Evora Day Trip 2026: The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary & Top Sights
Last Updated: January 2026 | Reading Time: 12 Minutes
Are you planning a Evora day trip from Lisbon in 2026? This comprehensive guide outlines the perfect 1-day itinerary to discover the soul of the Alentejo region. From the ancient Roman Temple to the haunting Bone Chapel, learn exactly how to navigate the drive, where to park for free, and where to eat the best Sopa da Cação.
Expert Insight: "Evora is not just a museum; it's a living city. To see the top sights in one day, you must arrive early, park centrally, and prioritize the walking loop between the Cathedral and the Aqueduct. The Alentejo sun is unforgiving in summer, so hydration is key." — Travel Writer, Lisbon to Alentejo Specialist
Logistics: Getting from Lisbon to Evora in 2026
Located 130km southeast of the capital, Evora is easily accessible. However, the journey requires planning to maximize your daylight hours.
By Car: The A6 Highway
The most flexible option for a Evora day trip by car is the A6 toll road. It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Tolls: Expect to pay roughly €10–€15 round trip. Most rental cars now include automatic toll transponders (Via Verde), but check your contract.
- Fuel: Fill up in Lisbon; prices rise in the Alentejo interior.
The Parking Puzzle (Crucial Advice)
Do not attempt to drive inside Evora's medieval walls. Streets are narrow and restricted.
Target Parking: Parking do Giraldo (Underground)
Praça do Giraldo, 7000-000 Évora, Portugal
Cost:
Approx. €1.40/hour (2026 rates).
Why:
It drops you off immediately at the main square, the start of your walking tour.
The 1-Day Evora Itinerary: Top Sights Walking Tour
This route is designed to minimize backtracking and cover the best things to do in Evora in one day.
1. The Roman Temple (Templo Romano de Évora)
Start your morning stepping out into the Largo do Conde de Vila Flor. These 1st-century Corinthian columns are the city's most iconic landmark and are free to view.
Largo do Conde de Vila Flor, 7000-000 Évora
Hours: 24/7 (exterior). Cost: Free.
2. Evora Cathedral (Sé Catedral de Évora)
Walk uphill to the Evora Cathedral, the largest medieval church in Portugal. The exterior is fortress-like, but the interior is serene. Don't skip the Cloister of the Lilies and the roof terrace for panoramic views of the Alentejo plains.
Largo do Marquês de Marialva, 7000-000 Évora
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Winter) / 7:00 PM (Summer). Cost: €5.00.
3. The Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos)
Walk toward the São Francisco church. This is the most macabre yet fascinating stop. The walls and pillars are decorated with the skulls and bones of over 5,000 monks.
Igreja de São Francisco, Largo de São Francisco, 7000-000 Évora
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Winter) / 6:00 PM (Summer). Cost: €5.00.
4. Lunch: Alentejo Gastronomy
By 1:30 PM, you will be hungry. The Alentejo region is famous for bread-based stews and pork.
- Restaurante Fialho (Historic): Order the Sopa da Cação (Dogfish Soup).
- Restaurante O Toucinho (Rustic): Famous for Açorda Alentejana and Porco Preto.
- Casa de São Paulo (Budget): Look for the "Prato do Dia" (Daily Special) for a cheap, authentic meal.
5. The Aqueduct of Silver Water (Aqueduto de Água de Prata)
After lunch, head to the lower part of the city to see the 16th-century aqueduct. It is unique because people live underneath the arches. It is a surreal sight and a great photo op.
Av. Dr. José de Almada, 7000-000 Évora
Cost: Free.
6. Wine Tasting at Catraio
You cannot visit the Alentejo without tasting the wine. If you can't make it to a vineyard, head to Catraio Wine Bar near the main square for a tasting flight of regional reds.
Rua da Moita 10, 7000-000 Évora
7. Sunset at the Museum of Evora Gardens
End your day at the gardens behind the Museum of Evora (former Ducal Palace). It offers a quiet, romantic spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, illuminating the Roman Temple in the distance.
2026 Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Traveling to Evora doesn't have to break the bank. Here is an estimate for a cheap Evora day trip:
- Car Split (4 people): €15 (Gas & Tolls)
- Parking: €4 (Shared day rate)
- Sights (Cathedral + Chapel): €10
- Lunch (Prato do Dia): €12
- Total (excluding car rental): ~€41 per person
Final Thoughts for Your Evora Adventure
A day trip to Evora in 2026 is a journey through time. You will walk on Roman pavement, pray in a Gothic cathedral, and contemplate mortality in the Bone Chapel. By following this itinerary, you ensure you see the top sights without feeling rushed.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes—the streets are cobbled and steep. Hydrate often, and enjoy the slow pace of the Alentejo life.
Back to Top
