Évora

The basics

Human history in Evora dates back to 4,000 BC—that’s more than 6,000 years. Megaliths (huge stones used to construct monuments) dating back to this period have been found near the city. In the millennia since, Evora has played host to Celts, Romans, and Moors, before Portugal claimed it in the Middle Ages, with every era leaving its marks on the city.

The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can see well-preserved ruins of a Roman temple, the Gothic Praça do Giraldo square, and, of course, the macabre Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos). This wealth of history makes Evora a popular stop for guided day tours from nearby Lisbon.

Things to know before you go

• Situated in the central Alentejo region, Evora can be very hot, so plan to wear a hat and sunscreen, if you’re visiting in the summer months.
• There’s a lot to see in the city, so bank on spending at least half a day here.
• Keep an eye out for the colorful Azulejo tiles that decorate many buildings in town.

How to get there

Evora is reachable by train, bus, or guided tour with transport provided. Trains leave daily from Lisbon’s Oriente station. By car, the town is located about a 1.5-hour drive east of Lisbon.

When to get there

Evora welcomes visitors year-round and has hot summers and dry, mild winters. Many people visit in spring when daily temperatures are at their most pleasant.

Taste Local Alentejo Wines

Besides the historic city of Evora, the Alentejo is famous for its wine and olive production. Taking a tour to try the local wines at family-run vineyards is a popular tourist activity, and you can always pick up a couple of bottles to take home as a souvenir of the region.

Ways to explore

When visiting Évora and its UNESCO–listed historical center, plan on spending at least half a day. Private walking tours can help you quickly get the lowdown on what makes the city special and find highlights, including the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), the Gothic Praça do Giraldo square, and the Roman Temple of Evora.

Full-day tours from Lisbon also typically include a walking tour of the city, some free time to explore, and then add another nearby attraction, such as the Almendres Cromlech megaliths, local wineries, or other Alentejo destinations—the village of Monsaraz is a common choice.

Accessibility

Most Évora tours are not wheelchair accessible; many parts of the city are only partially accessible.

Age limits

All ages are welcome, but the city’s mainly cultural and historical attractions may not appeal to kids.

What to pack

Sunscreen, camera, small bag for souvenirs/purchases

What to wear

Hat, sunglasses, modest clothing for viewing churches

Not allowed

Exposed shoulders or knees when visiting churches

Amenities

Tourist information center, public restrooms, central parking lots

Address

Évora is in the Alentejo region of Portugal, east of Lisbon, and is roughly 1.5–2 hours away, depending on your transportation. The town is reachable by train and bus, but guided tours make it easy to add regional attractions on a day trip.

Driving

From Lisbon, take the A2 south across the Tagus River and join the A6, taking the exit for Évora. This route has tolls; others don’t, but they take almost 30 minutes longer.

Public transportation

Buses to Évora leave regularly from the Lisbon Sete Rios and the Lisboa Oriente bus stations, taking around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, several daily trains to Évora depart from Lisbon’s Oriente and Entrecampos stations, taking roughly the same time.

Best times to visit

Arrive before midday to leave yourself enough time to explore Évora on a day trip.

Best days to visit

Some local attractions close on Sunday and Monday, and local churches hold Mass on Sunday, making it difficult to see them. Visit between Tuesday and Friday for an uninterrupted itinerary.

Best months to visit

The spring months of April to June offer the nicest weather for exploring Évora, save you from summer’s dry heat, and bring the surrounding countryside to life.

Special events

The Feira São João, or St. John’s Fair, is a large annual celebration filled with fado performances, food, and family-friendly attractions, which takes place in late June.