A Better Way to Experience Évora

Slow Travel, Local Secrets, Slow Travel, Local Secrets, and Lasting Memories

Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city in Portugal’s Alentejo region, is often visited as a whirlwind day trip from Lisbon. But if you want to truly experience its charm, history, and culture, there’s a better way: slow down, stay longer, and savor the city like a local.

Getting There: Easy and Affordable

Traveling from Lisbon to Évora is straightforward and budget-friendly. The FlexiBus service departs frequently from Lisbon Oriente station, with tickets costing just €4.48 per person one way. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the bus offers assigned seats, reclining chairs, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning-making it a comfortable and convenient choice over the train, which is pricier and no faster.

Where to Stay: Comfort and Value

Évora offers a range of accommodations, but two stand out for different reasons:

• Holiday Inn Express: Modern, clean, and comfortable, this hotel is perfect for IHG Rewards members. It offers free breakfast (at a partner restaurant adjacent to the hotel), a balcony upgrade, and reliable amenities. While the pool and gym are not on-site, the hotel’s value-especially when booking with points-makes it a smart choice for longer stays.

• Hilton Garden Inn: For those seeking more amenities, this four-star hotel near the train and bus stations features a gym, rooftop pool, bar, and even laundry facilities. It’s ideal if you want a little extra comfort or are loyal to Hilton.

What to See: Take Your Time

Instead of rushing through the city’s sights, spread your visits over several days. Here are some must-sees:

• Church of São Francisco & Chapel of Bones: This Gothic church is famous for its hauntingly beautiful Chapel of Bones, lined with the remains of about 5,000 people. The inscription at the entrance-“We bones that are here, for yours we wait”-is a powerful reminder of life’s transience. Entry is €6.50, but it’s well worth it for the unique experience.

• Roman Temple of Évora: Often misnamed the Temple of Diana, this remarkably well-preserved Roman monument dates back to the 1st century AD. Its central location and adjacent park make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

• Évora Cathedral: The largest medieval cathedral in Portugal, it offers panoramic views from its terrace. For €5, you can climb the narrow, winding staircase to the rooftop and enjoy a different perspective of the city.

• Royal Palace of Évora and Public Gardens: While much of the original palace is gone, the gardens are home to beautiful peacocks and faux ruins. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature, just a short walk from the Roman Temple.

• Aqueduct of Água de Prata: This 16th-century aqueduct is still in use for irrigation. Follow its arches into the city, where you’ll see houses built within the aqueduct’s structure-a unique architectural feature of Évora.

Eating Like a Local: Affordable and Authentic

Skip the touristy restaurants in the city center and venture a street or two away for better value and more authentic flavors. Some favorites include:

• Smiles Pizza: Unlike most Portuguese pizzerias, this spot serves pizza with plenty of sauce, made fresh to order. A large pizza costs around €11 and is big enough to share.

• Indian Restaurant: A great option for takeaway, especially when other places are closed. The chicken tikka masala is a highlight, with generous portions for under €20 for two.

• Local Portuguese Restaurants: Look for spots just inside the city walls or near laundromats for hearty, affordable meals. Dishes like turkey with mushroom cream sauce and classic sides are filling and budget-friendly, often under €14 for a large portion.

Why Stay Longer?

Spending more than a day in Évora allows you to:

• Enjoy each site at your own pace, without feeling rushed.

• Discover hidden gems and local eateries.

• Take leisurely walks through the city’s flat, even cobblestone streets-especially helpful for those with mobility concerns.

• Experience the city’s relaxed rhythm, from morning coffee in the square to sunset views from your hotel balcony.

Final Tips

• Évora is extremely walkable, and most major sights are within a short stroll of each other.

• The city’s flat cobblestone streets make it accessible for travelers with vision or mobility challenges.

• Take time to people-watch in the main square, sample local pastries, and soak up the atmosphere.

“We are glad we decided to spend over a week here… it just gave us more time to enjoy the sites that we saw and to really soak them in, as opposed to being rushed through everything. Plus, it’s a lot more affordable if you’re just doing one or two things a day.”

In Summary

The best way to experience Évora is to slow down, stay a while, and let the city reveal its layers. From Roman ruins to Gothic churches, delicious food to friendly locals, Évora rewards those who take the time to truly explore it. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just seeking a relaxing escape, Évora’s timeless beauty and welcoming spirit will leave a lasting impression. Lasting Memories.