this 16th-century institution still buzzes with academic energy. The baroque tiles depicting educational themes particularly caught my eye.

Must-See Features

• Sala dos Actos (graduation hall) with original 16th-century frescoes
• Baroque tile panels showing academic subjects
• Historic classroom still used today
• The peaceful cloister garden

Hidden Gem. Few visitors know about the university’s old astronomical observatory. While not always open, you can ask at reception – sometimes they’ll arrange a special visit.

Cultural Note. Watch for students in traditional black capes – a tradition dating back centuries. During academic ceremonies, the whole city comes alive with these caped scholars.

⭐ Best tour

• Évora Catholic History Tour – This tour includes private guide, entrance tickets to the cathedral, chapel of bones and university of Évora.

3. City Walls of Évora

First Encounter. Walking the medieval walls of Évora, I discovered why they call this city a living museum. The 14th-century fortifications stretch over 3km, offering some of the best views I’ve found in Portugal.

Walking Experience.

Best Access Points

• Porta de Avis (my favorite morning start point)
• Jardim Público entrance (easiest access)
• Porta da Lagoa (least crowded)

Local Secret. I discovered a small door near Porta de Moura that leads to a hidden section of the wall – perfect for watching the sunset without crowds.

⭐ Best tour

• Évora Walking Tour – Join this small group walking tour of Evora to hear all about its history, including legends and stories from your guide. You’ll keep costs down by booking this small group tour, but still have an intimate experience. You won’t stick to a fixed route. Instead you’ll go with the flow, according to your group’s interests.

Museums in Évora

1. Évora Museum

Collection Highlights. Housed in the former Archbishop’s Palace, this museum surprised me with its rich collection spanning 2000 years of history. The museum’s recent renovation has transformed it into a modern space while preserving its historical character, making it one of Portugal’s most impressive regional museums.

Must-See Artifacts

• Roman sculptures from the temple
• 16th-century Flemish paintings
• Medieval religious art
• Archaeological finds from the region

Visitor Information

Pro Tip. The museum’s garden café offers not just great coffee but also one of the best views of the Roman Temple. I usually time my visit for the afternoon light, when the sun casts beautiful shadows across the ancient stones and makes the perfect backdrop for photography.

⭐ Best tour

• Évora Tour: Private and Customized tour – Enjoy this medieval city surrounded by walls dating back several centuries, magnificent landscape and historical monuments including the ruins of the Roman temple. Come and discover this charming city.

2. Carriage Museum

Unique Experience. Located in the former palace stables, this collection of historic carriages tells fascinating stories of Portuguese nobility. The museum’s intimate setting in the restored 18th-century building creates an atmospheric journey through Portugal’s golden age of horse-drawn transportation. Each carriage has been meticulously preserved, with detailed information about its original owners and the historical events it witnessed.

Collection Features

• Royal ceremonial coaches
• 18th-century traveling carriages
• Children’s carriages
• Original horse tack and equipment

Photography Note. The lighting can be tricky, but I found the best shots come from using the natural light from the courtyard windows in the morning. The intricate gold leaf details and hand-painted panels shine beautifully in the soft morning light, while the afternoon sun creates interesting shadows that highlight the carriages’ architectural details.

3. National Museum Frei Manuel Cenáculo

Personal Experience. This recently renovated museum houses some of the most important religious art collections I’ve seen in Portugal.

Highlight Collections

• Medieval sacred art
• Islamic artifacts
• Regional archaeological finds
• Contemporary Portuguese art

Hidden Treasure. Don’t miss the small room dedicated to Islamic artifacts – it’s often overlooked but contains some remarkable pieces from Évora’s Moorish period.

Budget Tip. Free admission on Sundays until 2 PM. I recommend arriving at opening time to avoid the crowds that gather later.

Things to Do in Évora Outdoors

1. Jardim Público de Évora

First Light Experience. Arriving at dawn, I found myself alone with the resident peacocks strutting through morning mist. This 19th-century public garden is more than just a green space – it’s a living timeline of Évora’s history.

Garden Highlights

• Children’s playground with historic carousel
• Medieval ruins integrated into landscape
• Peacock families roaming freely
• Art nouveau bandstand for summer concerts

Local Tip. The garden café serves traditional Alentejo pastries. Try the “Toucinho do céu” (€2.50) – a local almond sweet that pairs perfectly with Portuguese coffee.

⭐ Best tour

• Golden Era of Évora walking – Uncover the misterious history of Évora, walk sibe by side with its phenomenal story and ending perfectly with an outstanding wine tasting. An immersive experience on to the intangible World Heritage.

2. Diana Garden

Scenic Views. This intimate garden beside the Roman Temple offers what I consider the most photogenic spots in Évora. The contrast between ancient stones and manicured gardens creates perfect photo opportunities.

Garden Features

• Traditional Portuguese tile benches
• Native plant species
• Historic water features
• Panoramic city views

Best Photo Spots.

Insider Knowledge. Local artists often set up their easels here during weekends. I’ve found some unique, affordable artwork that makes for perfect souvenirs.

