Évora is a captivating city in the Alentejo region of Portugal that has captured our hearts. We’ve only visited once, but we loved it! I always recommend it to visitors who have already seen the big cities like Lisbon, Sintra, Porto and Coimbra. Evora has the allure of the historic culture of the interior of Portugal, and it’s a culinary gem. From its stunning architecture to its delectable regional cuisine (and conveniently only a couple of hours from Lisbon), it’s a great day trip or quick getaway.
Whether you’re drawn to its well-preserved Roman ruins, its medieval cathedral, or its leisurely pace of life, Évora is a true gem to visit in Portugal. The city’s central location also makes it an ideal base to explore the greater Alentejo countryside, dotted with charming villages, vineyards, and natural wonders.
In this guide, I’ll share why Évora deserves a spot on your Portugal itinerary, how to get there, the top things to see and do, and tips for making the most of your visit – whether you have a day (which I wouldn’t recommend if it’s your first visit), a weekend, or longer.
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Where Is Évora
Évora is located about 80 miles east of Lisbon, in the Alentejo region. The city sits atop a hill, surrounded by rolling countryside of cork forests, olive groves, and vineyards. It’s an easy 2-hour drive from Lisbon. Évora is situated in the central part of Portugal, slightly north of the Algarve region in the south.
The Alentejo, or interior, part of Portugal is vast and has a culture all its own. Évora can be a great intro to this side of Portugal.
How To Get to Évora
Évora is well-connected to public transportation:
By Bus: From Lisbon, you can find frequent daily buses to Évora, with one-way tickets costing around 5-12€. Buses run from early morning to evening, with fewer options on weekends and holidays. You can purchase bus tickets at the station or online through Omio.
By Train: Trains from Lisbon’s Sete Rios station run regularly to Évora, with one-way fares between 13-17€. Trains are more comfortable than buses but less frequent, especially on weekends. Check Comboios de Portugal for train timetables and tickets.
By Car: Renting a car is a great option for exploring Évora and the surrounding Alentejo region. The roads are in excellent condition, and driving is relatively easy. You will pay some tolls, but they are manageable and the road is well-maintained. Watch for the giant bird nests in the power towers and the cork trees that have their bark scraped off.
You can find rental deals through EuropCar or RentalCars.
Best Things To Do in Évora
As the capital of the Alentejo region, Évora is a charming destination rich in well-preserved medieval and Roman architecture. From ancient ruins to stunning cathedrals, there are plenty of captivating sights to explore, making it an excellent choice for a family-friendly trip. Let’s dive into the must-see attractions and pro tips to maximize your time at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
1. Roman Temple (Temple of Diana)
This ancient Roman ruin dating back to the 1st century AD is a must-see for history buffs of all ages. Kids will be amazed by the massive columns and intricate carvings. Spend 30-60 minutes exploring the site, and bask in the stunning views.
Best for: Ages 8+
Tips:
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Look for details like the original floor tiles and carved friezes
- Climb to the top of the temple for panoramic views of the city
This impressive Gothic cathedral, begun in the 13th century, is a beautiful example of medieval architecture. Climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic vistas of the historic city center. Inside, the intricate cloisters and religious artwork make for an educational and visually captivating visit.
Best for: Ages 10+
Tips:
- Choose guided tours to learn the cathedral’s history
- Bring euro coins to light candles as a cultural experience
- Stop in the sacristy to see the ornate religious artwork
This lively main square is the heart of Évora’s old town. Stroll through the bustling marketplace, stop for a traditional Portuguese coffee and pastry, and let the kids run around the fountain. In the evenings, the square comes alive with live music and street performers.
Best for: All ages
Tips:
- Visit on market days (Saturdays) for the liveliest atmosphere
- Sample local delicacies like pasteis de nata (custard tarts)
- You might be lucky enough to find street performers for spontaneous live music
Amble down this charming, cobblestoned pedestrian street dotted with local shops, cafes, and historic buildings. It’s quintessentially Portugal! It’s a great spot for picking up souvenirs and people-watching. The kids will enjoy window shopping and grabbing a gelato or other Portuguese treat.
Best for: Ages 6+
Tips:
- Stop for a coffee break at one of the charming cafes
- Explore the side streets for fewer crowds and unique shops
- Let kids pick out a special souvenir or treat
Tour the opulent 16th-century palace and gardens of the former noble family. Kids will delight in the lavish interiors, ornate staircases, and manicured grounds. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully experience this architectural gem.
Best for: Ages 8+
Tips:
- Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines
- Look for educational placards explaining the palace’s history
6. Church of St. Francis (Igreja Real de São Francisco) & Bone Chapel
This was the first thing I heard about in regards to Evora and the reason we came. It’s like a mini version of the Paris Catacombs but above ground! This Franciscan church and its small, eerie bone chapel offer a fascinating look into Portugal’s religious history. The chapel’s walls adorned with human skulls and bones may be too intense for very young children, but older kids will find it intriguing.
My kids all love this kind of stuff and got a kick out of it. It’s quite small but impressive. The bones come from the church graveyard back in the day and were reorganized into this impressive church.
The large church next to it also has some impressive relics and tombs in the floor of the church, which fascinated me!
