Explore the rich heritage and vibrant flavors of Portugal’s Evora on this captivating full-day tour from Lisbon. Marvel at the grandeur of the Roman Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before stepping into the eerie Chapel of Bones. Then, savor the distinct terroir and production techniques of the region’s renowned wines during an optional tasting at a local winery. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible booking options, this immersive experience promises to transport you back in time and awaken your senses. But what secrets might the ancient city of Evora still hold?
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Lisbon to Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explores the iconic Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones, with an optional wine tasting.
- The tour includes 2.5 hours to explore the well-preserved Roman Temple and the Chapel of Bones, which is adorned with the skeletal remains of over 5,000 individuals.
- Travelers have the opportunity to sample a curated selection of full-bodied reds, crisp whites, and aromatic rosés during a 1.5-hour wine tasting at a local winery.
- The tour includes convenient private transportation with an English-speaking driver, and offers flexible booking and cancellation options up to 24 hours in advance.
- Evora is renowned for its Roman ruins and Chapel of Bones, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich history and challenging visitors to confront the fragility of life.
Tour Details
This full-day tour from Lisbon to Evora costs $489.75 per group up to 7 people, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and a book now, pay later option.
The journey begins with an 80-minute drive to the ancient capital of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, visitors will have 2.5 hours to explore the Roman Temple and the captivating Chapel of Bones.
For those interested in local flavors, an optional 1.5-hour wine tasting at a nearby winery is available for an additional fee.
The tour concludes with an 80-minute drive back to Lisbon, offering a chance to savor the rich cultural and culinary experiences of this day trip.
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins with an 80-minute drive from Lisbon to the ancient city of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Upon arrival, visitors enjoy 2.5 hours to explore the impressive Roman Temple and the captivating Chapel of Bones, which features walls lined with human skulls and bones.
For those seeking a deeper taste of the region, an optional 1.5-hour wine tasting at a local winery is available for an additional fee.
Finally, the tour concludes with an 80-minute drive back to Lisbon, allowing guests to reflect on the rich cultural and culinary experiences of the day.
The itinerary includes:
- Discovering the Roman Temple of Evora
- Witnessing the haunting Chapel of Bones
- Sampling traditional Portuguese cuisine
- Enjoying an optional wine tasting
Exploring Evora
After exploring the itinerary overview, visitors now get to enjoy the ancient city of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Roman ruins and captivating Chapel of Bones.
The Roman Temple, one of Evora’s most iconic landmarks, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, its grandeur and intricate architecture inviting travelers to step back in time and imagine the bustling metropolis that once thrived here.
Just steps away, the Chapel of Bones offers a fascinating and eerie exploration of Portuguese traditions, its walls adorned with the skeletal remains of over 5,000 individuals.
Throughout Evora’s winding cobblestone streets, the scent of traditional Portuguese cuisine wafts through the air, enticing visitors to indulge in the flavors that have defined this cultural gem for centuries.
Roman Temple of Evora
Towering above Evora’s historic center, the Roman Temple of Evora stands as a captivating relic of the city’s ancient past. Its meticulously preserved Corinthian columns and grandeur facade evoke the power and prestige of the Roman Empire, transporting visitors back to a time when this was the heart of a thriving commercial hub.
As you wander the temple’s perimeter, you’ll marvel at:
- The massive granite blocks, hewn and fitted with precision
- Intricate carvings depicting Roman deities and mythological scenes
- The temple’s prime location, overlooking the bustling marketplace below
- The haunting stillness that permeates the site, amplifying its timeless allure
Truly, the Roman Temple of Evora offers a window into the city’s storied past, inviting visitors to enjoy the grandeur of ancient Roman civilization.
Chapel of Bones
Stepping through the arched entrance of the Chapel of Bones, visitors are immediately struck by the haunting spectacle that unfolds before them – the chapel’s walls adorned with the skeletal remains of over 5,000 individuals, a chilling testament to the mortality that binds us all.
The dimly lit ossuary exudes an eerie reverence, its decorative arrangements of skulls and bones serving as a sobering reminder of the human condition.
As visitors carefully navigate the narrow aisles, they can’t help but feel a sense of contemplation, their footsteps echoing against the macabre decor.
The Chapel of Bones stands as a poignant and unsettling landmark, challenging visitors to confront the fragility of life and the inevitability of death.
Optional Wine Tasting
On the optional 1.5-hour wine tasting at a local winery, visitors can sample some of the renowned vintages that have made the Evora region famous throughout Portugal and beyond.
The expert sommelier guides guests through a curated selection of full-bodied reds, crisp whites, and aromatic rosés – all produced using traditional methods and locally-sourced grapes.
Visitors delight in the complex flavors and learn about the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
The experience includes:
- Tasting 4-6 different wines from the Alentejo region
- Pairing each wine with a complementary local cheese or charcuterie
- Discovering the distinct terroir and production techniques of each varietal
- Learning about the history and culture that shape the winemaking traditions
Transportation and Amenities
Complementing the highlights of the Evora tour, the private luxury van provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation for guests. Fully air-conditioned and equipped with phone chargers, the vehicle ensures a pleasant journey from Lisbon to the ancient city, allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside views along the way.
The tour also includes complimentary bottled water, keeping guests hydrated throughout the day. The English-speaking driver is knowledgeable about the region and happy to offer insights, enhancing the overall experience.
With these thoughtful amenities, the tour seamlessly blends the convenience of modern transportation with the opportunity to take in Evora’s rich history and culture.
Flexible Booking and Cancellation
The tour’s flexible booking and generous cancellation policy provide visitors with peace of mind when planning their Evora adventure. Travelers can secure their spot with a simple online reservation, paying later to accommodate any last-minute schedule changes.
On top of that, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure, ensuring maximum flexibility for guests.
This hassle-free experience allows travelers to:
- Easily modify plans if unexpected commitments arise
- Avoid non-refundable deposits and fees
- Book now, pay later for added financial convenience
- Tailor the itinerary to their preferences without penalties
With these traveler-centric policies, the Evora Romans Ruins and Wine Tasting Full Day Tour is designed to deliver a seamless, stress-free exploration of this historic Portuguese city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. You can choose to explore additional historical sites, modify the duration of the wine tasting, or request a private dining experience showcasing local cuisine. The tour operator is happy to accommodate your unique interests.
Is the Tour Suitable for Guests With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be the best fit for guests with mobility issues, as it involves extensive walking and exploring historic sites. However, the driver can accommodate guests and provide assistance where possible to ensure everyone enjoys the experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for this tour is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear sturdy walking shoes, as the tour involves exploring historical sites on foot. Layers are recommended to account for changes in weather throughout the day.
Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?
Yes, the tour provides live guides in Portuguese, Russian, and English. Guests can request their preferred language when booking the tour to ensure they have an engaging, personalized experience exploring Evora’s historic sites and local wines.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?
Yes, there are discounts for larger groups. The tour costs $489.75 for up to 7 people, so groups with more than 7 can expect a lower per-person rate. Larger parties should inquire about group pricing when booking.
Recap
The Evora Romans Ruins and Wine Tasting Full Day Tour provides an immersive experience, transporting visitors through the captivating history and flavors of Portugal’s Alentejo region.
From the grandeur of the Roman Temple to the eerie Chapel of Bones, this tour offers a tantalizing blend of cultural exploration and culinary delight, culminating in an optional wine tasting that showcases the region’s distinct terroir and production techniques.
Convenient transportation and flexible booking ensure a seamless day trip from Lisbon.
