Private Tour Évora – Wine Tasting – Beautiful Medieval Village of Monsaraz

Discover the Charm of Évora and Monsaraz in a Private Day Tour from Lisbon

This private day tour from Lisbon offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and wine tasting, all in a comfortable 10-hour experience. Priced at $295.33 per person, it accommodates those interested in exploring Portugal’s Alentejo region with personalized attention. The tour begins with convenient pickup, includes free Wi-Fi, and features a private guide, ensuring a tailored trip. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, it does include wine tasting at a renowned vineyard and visits to notable landmarks, making it ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth, relaxed exploration of Évora and Monsaraz.

With an average booking period of 119 days in advance, this tour appeals to those planning ahead for a full day of sightseeing, wine, and medieval scenery. The reviews consistently give it a 5-star rating, highlighting the engaging guide, cultural richness, and stunning views. For visitors eager to combine history, stunning landscapes, and wine, this tour provides an enriching and personal experience—perfect for those with moderate physical fitness and a love for authentic Portuguese culture.

Key Points

• Private guided tour with personalized attention and group discounts
• Includes wine tasting at a historic vineyard with 10 wines sampled
• Visits Évora’s Roman temple, Church of São Francisco, and Bones Chapel
• Explores Monsaraz’s medieval castle and city walls
• Transportation in an air-conditioned minivan with free Wi-Fi and USB sockets
• Duration of approximately 10 hours, departing at 9:00 am

Starting the Day with Évora’s Roman Heritage

The tour kicks off in Évora with a stop at the Templo Romano de Evora, better known as the Temple of Diana. This Roman monument, a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage site, is a prime example of Portugal’s ancient past. Its iconic columns and ruins offer a glimpse into the Roman presence in the region.

Following this, the guide leads visitors to the Igreja de São Francisco, a stunning Gothic-Manueline church built between 1480 and 1510. Decorated with symbols reflecting Portugal’s maritime expansion, including the cross of the Order of Christ and emblems of Portuguese kings, this church connects visitors to the country’s history of exploration. The church’s interior, decorated by renowned royal painters, offers an immersive look into Portugal’s maritime golden age.

The Bones Chapel: A Memento Mori

One of the most striking landmarks in Évora is the Chapel of Bones. Built in the 17th century by Franciscan monks, this chapel features walls and pillars decorated with around five thousand bones and skulls from local cemeteries. The bones are arranged in rows, forming allegorical motifs about life and death, with a clear message: “We bones here we are waiting for you.” The chapel’s penitential architecture invites reflection and offers a visceral reminder of life’s transience.

Though admission to this site is not included, the unique display makes it a memorable highlight of the day. Visitors should be prepared for the emotional impact of this historical and spiritual monument.

Wine Tasting at the Ervideira Vineyard

Midday, the tour transitions to the Ervideira estate, where a guided visit explores the wine cellars and tasting room. Established by the Leal da Costa family, the vineyard has been producing wine since 1880. With 160 hectares of vineyards across the Vidigueira and Reguengos estates, the vineyard carries a longstanding tradition of winemaking.

During the two-hour visit, the group samples 10 wines, gaining insight into Portugal’s winemaking techniques. The estate’s history, tied to the Count of Ervideira, adds a layer of cultural depth to the tasting experience. It’s an engaging stop for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Portugal’s rich tradition of viticulture and enjoy some of the region’s best wines.

Exploring Monsaraz’s Medieval Fortifications

The final segment of the tour takes place in the medieval village of Monsaraz, famous for its castle and city walls. The Monsaraz Castle, built during the Christian Reconquest, has a storied history involving the Templars and various Portuguese monarchs. The castle was initially captured from the Moors around 1167 and later fortified after the town received its Charter of Foral in 1276.

Visitors can walk along the castle walls, appreciating panoramic views of the surrounding cork-filled landscapes and the Guadiana River. The village’s narrow, cobbled streets and well-preserved fortifications reflect its medieval origins. The restoration efforts during the Restoration War modernized the defenses, including the addition of Vauban-style walls, enhancing the historic atmosphere of the site.

Logistics and Comfort Features

Transportation is handled in an air-conditioned minivan, making the long day comfortable and convenient. The vehicle is equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB sockets to keep devices charged. The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, with a clear schedule that balances sightseeing, tasting, and travel.

Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, allowing for flexible pacing and personalized commentary. The moderate physical fitness requirement means the walk through the villages and castle walls remains accessible, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with some walking and standing.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Compared to other options, this tour’s strength lies in its comprehensive itinerary that blends historic landmarks, culture, and wine tasting. The private guide ensures detailed explanations tailored to your interests, and the small-group feel enhances a personal experience. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi and USB sockets adds practical comforts for modern travelers.

The 10 wines sampled at Ervideira stand out as a highlight, offering a deeper understanding of Portuguese winemaking. The scenic views from Monsaraz’s castle give the experience a real sense of place, making it perfect for those seeking a well-rounded view of Portugal’s Alentejo region.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour does not include lunch, so travelers may want to plan accordingly if they prefer a full meal during the day. The bones chapel visit requires about 30 minutes and is not included in the admission price, so it’s worth noting for those interested in this striking site. The walking involved in the villages and castle may require moderate physical effort.

Since the tour is booked 119 days in advance on average, early planning ensures availability during busy periods. The price point reflects the personalized service, private transport, and wine tasting, making it a worthwhile choice for those valuing an intimate, curated experience.

Private Tour Évora – Wine Tasting and Monsaraz: An Excellent Cultural Escape

This tour offers a deep dive into Portugal’s historical, cultural, and oenological treasures, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy learning in a relaxed setting. The combination of Roman ruins, medieval castles, and scenic villages provides a well-rounded picture of Alentejo’s heritage.

The wine tasting at Ervideira is a clear highlight, adding a flavorful dimension to the day. The personalized nature of the private tour ensures flexibility and a focus on your interests, while the comfortable transport and practical amenities make the long day manageable.

This experience suits travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Portugal’s less touristy side, with enough history, scenery, and wine to satisfy a variety of tastes. It’s a thoughtful, enriching way to discover the beauty and history of the Alentejo region, departing from the bustling city of Lisbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The private tour includes transportation, a guided visit to Ervideira vineyard with wine tasting of 10 wines, free Wi-Fi, USB sockets, and bottled water. Entrance fees for the Roman ruins, church, and castle are covered; however, admission to the Bones Chapel is not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending in the late afternoon, with time allocated for sightseeing, tasting, and travel.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour fee. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the day.

What are the physical requirements?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to walking through villages, castle walls, and uneven surfaces. The tour is suitable for most visitors able to handle some walking and standing.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked 119 days in advance on average, so early reservation is recommended to secure availability during peak times.