Have you ever been to a place that made you wonder why it’s not on everyone’s travel radar? Well, that’s exactly how I felt when I visited Évora, Portugal!
This little city in the Alentejo region has everything: history, culture, amazing food, and so many unique things to do. Yet, it doesn’t get as much attention as Lisbon or Porto.
From exploring ancient Roman ruins to trying local dishes, Évora offers a genuine Portuguese experience without the crowds.
If you’re searching for your next travel destination, here are 14 things to do in Évora that will make you want to visit right away!
List of the Best Things to Do in Évora, Portugal
- Explore the Historic Center
- See the Roman Temple of Évora
- Visit Évora Cathedral
- Stroll through Giraldo Square
- Sample Traditional Alentejo Cuisine at a Local Tasca
- Attend a Fado performance
- Check out the Chapel of Bones
- Visit the Church of St. Francis
- Go to the Évora Museum
- Visit the Mystical Almendres Cromlech
- Tour the Palácio de Dom Manuel
- Soak up the outdoors at the Évora Public Garden
- See the Évora Aqueduct
- Enjoy Local Wine
1. Explore The Historic Center
A cultural hub and UNESCO World Heritage site, Évora’s historic center is a must-see. It’s a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful tiles (azulejos), and hidden squares where locals gather. You’ll also find centuries-old churches, quaint cafes serving local delicacies, and artisan shops offering handmade crafts.
2. See the Roman Temple of Évora
Don’t miss the chance to see the Roman Temple of Évora. This ancient site, also known as the Temple of Diana, dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Portugal.
Tip: For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it’s less crowded and the light is perfect for photos.
3. Visit Évora Cathedral
Next on your list of things to do in Évora should be a visit to the Évora Cathedral. This historic gem, dating back to the 13th century, is the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal. Its Gothic architecture with towering spires and intricate details is something you won’t want to miss.
One of the best parts about visiting is the view from the rooftop. It’s a bit of a climb up 135 steps, but once you’re up there, you get this amazing panoramic view of Évora and the countryside around it. Plus, it’s the highest point in the city, so you really get a bird’s-eye view. Perfect for snapping some pictures or just taking it all in.
4. Stroll Through Giraldo Square
No visit to Évora is complete without a leisurely stroll through Giraldo Square – the city’s main hub. Named after Geraldo Geraldes, a Portuguese knight who played an important role in capturing the city from the Moors in the 12th century, this historic square exudes charm.
In the past, Giraldo Square was used for various purposes, including markets, bullfights, and public celebrations.
Today, it’s still a lively center of activity. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it’s the perfect spot to linger over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine while watching the world go by.
5. Sample Traditional Alentejo Cuisine at a Local Tasca
After exploring some of Évora’s historic sites, treat yourself to a traditional Alentejo meal at a local Tasca – a casual eatery where locals gather to enjoy homemade dishes and good conversation.
Alentejo cooking is known for its hearty flavors and use of local ingredients. You’ll find dishes featuring black pork, lamb, and fresh vegetables grown nearby, all seasoned with herbs like oregano and bay leaves for extra flavor.
These dishes, such as açorda, a comforting bread soup with garlic and cilantro, and migas, a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, and regional herbs, reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine for the full Alentejo experience!
6. Attend A Fado Performance
When considering things to do in Évora, experiencing a Fado performance should be at the top of your list. Fado, a deeply emotional genre of Portuguese music, captivates audiences with its poignant lyrics and soulful guitar melodies.
In Évora, you’ll find intimate venues where local musicians pour their hearts into every note, passionately expressing themes of love, longing, and nostalgia.
7. Check Out The Chapel of Bones
For a truly unique experience in Évora, visit the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos). Tucked inside the Church of St. Francis, this site is unlike any other you’ll encounter.
Built in the 16th century, its walls and pillars are adorned with the bones and skulls of around 5,000 people, creating a somber yet thought-provoking atmosphere.
