Private Full day tour from Lisbon to Evora with wine tasting

Thinking of exploring the charming city of Évora beyond just a quick visit? This private full-day tour promises a mix of history, culture, and delicious wine, all comfortably delivered in a luxury vehicle. While it’s not a budget tour, the curated experience offers quite a bit for those wanting a deeper look into Portugal’s Alentejo region without the hassle of planning each step.

What truly draws us to this experience are three main things: the chance to walk through a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the opportunity to sample outstanding local wines, and the flexibility to explore nearby treasures like Monsaraz or Vila Viçosa. The tour’s private nature ensures personalized attention, which can be a real plus for families or couples seeking a more tailored day out.

However, one point to consider is the total duration—nine hours might feel long for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want more time at specific sites. Still, for those who enjoy rich sightseeing and culture, it’s a well-balanced day. This tour suits travelers who love history, architecture, scenic drives, and wine, offering a good mix of all four without feeling rushed.

Good To Know

• Private and Personalized: Tailored to your group with a professional driver and guide.
• History & Culture: Explore iconic sites like the Roman Temple, Évora Cathedral, and the Chapel of Bones.
• Wine Tasting Included: A 1.5-hour guided session with four high-quality wines.
• Flexible Excursions: Option to extend your trip to nearby towns like Monsaraz or Vila Viçosa.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with air-conditioned transport.
• Duration & Price: 9 hours, costing $266 per person—considered good value for a full day of guided exploration.

You can check if your dates are available here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from one of five Lisbon-area locations, including Carcavelos, Sintra, Cascais, Lisbon, or Estoril. The use of a comfortable, air-conditioned van sets a relaxed tone for the day, giving you ample space to enjoy the scenic drive through the Alentejo plains.

The transfer time from Lisbon to Évora is about 105 minutes, giving you a good chance to settle in and enjoy the countryside views. The journey itself feels like a preview of what’s to come—rolling hills, olive groves, and quaint villages that hint at the region’s rustic charm.

Walking Tour of Évora

Once in Évora, the real magic begins. The walking tour of the city lasts around three hours, with your guide leading you through its historic streets and explaining the significance of each site. We loved the way the tour balances major landmarks with hidden corners that reveal the city’s layered past.

You’ll start at Praça do Giraldo, the vibrant central square lined with cafes perfect for a coffee and a pastel de nata. The square’s lively atmosphere offers a window into everyday life, with street performers and local vendors adding to the scene. From here, the tour unfolds to include:

• The Church of Santo Antão and the marble Chafariz fountain, both perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the medieval ambiance.
• The Igreja de São Francisco and the Capela dos Ossos, a chapel decorated with human bones—the kind of site that leaves a lasting impression and sparks conversations about mortality and history.
• The Roman Temple of Évora (Diana), one of the best-preserved Roman structures in the entire Iberian Peninsula, showcasing ancient engineering.
• The Évora Cathedral, where climbing to the rooftop rewards you with sweeping views of the city and surrounding plains.
• The University of Évora with its picturesque Mannerist architecture offers insight into Portugal’s academic past.

Wine Tasting Experience

After soaking up the sights, you’ll head to a renowned local winery for a 1.5-hour guided tasting. Here, in English, you’ll sample four distinguished wines paired with crackers. The reviews mention that the wines are “exceptional,” allowing even casual wine lovers to appreciate the region’s rich viticultural tradition.

Guests reported that the guide’s explanations of wine-making processes and regional differences added extra flavor to the tasting. The relaxed environment means you can ask questions and savor each sip, making this a highlight for wine enthusiasts.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Excursions to Nearby Towns

Post-wine, the tour offers the chance to extend your exploration by visiting nearby treasures like Vila Viçosa, known for its royal legacy and marble architecture; Monsaraz, a hilltop medieval village with breathtaking views over Alqueva Lake; or the Évoramonte Castle, a fortress built after the Moorish conquest. Each option takes about 30-45 minutes from Évora, and your guide can help tailor the trip based on your interests.

Practical Considerations

This tour is designed with comfort and convenience in mind—hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, and a professional driver ensure a smooth experience. It’s important to note the extra costs for baby car seats (10 euros) if traveling with infants, and that Portugal mandates the use of child seats for children and babies.

The total tour duration is nine hours, and additional hours are available for extra payment directly to the driver. The flexibility allows you to customize or extend your day, which we found helpful. Cancellation policies are straightforward: full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance, with penalties for late cancellations.

What We Appreciated

Many reviews highlight the stunning views from the rooftop of Évora Cathedral and the picturesque charm of the nearby towns. The private aspect ensures your group isn’t lost in a crowd, and the personal guide often shares lesser-known stories that bring the sites to life.

The balance of sightseeing, culture, and wine tasting makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to Alentejo’s treasures. You’re also spared the stress of driving or navigating public transport, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying each moment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, wine lovers, and those who appreciate a luxurious, private setting. If you want a comprehensive day exploring Portugal’s lesser-known gems without the hassle of planning, it’s an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for small groups, couples, or families who want a personalized experience.

Travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural landmarks, and wine tasting will find this tour offers great value. The flexible itinerary means you can prioritize certain sights or add optional visits, making it adaptable for different interests.

Final Thoughts

This full-day private tour from Lisbon to Évora delivers a compelling combination of historic exploration, scenic beauty, and wine tasting in one well-organized package. The private aspect and thoughtful itinerary make it a standout for travelers who prefer tailored experiences over generic group excursions.

While nine hours might seem long for some, the variety of sights and tastes ensures that every moment feels enriching and enjoyable. It’s a fantastic way to see the Alentejo’s highlights without the stress of figuring out logistics or rushing through sights.

If you’re after an authentic, comfortable, and culturally immersive day trip, this tour offers solid value and memorable experiences—perfect for making the most of your time in Portugal’s heartland.

FAQs

How early can I be picked up? Pickup times are based on your booking and will be confirmed via email within 24 hours. You can select from five pickup locations around Lisbon.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, but there’s a requirement to inform the provider about your child’s age, height, and weight so that the appropriate car seat can be provided. Child seats cost €10 if you choose to rent from the driver.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and some snacks or food for the day.

Are meal costs included? No, meals are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan for lunch on your own.

How long is the drive back to Lisbon? The return journey takes about 105 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour offers optional extensions to nearby towns like Monsaraz, Vila Viçosa, or Évoramonte, which your guide can help arrange.

What languages are available for the guide? The tour is offered in English, French, German, and Portuguese.

Is the tour suitable for seniors or those with mobility issues? The walking parts are moderate, but it’s best to check with the provider regarding specific mobility needs.

What happens if I need extra time? Extra hours beyond the nine-hour standard are available at additional cost, paid directly to the driver.

What is the cancellation policy? Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Penalties apply for later cancellations.

To sum it up, this private full-day tour combines the allure of Évora’s ancient monuments, scenic drives through Alentejo, and a relaxing wine tasting experience. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Portugal’s cultural gems while enjoying personalized comfort.

You can check if your dates are available here: