Introduction: exploring Évora, the heart of Alentejo
Évora travel guide – that’s exactly what brought us to write this article. As we stood beneath the Roman Temple, gazing at the terracotta rooftops and the vast Alentejo plains, we felt instantly connected to this timeless city. Rich in history, culture, and warmth, Évora invites you to slow down and absorb its stories one cobbled street at a time.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to get there, where to stay, what to see and do, and why this city belongs on your Alentejo itinerary.
How to get to Évora – practical Évora travel guide tips
From Lisbon Airport: We recommend the direct train from Lisboa-Oriente to Évora, which takes under two hours. Buses from Sete Rios station also run frequently.
By car: Driving is a great option. Take the A6 motorway heading east – signs for Évora are clear.
From Porto or the Algarve: From Porto, travel via Lisbon or Pinhal Novo. From the Algarve, take a bus or train to Lisbon, then continue to Évora.
Where to stay in Évora – accommodation for your Évora travel guide
- ADC – Albergaria do Calvário: charming boutique option near the old city wall.
- Évora Olive Hotel: a modern and comfortable central choice.
- Convento do Espinheiro: a luxury stay in a historic convent.
- StayInn Évora: great for budget-conscious travellers near the main square.
What to see and do – highlights of our Évora travel guide
Roman Temple of Évora (Templo de Diana)
Start your visit here. The ancient columns contrast beautifully against the Alentejo sky.
Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora)
Climb to the rooftop for a sweeping view. A mix of Gothic and Romanesque details makes this place unforgettable.
Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)
“We bones that are here await yours.” A reflective and eerie space lined with real human bones.
University of Évora
One of the oldest in Portugal. Don’t miss the tiled lecture halls and peaceful cloisters.
Aqueduct of Água de Prata
Walk beside or even under it – houses have been built into its arches!
Jardim Público
A calm spot with peacocks and shaded benches, perfect for a mid-afternoon break.
Want to explore beyond Évora?
If you’re spending more than a couple of days in the region, we really recommend adding a short trip to Monsaraz, one of the most charming hilltop villages in Alentejo. With its whitewashed walls, cobbled lanes, and sweeping views over the Alqueva Lake, it’s a peaceful counterpoint to Évora’s historical density.
🔗 Don’t miss our detailed Monsaraz travel guide to plan your visit.
Where to eat and drink in Évora – culinary tips for your Évora travel guide
- Taberna Típica Quarta-Feira: no menu, just trust the chef. Black pork and migas are favourites.
- Fialho: a traditional restaurant serving regional classics.
- Botequim da Mouraria: small, local, and always full.
- Mercearia do Largo: great for lighter fare and wine tasting.
Must-try dishes:
- Açorda alentejana (garlic bread soup)
- Porco preto (black pig)
- Sericaia with plum (regional dessert)
Events and traditions – seasonal highlights in your Évora travel guide
- Festa de São João (June): parades and local music.
- Festival Imaterial (May): global performances of intangible cultural heritage.
- Feira de São Pedro (late June): local crafts, food, and music just outside the city walls.
Useful tips before you go
- Évora is best explored on foot.
- Start early to avoid crowds at major attractions.
- Bring a reusable bottle – there are public fountains.
- Use the Évora tourist pass for discounts.
Travel insurance reminder
We always travel with Heymondo, our go-to for travel insurance. It’s flexible, reliable, and covers the essentials like medical support and trip interruptions. Check out Heymondo here.
Final thoughts on our Évora travel guide
We left Évora feeling inspired and grounded. It’s a city that invites you to listen, to taste, and to connect with something deeper. Whether you’re passing through or settling in for a few days, this capital of Alentejo will stay with you long after you’ve gone.
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