From Lisbon: Évora, Chapel of Bones & Alentejo Wine Tour

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $100 per person and lasts 10 hours, making it a full-day experience packed with diverse activities.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 8 guests, the tour offers a personal and engaging atmosphere led by an expert local guide.
• Highlights: You visit Évora’s UNESCO-listed historic sites, including the Chapel of Bones, and enjoy wine tasting at a family-run winery in Alentejo.
• Flexible Exploration: You’ll have free time in Évora to stroll and discover its charming streets and hidden corners.
• Scenic Stops: The trip includes a visit to Montemor-o-Novo Castle with panoramic views of the plains, adding a medieval flair.
• Practical Info: The tour departs from Living Tours Lisboa, with comfortable, air-conditioned minivans and guides speaking multiple languages.

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Discovering Évora’s Roman Roots and Architectural Wonders

This tour begins at Living Tours Lisboa’s office before heading into the Évora District, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The journey takes around 1.5 hours in a comfortable minivan through Portugal’s interior, setting the scene for a day rich in history and culture.

Once in Évora, the guide leads you through its historic streets, pointing out landmarks like the Roman Temple and the Évora Cathedral. A key stop is the Chapel of Bones, an eerie yet poetic site where bones and skulls are used as decoration, creating a powerful impression of mortality intertwined with faith.

After visiting the Chapel of Bones, you have free time to explore Évora’s charming streets at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to visit local shops, enjoy a typical Portuguese lunch, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city.

Montemor-o-Novo Castle and its Medieval Panorama

The tour takes you 30 minutes by bus to Montemor-o-Novo Castle, a site that offers sweeping views of the surrounding plains. The hilltop ruins of this medieval fortress provide a glimpse into Portugal’s past, with a peaceful ambiance perfect for photos and reflection.

The castle visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time to appreciate the stone architecture and panoramic scenery. It’s an ideal spot to understand Portugal’s defensive history and enjoy a moment of quiet away from the bustling city.

Wine Tasting in the Heart of Alentejo

The journey continues with a visit to a family-run winery in the Alentejo countryside. The winery is renowned for producing regional wines in an authentic setting, away from large industrial operations.

During the 1.5-hour visit, the guide takes you on a walk through the vineyards, sharing insights into the local wine-making process. The highlight is a guided tasting of four regional wines, accompanied by local flavors such as cheeses and chorizos. This tasting session emphasizes the distinctive character of Alentejo wines, making it a memorable part of the day.

Comfortable Transport and Small Group Advantage

Throughout the day, the small group size—no more than 8 guests—ensures a more personal experience. The air-conditioned minivan is spacious and comfortable, helping you relax during the 1.5-hour return journey to Lisbon after a full day of sightseeing.

This tour’s logistics are straightforward, with departure from Praça Martim Moniz and a meeting point at Living Tours Lisboa. It’s designed to maximize comfort and minimize hassle, making the day enjoyable from start to finish.

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Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, especially for walking around Évora’s historic sites and the castle. A hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended for sunny days, given the outdoor stops and scenic views.

The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication. However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the physical nature of some stops and the terrain.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

What really enhances this experience are the knowledgeable guides who explain the historical and cultural significance of each site. The wine tasting at a local family-run winery offers an authentic taste of Alentejo’s renowned wines in a cozy, welcoming setting.

Plus, the combination of ancient monuments, scenic vistas, and regional wine creates a well-rounded day that balances learning, leisure, and sensory enjoyment. The small-group format fosters a more intimate and engaging atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a well-organized itinerary, the duration in Évora might feel limited for some who wish to explore more deeply. The walking involved may be challenging for those with mobility issues, especially since the tour includes hilly areas and ruins.

Weather can also impact plans, as the service is subject to cancellation or rescheduling due to adverse conditions. Travelers should be prepared with appropriate clothing and sun protection.

Final Thoughts on the Évora, Chapel of Bones & Alentejo Wine Tour

This tour delivers a balanced mix of history, culture, and wine, all within a manageable 10-hour window. The cost of $100 per person offers good value given the inclusion of entrance fees, guided visits, and tastings.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate intimate group sizes, authentic local experiences, and scenic countryside views. The knowledgeable guides and authentic winery visit add meaningful depth to the day.

While it may not be ideal for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a more leisurely pace, most visitors will find this tour to be a rewarding way to explore southern Portugal’s treasures in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided from Lisbon?
Yes, the tour departs from Living Tours Lisboa with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.

Are meals included in the tour?
Meals, drinks, and personal expenses are not included. You’ll have free time in Évora to enjoy lunch at your own pace.

What is the group size?
The small group is limited to 8 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking over uneven terrain and steps.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish. Additional languages may be used during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby