Evora and Vila Viçosa, Secrets of Southern Portugal

Tucked away in the heart of Southern Portugal, the enchanting towns of Évora and Vila Viçosa beckon travelers to uncover their captivating histories. Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts ancient Roman architecture and a vibrant cultural tapestry, while Vila Viçosa enchants with its scenic landscapes. Visitors can indulge in the region’s renowned Alentejo cuisine, savoring traditional delicacies and award-winning wines. With easy accessibility and seamless amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Portugal’s hidden gems. Discover the secrets that these charming destinations hold, as you embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Southern Portugal’s past and present.

Key Points

• This tour takes visitors to the historic cities of Évora and Vila Viçosa, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of southern Portugal.
• Highlights include visiting ancient Roman and medieval monuments, exploring traditional cuisine and local wines, and experiencing the region’s architectural and archaeological wonders.
• The tour offers flexibility in duration, ranging from 4 to 8 hours, catering to the preferences and pace of the participants.
• Accessibility features, such as wheelchair-friendly transportation and multilingual guides, make the tour inclusive for travelers of all abilities and backgrounds.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a range of pickup options in Lisbon ensure convenience and flexibility for booking the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour named ‘Évora and Vila Viçosa, secrets of Southern Portugal’ offers a comprehensive exploration of the region, with a price range starting from $207.46 per person and a duration of 4 to 8 hours.

Pickup is available in Lisbon, and the tour is wheelchair accessible. It’s offered in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This enriching experience showcases the historical and cultural treasures of Évora and Vila Viçosa, providing an immersive journey into the secrets of southern Portugal.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the tour, visitors travel to Évora, a 1.5-hour car ride from Lisbon. In Évora, they can expect a jam-packed 3-hour agenda, including photo stops, a guided tour, and free time for shopping and sightseeing.

Afterwards, an optional 1.5-hour lunch at a regional restaurant offers a chance to savor local cuisine.

The tour then continues to Vila Viçosa, another 1-hour drive, where guests enjoy photo stops, a guided tour, free time for shopping and sightseeing, and 1.5 hours in this charming town.

The day concludes with a 2-hour drive back to Lisbon, providing a well-rounded exploration of southern Portugal’s historic gems.

Historical Significance

Évora’s history dates back over 5,000 years, with remnants of ancient civilization including cromlechs and dolmens.

During the Roman Empire, it was known as Liberalitas Julia and contains impressive medieval architecture, high walls, and narrow streets that have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status since 1986.

The city’s key monuments include the Roman Temple of Évora (also known as the Temple of Diana), the Church of São Francisco and its Chapel of Bones, and the stunning Cathedral of Évora.

The historic town square, Praça do Giraldo, and the city’s aqueduct are also must-see attractions that offer a glimpse into Évora’s rich past.

Culinary Experience

Visitors can savor local delicacies during the lunch stop, which features regional cuisine from the Alentejo, known for producing some of Portugal’s finest wines.

Sericaia, a traditional plum dessert, is also available for tasting. This culinary experience allows travelers to enjoy the rich flavors of Southern Portugal.

The tour highlights some of the region’s most beloved dishes, showcasing the diversity and quality of Alentejo’s gastronomic offerings.

Key highlights include:

• Hearty regional dishes made with local ingredients

• Sampling of award-winning Alentejo wines

• Tasting of the signature Sericaia dessert

• Opportunity to learn about traditional cooking methods

• Appreciation for the culinary heritage of Southern Portugal

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Accessibility and Cancellation

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing travelers of all abilities to explore the historical sites.

Plus, the cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants. This ensures that guests can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The wide range of language options, including English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, also caters to an international audience, making the tour accessible to a diverse group of visitors.

Whether you’re planning your trip well in advance or making last-minute changes, this tour offers convenience and inclusivity for an enjoyable experience in southern Portugal.

Pickup Location and Languages

This tour offers the convenience of pickup from Lisbon, allowing travelers to easily access the historical gems of southern Portugal.

Catering to an international audience, the tour is available in a range of languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

This linguistic diversity ensures that visitors from around the world can fully enjoy the rich cultural experience of Évora and Vila Viçosa.

The availability of multiple languages enhances the tour’s accessibility and ensures that no guest is left behind.

Key languages offered include:

• English

• French

• German

• Italian

• Portuguese

• Spanish

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes monument tickets, lunch booking, and a souvenir at the end of the service, as well as food for toddlers.

However, it excludes any extra items not included in the lunch and purchases not mentioned, such as souvenirs, and tips.

The monument tickets are provided if requested in advance, and the lunch booking is available if requested ahead of time.

Guests can enjoy a taste of the local delicacies, including Sericaia with plum and a wine tasting from the renowned Alentejo region.

While the tour covers the key highlights, any additional expenses incurred during the trip will be the responsibility of the participants.

Duration and Price

From the tour’s inclusions and exclusions, the duration and price details follow.

The tour is offered at a base price of $207.46 per person and lasts between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the traveler’s preferences and pace. This flexible duration allows visitors to fully enjoy the rich history and culture of Évora and Vila Viçosa.

Some key factors that can influence the tour length include:

• Time spent at historical sites and monuments

• Allocation for lunch and regional tastings

• Opportunities for shopping and exploring local neighborhoods

• Pace and interest level of the group

• Any additional stops or activities requested by the travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Customers can request to extend the tour length, which may incur an additional fee. The tour provider will work with customers to accommodate any requests for a longer tour experience.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Group Bookings?

Yes, this tour provider offers group discounts. For bookings of 4 or more people, there is a 10% discount applied to the total cost. Larger groups may be eligible for additional savings, so it’s recommended to inquire about group rates when booking.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for this tour, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should dress casually and be prepared for some walking during the tour.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

The tour allows for some customization to suit travelers’ preferences. Guests can request changes to the itinerary, such as adding or removing activities, within reasonable limits. The tour provider is typically happy to accommodate personalized requests when possible.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the tour is not specified in the provided information. However, private tours and customized itineraries may be available upon request, which could accommodate group preferences. Interested parties should inquire with the tour operator for specific group size details.

Recap

This captivating journey through Southern Portugal unveils the enchanting towns of Évora and Vila Viçosa.

Explore Évora’s UNESCO-listed heritage, marvel at ancient Roman architecture, and indulge in the region’s renowned Alentejo cuisine and wines.

With its scenic landscapes and accessible amenities, this adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Portugal’s hidden gems, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a unique cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: