Evora is one of Portugal’s most captivating towns, offering more than just pretty streets and ancient walls. It’s a place where you can savor world-class wines, explore haunting monuments like the Chapel of Bones, and even take a hot air balloon ride over the Alentejo landscape. What sets Evora apart as a top destination for tours is its blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and authentic local culture. Whether you’re a history lover, a wine enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, you’ll find options that make your trip memorable.
We particularly like From Lisbon: Évora and Monsaraz with Alentejo Wine Tasting, which combines a full day of sightseeing with a delicious regional wine experience. The tour’s highlights include visiting the UNESCO-listed city of Évora, the Chapel of Bones, and the hilltop village of Monsaraz, capped off with tastings at a local winery. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Alentejo’s history, scenery, and wine culture.
Below is a carefully curated list of the 14 best tours and experiences in Évora, ranging from cultural explorations to scenic adventures. Whether you want a quick history fix or a full-day indulgence, this guide will help you choose the perfect option.
1. From Lisbon: Évora and Monsaraz with Alentejo Wine Tasting
At number 1, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience. It kicks off with a guided tour of Évora, a city full of Roman ruins, medieval streets, and iconic sites like the Roman Temple and Évora Cathedral. A highlight is visiting the Chapel of Bones, where human bones decorate the walls—a hauntingly fascinating sight. You’ll then head to Monsaraz, a hilltop village famed for sweeping views over Lake Alqueva, coupled with a regional Alentejo wine tasting at a local estate.
This tour combines history, scenery, and regional flavors, making it perfect for travelers who want to see the best of the countryside and enjoy authentic wine tasting. The itinerary includes walking tours, a visit to a wine estate, and ample free time to soak it all in. With a 4.7-star rating from 310 reviews, it’s a popular choice that balances quality and value, costing around $90 per person for 8 hours of memorable sights and tastes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided day with excellent wine and historical highlights.
2. Between Life & Death: Roman Temple, Cathedral & Bone Chapel
At number 2, this 8-hour experience offers an in-depth look at Évora’s most iconic monuments. It features visits to the Roman Temple, the medieval Cathedral, and the Chapel of Bones, which is famously decorated with human skulls and bones. The tour is designed to explore the themes of faith and mortality that run through Portugal’s heritage—hence the name “Between Life & Death.”
Limited to small groups, this tour appeals to travelers who prefer a more intimate experience and want to learn the stories behind these haunting sites. It includes visits to Praça do Giraldo, the Royal Palace, and Almendres Cromlech—a prehistoric stone circle. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the balanced mix of history and culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history enthusiasts looking for a deeper, personal connection to Évora’s most chilling and fascinating sites.
3. From Lisbon: Explore Algarve with Boat Tour to Benagil Caves
Number 3 takes you further afield, offering a full-day exploration of Portugal’s Algarve coast. Starting from Lisbon, this trip includes a scenic drive to the southern coast, where you’ll enjoy boat trips to the stunning Benagil Caves and other sea caves. You’ll also visit Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilio, with time for swimming and relaxing on the golden sands. A boat cruise to explore Ponta da Piedade offers incredible views of cliffs and turquoise waters.
This experience is perfect for those longing for a mix of land and sea adventures with options to customize stops. The route is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing with scenic stops, and the boat tour to the caves is a highlight. While it’s longer (10-11 hours), the natural beauty of the Algarve makes it worth the effort.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure seekers and beach lovers who want a comprehensive day trip along Portugal’s most dramatic coast.
4. Évora: Small Group Tour with Chapel of Bones “Skip the Line”
At number 4, this 2-hour small-group tour offers a quick yet rich introduction to Évora’s highlights. What makes it special is the “skip the line” access to the Chapel of Bones, combined with visits to the Roman Temple and the medieval streets. Led by a local guide, the small group (max 12 people) ensures a personalized experience.
This tour is ideal if you have limited time but still want to get a meaningful overview of Évora’s main sites. The guide shares insider stories, making the experience engaging and informative. It’s a budget-friendly option at $35 per person.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers short on time who want an efficient, personalized introduction to Évora’s unique monuments.
5. Évora: Visit to Monsaraz + Traditional Pottery Workshop in S. Pedro do Corval
Number 5 combines culture and craftsmanship in a half-day trip. You’ll explore Monsaraz, one of Portugal’s most picturesque hilltop villages with stunning views over Lake Alqueva, then visit a traditional pottery workshop in São Pedro do Corval, where artisans use ancient techniques to create beautiful ceramics. The tour includes guided visits and free time for exploration.
This experience is great for those interested in local crafts and authentic village atmospheres. The guided pottery workshop provides insight into regional traditions, and Monsaraz’s scenic streets and walls offer ample photo opportunities. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours and is suited for culture lovers looking for a hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a mix of scenic village exploring and artisan craft discovery.
6. Casa Relvas, Évora – Visit to the Winery with Tasting of Portuguese Grape Varieties and Tapas
Number 6 focuses on wine and local flavors, offering a 1.5-hour tour at Casa Relvas winery. Here, you’ll sample five single-varietal wines, paired with tapas and olive oils. The family-owned estate emphasizes the authenticity of Alentejo wines, and the guide shares stories about the land and traditions.
This tour is perfect for wine lovers who want to deepen their appreciation of regional varieties like Aragonês and Trincadeira while savoring local food. It’s a great value for the price and offers a relaxed, intimate tasting experience. If you’re interested in wine, this tour ranks high for its genuine atmosphere and quality.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a flavorful, educational wine experience in a cozy setting.