⭐ Best tour

• Walled City of Évora’s Highlights & Traditions Tour – Traveling safely to Evora, you will see more than meets the eye, in great company with a flexible guide.

Culinary Experiences in Évora

1. Traditional Alentejo Cuisine

Food Experience. The hearty flavors of Alentejo cuisine tell stories of the region’s rural heritage. My taste buds were particularly impressed by the creative use of bread in traditional dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

• Açorda à Alentejana (bread soup with poached egg)
• Migas com Carne de Porco (bread crumbs with pork)
• Ensopado de Borrego (lamb stew)
• Sericaia (traditional egg dessert)

Personal Recommendation. For the most authentic experience, I found that restaurants away from Praça do Giraldo often offer better value and more traditional preparations.

2. Wine Tasting Tours

Wine Experience. Évora sits in the heart of one of Portugal’s finest wine regions. The local wineries offer experiences that go beyond simple tastings.

Tasting Options

• Small family wineries
• Historic wine estates
• Modern wine cooperatives
• Vineyard tours with tastings

Price Comparison.

Pro Tip. Book wine tours directly through local producers rather than through hotels – you’ll often get more personalized experiences at better prices.

3. Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Évora

Esporão. Located near Monsaraz, this one Michelin-starred restaurant showcases Chef Carlos Teixeira’s seasonal and sustainable cuisine through five or seven-course tasting menus. The restaurant’s unique setting within the Herdade do Esporão winery enhances the dining experience.

Origens. Chef Gonçalo Queiroz and his wife Eugénia create contemporary Alentejo cuisine using local ingredients. Their signature dish, Brás à farinheira, features traditional Portuguese sausage with scrambled eggs. The restaurant offers both à la carte options and innovative tasting menus.

Dom Joaquim. Located near Porta de Serpa Pinto, Chef Joaquim Almeida presents traditional Alentejo cooking with modern touches. The restaurant’s classic-contemporary atmosphere, complete with stone walls and artistic sculptures, has maintained its Michelin Guide listing for over a decade.

Day Trips from Évora & Best Times to Visit

1. Monsaraz Village

Monsaraz Magic. I discovered that this medieval hilltop village, just an hour from Évora, offers some of the most spectacular views over the Alentejo region. The pristine white-washed houses and narrow cobblestone streets transport you back in time. From the ramparts, you can gaze east over the Guadiana to Spain, or west across the vast plains of the Alentejo.

Best Times to Visit

Local Experience. The village’s creative spirit comes alive in local galleries and craft shops. I recommend visiting Igreja de Santiago and exploring the traditional ceramics workshops.

⭐ Best tour

• Évora, medieval village Monsaraz & Wine Tasting – Take a break from the busy streets of Lisbon and venture into the rolling hills and cork trees of Alentejo on this full-day excursion. Join a small group and visit the ancient city of Evora where you enjoy a guided tour of its landmarks including the Chapel of Bones and the Roman ruins.

2. Arraiolos

Historical Significance. Arraiolos’s story stretches back to the 2nd century BC, with the medieval castle built during King Dinis’s reign (1279-1325). The picturesque hilltop town offers stunning views across the Alentejo plains and maintains its village charm with just 3,000 residents.

World-Famous Rugs. The town’s international reputation comes from its exquisite hand-embroidered carpets, a tradition dating to the 16th century. The craftsmanship evolved through three distinct periods:

• 18th century: Persian-influenced designs
• Mid-18th century: Folk-inspired patterns with figures and animals
• Late 18th-19th century: More stylized, less dense patterns

Cultural Center. The heart of town is Praça Lima e Brito, where locals gather among street cafes and historical buildings. The square features a preserved pillory and the Hospital do Espirito Santo, decorated with beautiful azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles).

Notable Architecture

Getting There From Évora, Arraiolos is easily accessible:

• Bus: 1 hour 10 minutes (€13)
• Distance: 18 km
• Best time to visit: Spring/Autumn

Practical Tips. Visit the Arraiolos Rugs Interpretive Center to learn about the carpet-making tradition. Morning visits offer the best opportunity to watch local artisans at work. The town’s authentic restaurants serve traditional Alentejo cuisine at reasonable prices.

Pro Tip. The local market frequently hosts food and wine festivals, offering an excellent opportunity to sample regional specialties and observe traditional crafts in action.

⭐ Best tour

• Full Day Private Tour in Évora and Arraiolos – Enjoy an intimate introduction to Arraiolos and Évora—one of southern Portugal’s most evocative cities, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—on this full-day, private tour. Following pickup at your hotel, set off from Lisbon in the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan.

3. Cork Forests and Factories

Forest Experience. One of my most unique Alentejo experiences was exploring the cork forests in a Land Rover adventure. These ancient woodlands showcase Portugal’s sustainable farming traditions.

Tour Options

Insider Knowledge. The best time to visit is during the harvesting season (May-August), when you can witness the traditional cork extraction process. Morning tours offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.

⭐ Best tour

• 4x4 Cork Tour – 2h Jeep Tour epxloring the traditional Cork Forests of the Alentejo. Your local guide will give you full explanations during the tour, as you discover the in’s out’s of the cork world. Join us for this unique experience!

