Private tour to Evora with optional wine tasting in the cartucha

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip from Lisbon that combines history, culture, and wine, this private tour to Évora is worth considering. Offering an intimate experience, it’s designed exclusively for your group, whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a small party. The tour includes visits to iconic sites like the Roman Temple of Évora and the Chapel of Bones, along with a tasty stop at one of the region’s top wineries, Herdade da Cartuxa. Plus, there’s an optional wine and olive oil tasting that seems to delight most travelers—and the lunch at Cartuxa has been praised as phenomenal.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is its flexibility and focus on authentic experiences. I love that it includes a visit to Herdade da Cartuxa, where you can sample a variety of wines and olive oils—an excellent way to taste the true flavors of the Alentejo. The guides, especially those who speak excellent French, help bring the history and wine stories to life, making each stop engaging. Another standout is the opportunity to combine sightseeing with wine tasting at a traditional estate, giving you a deeper connection to the region’s culture.

However, it’s worth noting that some parts of the tour—like the wine and olive oil tasting—are not included in the base price, which could be a consideration if you’re on a tight budget. Also, the tour runs around 8 to 9 hours, so it’s a full day, and you’d want to be prepared for a lot of walking and sightseeing.

This private tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized attention, love wine, and want to explore Évora without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a wine lover, this trip promises a genuine taste of Alentejo’s best.

Key points / Takeaways:

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored, relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic Wine Tasting: Visit Herdade da Cartuxa for a variety of wines and olive oils, with the option to include a delicious lunch.
• Historical Highlights: Stops include the Roman Temple of Évora, Se Cathedral, and Chapel of Bones—each offering a unique glimpse into Portugal’s past.
• Flexible Activities: Optional hot air balloon rides are available, but require advance notice.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi and bottled water.
• Good for Enthusiasts: Ideal for those who appreciate good wine, authentic experiences, and personalized tours.

Exploring the Heart of Évora and the Alentejo

Taking a day trip from Lisbon to Évora offers a chance to step back in time and enjoy some of Portugal’s most iconic sights. This private tour, offered by West Side Tours, combines cultural sightseeing with a focus on wine, making it stand out from generic group excursions. Starting early at 8:30am, you’ll be picked up from Lisbon, and the journey to Évora is comfortably done in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi—a nice touch after a morning of travel.

Visiting the Convento da Cartuxa and Wine Tasting

The first highlight is the visit to Herdade da Cartuxa, a renowned Alentejo winery famous for its traditional approach and wines that reflect the region’s character. Although the tasting isn’t included in the initial cost, most visitors find it worthwhile to pay for the variety of wines and olive oils offered. The reviews mention that the tasting at Cartuxa is “wonderful” and offers “excellent wines,” which is high praise for a winery that also produces olive oil.

I appreciate the flexibility here: you can choose to taste a few different wines, and the setting itself—surrounded by vineyards—is a treat. Not just a quick stop, the estate is a place where you can really get a sense of the local craftsmanship, and with the added bonus of a phenomenal lunch (recommended by reviewers), this stop alone justifies the trip.

Historic Sites in Évora

Next, the tour visits the Roman Temple of Évora, a well-preserved monument that dates back to the 1st century, and the Se Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. The free, short stops at these sites are perfect for snapping photos and absorbing the atmosphere. The Chapel of Bones, with its macabre yet fascinating decor, adds a layer of depth to the historical experience. Travelers tend to find these stops rewarding, offering a tangible connection to centuries of history.

Walking Through Évora’s Charming Streets

The visit to Praca do Giraldo provides a relaxed hour to stroll, grab a coffee, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. The narrow streets and friendly local shops here exemplify authentic Portuguese life away from the tourist crowds. According to reviews, guides make this part engaging by sharing insights and the stories behind the architecture.

Extras and Customization

For the adventurous, there’s an option to include a hot air balloon ride—a unique way to see Évora from above, especially memorable if you’ve never experienced it. Just remember to coordinate in advance if you’re interested, as this requires booking separately.

Logistics, Price, and Value

The tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, with pickup starting early in Lisbon. The cost per person is around $190.30, which may seem steep at first glance but becomes more reasonable considering the private nature of the trip, the visits, tastings, and transport included. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, and WiFi on board is a nice touch for catching up on photos or messages during the drive.

While not cheap, the experience offers solid value—especially if you’re traveling in a small group or with family who appreciate personalized service. The flexibility to include optional activities like ballooning or extra tastings adds to the appeal.

Who will love this tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want an intimate, tailored experience combining cultural sights with top-tier wine and olive oil tasting. If you’re a lover of history but prefer wandering at your own pace, the stops are well-chosen and manageable. It’s also a good fit if you’re interested in authentic regional foods and drinks and want to avoid crowded, impersonal group tours.

Final Thoughts

What makes this private Évora trip stand out is its focus on quality and personalized attention. The opportunity to visit a traditional Alentejo winery, sample excellent wines and olive oils, and explore Évora’s famous sights makes for a rich day out. The flexibility of optional activities, like balloon rides, allows you to customize your experience—though planning ahead is essential.

For travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and good company, this tour offers a balanced mix of everything that makes a day trip from Lisbon memorable. The reviews highlight the friendly guides, good value for money, and the delicious food and wine—elements that can turn a simple sightseeing day into a truly special experience.

This tour is especially suited for couples, small groups, or families who want meaningful connections to the region, rather than just ticking off sights. It’s an excellent way to taste the genuine flavors of Alentejo while soaking in its history and charm.

FAQ

Is the tour private for my group only?
Yes, this is a fully private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a relaxed and personalized experience.

What’s included in the tour?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, bottled water, and a friendly atmosphere are included. Wine and olive oil tasting are optional and not part of the base price.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, you can opt for activities like a hot air balloon ride if you notify the provider in advance. The main stops and visits are fixed but flexible enough to suit your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30am from Lisbon and returning afterward.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and child seats are available for kids 3 or 4 years and older. This makes it family-friendly for those with young children.

Do I need to book the wine tasting separately?
Yes, the wine and olive oil tasting at Cartuxa is an additional cost, but it’s highly recommended for the full experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts and get a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

In summary, if you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and intimate way to explore Évora from Lisbon—while tasting some of the best regional wines—this private tour offers a well-balanced itinerary and excellent value. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy good food, history, and personalized service, making it a memorable addition to any Portugal trip.