Best for: Ages 12+
Tips:
- Visit the Bone Chapel first before it gets crowded
- Observe respectful silence and behavior in sacred spaces
- Read about the history and meaning behind the bone decorations
7. Aqueduct of Silver Water (Aqueduto da Agua de Prata)
Take a stroll along this impressive 16th-century aqueduct for beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Kids can run along the arched walkways and imagine what life was like when the aqueduct was in use.
Best for: Ages 6+
Tips:
- Walk across the aqueduct for stunning countryside views
- Visit the surrounding park and nature trails
- Look for the best vantage points for photos
How Long To Spend in Évora
Evora can be visited in a day, but 2-3 nights allows you to truly experience the city’s pace and excellent cuisine. It also makes a great base to explore the surrounding Alentejo region.
Best time To visit Évora
Évora can be visited year-round, but the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit.
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) have mild temperatures, smaller crowds, and lush greenery. This makes it easier to explore the city on foot and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking the surrounding countryside.
The summer months (June-August) can be quite hot and crowded, particularly in July-August when many locals and tourists flock to the region. Winters are cool and rainy, but you’ll find fewer visitors and lower accommodation prices.
Top Tours in Évora
- Tour Evora and Alentejo in private tour: Suggested Age: 8+ years – 9hrs approx
On this tour, you will enjoy Évora’s rich history on a personalized private tour from Lisbon, exploring the Temple of Diana, the historic city center, and the fascinating Capela dos Ossos.
- Private Walking Tour of Highlights Locations in Evora: Suggested Age: 6+ years – 2.30 hrs approx
This tour is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to get the highlights of Évora.
- Half-Day Megaliths Cromlech Tour from Evora by Archaeologists: Suggested Age: 10+ years – 3-4 hrs approx
On this tour, you get to explore the fascinating world of early agricultural societies and witness the megalithic structures that tell the story of human cultural development.
- Balloon Ride with Champagne Toast from Monsaraz: Suggested Age: 8+ years – 3 hrs approx
Experience an exciting balloon ride over Alentejo to admire a beautiful view from Portugal. Watch the sunrise over the scenic landscape of Alentejo on a Montargil hot air balloon flight that takes in medieval villages, Roman temples, churches, and the rugged Costa Vicentina.
- Olive Oil Tasting: Suggested Age: 10+ years
Explore the rich culinary heritage of Alentejo through an authentic olive oil tasting experience. Learn about local olive oil production, regional varieties, and traditional harvesting techniques while sampling premium extra virgin olive oils.
- Skydiving Alentejo: Suggested Age: 16+ years
Take the ultimate adventure of skydiving over Alentejo’s breathtaking landscapes. Tandem jumps with certified instructors offer stunning aerial views of the region.
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Évora
A charming family restaurant with traditional Alentejo cuisine in a rustic, welcoming setting. Known for its home-style dishes featuring local ingredients, with generous portions perfect for sharing. Kid-friendly menu options and a relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for family dining.
It’s a mid-range restaurant with moderate prices. Expect to spend around €10-15 per person for a satisfying meal.
Casual dining spot serving authentic Portuguese comfort food with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Great for trying local specialties with options that cater to different tastes and age groups.
This budget-friendly restaurant is perfect for families looking for affordable, hearty Portuguese meals. Prices range from €8-12 per person, with simple, delicious dishes that won’t break the bank.
A historic restaurant that combines traditional Portuguese culinary techniques with a family-friendly approach. Boasting a diverse menu showcasing regional recipes in a setting that feels like dining in a traditional Portuguese home. Excellent for families wanting to experience authentic local cuisine in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.
Mid to upper-mid-range restaurant with prices around €15-25 per person. Slightly pricier but provides high-quality, authentic regional dishes in a charming setting.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Évora
Luxury family-friendly resort with mid-range pricing (€120-180/night). Modern hotel with spacious rooms and extensive amenities including a pool, dedicated playground, and kids’ club. Perfect for families seeking comfort and convenient entertainment options in Évora.
Luxury boutique hotel (€200-300/night) set in a beautifully restored 15th-century convent. Ideal for families wanting an immersive cultural and luxurious stay.
Mid-range contemporary hotel (€90-140/night) with a sleek design and central location. Provides comfortable, modern accommodations perfect for families exploring Évora. Convenient amenities and stylish rooms make it an excellent base for family adventures.
Family Tips for Visiting Évora
Évora is suitable for families with children of all ages. The historic city center is easily walkable, and there are kid-friendly restaurants and activities nearby. Things to remember:
- Start your day early to beat the crowds and heat
- Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection
- Look for family-friendly restaurants and cafes in the historic center
- Allow plenty of time for breaks and unstructured exploration
- Consider a guided tour or audio guide to learn more about the sites
- Make use of any playgrounds or green spaces for the kids to let off steam
Some of the top local products to look for include:
- Handmade ceramic and pottery items
- Intricate cork products like bags, wallets, and home decor
- Traditional embroidered textiles and lace
- Artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and olive oils
- Azulejos (painted tilework) and other Portuguese tile crafts
Visiting Évora’s shops and markets is a fantastic way to experience the city’s lively culture and pick up one-of-a-kind, handmade souvenirs.
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I hope you enjoy Portugal as much as we do!
Leslie,
Additional Reading
Getting To Know Coimbra as a Family
Your Travel Guide For Your Visit To Berlengas Islands, Portugal
Making Your Family Visit To Porto, Portugal Unforgettable: Exploring Porto’s Four Personalities
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