Explore the captivating town of Évora and uncover the mysterious megaliths of the Alentejo region on this private day trip from Lisbon. Explore the UNESCO-listed wonders, from the ancient Roman farm of Tourega Villa to the Chapel of Bones and the impressive Almendres Cromlech. With a knowledgeable guide by your side and comfortable transportation, you’ll learn about the rich history and culture of this fascinating area. But what secrets will you uncover as you venture beyond the typical tourist paths?
Key Points
- This private day trip from Lisbon explores the UNESCO World Heritage site of Évora and the impressive megalithic monuments in the Alentejo region.
- The tour includes a visit to the Chapel of Bones inside the Church of St Francis and a tour of the ancient Roman farm of Tourega Villa.
- Pickup and drop-off at the hotel, apartment, or port in Lisbon, and transportation by private air-conditioned minivan are included in the tour.
- The tour duration is from 9:00 am to return to Lisbon, and a moderate amount of walking is involved.
- The cancellation policy offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience, but no changes are accepted less than 24 hours before the tour.
Tour Overview
This private day trip from Lisbon allows travelers to explore the ancient town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover the region’s impressive megalithic monuments.
The tour includes a visit to the Chapel of Bones inside the Church of St Francis, as well as a tour of the ancient Roman farm of Tourega Villa.
Guests will also see the Anta Grande do Zambujeiro, the largest dolmen in Iberia, and wander around the Almendres Cromlech, one of the largest megalithic sites in Europe.
Throughout the journey, the private guide provides insights and commentary to enhance the experience.
Included in the Tour
What does this private day trip from Lisbon include? The tour provides:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- A private guide
- Transportation by private minivan
- Bottled water
- WiFi on board
The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey. With all these inclusions, you can sit back, relax, and let your knowledgeable guide lead the way. You won’t have to worry about navigating or logistics, allowing you to fully learn about the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Alentejo region.
Whether you’re exploring the ancient town of Évora or wandering through the impressive Almendres Cromlech, this tour has got you covered.
Pickup and Meeting Point
From your hotel, apartment, or the port, the tour provider arranges to pick you up and transport you to the meeting point at Palácio Foz in Restauradores Square, Lisbon.
This convenient pickup service ensures a seamless start to your day-long exploration of Évora and the Almendres Cromlech.
Once at the meeting point, you’ll:
- Check in with your private guide, who’ll accompany you throughout the tour.
- Board the comfortable, air-conditioned minivan that will take you on your journey.
- Receive a bottle of water to keep you hydrated during the drive.
- Enjoy the Wi-Fi available on board, allowing you to stay connected during the trip.
Tour Duration and Logistics
The tour lasts from 9:00 am to the time of return to the original meeting point in Lisbon. A moderate amount of walking is involved throughout the day, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
You’ll explore the ancient town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Chapel of Bones inside the Church of St. Francis.
After that, you’ll visit the Roman farm of Tourega Villa and see the largest dolmen in Iberia.
The final stop is the Almendres Cromlech, one of Europe’s largest megalithic sites.
Throughout the day, you’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned minivan with a knowledgeable guide and have access to onboard WiFi.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience are eligible for a full refund, though changes less than 24 hours before the experience aren’t accepted. This policy provides flexibility for travelers who may need to adjust their plans, while also ensuring the tour operator can properly manage logistics.
Refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour.
Changes to your booking, such as date or time, aren’t possible within 24 hours of the tour.
It’s best to finalize your plans and notify the tour operator as soon as possible to avoid any issues.
This cancellation policy helps ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Exploring the Ancient Town of Évora
A captivating journey awaits visitors exploring the ancient town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history and grandeur.
As you wander its well-preserved medieval streets, you’ll be enchanted by the Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and Baroque architecture that define this enchanting destination.
The crown jewel is the Chapel of Bones, a macabre yet captivating ossuary within the Church of St. Francis.
Outside the city, you’ll discover the Roman farm of Tourega Villa, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient agrarian past.
With each step, the layers of Évora’s remarkable heritage unfold, transporting you to a bygone era and leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Visiting the Chapel of Bones
Upon entering the Church of St. Francis, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the Chapel of Bones, a macabre yet mesmerizing ossuary that adorns the interior.
This unique chapel is covered in the carefully arranged bones and skulls of over 5,000 individuals, a sobering reminder of mortality.
It was constructed in the 16th century by Franciscan monks who wanted to convey the transience of human life.
The bones come from the nearby cemetery, carefully selected and arranged to create a visually striking and eerie environment.
The chapel’s design features intricate bone patterns on the walls, ceiling, and even chandeliers.
Visitors can explore the chapel and reflect on the impermanence of existence.
Discovering Megalithic Sites
After exploring the Chapel of Bones, visitors can venture out to discover the remarkable megalithic sites in the Alentejo region.
The Almendres Cromlech, one of the largest megalithic complexes in Europe, offers a glimpse into the ancient past. Wandering through the site, one can’t help but be awed by the impressive stone circles and monoliths dating back over 6,000 years.
Just a short drive away, the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro is the largest dolmen in the Iberian Peninsula, a testament to the engineering prowess of the region’s prehistoric inhabitants.
These enigmatic monuments stand as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage that can be uncovered in this captivating corner of Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The tour operates on a private basis, so the group size is just you and your party. This allows for a more personalized experience as you explore Évora and the ancient megaliths at your own pace.
Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?
Sure, there’s time for a lunch stop during the tour. The itinerary allows for a break where you can grab a bite to eat and experience the local cuisine in the historic town of Évora.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?
Yes, there are scheduled restroom breaks throughout the tour. The private guide will ensure participants have opportunities to use the facilities at various stops during the day-long excursion to explore the historic sites.
Can the Tour Be Customized to My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to your interests. The private guide is happy to adjust the itinerary and focus areas based on your preferences to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Is Photography Allowed at All Sites Visited?
Photography is allowed at all sites visited on this tour. Guests are free to take photos throughout the day, capturing the historic buildings, ancient megaliths, and scenic landscapes. Just be mindful not to disturb other visitors.
Recap
This day tour from Lisbon offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic town of Évora and its impressive megalithic sites.
With a private guide, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off, it provides a convenient and immersive way to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Alentejo region.
From the Chapel of Bones to the Almendres Cromlech, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Portugal’s ancient past.
