Small-Group Full-Day Guided Tour of Évora and Almendres Cromlech from Lisbon

The capital city of Portugal’s Alentejo, Évora is one of the most well-preserved medieval towns and a definite must-visit when you are in Portugal. Megalithic stones, wineries, wheat plains, beautiful local cuisine, and welcoming people are only a few of the reasons why you should visit and this tour allows you to experience it all and more.

Settle in for a guided day tour of Évora that begins with a scenic drive from Lisbon in an air-conditioned minivan. Your first stop would be the beautiful sights of St Francis Church and Giraldo Square before heading over to Almendres Cromlech. The Almendres Cromlech is a megalithic site made of granite menhir stones placed in two circles, a one-of-a-kind structure.

Your next stop is the much-awaited city of Évora itself where you will find a plethora of local crafts and deliciously authentic cuisine. In the city, you will also visit the Roman Temple and the largest gothic cathedral in Portugal, Sé.

Finally, end your tour with a visit to the Church of San Francisco and the famous Chapel of Bones followed by olive oil tasting from regional Alentejo before heading back to Lisbon.

Small-Group Full-Day Guided Tour of Évora and Almendres Cromlech from Lisbon

This small-group full-day guided tour from Lisbon offers a deep dive into the historical roots of Portugal, featuring stops at UNESCO World Heritage Site Évora and the ancient megalithic complex of Almendres Cromlech. Explore Giraldo Square, home to the Roman Temple and Sé Cathedral, both key landmarks in Évora's rich history. The tour includes a visit to St Francis Church and the Chapel of Bones, each with unique architectural features and historical significance. With guided commentary available in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, this 8-hour excursion provides an immersive experience covering approximately 150 kilometers from Lisbon. Join us as we delve into the ancient history of Portugal through its remarkable landmarks.

Marvel at Almendres Cromlech

Your tour stops at Almendres Cromlech, a megalithic complex near Évora that is thought to be the oldest stone circle in Europe, predating Stonehenge by nearly 200 years. Established around 5,000 BCE, this site comprises over 90 standing stones arranged in two concentric circles and an oval shape covering approximately 13 acres of land. Visitors can walk among these ancient stones, each ranging from 1 to 4 meters high, and marvel at the intricate patterns they form. The complex is believed to have served as a ceremonial site for prehistoric communities during the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods. Unlike other megalithic sites in Europe, Almendres Cromlech offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the earliest phases of stone circle construction, providing insights into the spiritual beliefs and practices of ancient civilizations.

Explore Évora's Roman Temple

Your tour continues at the Roman Temple, a well-preserved monument in Évora that dates back to the 1st century BCE. This temple, measuring approximately 20 meters by 15 meters, is dedicated to Emperor Augustus and features six columns on each side and two at the entrance, standing around 8 meters tall. The temple's impressive architecture includes finely carved decorations and inscriptions, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of ancient Romans. Unlike many other Roman temples that have been significantly altered over time, Évora’s Roman Temple remains largely intact, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the grandeur of Roman imperial worship. Spend about 30 minutes here to appreciate its historical significance.

Discover Évora's Sé Cathedral

Your tour takes you next to Évora's Sé Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in Portugal and one of the most significant religious landmarks in the country. Construction began around 1280 CE and was completed over two centuries with a final expansion in the late 15th century. The cathedral covers an area of about 7,000 square meters and stands at approximately 46 meters high, featuring intricate Gothic architecture including flying buttresses and pointed arches. Visitors can explore its impressive interior adorned with stained glass windows, chapels dedicated to saints, and a stunning main altar. Unlike other cathedrals that focus solely on religious services, Évora’s Sé Cathedral also serves as an important cultural center hosting various events throughout the year.

Visit St Francis Church

Your tour continues with a visit to St Francis Church in Évora, known for its distinctive baroque architecture and rich history dating back to the 14th century. The church features a beautiful façade adorned with intricate carvings and statues that reflect the religious fervor of the period. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate chapels dedicated to various saints and explore the cloisters where monks once lived and prayed. Unlike other churches in Portugal that are primarily used for worship services, St Francis Church also offers guided tours showcasing its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Marvel at Évora's Chapel of Bones

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Chapel of Bones, an eerie yet fascinating attraction within Évora’s Church of San Francisco. Built in the 16th century as a warning against vanity and the fleeting nature of life, this small chapel is covered entirely in human bones and skulls arranged in intricate patterns along its walls. The ossuary houses approximately 5000 skeletons collected from various cemeteries across Évora, creating a haunting yet thought-provoking atmosphere. Unlike other ossuaries around the world that are primarily religious sites, Évora’s Chapel of Bones also serves as an educational tool, offering visitors insights into historical burial practices and cultural attitudes towards death.

Tour Highlights

• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Évora
• Marvel at Almendres Cromlech, Europe's oldest stone circle
• Explore Roman Temple dating back to 1st century BCE
• Discover the largest Gothic cathedral in Portugal
• Enjoy guided tours available in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French
• Walk among ancient stones at Almendres Cromlech covering 13 acres of land
• Marvel at intricate carvings and statues inside St Francis Church
• Admire the ornate chapels dedicated to various saints within Sé Cathedral

Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and cultural explorers, this full-day guided tour provides an in-depth look into Portugal's ancient past. The 8-hour excursion allows you to explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Évora, marvel at the oldest stone circle in Europe, visit a Roman temple dating back to the 1st century BCE, and discover the largest Gothic cathedral in Portugal, offering unique insights into historical landmarks while enjoying guided commentary in multiple languages.