Despite its eerie appearance, the Chapel of Bones offers insight into Évora’s history. It was built at a time when cemeteries were becoming overcrowded, so the bones were arranged by monks as a reminder of life’s shortness and the inevitability of death.
8. Visit the Church of St. Francis
After the Chapel of Bones, don’t skip the Church of St. Francis itself.
Inside, you’ll see a long nave with a high vaulted ceiling, typical of Gothic architecture. There are twelve open-side chapels, each filled with beautiful sculptures and altars done in different artistic styles.
9. Go to the Évora Museum
While Évora may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of museums (hello, Louvre?), the Évora Museum is well worth a visit.
It’s housed within the former Archbishop’s Palace, which is pretty cool in itself, and inside you’ll find a collection of ancient Roman mosaics, medieval sculptures, and religious artifacts. Each piece tells a story, from the intricate designs of Roman times to the spiritual artistry of the Middle Ages.
10. Visit the Mystical Almendres Cromlech
Just a short drive from Évora, the Almendres Cromlech is an ancient stone circle dating back approximately 7,000 years.
The prehistoric site is one of Europe’s oldest megalithic structures and offers a mystical, almost otherworldly experience. The stones are arranged in a circular pattern, and their alignment with the sun and moon hints they had astronomical and spiritual significance for the inhabitants.
11. Tour the Palácio de Dom Manuel
The Palácio de Dom Manuel is a beautiful Renaissance palace that will sweep you off your feet with its gorgeous architecture.
Built in the 16th century during the reign of King Manuel I, the palace was once a royal residence and a center of political and cultural activity.
Today, it’s a museum where you can admire Gothic-inspired elements and unique Manueline touches. As you explore the grand halls and elegant rooms, you’ll get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Portuguese royalty.
12. Soak up the outdoors at the Évora Public Garden
Évora is incredible, no doubt about it. But sometimes, you just need a minute to unwind and recharge before exploring all the amazing things to do here.
The Évora Public Garden – a peaceful oasis right in the heart of the city – is just the answer. Established in the 19th century, this expansive green space spans over 30,000 square meters.
From leisurely strolls along winding pathways to picnics on the lawn, it’s the ideal spot to go if you need a break from sightseeing.
13. See the Évora Aqueduct
Another impressive site in Évora is its aqueduct, stretching 18 kilometers (11 miles) across the city.
Built during the 16th and 17th centuries, the aqueduct served as a vital water supply system for the residents. Stand next to it and you’ll get a sense of its massive scale and the clever engineering behind its construction. You’ll see how it weaves through different neighborhoods, a reminder of its impact on daily life.
From certain spots, you can pause to soak in panoramic views of Évora and the beautiful countryside. It’s a snapshot of how age-old engineering still shapes our modern landscape today!
14. Enjoy Local Wine
Picture this: You’re in Évora, surrounded by ancient architecture and cobblestone streets. Now, add a glass of locally crafted wine to the scene.
Whether you’re lounging at a rustic vineyard or relishing the cozy vibes of a wine bar, the Alentejo wine region has something special to offer. Renowned for its rich, full-bodied wines, this area has a long tradition of wine-making, dating back to Roman times.
From robust reds to crisp whites, each wine captures the unique flavors of its vineyard, where generations of winemakers have perfected their craft. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual sipper, this is your chance to taste the flavors of Alentejo firsthand!
Best Things To Do In Évora – Final Thoughts
There you have it – 14 things to do in Évora, Portugal that will make you want to pack your bags and book a trip!
Évora might not be the largest city, but there’s still plenty to explore. From ancient ruins to cozy wine bars to centuries-old churches, this city has so much to offer.
I hope this list gives you some great ideas for your trip to Évora. Whether you’re into history, love trying new foods, or prefer exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Évora has something for everyone.
And if you’re looking for more things to do and see in Portugal, check out my Ultimate Lisbon Travel Guide!