7. Alentejo, Hot Air Ballooning!
Number 7 offers an unforgettable adventure—hot air ballooning over the Alentejo landscape. The 8-hour experience begins at sunrise, with a scenic flight over vineyards, fields, and Lake Alqueva. After the flight, there’s a celebratory toast to mark the moment.
This is a premium experience suited for travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view of Portugal’s countryside. The tour is operated by qualified guides focused on safety, and the flight provides incredible photo opportunities. While more costly, the sense of serenity and perspective it offers makes it a standout.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers craving a unique bird’s-eye view of Alentejo’s natural beauty.
8. Alfama: A Tuk Tuk Ride through Historical Lisbon
Number 8 is a lively 2-hour tour of Lisbon’s most historic neighborhoods, especially Alfama. Using a tuk tuk, you’ll visit viewpoints like Portas do Sol and Convento da Graça, and see sights like Lisbon Cathedral and Santo António Church. Your local guide, André, makes it fun and personal.
This tour saves your legs and offers a relaxed way to take in Lisbon’s hills, narrow streets, and splendid vistas. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those who want an engaging, fast-paced overview of the city’s rich past.
Bottom Line: Great for city explorers who want a fun, mobility-friendly way to see Lisbon’s highlights.
9. Évora: Alentejo Region 7-Day Guided Cycling Tour
Number 9 is for active travelers. Over seven days, you’ll cycle through the beautiful Alentejo countryside, visiting villages like S. Pedro do Corval and Monsaraz. The trip offers a mix of scenic routes, local interactions, and cultural insights, with overnight stays at a traditional farmhouse.
The tour is tailored for those who like active travel and want to see more of Portugal’s rural charm at a sustainable pace. Cycling distances vary, allowing for a range of fitness levels. It’s a deep dive into the region’s landscapes, crafts, and people.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking an immersive, multi-day experience of rural Alentejo by bike.
10. Évora: Ancient City & The Alentejo Private Luxury Wine Tour
Number 10 combines luxury and personalization. This private 9-hour tour includes pickup, a visit to the Roman heritage sites, and exclusive tastings at top wineries. The guide is a local driver who shares insights into the region’s history and wine-making.
Ideal for travelers wanting a private, stress-free experience. This tour offers a curated view of Évora’s ancient sites and the chance to enjoy regional wines in an intimate setting. It’s priced for comfort and exclusivity, making it suitable for special occasions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups who want a tailor-made, high-end experience.
11. Évora: Cork Factory and Cork Farm Lunch included
Number 11 offers a close look at Portugal’s cork industry, a cornerstone of the region’s economy. The tour guides you through a cork factory and a cork farm, where you learn about cork harvesting and processing. A traditional Alentejo lunch completes the experience.
This trip appeals to those interested in sustainability, craftsmanship, and regional industries. The tour combines hands-on insights with authentic regional cuisine, making it both educational and tasty. The reviews praise the host’s hospitality and the tour’s authenticity.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting an authentic look at Portugal’s cork industry and regional cuisine.
12. Évora Full Day Tour on a Luxury Mercedes
Number 12 offers a comfortable, private full-day exploration. You’ll visit Évora’s main sights in style, with a professional guide and chauffeur in a luxury vehicle. The itinerary covers key sites at your pace, with flexibility built in.
This tour is suited for those who value comfort and personalized service, especially if mobility or time is limited. The guide’s knowledge and the vehicle’s comfort make it a premium experience for a reasonable price.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a stress-free, high-end introduction without sacrificing depth.
13. Évora & Monsaraz: Charm and Chill with a Touch of Thrill
At number 13, this 9-hour tour uses a classic VW van for a fun and relaxed experience. It covers Roman ruins, Évora Cathedral, the Chapel of Bones, and Monsaraz, blending history and scenery with a lighthearted vibe.
The personalized route includes a visit to Cristo Rei and options for photos, walks, and scenic views. The reviewer mentions Luis, the guide, who customizes the day and makes it engaging. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a lively, flexible day with local charm.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a fun, social atmosphere and a mix of highlights.
14. Évora & Wines: A Taste of Authentic Alentejo
Number 14 is a well-rounded private tour combining Évora’s UNESCO heritage sites with visits to two local wineries for tastings of regional wines and a typical lunch. It offers a detailed look into Alentejo’s viticulture alongside cultural highlights like the Sé Catedral and a cork factory.
This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience with a focus on wine and regional cuisine, in a private, relaxed setting. The itinerary balances sightseeing, tasting, and authentic regional flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers seeking a blend of culture and gastronomy on a private day trip.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Évora
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a quick, intimate overview, small-group tours and private luxury experiences offer personalized touches. For active travelers, the 7-day cycling tour provides immersion in the landscape, while scenic adventures like hot-air ballooning are perfect for thrill-seekers.
If your time is limited, a 2-hour small-group tour gets you a quick fix of highlights. For those with a passion for local crafts, the cork factory tour is an authentic choice. Planning ahead and booking early ensures you get your preferred dates, especially during peak season.
To sum it up, Evora’s mix of historical sites, scenic villages, wine tastings, and unique activities makes it a standout destination. For a blend of history and relaxation, the From Lisbon: Évora and Monsaraz with Alentejo Wine Tasting is a top pick. If you’re after an adventurous thrill, the hot air balloon ride will leave you with unforgettable memories. Either way, early booking is recommended to secure the best experiences in this charming region.