Getting Around Évora

Transport Guide. The compact historic center is perfectly walkable, with most attractions within a 15-minute radius. I found the local transport system efficient and budget-friendly.

Transportation Options

Pro Tip. Save money by parking outside the city walls where it’s free, then walk into the historic center.

Suggested Itineraries for Different Travelers

1. One-Day Itinerary

Morning Exploration. Start your day early at Praça do Giraldo with a traditional Portuguese breakfast of torrada and coffee. Head to the Roman Temple for the best morning light, then explore the Cathedral while tourist crowds are still thin.

Afternoon Adventures. Break for lunch at a traditional tasca, then continue exploring the historic center.

Evening Delights. End your day with a memorable dining experience in the historic center. I recommend booking a table at a traditional Alentejo restaurant where you can try local specialties like black pork or bacalhau while enjoying live fado music. The narrow, lamp-lit streets of Évora are particularly magical after dark.

⭐ Best tour

• Évora: Private Walking Tour – Feel the past as you walk along ancient walls, explore the living history of the University of Évora and the mystery of the Chapel of Bones, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Praça do Giraldo.

2. Weekend Itinerary

Day One: Historic Center. Follow the one-day itinerary above, but take more time at each stop. Add evening wine tasting at a local enoteca.

Day Two: Beyond the Walls

Extended Experiences. What makes a weekend special is the luxury of time. Use it to discover hidden gems like the local market (if it’s weekend), take a cooking class, or join a sunset photography tour. I particularly enjoyed the slow-paced Sunday morning when locals gather for coffee and pastries at the square’s cafes.

⭐ Best tour

• Jewish Heritage with a Historian in Évora – You will take a tour with a historian who studies Alentejo’s Jewish heritage. This researcher also participated in archaeological excavations of Jewish heritage in Alentejo and Spain. This way you will discover secrets that are not written anywhere.

3. Family-Friendly Activities

Interactive Experiences. The key to keeping children engaged in Évora is mixing history with hands-on activities.

Pro Tips

• Request child-friendly guides for monument visits
• Visit the Cathedral tower for exciting city views
• Schedule breaks at garden playgrounds
• Try the interactive cork workshop

Best Times. Morning activities for monuments, afternoon for gardens and interactive experiences. Avoid midday heat in summer by planning indoor activities between 12:00-15:00.

Family-Friendly Food Adventures. One of my favorite discoveries was how child-friendly local restaurants are. Many offer special kids’ portions of traditional dishes, and some even have dedicated play areas. The ice cream shop near Praça do Giraldo serves artisanal flavors made with local ingredients – the perfect reward after a day of sightseeing. Don’t miss the chance to let kids try making their own pastéis de nata at a local bakery workshop.

❓ FAQ

How do I get to Évora from Lisbon Airport?

You can take a direct train from Lisboa-Oriente station (90 minutes, €12.50) or drive via A6 motorway (1.5 hours). Alternatively, several bus companies operate regular services from Sete Rios station to Évora’s terminal.

Is Évora worth a day trip from Lisbon?

Évora absolutely deserves a full day trip, with its UNESCO World Heritage sites, Roman temple, and medieval cathedral all within walking distance. The historic center packs centuries of Portuguese history into its narrow streets, making it one of the most rewarding day trips from Lisbon.

What’s the best time to visit Évora?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer ideal temperatures and fewer tourists for exploring the outdoor monuments and cork forests. July and August can be extremely hot with temperatures reaching 40°C, though evening activities are pleasant.

How long should I stay in Évora?

Two full days allow you to explore both the historic center and surrounding attractions like Monsaraz and the megalithic sites. One day is sufficient for main attractions, but an overnight stay lets you experience the magical evening atmosphere.

Is the Chapel of Bones worth visiting?

The Capela dos Ossos is a unique and profound experience, decorated with thousands of human bones and skulls arranged in fascinating patterns. The chapel’s haunting beauty and philosophical message make it one of Évora’s most memorable attractions.

What are the must-try local foods in Évora?

Alentejo black pork, açorda (bread soup), and local wines are essential tastes of the region. The traditional pastries and olive oils from local producers offer an authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine.

How accessible is Évora for elderly visitors?

The historic center is mostly flat but has some cobblestone streets and steps at major monuments. Many hotels and restaurants have made accessibility improvements, and guided tours can be arranged with mobility considerations.

What are the best photo spots in Évora?

The Roman Temple at sunset and the panoramic view from the Cathedral’s rooftop provide stunning photography opportunities. The medieval walls and narrow streets of the Jewish quarter offer atmospheric shots, especially during golden hour.

Can I visit the cork forests near Évora?

Guided cork forest tours are available year-round, with the best experience during harvest season (May-August). Local operators offer both walking and 4×4 tours with expert guides who explain the sustainable harvesting process.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Évora?

Most restaurants, hotels, and larger shops accept major credit cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash for small purchases and traditional markets. Some family-run establishments and taxi services prefer cash payments.