A common question on traveller’s minds is “Is Evora worth visiting?”

I understand. You are planning a trip to Portugal and wondering whether an Evora day trip from Lisbon is worth it.

My quick answer is – YES! Let’s spend one day in Évora, Portugal! This charming city in the heart of the Alentejo region is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Portugal.

With its stunning medieval architecture, rich history, and delicious food, Evora is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. From ancient Roman ruins to beautiful churches and museums, there is something here for everyone.

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Is Evora Worth Visiting?

Now let’s find out why I said yes to the question “Is Evora Portugal worth visiting?”

Évora is such a beautiful city with a rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture located in the Alentejo region of Portugal, approximately 1.5 hours east of Lisbon. With that proximity to Lisbon, it makes a day trip to Evora incredibly enticing!

Évora is a picturesque hidden gem in Portugal.

This small city is the capital of the Alentejo region which happens to be the largest region in Portugal. This region sits above the Algarve and stretches from the Atlantic to the Portugal-Spain border in the centre of Portugal.

Such a central location makes Evora a great base to explore all of the Alentejo or a starting point to reach the Algarve or even Spain. 

Visit Evora and you’ll get a unique glimpse into Portugal’s past. With its UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient Roman ruins, and charming cobblestone streets, Évora is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Lisbon area.

Explore Évora, a city with a fascinating past dating back to Roman times. Wander through its historic streets and see the remnants of ancient Roman ruins. From Celtic times to Roman rule in 57 BC and later under Moorish influence.

In the Middle Ages, Évora thrived as a cultural hub and religious center, housing Portuguese kings and witnessing the construction of impressive buildings.

The 16th century marked a new era as Evora became a center of learning with the establishment of the University of Évora.

Évora exudes a fascinating historical aura at every corner. History buffs and cultural enthusiasts will be in awe of one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities.

Day trip to Evora from Lisbon

If you’re convinced that Evora is worth visiting, then a group tour day trip from Lisbon to Evora might be an option for you to consider. Let a local knowledgeable guide bring you to 2 destinations – Evora and Monsaraz to see the top sites. It also includes a wine tasting.

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Ancient ruin called Diana Temple in Evora day trip

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Lisbon to Evora and Monsaraz Day Tour with Wine Tasting

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Day Trip to Evora: 11 Must-Sees

castle view with countryside in is evora worth visiting

Might you be wondering what to do in Evora Portugal on your day trip?

Évora offers a variety of fascinating sights to explore. Évora is often called Portugal’s “Museum City” because of its preserved architecture.

So, here is the full list of what to see and do in Evora Portugal.

1. Aqueduct of Silver Water

ancient aqueduct is evora portugal worth visiting

I recommend starting your list of things to see in Evora Portugal here. The Aqueduct of Silver Water or Adqueduto da Agua de Prata is located just outside the city walls. This impressive site was completed in 1530 as a way to bring water to the city.

It was designed by Francisco de Arruda, famously known as the designer of the Tower Belem in Lisbon

The Aqueduct is 9 km long and originally continued to the Praça do Giraldo.

2. Stroll Streets of Old Town

What makes Evora so special, it’s just one of those cities that is perfect for wandering. Whether you are intentionally going from site to site or letting your feet be your guide, you’ll soon fall under its spell.

Take an Evora city tour in the historic center where there are endless narrow winding streets and alleyways just waiting to be discovered. Cobblestone streets, lanterns hanging from the walls, ivy, and flowers cascading over walls everywhere you look there is a great photo op! 

Join a small walking tour and let a local guide share all the insider secrets and stories that makes Évora worth visiting as you go to the most important sites. Check prices and book your dates.

3. Diana Temple

ancient temple ruins in evora portugal

The Roman Temple of Evora is also referred to as the Templo de Diana. This ancient temple sits in the historical centre of the city and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

These Evora ruins are something you’ll want to see.

4. São João Evangelista Church

blue and white painted tiles on one day in evora portugal

Close to the Roman ruins, you’ll find the Sao Joao church and it features one of the most impressive interiors in all of Evora.

The entire walls are decorated with blue and white Portuguese tiles called azulejos from the early 18th century. The hand-painted tiles are a mix of leaves and flowers as well as biblical scenes. 

5. Palace of the Counts of Basto

White Palace in one day in evora

The Palace of the Counts of Basto was once a primitive Moorish castle and later a residence of the kings. This complex lies very close to the Roman Ruins and São João Evangelista Church.

Its outer architecture displays features of Gothic, Manueline, Mudéjar and Renaissance styles. However, most of the structure needed to be rebuilt in the 1950s.

For impressive views, walk along the back of the castle where you will beyond the city to the countryside.

6. Se Cathedral

cathedral with lantern on is evora worth visiting

The 12th-century Se cathedral is a great example of Gothic architecture with its asymmetrical towers. It took half a century to be built and was later added to throughout the Middle Ages.

This impressive cathedral dominates the city and is almost always visual from anywhere when looking at the skyline of Evora.

The Se Cathedral is one of the best things to see in Evora! Be sure not to miss it.

7. Fountain of Portas de Moura

Fountain with globe in is evora portugal worth visiting

Next, and near Evora’s Se Cathedral is the Fountain of Portas de Moura. This Renaissance fountain was built in 1556. The design of the globe surrounded by water is meant to reference the Age of Discovery.

It’s worth going to, what to see in Evora as offers a great view of the Se Cathedral in the background.

8. Church of Our Lady of Grace

Church with bell tower on evora day trip

The Church of Our Lady of Grace, or Igreja da Nossa Senhora da Graca, is an impressive church to visit.

