Exploring the enchanting Alentejo region of Portugal is a captivating experience, and the Évora & Monsaraz Day Trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the area’s rich history and vibrant culture. This small-group tour whisks travelers through the charming streets of Évora, unveiling its captivating Roman and medieval heritage, before leading them to the picturesque medieval village of Monsaraz, perched atop a breathtaking hilltop. With ample free time to savor the authentic flavors and stunning vistas, the tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you longing to uncover more of the Alentejo’s captivating wonders.
Key Points
- Immersive day trip to explore the historic city of Évora and the charming medieval village of Monsaraz in Portugal’s Alentejo region.
- Guided walking tour of Évora showcasing its Roman temple, Gothic cathedral, and the eerie Chapel of Bones.
- Free time to wander the cobblestone streets of Évora and Monsaraz, experiencing the local culture and cuisine.
- Panoramic views of the stunning Alqueva Lake from the hilltop village of Monsaraz.
- Optional wine tasting of the Alentejo region’s renowned full-bodied vintages.
Tour Overview
This day trip to the historic city of Évora and the medieval village of Monsaraz offers travelers an immersive experience in Portugal’s Alentejo region.
With a small group size, the tour provides a more personalized and intimate exploration of these two captivating destinations.
Priced at $98.46 per person and lasting 9 hours, the tour is likely to sell out quickly due to its popularity.
Guests can expect to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Évora, explore the quaint streets of Monsaraz, and enjoy photo opportunities at the stunning Alqueva Lake.
An optional wine tasting of Alentejo’s finest vintages adds an extra touch of indulgence to this unforgettable day trip.
Tour Highlights
The day trip offers a captivating glimpse into the historic and cultural treasures of Portugal’s Alentejo region, beginning with a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Évora.
Travelers will explore the medieval village of Monsaraz, one of the oldest in Europe, and enjoy stunning photo opportunities at the vast Alqueva Lake.
An optional wine tasting allows visitors to sample five of the Alentejo’s most prestigious wines.
The highlights of the tour include:
- Guided walking tour of historic Évora, including the cathedral, Roman Temple, and Chapel of Bones
- Free time to explore Évora and enjoy lunch
- Visit and free time in the charming medieval village of Monsaraz
- Panoramic views of the stunning Alqueva Lake
- Optional wine tasting of regional vintages
Walking Tour of Évora
Embarking on the walking tour of Évora, visitors explore the ancient city’s captivating history, marveling at its well-preserved Roman temple and magnificent cathedral.
The tour guides visitors through the charming streets, showcasing the intricate architecture and vibrant local culture.
At the Chapel of Bones, an eerie yet fascinating structure adorned with the remains of over 5,000 people, visitors are struck by the region’s rich and often somber past.
Throughout the tour, the guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the city’s heritage to life and offering a deeper understanding of Évora’s enduring significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The walking exploration culminates in free time, allowing visitors to further enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of this historic Portuguese gem.
Free Time in Évora
After the guided tour through Évora’s historic highlights, visitors now have the opportunity to freely explore the charming city at their own pace. They can wander the quaint cobblestone streets, popping into local shops, cafes, and restaurants to savor the authentic flavors and artisanal wares of the Alentejo region. This unstructured exploration allows travelers to stumble upon hidden gems, seeing the vibrant cultural tapestry that has earned Évora its prestigious UNESCO World Heritage status.
Discover the beautiful Praça do Giraldo, the lively central square surrounded by Moorish architecture and bustling cafés.
Visit the Évora Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque and Gothic cathedral dating back to the 12th century.
Explore the maze-like narrow alleys, peeking into local bakeries, artisan studios, and family-owned shops.
Savor a leisurely lunch at one of the traditional restaurants, savoring regional dishes and Alentejo wines.
Wander through the University of Évora, a historic institution with stunning Renaissance-style buildings.
Visit to Monsaraz
From Évora, the group journeys onward to the picturesque medieval village of Monsaraz, one of the oldest settlements in Europe.
Perched atop a hilltop, the village’s whitewashed houses, winding cobblestone streets, and imposing castle walls evoke a sense of timeless tranquility, transporting visitors back to a bygone era.
As they wander through the quaint alleys, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside and the vast Alqueva reservoir, Europe’s largest artificial lake.
The group is free to explore Monsaraz at their own pace, discovering its historic landmarks, local crafts, and charming cafes.
This captivating village offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich cultural heritage and a chance to take in the country’s enchanting medieval past.
Free Time in Monsaraz
Upon arriving in Monsaraz, visitors are free to wander the village’s enchanting streets at their own pace, soaking in the timeless atmosphere and discovering its hidden gems. They can stroll along the winding cobblestone pathways, marveling at the whitewashed houses, quaint cafes, and local artisan shops that line the charming alleyways.
Visitors may:
- Explore the medieval castle and its impressive defensive walls, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the vast Alqueva Lake.
- Visit the small but captivating Church of Nossa Senhora da Lagoa, admiring its Manueline-style architecture and intricate religious artwork.
Visitors may also:
- Indulge in a traditional Portuguese lunch or snack at one of the cozy local eateries, savoring the region’s delectable cuisine and robust Alentejo wines.
- Browse the handmade crafts, pottery, and textiles sold by talented local artisans, finding the perfect souvenirs to take home.
- Relax in the tranquil town square, soaking up the peaceful ambiance and enjoying the quiet rhythm of village life.
Optional Wine Tasting
For those interested in sampling the renowned wines of the Alentejo region, the tour offers an optional wine tasting featuring five of the area’s most prestigious vintages. Visitors can savor the robust, full-bodied flavors that have made this southern Portuguese wine country so renowned, gaining insights into the unique terroir and production methods that contribute to the wines’ exceptional quality.
| Wine | Grape Variety | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ervideira Reserva | Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, Aragonez | Aromas of ripe dark fruit, hints of spice, and a long, smooth finish |
| Esporao Private Selection | Aragonez, Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet | Intense, complex flavors of blackberry, plum, and toasted oak |
| Monte da Ravasqueira Syrah | Syrah | Powerful, concentrated notes of black cherry, pepper, and vanilla |
| Cartuxa Colheita | Aragonez, Trincadeira, Alicante Bouschet | Elegant, well-balanced with flavors of red fruit and soft tannins |
| Herdade do Mouchão Tinto | Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, Aragonez | Rich, robust with layers of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes round-trip transportation by bus or minivan, as well as an English, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking guide to lead the way. Admission to the Chapel of Bones in Evora is also covered, allowing visitors to explore this unique and captivating site.
While the tour covers a lot of ground, there are a few things not included:
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Optional wine tasting (€7.50 per person)
This tour offers an immersive and comprehensive experience, showcasing the best of Evora and Monsaraz. With the inclusions and exclusions clearly outlined, travelers can plan accordingly and make the most of their day trip.
Recap
The Évora & Monsaraz Day Trip offers an immersive exploration of Portugal’s captivating Alentejo region.
Visitors will uncover the Roman and medieval heritage of historic Évora, then journey to the charming hilltop village of Monsaraz, savoring the authentic flavors and vibrant culture of this remarkable destination.
With free time to discover both towns, and an optional wine tasting, this small-group tour provides an enriching and unforgettable travel experience.
