Lisbon: Private Tour Evora with Wine Tasting at the Cartuxa

Planning a day trip from Lisbon that combines history, culture, and a touch of wine indulgence? This private tour to Évora with a visit to the Cartuxa Winery might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into the details to help you decide if it’s a good fit, and honestly, it offers some real highlights — but also a few things to keep in mind.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch of a private guided tour, which means you get to explore at your own pace and have your questions answered directly. The chance to walk through Évora’s UNESCO-listed streets and see landmarks like the Roman Temple and the Chapel of Bones is pretty special. And then, of course, the opportunity to sample regional wines at Cartuxa — a highlight for anyone who enjoys a good glass and wants to learn more about Alentejo’s wine scene.

One possible drawback? The tour lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a full day, and you’ll need to be comfortable with some walking. Also, while the tour covers major sights, entry to monuments isn’t included, meaning there are extra costs if you want to go inside certain places. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of cultural discovery and wine tasting, and who value having a private guide to enrich the experience.

If you’re looking for an engaging, well-rounded day outside Lisbon that offers a taste of history and local flavors, this tour could be a good choice. Let’s take a closer look at what it involves.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Enjoy the comfort and flexibility of a private guide.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Évora’s UNESCO World Heritage Site landmarks.
• Wine Tasting: Sample 3 wines at Cartuxa Winery, with options for more.
• Flexible Schedule: Check availability for your preferred start time.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, water, and guide included.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees and meals are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey to Évora: What to Expect

We love the way this tour begins with a comfortable pickup at your Lisbon hotel — no need to worry about logistics, as everything is taken care of. The drive itself is likely to be smooth, with WiFi and air conditioning on board, making the 8-hour experience feel effortless.

Once in Évora, the real joy starts. You’ll walk through a city that’s practically a living museum, with cobbled streets and architecture that tell stories of the Romans, Moors, and medieval Portugal. The Roman Temple, often called the Temple of Diana, is a standout — impressive enough to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

The Évora Cathedral is another must-see. Its Gothic facade gives way to a stunning interior, and climbing the rooftop offers views over the city’s terracotta rooftops. Giraldo Square is the heart of the city, buzzing with cafes and street performers, perfect for a quick pause or a coffee.

The São Francisco Church and Chapel of Bones is a memorable stop. The chapel’s interior is lined with skulls and bones, creating a haunting yet fascinating space. Some reviews mention that it’s a bit eerie but also a powerful reminder of the city’s history.

Lunch and Free Time

After exploring the main sights, you’ll have some free time for lunch. This is a good chance to try local dishes or just relax and soak in the atmosphere. Since the tour doesn’t include lunch, you might find some good options in or around the main square.

The Highlight: Cartuxa Winery and Wine Tasting

The second half of your day takes you to the Eugenio de Almeida Foundation (Cartuxa Winery). Here, you’ll get a guided tour of the winery, where you’ll learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and the specific methods used at Cartuxa.

The tasting includes three carefully selected wines, giving you a sense of what makes Alentejo reds so approachable and fruity. Some reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the knowledgeable guides who make the tasting feel personal and educational. If you’re a wine enthusiast, there’s the option for additional tastings too, which you can arrange beforehand.

The winery visit is a highlight for many, especially because it offers insight into the local wine culture, which is a significant part of the region’s identity. Plus, the setting itself — often surrounded by vineyards — makes for a relaxing, scenic conclusion to your day.

Transportation and Comfort

The private transportation ensures a relaxed experience, with the driver/guide handling all logistics. The vehicle is equipped with WiFi and air conditioning, making the journey pleasant even on warmer days. The group size is private, so you’re not stuck in a large crowd, which is a real plus for intimacy and flexibility.

You’ll need to wear comfortable shoes because some walking is involved, especially at the monuments and city streets. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.

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Pricing and Value

At $412 per person, this tour might seem pricey, but when you factor in private transportation, a guided experience, and a wine tasting, it offers good value, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple. The personalized attention and the convenience of door-to-door pickup make the cost worthwhile for many.

Of course, additional expenses like entrance fees or meals aren’t included, so it’s worth budgeting for those. Still, if you’re keen on a comprehensive, guided day outside Lisbon, this experience hits many marks.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the comfortable, private nature of the tour. One reviewer mentioned that the guide “made the city come alive,” and others appreciated the chance to see Évora without the hassle of figuring things out on their own.

Some users noted that the Chapel of Bones is quite chilling but worth the visit for its uniqueness. The winery visit gets applause too, with many highlighting the quality of wines and the friendliness of the guides.

A few points to keep in mind: the tour is quite full, so if you prefer more time at specific sights or want to explore inside monuments, you might need to plan ahead for additional tickets. Also, some days may have a later start, so check availability in advance to align with your travel plans.

If you enjoy history, architecture, and wine, this tour offers an engaging way to experience Évora without the stress of self-guided navigation. It’s especially suited for those who value private, personalized experiences and want to learn directly from knowledgeable guides.

Travelers who prefer a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting will find it hits the right notes. Keep in mind it’s a full day, so folks who aren’t keen on walking or long trips might want to consider their comfort options.

This tour makes for a memorable, relaxed way to see one of Portugal’s most beautiful and historically significant towns, paired with a taste of its renowned wines.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is primarily aimed at adults, it could be suitable for older children interested in history and wine. However, younger kids might find the walking and the length a bit taxing.

Are entrance tickets to monuments included?
No, entry to monuments isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay for those separately if you want to go inside. The tour covers the highlights from the outside and the city’s major landmarks.

Can I customize the wine tasting?
Yes, there are options for additional wine tastings at Cartuxa, which can be arranged ahead of time with the provider.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended as you’ll be walking through city streets and visiting sites. Bring a camera too!

Is pickup offered from any hotel in Lisbon?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at your Lisbon hotel, making the logistics straightforward.

What happens if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella or raincoat if the forecast isn’t clear.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Évora?
The drive is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic, making it a manageable journey in a private, comfortable vehicle.

This private tour to Évora with a wine tasting at Cartuxa offers a well-rounded glimpse into Portugal’s cultural and vinicultural soul. Whether you’re a history lover or a wine connoisseur, it provides a relaxed, informative, and immersive experience that’s worth considering if you want to escape Lisbon for a day.

You can check availability for your dates here: