Exploring the enchanting medieval cities of Evora and Arraiolos on a private full-day tour from Lisbon can be an enthralling experience. Discover the UNESCO-listed Evora, admiring its Gothic architecture and ancient Roman Temple of Diana. In Arraiolos, learn about the rich tradition of tapestry-making while observing skilled artisans at work. Traveling in comfort by air-conditioned minivan with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and heritage of Portugal’s captivating inland region. But what secrets and surprises might these enchanting medieval cities hold?
Key Points
- A private full-day tour from Lisbon to the medieval cities of Evora and Arraiolos, with pick-up and drop-off at accommodations.
- Exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Evora, including a visit to the Roman Temple of Diana.
- Discover the history and tradition of Arraiolos tapestries and observe skilled artisans at work.
- Admire the impressive Gothic architecture of the Evora Cathedral, with its ornate interior and stunning stained glass windows.
- The tour is accessible, with an air-conditioned minivan accommodating strollers and foldable wheelchairs, but excludes lunch, gratuities, and personal expenses.
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Tour Details
This full-day private tour from Lisbon takes travelers on an 8-hour journey to the medieval cities of Evora and Arraiolos.
Guests will be picked up and dropped off at their Lisbon accommodations, with a live tour guide providing commentary in English, Portuguese, and German throughout the day.
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, liability and personal accident insurance, and entrance tickets to the monuments visited.
Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the tour involves walking. Smoking and food aren’t permitted in the vehicle.
While lunch isn’t included, this comprehensive tour provides an in-depth exploration of the historical and cultural highlights of these two captivating destinations.
Highlights of the Tour
The tour takes visitors to the medieval cities of Evora and Arraiolos, where they’ll see the Roman Temple of Diana and the Evora Cathedral. Travelers can also explore the history of Arraiolos tapestries during this comprehensive day trip.
Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a well-preserved historic center that dates back to Roman times. Visitors can wander through its charming streets and marvel at the impressive Roman temple.
In Arraiolos, the tour focuses on the town’s renowned tapestry-making tradition, which has been practiced since the 15th century. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the intricate techniques and admire the beautiful, intricate designs of these iconic Portuguese textiles.
Transportation and Accessibility
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, ensuring a comfortable journey for visitors. The vehicle is accessible to those with mobility needs, as it can accommodate strollers and foldable wheelchairs.
To maintain a clean and pleasant environment, smoking and food consumption are prohibited inside the van. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the tour involves exploring historic sites on foot.
Some key accessibility features of the tour include:
- Air-conditioned minivan for comfortable transportation
- Accommodation for strollers and foldable wheelchairs
- No smoking or food allowed in the vehicle
- Recommendation to wear comfortable shoes and clothing
Roman Temple of Diana
One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the impressive Roman Temple of Diana in Evora.
This ancient structure, dating back to the 1st century AD, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Roman Empire.
Dedicated to the goddess Diana, the temple’s well-preserved columns and intricate carvings offer a glimpse into the region’s Roman past.
Visitors can wander through the temple’s grounds, imagining the bustling activity that once filled this space.
The temple’s impressive size and striking location atop a hill make it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in exploring Evora’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Evora Cathedral Exploration
Another highlight of the Lisbon private tour is the exploration of Evora Cathedral.
This magnificent cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, stands as a prime example of Portuguese Gothic architecture. Visitors can wander through its grand interior, admiring the intricate stone carvings, elaborate altarpieces, and striking stained glass windows that adorn the space.
The cathedral’s towering spires and imposing presence make it a dominant feature of Evora’s historic skyline, offering a window into the city’s rich religious heritage.
Key features of Evora Cathedral include:
- Impressive Gothic facade
- Ornate interior with detailed carvings
- Stunning stained glass windows
- Prominent bell towers and spires
History of Arraiolos Tapestries
Alongside the exploration of the majestic Evora Cathedral, the Lisbon private tour also delves into the rich history and traditions of Arraiolos tapestries, a renowned local art form.
Dating back to the 15th century, these intricate and colorful tapestries are woven using a unique technique that’s been passed down through generations. Visitors will have the chance to learn about the history and cultural significance of this art, as well as observe skilled artisans at work in the local workshops.
The tour provides an opportunity to appreciate the skilled craftsmanship and the enduring legacy of Arraiolos tapestries, a cherished part of Portugal’s cultural heritage.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, liability and personal accident insurance, as well as entrance tickets to the monuments.
However, the tour excludes lunch, gratuities, personal expenses, and any additional expenses not agreed upon.
The key inclusions are:
- Transportation in an air-conditioned minivan
- Liability and personal accident insurance
- Entrance tickets to monuments
- Live tour guide in English, Portuguese, and German
Guests will need to cover the cost of their own lunch and any gratuities they wish to provide. Plus, the tour doesn’t include personal expenses or any other expenses not explicitly outlined in the tour details.
Recommended Attire and Policies
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended for the tour, as guests will be exploring the medieval cities of Evora and Arraiolos.
Plus, the tour has some important policies – no smoking or food is allowed in the vehicle, and the tour is stroller and foldable wheelchair accessible. This ensures a comfortable and safe experience for all participants.
Guests should also be mindful of the tour’s duration, which is 8 hours, and plan their attire accordingly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if the cancellation is made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour are subject to a cancellation fee.
Do the Tour Guides Offer Any Additional Language Services?
The tour guides offer live, guided services in English, Portuguese, and German. They can provide additional language services upon request, though specific languages may incur an extra charge.
Are There Any Dietary Accommodations for the Lunch Exclusion?
The tour does not include lunch, so dietary accommodations are not specified. Guests will need to arrange their own lunch based on their dietary needs during the free time provided in Evora and Arraiolos.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Personal Interests?
Yes, the tour can typically be customized to suit personal interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to focus on specific sites or activities that align with the traveler’s preferences.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Private Tour?
The tour is a private excursion, so the group size is tailored to the client’s preferences. Typically, private tours accommodate a small group, allowing for a more personalized and flexible experience catered to the customer’s needs.
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Recap
This private full-day tour from Lisbon offers a captivating journey through Portugal’s enchanting medieval cities of Evora and Arraiolos.
Visitors can enjoy the rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage of these destinations, exploring the UNESCO-listed Evora and discovering the traditional tapestry-making in Arraiolos.
The comfortable air-conditioned minivan transportation and knowledgeable guide ensure a seamless and informative experience, making it an ideal way to uncover the beauty and charm of Portugal’s inland region.