It’s tucked away on Rua da Republic, a little off the beaten path in Evora.

What makes this church so special to visit? There are just so many details, from the pillars along the entrance to the triple bells and I loved the statues that dangled over the very top.

9. Chapel of Bones

bone chapel in one day in evora portugal

The Chapel of Bones, or Capela dos Ossos is a small chapel connected to the Church of Sao Francisco.

As the name suggests, it’s lined inside with human bones, approximately 5,000 of them, dating back to the 17th century. 

The inscription above the chapel entrance translates as “We bones who lie here await yours.” A little creepy don’t you think?

10. Praca do Giraldo

square with fountain in day trip to Evora Portugal

Praca do Giraldo is the main and busiest square in Evora. It was named after the 12th-century hero of the Reconquista Gerald the Fearless, who defeated the Moors and expelled them after 450 years of rule in the city. 

The public square was where the public executions took place, mainly during the period of the Inquisition. 

Today, cafes spill out onto the cobblestones and people come and go as the main hub to explore Evora.

11. Church of St. Andrew

Church with fountain in  Evora day trip from lisbon

The 16th-century Church of St Andrew, or Santo Antao, sits on the edge of the Praco do Giraldo square, with the pretty fountain in front and I loved visiting this square.

Evora Day Trip: 4 Favourite Experiences

I always measure a destination beyond seeing its top attractions. To me, it comes down to the atmosphere, attractiveness and experiences. And, Evora checks all the boxes and then some. 

Make sure you add a couple of these Evora things to do to your day.

1. Go on a Wine Tour

Stop by the wine-tasting room of the Wine Route of Alentejo in the old city center.

Here you can learn more about the region’s wineries and book tours. The Cartuxa winery just outside of Evora offers daily tastings of wine and olive oil (reservations are required). 

Monsaraz and Wine guided tour from Évora for 4 hours and rated 4.9/5 ⭐ Check prices and book your dates!

2. Enjoy a meal

bottles of wine and olive oil in restaurant in evora portugal

Evora has a great culinary scene. Restaurants, cafes, and wine bars at every turn! Visit Evora and be sure to bring your appetite!

Here are some of the recommended restaurants in Evora that I tried:

  • Botequim da Mouraria – a tiny, unassuming bar-like restaurant that offers some of the tastiest traditional dishes 📍16 Rua de Mouraria
  • Dom Joaquim – a Michelin-star restaurant located next to Porta de Serpa Pinto, one of the access gates to the historic centre of Évora. Expect to find traditional regional dishes and wine 📍6 Rua dos Penedos
  • Fialho – a long-standing restaurant tucked away off a side street offering traditional dishes 📍14 Travessa Mascarenhas 
  • Origens – a Michelin-star restaurant tucked away down a quiet narrow street in Evora’s historic centre 📍10 Rua de Burgos
  • Enoteca Cartuxa – a busy restaurant and wine bar that offers good tasting food at great prices

3. Treat yourself to dessert

Evora is known for its sweet desserts. It seems every town and city in Portugal fights for the claim of the creamy custard tart.

Evora says it was the nuns who liked to use egg whites as starch and they had so many egg yolks left over that they started combining them with sugar and making different types of pastries, puddings, and bread.

Venture down the tiny alleyways, you’ll find window bake shops where you can buy these traditional custard treats. Let your nose be your guide. 

4. Day Trips from Evora Portugal

The Alentejo region of Portugal is often referred to as the new Tuscany. It’s a sublime rural landscape, full of olive and cork trees, vineyards, and wheat fields.

It’s rustic, traditional, and not touristy- yet!  The beautiful villages are authentic. The food is farm-to-table. And, it’s a peaceful getaway.

If you want to explore the Alentejo region in Portugal here are some day trips from Evora:

  • Arraiolos to Evora – 20 minutes
  • Estremoz to Evora – 35 minutes
  • Monsaraz to Evora – 50 minutes
  • Elvas to Evora – 55 minutes

FAQ About Evora Portugal

white buildings with yellow in evora portugal

Is one day enough in Evora?

While one day in Évora is enough to see its major sights and get a sense of its history and culture, it’s definitely worth spending more time exploring this beautiful city and the surrounding Alentejo region.

How many days to spend in Evora?

Ideally, spending 2-3 days in Évora would allow you to see and do everything, enjoy the local food and wine and take some day trips from Evora.

What is Evora known for?

Évora is known for its stunning medieval architecture, rich cultural heritage, ancient Roman ruins, delicious food and wine, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How far is Evora from Lisbon?

Évora is approximately 135 kilometres (84 miles) east of Lisbon. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The Lisbon to Evora train is 1.5 to 2 hours.

Where to stop between Lisbon and Evora?

On your Evora day trip from Lisbon, there are several charming towns and villages to explore between Lisbon and Évora, including Alcácer do Sal, Montemor-o-Novo, and Arraiolos, each with its own unique history and cultural attractions.

Is Evora walkable?

Yes, Évora is a walkable city, and its compact size makes it easy for you to explore on foot. Many of its major landmarks and attractions are located within walking distance of each other, and strolling through its charming cobblestone streets is a great way to soak up the city’s atmosphere.

As a Holidaymaker

This historic city needs to go on your must-visit list while in Portugal.

My advice when you get there, put away the map and simply wander and discover every hidden corner of this beautiful city. Nothing is better than getting lost inside the walls of this old city. 

If you are looking for more travel resources and inspiration for planning your trip to Portugal, be sure to check out my Travel Guide to Portugal page. It not only has every article on Portugal, but it includes all the resources you might need – from accommodations, to train/flight, to insurance.

I will leave you with a couple of articles that I think you might be interested in: