Private tour to Evora with optional wine tasting in the cartucha

If you’re considering a day trip from Lisbon to the historic town of Evora, this private tour offers a blend of cultural sights and wine tasting that could fit well into your travel plans. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a good mix for those wanting to see a bit of Alentejo’s charm without a huge hassle.

What really catches our eye are the personalized experience—since it’s private, you and your group get the full focus of the guide, making for a more relaxed and flexible day. Plus, the chance to indulge in wine and olive oil tastings at Herdade da Cartuxa adds a delicious local flavor that many travelers rave about. On the downside, the cost of around $190 per person might seem steep, especially with optional activities like hot air balloon rides, which aren’t included but can be coordinated if booked in advance.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and wine, and who prefer a personalized experience over large group tours. If you’re a wine lover or want to combine sightseeing with a taste of local Alentejo flavors, this could be a winner. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer self-guided adventures, you might find it a bit expensive for what’s included.

Key Points

• Private and personalized, great for intimate groups or families
• Includes cultural stops like the Roman temple, cathedral, and Chapel of Bones
• Wine and olive oil tastings at Herdade da Cartuxa, with the option for a phenomenal lunch
• Flexible options, such as hot air balloon rides, if booked ahead
• Comfortable transport with WiFi and bottled water included
• Balance of sightseeing and tasting, ideal for a relaxed day out

A Closer Look at the Evora Private Tour

Let’s walk through what makes this experience worth considering, along with some honest insights on what you might expect.

The Itinerary: A Taste of History and Flavor

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 a.m., with private pickup in Lisbon, ensuring a smooth start. You’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a big plus for staying cool and connected with WiFi during the journey. The group size is just your party, so no rushing or waiting for others, which helps keep the day relaxed.

First stop: Convento da Cartuxa—but more importantly, the nearby Herdade da Cartuxa for wine and olive oil tasting. Here, you can enjoy a variety of tasting options, including excellent wines and oils, and if you’re lucky, you might get to savor a truly delicious lunch. Many reviews mention the quality of the wines and that tasting here is a highlight, with one reviewer saying, “Traditional winery with wonderful wines,” and noting that even if they didn’t schedule a formal tasting, it was worthwhile to sample at the end of the visit.

Next, you’ll visit Templo Romano de Evora (the Roman temple of Diana), which is free to admire. It’s a quick stop, but enough to give you a glimpse of Evora’s ancient roots. Then, the Cathedral of Evora offers a chance to walk inside and appreciate its architecture, again with no entry fee.

The Chapel of Bones is a somewhat macabre but fascinating site, often drawing visitors interested in its unique decor made from human bones. It’s a 30-minute stop, giving you a brief but impactful experience.

Finally, you’ll enjoy a leisurely walk through Praca do Giraldo, the lively main square, surrounded by cafes and shops. This is a perfect spot to soak in the local atmosphere, do some shopping, or just relax for an hour.

The Wine Experience: A True Highlight

The winetasting at Herdade da Cartuxa is often praised in reviews. One traveler called it “a must-see for anyone passing through Alentejo,” and noted the opportunity to taste “wonderful wines,” and to learn about olive oils too. Many reviewers have expressed that the tasting experience is well worth the visit, especially when combined with an informative guide.

While tasting is included in the tour, it’s important to note that the admission ticket is not included—so you’ll pay for tastings directly at the winery. The experience isn’t just about drinking wine; it’s about understanding the process, the traditions, and the local flavors that make this region special.

Additional Activities and Options

If you’re feeling adventurous and have some extra time, you can opt for a hot air balloon ride over Evora, which many find adds a magical touch to their visit. Just remember, you need to book this separately and coordinate in advance.

The Value: Does it Match the Price?

At around $190 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a lot. The private vehicle, personalized guide, cultural sites, and tastings combine into a comprehensive, stress-free day. Many reviews highlight the good value, especially when you consider the quality of the wines and the delicious food options.

What We Like (and What to Consider)

We love the personalized nature of this tour—no big groups, more flexibility. The diverse stops give a good sense of Evora’s history, from Roman ruins to medieval architecture and quirky sites like the Chapel of Bones.

However, keep in mind that admission costs for tastings and certain sites are extra, so budget accordingly. Also, the duration of 8-9 hours means a fairly long day, so if you prefer relaxed mornings or have young children, this might be a bit tiring.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and those looking for a private, all-in-one day trip from Lisbon. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort, cultural insights, and tasting genuine local products. If you’re seeking an intimate experience with customizable options, this tour could hit the mark.

Not the Best Fit?

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer exploring independently, this might seem a bit pricey. Also, if you’re not a big fan of organized tours, or if you want to spend more time in one specific site, this might not be your best choice.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private tour offers a well-rounded taste of Evora’s historical and gastronomic appeal. The combination of cultural stops, scenic walks, and wine tastings make for a memorable day, especially if you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a relaxed, personalized approach.

While the price point might seem high to some, the quality of the experience—especially the wine tasting at Herdade da Cartuxa—makes it worth considering. Just plan your budget for the additional tasting fees and optional activities like balloon rides.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to explore Evora with knowledgeable guides and the flexibility of a private experience, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally open to most travelers, including children aged 3/4 years and older, especially if they’re comfortable sitting for a few hours. However, keep in mind that sites like the Chapel of Bones might be a bit intense for younger kids.

Does the tour include lunch?
Lunch is not included in the standard package, but many reviews mention that the winery visit features a delicious meal option. You can check with the provider if you want to confirm or arrange lunch beforehand.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m. and ending back at your meeting point in Lisbon.

Are the transportation and vehicle comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and bottled water provided, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable.

Can I book the hot air balloon ride through this tour?
No, the balloon ride is an additional activity that must be booked separately. If you’re interested, inform the tour provider in advance so they can coordinate with the balloon company.

Is the wine tasting included in the price?
No, the tasting itself is an extra that you’ll pay for directly at the winery. The tour includes the visit and tastings, but not the tasting fees.

What are the main highlights of the sightseeing stops?
Expect to see the Roman temple, the cathedral, the Chapel of Bones, and walk around the lively Praça do Giraldo. These sites give a good overview of Evora’s history and character.

How flexible is the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can likely accommodate minor changes or extra time at certain stops, but it’s best to communicate your preferences in advance.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start. Last-minute cancellations will not be refunded, so plan accordingly.

Is there WiFi on board?
Yes, WiFi is available on the vehicle, so you can share photos or stay connected during the drive.

If this sounds like your kind of day out—combining culture, scenic views, and good wine—you might find it a worthwhile way to experience Evora beyond just a quick visit. It’s a tailored, comfortable option for those who want to make the most of their time in Portugal’s Alentejo region.