From Lisbon: Evora And Monsaraz Full-Day Tour

Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region, the historic cities of Évora and Monsaraz offer a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. This full-day tour from Lisbon promises to immerse travelers in a world of ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and awe-inspiring countryside vistas. From the iconic Roman Temple to the Chapel of Bones, Évora’s treasures await discovery. And just beyond, the fortified hilltop town of Monsaraz beckons with its whitewashed houses, medieval castle, and panoramic views. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable day trip, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Alentejo region’s enduring allure.

Key Points

A full-day tour from Lisbon that visits the historic cities of Évora and Monsaraz in the Alentejo region, showcasing their cultural and architectural heritage.
Highlights in Évora include the Roman Temple, impressive Cathedral, Praça do Giraldo, Chapel of Bones, and the majestic Royal Palace.
Monsaraz offers a guided tour of the 13th-century castle and town walls, as well as free time to explore the charming whitewashed houses and shops.
Lunch in Évora allows travelers to savor local Portuguese cuisine, regional specialties, and Alentejo’s famous red wine.
The tour is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable and efficient transportation experience.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Lisbon takes visitors to the historic cities of Évora and Monsaraz, showcasing the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Portugal’s Alentejo region.

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with pickup and drop-off at hotels or apartments in Lisbon or Cascais.

In Évora, you’ll see the iconic Roman Temple, the grand Cathedral, the lively Praça do Giraldo, the Chapel of Bones, and the Royal Palace. Entrance fees for the Cathedral and Chapel of Bones are optional.

After free time for lunch, the tour continues to the medieval village of Monsaraz, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and explore the town’s charming streets and castle.

Throughout the journey, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi.

Évora Highlights

In Évora, visitors can explore the city’s captivating Roman Temple, the impressive Cathedral, the lively Praça do Giraldo, the famous Chapel of Bones, and the majestic Royal Palace.

The Roman Temple, dating back to the 1st century AD, stands as a testament to the city’s ancient roots.

The Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, dominates the skyline and offers a glimpse into Évora’s religious heritage.

The Praça do Giraldo, the city’s main square, bustles with activity, cafes, and local vendors.

The Chapel of Bones, a macabre but fascinating site, features walls adorned with thousands of human skulls and bones.

The Royal Palace, a former residence of Portuguese monarchs, showcases the grandeur of the city’s past.

Optional Activities

Visitors can optionally explore the Cathedral and Chapel of Bones in Évora for an additional fee.

The impressive Cathedral of Évora dates back to the 12th century and is known for its distinctive Gothic architecture. Inside, you’ll find a remarkable Renaissance altarpiece and intricate stone carvings.

The Chapel of Bones, meanwhile, is a fascinating yet eerie site; its walls are adorned with the skulls and bones of over 5,000 people.

While these optional activities incur an extra cost, they offer a unique glimpse into Évora’s rich history and spiritual traditions. Travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience may wish to consider adding these visits to their itinerary.

Lunch in Évora

Travelers can savor the local cuisine during the free time for lunch in Évora, a charming city renowned for its gastronomic delights. This historic town offers an array of traditional Portuguese eateries, from cozy family-run taverns to sophisticated restaurants, where visitors can indulge in regional specialties like hearty stews, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts.

Some local highlights include:

Sipping on a refreshing glass of Alentejo’s famous red wine
Sampling signature dishes like cozido à portuguesa (Portuguese boiled dinner) or açorda alentejana (garlic bread soup)
Savoring the rich and creamy Évora-style egg pudding for dessert

Travelers can also:

Browse the lively open-air markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods
Enjoy an al fresco lunch in the picturesque Praça do Giraldo, the city’s vibrant central square.

Visiting Monsaraz

After exploring the historic city of Évora, the tour continues to the medieval village of Monsaraz, where travelers can discover its captivating past.

This fortified hilltop town, with its distinctive whitewashed houses and narrow cobblestone streets, offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich heritage. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the town’s castle and walls, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

They’ll also have free time to wander through the charming streets, popping into local shops and cafes. Whether browsing the artisanal crafts or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Monsaraz is a highlight of the day’s adventure.

Guided Tour

The guided tour of Monsaraz allows visitors to uncover the town’s captivating history and admire its well-preserved medieval architecture. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes travelers through the castle and along the town’s walls, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

As they explore the charming whitewashed houses and narrow cobblestone streets, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour highlights include:

Exploring the 13th-century Monsaraz Castle and its impressive fortifications
Strolling through the picturesque town center, with its whitewashed buildings and quaint plazas
Visiting the Igreja Matriz, a Manueline-style church with intricate stone carvings
Learning about the town’s role in Portugal’s history and its traditional handicrafts
Enjoying breathtaking views over the Alqueva reservoir and the neighboring Spanish border region.

Free Exploration

What more can visitors expect during the free exploration time in Monsaraz?

Guests can wander the quaint, winding streets at their own pace, admiring the charming whitewashed houses and stopping to browse the local handicraft shops.

This leisurely time allows them to soak in the unhurried ambiance of the medieval town and discover hidden gems not covered during the guided tour.

They may stumble upon a picturesque overlook offering stunning views of the Alentejo countryside, or find a cozy cafe to enjoy a traditional Portuguese coffee and pastry.

The free time in Monsaraz provides an opportunity to truly take in the town’s timeless atmosphere and uncover its unique character at a relaxed, personal pace.

Transportation Details

Guests travel comfortably to the tour destinations in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, ensuring a seamless and convenient journey.

The transportation for this full-day excursion from Lisbon includes:

Pickup and drop-off directly at the hotel or apartment, eliminating the need to commute separately
A comfortable, well-maintained vehicle that provides a smooth and enjoyable ride
Ample space for storing personal belongings and any purchases made throughout the day
Complimentary WiFi access, allowing guests to stay connected and share their experiences in real-time
Professional drivers who navigate the routes efficiently, maximizing the time spent at each destination.

The transportation arrangements for this tour are designed with your’ convenience and comfort in mind, enhancing the overall experience.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be doing some sightseeing and light walking. Bringing layers is also a good idea to account for changes in weather.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way?

The tour itinerary typically includes direct transportation between the starting point and the destinations. However, some flexibility may be available for making stops along the way, depending on the tour operator’s policies and the group’s preferences.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair accessible, with accommodations made for wheelchair users. However, some historic sites and cobblestone streets in Évora and Monsaraz may pose challenges. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking the tour.

Do We Have to Book the Optional Activities in Advance?

No, you don’t have to book the optional activities in advance. You can decide on the day whether to visit the Cathedral and Chapel of Bones in Evora, and pay the entrance fees directly at those sites.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs During the Free Time?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs during the free time in Évora. The tour itinerary allows ample time for exploring the medieval town and visiting local shops to find unique mementos and gifts.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

This tour from Lisbon offers a chance to discover the Alentejo region’s cultural and architectural treasures.

Visitors can explore the historic cities of Évora and Monsaraz, admiring the iconic Roman temple, cathedral, and Chapel of Bones in Évora, and the whitewashed houses, castle, and countryside views of Monsaraz.

With opportunities to savor local cuisine, browse markets, and learn about the region’s rich history, this tour provides a well-rounded and insightful experience.