Wine , Roman Temple and Bone Chapel in half-day private tour

Explore Évora’s Roman Heritage, Unique Chapel, and Winemaking in a Private Half-Day Tour

This private 6-hour tour from Lisbon offers a well-rounded experience of Évora, with a focus on historical sites, local culture, and Portugal’s renowned wine scene. For $375 per group of up to three, travelers enjoy a personalized itinerary with the flexibility to choose what interests most, guided by an expert who provides insightful commentary throughout the day. The tour includes visits to an exquisite winery, the Temple of Diana, Giraldo Square, the Church of St. Francis, and the famous Bone Chapel. A scenic drive over the 25 de Abril Bridge back to Lisbon rounds out the experience.

While the trip from Lisbon takes about one hour and a half, the journey is rewarded with immersive visits, cultural discoveries, and beautiful views. This tour suits those eager to explore Évora’s historical landmarks, sample Portuguese wines, and see iconic sites in a flexible, private setting.

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Key Points

• Private 6-hour experience from Lisbon with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Visit a renowned winery with a guided tour, cellar walk, and wine tasting
• Explore the Roman Temple of Diana, a well-preserved monument in Évora
• Stroll through Évora’s streets, including Giraldo Square and local cafes
• Discover the Church of St. Francis and the Bone Chapel, with human bones and skulls
• Drive across the 25 de Abril Bridge with scenic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River
• Flexible itinerary, with options to customize stops based on preferences
• Includes WiFi, water, and private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle

Departing from Lisbon for a Personalized Day in Évora

The tour begins with easy hotel pickup in Lisbon or Cascais, where a private air-conditioned vehicle awaits. The drive to Évora takes roughly 90 minutes, providing scenic views along the way. The guide and driver are the same person, ensuring personalized attention and seamless coordination.

Travelers then head to the Cartuxa winery, where a guided tour explores the cellars and production facilities. An exclusive wine tasting follows, allowing an appreciation of Portugal’s fine wines. The winery visit lasts about 1.5 hours and includes options for shopping and free time.

Discovering the Roman Temple of Diana in Évora

After the winery, the focus shifts to Évora’s Roman heritage with a visit to the Temple of Diana. This well-preserved Roman temple is a standout landmark and offers an excellent photo opportunity. Visitors are encouraged to take their time to admire its architecture and reflect on its historical importance.

The 30-minute guided visit provides context about its significance in Roman-era Évora, enriching the experience. This site is among the highlights for history enthusiasts and those interested in ancient architecture.

Strolling Through Évora’s Charming Streets and Giraldo Square

Following the temple, the tour includes a leisurely walk through Évora’s atmospheric streets. The tour makes a stop at Giraldo Square, the main hub of activity, where the architecture and lively ambiance make for great photos and people-watching. Local cafes here provide the perfect spot for a coffee break or a quick snack.

The walk through Évora allows for spontaneous exploration, with the guide available to share stories about the city’s history and local life. The 30-minute stop ensures visitors get a taste of Évora’s relaxed, historic charm.

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Visiting the Church of St. Francis and the Bone Chapel

Next, visitors enter the Church of St. Francis, notable for its Gothic architecture and ornate interior. The guide leads a guided tour to highlight the church’s artistic features and religious significance.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Capela dos Ossos (Bone Chapel) within the church, famous for its interior decorated with human bones and skulls. This unique chapel prompts reflection on mortality and past customs, offering an intriguing and slightly macabre contrast to the other sites.

Scenic Return Drive Across the 25 de Abril Bridge

As the tour winds down, a scenic drive takes visitors back to Lisbon across the 25 de Abril Bridge. This 1.5-hour drive provides sweeping views of the Tagus River and the city skyline, creating a memorable end to the day. The drive allows for relaxed viewing and photo opportunities from the vehicle, making the return comfortable and scenic.

Practical Details and Inclusions

This private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, WiFi, and fresh water onboard. The guide/driver is the same person, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

The cost covers all mandatory insurance, but extras such as wine tasting at the winery (€35) and the Bone Chapel (€6) are paid separately. Guests should budget for personal expenses and meals if desired.

Customization and Flexibility in the Itinerary

While the tour follows a suggested route, the itinerary is flexible, allowing travelers to emphasize certain sites or spend more time at specific locations. The guide helps tailor the experience based on interests, making this a highly personalized day trip.

Why Choose This Tour?

This half-day private experience provides a balance of cultural exploration, historical insight, and wine tasting, all in a manageable timeframe from Lisbon. The inclusion of scenic drives, local landmarks, and a private guide makes it ideal for those seeking a personalized, relaxed day combining history, architecture, and gastronomy.

However, travelers should consider the one-and-a-half-hour drive each way, which might be a longer commute for some, but it’s offset by the convenience and focus on the sites in Évora.

Final Thoughts on the Évora Private Tour

This tour delivers a thoughtful mix of history, culture, and wine that appeals to visitors wanting a comprehensive yet flexible experience of Évora in half a day. The private format ensures comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention, making it a valuable choice for small groups or couples.

Highlights like the Roman temple, Bone Chapel, and winery are complemented by scenic drives and local atmospheres. The cost reflects the personalized nature and includes important amenities like hotel pickup, WiFi, and water. For those eager to explore Évora without the hassle of planning, this tour offers a well-organized, engaging day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for all ages, especially as it involves walking at sites and scenic drives. Wheelchair accessibility is available.

Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, and the guide can help adapt the stops based on your interests and preferences.

What is included in the price?
The price includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, guide/driver, WiFi, water, and all mandatory insurance.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price but can be purchased at local cafes or restaurants during stops.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Évora?
The drive takes approximately 90 minutes, providing a comfortable journey with scenic views.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The key highlights are the winery visit and wine tasting, Roman Temple of Diana, Giraldo Square, Church of St. Francis, and the Bone Chapel.

Can I join this tour if I stay in Cascais?
Yes, Cascais is one of the pickup locations, along with Lisbon.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I want to extend my stay or see more sites?
This tour is designed as a half-day experience, but you can explore additional options or full-day tours through ARR Tours.

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