Step into the heart of the Alentejo region on this Free Tour of Évora, a city that perfectly blends Roman heritage, medieval charm, and Renaissance grandeur. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Évora is one of Portugal’s most historic destinations and the ideal place to explore on foot.
We’ll begin our tour at Porta Velha da Lagoa, the old city gate, before heading to one of Évora’s most remarkable engineering feats: the Água de Prata Aqueduct. This Renaissance structure is a symbol of the city’s development and still preserves parts of the original Roman arches, such as the Dona Isabel Arch, dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
Our walk continues at the Salvador do Mundo Convent, where we’ll learn about the Order of Saint Clare and their lasting presence in the city. From there, we’ll stroll into Praça do Giraldo, Évora’s lively main square, to admire the Church of Santo Antão. Did you know that the first church here was built by the Knights Templar?
Just a few steps away, we’ll reach the Évora Cathedral, one of the largest in Portugal, and the Inquisition Palace, a building with a name that reflects a darker side of the city’s past. The route then takes us to the iconic Roman Temple of Évora, one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Portugal, still boasting 14 impressive Corinthian columns. Nearby, we’ll also see the Nossa Senhora da Graça Church, built in striking Renaissance style.
Finally, we’ll make our way to the Don Manuel Palace and the public gardens, where the tour concludes after about 2.5 hours of exploring Évora’s rich history and timeless beauty. This free walking tour is the perfect way to discover Évora’s architectural treasures and cultural heritage in the company of a local guide.
Highlights You’ll See on the Free Tour of Evora
This walking tour takes you through the historic centre of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Roman ruins, medieval churches, and Renaissance palaces. It is one of the best ways to enjoy the top things to do in Évora while discovering the city’s layered past and charming streets.
Porta Velha da Lagoa (Meeting Point)
The tour begins at Porta Velha da Lagoa, one of the old entrances to the walled city. It sets the stage for exploring Évora’s history as a fortified medieval town.
Água de Prata Aqueduct & Dona Isabel Arch
This 16th-century aqueduct carried water into the city, and many houses were later built into its arches. The Dona Isabel Arch is one of its most picturesque sections.
Salvador del Mundo Convent
Once an important religious institution, this convent adds to Évora’s reputation as a city of churches and monasteries. Its architecture reflects the city’s spiritual heritage.
Santo Antão Church, Praça do Giraldo
Dominating the main square, this 16th-century church is one of Évora’s key landmarks. The lively Praça do Giraldo is surrounded by arcades, fountains, and cafés that make it a hub of local life.
Évora Cathedral
Also known as Sé de Évora, this Gothic cathedral was built between the 12th and 14th centuries. Its fortified towers and rooftop views make it a highlight of the city.
Inquisition Palace
This palace once served as the headquarters of the Inquisition in Évora. Today it stands as a reminder of a darker chapter in Portuguese history.
Roman Temple of Évora
One of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Portugal, this temple dates back to the 1st century. Its Corinthian columns are a striking symbol of the city’s ancient origins.
Nossa Senhora de Graça Church
Built in the Renaissance style, this church is known for its ornate façade and stone figures representing Atlas. It reflects Évora’s rich artistic tradition.
Don Manuel Palace
This 15th-century palace was once the residence of Portuguese royalty. Its elegant Manueline architecture makes it one of the city’s most distinguished buildings.
Public Gardens (End Point)
The tour concludes at Évora’s Public Gardens, a peaceful green space surrounded by historic buildings. It is the perfect place to relax after exploring the city.
The free walking tour of Évora connects Roman, medieval, and Renaissance landmarks in a single route. From temples and palaces to lively squares, it offers a complete introduction to the top things to do in Évora.
Tips to Enjoy the Free Tour of Evora
Évora is a city full of Roman ruins, medieval palaces, and Renaissance churches, making it one of Portugal’s most fascinating destinations. To make the most of your free walking tour, keep these tips in mind:
👟 Wear comfortable shoes. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and includes cobblestone streets, plazas, and historic sites, so supportive footwear is essential.
💧 Bring water. The Alentejo region can be very hot, especially in summer, so staying hydrated is important during the walk.
🌞 Protect yourself from the sun. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended, as shade can be limited along the route.
📸 Keep your camera ready. From the Roman Temple to the aqueduct and the Cathedral, Évora is full of stunning landmarks you’ll want to capture.
👥 Respect the group size. Free tours do not allow groups larger than six people. Larger groups should book a private tour of Evora.
💶 Carry some euros in cash. While the tour is free, it is customary to tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience.
🏛️ Take time to explore after. Consider visiting inside the Cathedral or the Roman Temple museum once the tour ends.
⏰ Arrive early. Meeting at Porta Velha da Lagoa is simple, but arriving 10–15 minutes before the tour ensures a smooth start.
With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy Évora’s history, architecture, and traditions. This free walking tour is the perfect introduction to one of Portugal’s most historic cities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What will I see during the Free Tour of Évora?
You will admire some of Évora’s most emblematic landmarks. From a Roman Temple to the prominent Cathedral of Évora. You will stroll down charming streets, and marvel at the Salvador del Mundo Convent, while you learn about a few other remarkable highlights that the breathtaking heart of Alentejo has to offer.
Do I need to print my reservation to be able to join the tour?
You don’t need to print your reservation; simply be prepared to show the booking confirmation e-mail you received on your smartphone.
How much should I tip the guide?
If you enjoyed the experience, you may always reward your guide according to your budget and level of satisfaction. As a reference, a 2-hour paid tour ranges between €10 and €20 per person.
How do I find the guide?
The guide will be waiting for you at the meeting point. Try to arrive 5 to 10 minutes before the starting time as it may not be possible to meet the guide after the tour has already started.
What are the travel guidelines in Portugal?
Please verify the most recent local restrictions before traveling, and rest assured that all of our providers comply with local legislation and applicable health recommendations, so join in for a fun walk around the beautiful city of Évora.
Is the Free Tour of Évora accessible?
Yes, the Free Walking Tour of Évora is wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation, and an accompanying person is required.
What happens if it rains during the Free Tour of Évora?
The Free Walking Tour of Évora runs in all weather conditions. Bring a raincoat or umbrella if rain is forecast.
When is the best season to join the Free Tour of Évora?
The Free Walking Tour of Évora runs year-round. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times, with warm but not extreme weather. Summers can be very hot, while winters are cooler but mild.
What should I bring on the Free Walking Tour of Évora?
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, dress for the sun, and carry cash in euros for tips.
