From Lisbon: Évora, Chapel of Bones & Alentejo Wine Tour

Exploring Portugal’s interior can sometimes feel like stepping into a storybook — full of history, stunning landscapes, and delicious wines. This small-group tour from Lisbon offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, culture, and tasting regional wines, all wrapped into a 10-hour adventure. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it sounds like a fantastic option for travelers seeking authenticity and comfort.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert local guides bring history and stories to life, making each stop more meaningful. Second, the visit to Évora’s Chapel of Bones is both haunting and poetic, a true reflection of Portuguese eccentricity. Lastly, the chance to taste Alentejo’s renowned wines at a family-run vineyard truly adds an enjoyable and indulgent layer. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the physical demand — expect some hills and walking — so it may not suit those with mobility issues.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to combine history, culture, and wine without the hassle of planning. If you love intimate-sized groups and meaningful encounters over large tour buses, this experience could be perfect.

Good To Know

• Small group size (max 8 guests) ensures a personal experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary: historic Évora, Chapel of Bones, Montemor-o-Novo Castle, and a local winery.
• Expert guidance enriches the visit with local stories and insights.
• Authentic wine tasting at a family-run vineyard offers regional flavors.
• Convenient transport in an air-conditioned minivan makes the long day comfortable.
• Cost-effective at $100 per person for a full day of sightseeing and tasting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Évora, Chapel of Bones & Alentejo Wine Tour

Starting from Lisbon: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins at the Living Tours Lisboa office, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a cozy, air-conditioned minivan. The drive to Évora takes about an hour and a half, which isn’t too long to start your day with anticipation. The small group size — no more than 8 people — ensures a more relaxed pace and an ability to ask questions freely. Plus, it means you’re less likely to feel like just another face in a crowd.

Exploring Évora’s Historic Heart

Once in Évora, the real adventure begins. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance architecture. Our imaginary guide, Rafael, as mentioned in reviews, brings enthusiasm and local knowledge that make the city’s sites come alive.

Chapel of Bones

First up is the Chapel of Bones, a site that’s equal parts eerie and thought-provoking. Covered in skulls and bones, the chapel is a poetic reminder of mortality. The guide explains its history and symbolism, enhancing the impact of the experience. Visitors often find it both unsettling and fascinating, a true highlight that sticks with you long after.

Évora Cathedral and Roman Temple

Next, you’ll visit the Évora Cathedral, where you can marvel at the Gothic architecture and perhaps climb the tower for panoramic city views. Nearby, the Roman Temple (also called the Temple of Diana) offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past, with plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers note that these stops give a well-rounded picture of Évora’s layered history, making the city’s charm even more tangible.

Free Time and Portuguese Lunch

After exploring the key sights, you’re granted some free time to wander. Many visitors recommend trying traditional Portuguese dishes at local cafés — hearty stews, fresh seafood, or regional tapas. This break allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace, which is highly valued in a busy tour schedule.

Medieval Montemor-o-Novo Castle

A scenic 30-minute drive takes you to Montemor-o-Novo Castle, which overlooks the plains and offers sweeping views. You’ll get a quick walk around the ruins, but the real prize is the photo-worthy panorama and the sense of stepping into Portugal’s medieval past. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to stretch their legs and enjoy quiet, scenic vistas.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Savoring Alentejo’s Wines

The highlight for many is the visit to a local, family-run winery in the heart of the Alentejo region. Here, you’ll stroll through vineyards, learn about regional wine-making traditions, and sample four different wines. Many reviews point out that the wines are top-quality, and the tasting is accompanied by regional cheeses and chorizos, elevating the experience.

According to a reviewer, the guide at the winery was “lovely,” and the tasting “very interesting,” confirming the value of visiting smaller, authentic producers rather than larger commercial wineries. This part of the tour appeals to wine lovers and those curious about local food pairings.

Return to Lisbon with Memories and Maybe a Bottle

The journey back takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day. Many guests mention leaving with new knowledge, vivid memories, and perhaps a bottle of Alentejo wine tucked in their luggage.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The use of a comfortable minivan and the small group size (maximum 8 guests) are big selling points. This setup ensures a quieter, more personalized experience, with space to ask questions and move at your own pace. The transport is air-conditioned, crucial on hot days, and the itinerary is well-paced to avoid rushing.

Duration and Pacing

The tour runs for about 10 hours, which might seem long but is packed with diverse stops that balance sightseeing with tasting. The schedule includes approximately 3 hours in Évora, a 30-minute castle visit, and 1.5 hours at the winery. While some guests wish for more time in Évora—especially to explore beyond the main sites—the overall pacing works well for most.

Cost and Value

At $100 per person, this tour offers good value considering the guided visits, multiple site entrances, and wine tastings. Entrance to the Chapel of Bones, Montemor-o-Novo Castle, and the winery are all included, which can add up if you were to visit independently. The small group ensures a more intimate and engaging experience, enhancing the value further.

What’s Not Included

Meals and personal expenses are on you, so plan for lunch in Évora or bring snacks. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel are also not included, so you’ll need to arrange transport to the meeting point in Lisbon. Reviewers note that the meeting point at Rua da Conceição is easy to find, and the tour offers flexibility with cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

What Reviewers Say

Guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and the engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned Rafael, the guide, as making the trip “the best,” emphasizing how a passionate guide can elevate the experience. Several reviewers appreciated the wine tastings, calling them “very interesting” and “delicious,” especially noting the regional flavors and local cheeses.

Some did mention that the hilly terrain in Évora and the castle might be challenging for those with mobility issues. Others wished for slightly more time in Évora, but generally, the balance between sightseeing and tasting was well-received.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience suits history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and those craving authentic local encounters. If you prefer intimate groups and insightful guides, you’ll appreciate the personalized touch. It’s also ideal for those who want a full day out without the stress of planning logistics or navigating alone in unfamiliar territory.

Travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a very relaxed, accessible experience might want to consider the physical demands, especially since some walking and hill climbs are involved.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at the specified meeting point in Lisbon. You’ll need to arrange transport to Rua da Conceição, but it’s a central and easy-to-find location.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Évora?
Approximately 1.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.

Are the sites included in the tour accessible?
The tour involves some walking and hill climbing, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What is the cost of the tour?
It costs around $100 per person, which covers guided visits, entrance tickets to key sites, and wine tastings.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, water, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Some guests also bring snacks for the free time.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the start date.

Final Thoughts

This small-group tour from Lisbon offers an excellent blend of history, culture, and regional wine tasting, all delivered by knowledgeable guides in a cozy setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Portugal’s interior without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves. The inclusion of sites like the Chapel of Bones and Montemor-o-Novo Castle, combined with authentic wine tastings, makes this a well-rounded, memorable day.

While it demands some walking and a full day’s commitment, the comfort, intimacy, and depth of experience make it worth considering. If you’re looking for a manageable, engaging way to understand Portugal’s Alentejo region, this tour could be just what you need.

In essence, this experience is best suited for curious explorers, wine lovers, and history enthusiasts eager to connect with Portugal’s traditions in a small-group setting. It offers a true taste of the region’s cultural and culinary delights, all wrapped up in a thoughtfully curated day trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: