Lisbon: Private Tour Evora with Wine Tasting at the Cartuxa

Lisbon: Private Tour Évora with Wine Tasting at the Cartuxa

Imagine a day spent exploring one of Portugal’s most captivating cities, Évora, with its ancient streets, Roman ruins, and iconic cathedral—then winding down with a glass of locally produced wine at a renowned winery. For $412 per person, this 8-hour private tour offers a relaxed, personalized journey from Lisbon, complete with comfortable transport, expert guidance, and a memorable wine tasting.

We especially appreciate how this experience combines cultural discovery with gastronomic pleasure—it’s a well-rounded way to get a taste of the Alentejo’s history and flavors. The tour’s highlights, like the Chapel of Bones and a visit to the Cartuxa Winery, stand out for their authenticity and depth.

One thing to consider is that entry tickets to monuments are not included, so you might want to budget extra for entrance fees. Also, some walking is involved, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and wine, and prefer the comfort of a private guide to avoid large crowds and rigid schedules. It’s ideal for those with limited time but a desire to experience both the cultural and culinary sides of Portugal.

Key Points

• Private and Comfortable: Travel in a private vehicle with WiFi and air conditioning, ensuring a relaxed experience.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the Roman Temple, Évora Cathedral, Giraldo Square, and the Chapel of Bones with a knowledgeable guide.
• Wine Experience: Enjoy a guided tour and tasting of 3 curated wines at Cartuxa Winery, a highlight for wine enthusiasts.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with the option to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Bottled water and a personal guide make this a stress-free day trip.
• Ideal for: History lovers, wine enthusiasts, small private groups, and travelers seeking a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Comfortable Transport and Easy Start

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Lisbon, making the morning hassle-free. Your guide, whose name and expertise you’ll appreciate, meets you in the lobby, and you hop into a private vehicle equipped with WiFi and air-conditioning. This small detail makes all the difference on a warm day—no sharing space with strangers, and your guide can answer questions en route.

The drive itself takes about an hour, during which we loved the way our guide shared insights into the Alentejo region’s landscape and history. This is a good chance to get excited about what’s ahead and ask questions in a relaxed setting.

Exploring Évora: A City Frozen in Time

Once in Évora, the city’s UNESCO status makes sense immediately as you wander through its cobblestone streets. The highlight is undoubtedly the Roman Temple, a well-preserved relic that provides a tangible connection to ancient times. As we admired the towering columns, we appreciated how the history is woven into everyday life here—cafés and shops sit beside centuries-old structures.

Next, we visited the Évora Cathedral, where the blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture reflects centuries of religious and cultural change. Climbing to the roof offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding countryside, a must-see for shutterbugs and sightseers.

The Giraldo Square, a lively hub, offers a glimpse into local life, with cafes and markets filling the space. We loved the chance to soak in the atmosphere, watching locals go about their day.

The São Francisco Church and the Chapel of Bones are both memorable. The chapel’s macabre display of bones and skulls is both chilling and fascinating—an honest reminder of mortality, and a piece of Portugal’s regional history. Some reviews described it as “a must-see for curious travelers,” which we agree with. Be prepared for the slightly eerie ambiance, but also for the chance to witness something authentically local.

Lunch Break and Free Time

After a morning packed with sightseeing, you’ll have some free time for lunch, perhaps trying a local Alentejo specialty or just enjoying the city’s cafes. This break is ideal for soaking in the ambiance or browsing local shops for souvenirs.

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The Highlight: Cartuxa Winery and Wine Tasting

In the afternoon, the tour moves to the Eugenio de Almeida Foundation (Cartuxa Winery). Here, a guided tour takes you behind the scenes of one of Portugal’s most respected wine producers. Expect to see the vineyards, the cellars, and learn about the region’s red wine production—famous for large, ripe, and fruity wines that are very approachable for all palates.

The wine tasting of 3 selected wines is a true highlight. As one reviewer noted, “The wines were excellent, and the guide explained the process in a way that made it all accessible”. For those interested, additional tasting options may be available, and you can ask your guide for recommendations on local wines to take home.

Practicalities & Value

The price of $412 covers nearly everything: private transport, guide, bottled water, and the wine tasting. Since entry tickets to monuments are not included, you should plan for extra if you want to visit more sites. Still, the small group and private nature mean you’ll have flexibility, and it’s easy to customize the experience.

The tour is especially good value for travelers who want an intimate, guided experience with a mix of culture and wine. The flexible cancellation policy and the ability to reserve now and pay later add peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts who enjoy walking through ancient sites, wine lovers eager to learn about and taste regional wines, and travelers who prefer the comfort of a private guide over large group tours. It’s also perfect for those with limited time in Portugal but a desire to see both the city and the countryside with a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who can handle some walking and are interested in authentic experiences—this tour offers a smooth, engaging way to explore Portugal’s Alentejo region while avoiding the crowds.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a compelling combination of cultural exploration and wine tasting in a relaxed, comfortable setting. The guided visits to Évora’s historic sites provide rich insights into Portugal’s past, while the visit to Cartuxa Winery delivers a taste of the region’s acclaimed wines. The private nature of the tour ensures a tailored experience, with flexibility and personalized attention.

For travelers who want a balance of history, architecture, and regional flavors, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate the intimacy of a private guide and the opportunity to learn about local wine production firsthand.

While it’s not a budget option, the quality of the experience—complete with expert guides, comfortable transport, and a memorable wine tasting—makes it a worthwhile choice for a special day away from Lisbon.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

How long is the drive from Lisbon to Évora? The transportation part of the tour takes about an hour each way, providing a comfortable ride with scenic views.

Are entrance fees to sites included? No, entrance tickets are not included, so you may want to budget extra for monument entry fees.

What is the group size? This is a private tour, so you’ll be with just your group and guide—ideal for personalized attention.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since you’ll be walking around historic sites.

Is there a lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have free time to explore local eateries.

Are there options for additional wine tastings? Yes, other tasting options are available; contact the provider for details.

In all, this tour provides a well-rounded, authentic taste of Portugal—perfect if you want to combine history, culture, and wine in one seamless day.

You can check availability for your dates here: