After you meet your guide at your central Lisbon hotel, begin your small-group tour to Évora with a drive east across the Vasco da Gama Bridge. After crossing the the Tagus River spend the next 1.5 hours gazing across the beautiful Alentejo region. Hear about the cork and olive trees, vineyards and produce that populate this serene countryside.
Arrive in the city of Évora and discover its abundance of culture, heritage and history formed by centuries of influence. Learn why Évora became a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town as you step into the St Francis, a well preserved church built in Gothic-Manueline style. Inside wander to the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), built in the 16th century, which displays human skulls and bones upon its walls.
Afterwards, explore the Roman Temple’s remnants which date back to the 1st century and visit the gardens around the palace of King Manuel where explorer Vasco da Gama was commanded to find a route to India. Next, ogle the Cathedral of Évora (Sé de Évora) constructed between late 13th and early 14th centuries. Then, promenade along charming streets and under Gothic arches in Évora’s main Giraldo Square (Praça do Giraldo).
Take a break from your guided tour and explore the historical streets on your own. Grab lunch at a place of your choice (own expense) and spend time ducking into a few souvenir shops.
Finally, hop aboard your vehicle and continue to Almendres Cromlech, one of Europe’s largest stone complexes. Arrive and see an astounding structure of menhirs (huge stone monoliths positioned upright) put here about 7000 years ago. Afterwards, return to Lisbon at a choice of two centrally located drop off points; Marquês de Pombal or Rossio.