Evora District Day Trips: Top 5 Unforgettable Escapes

So, you’re looking for a getaway from Évora, huh? You know, a chance to check out what else the area has to offer. It’s almost like you’ve had your fill of that fantastic Roman temple (well, not really, but maybe you’re feeling a tad adventurous) and now you’re thinking, “What else is out there?”. Then, as I was saying, this region around Évora is stuffed with little surprises just waiting to be discovered. From sleepy little towns to downright dramatic landscapes, you definitely won’t be bored. I mean planning a trip can get a bit overwhelming, so I went ahead and compiled a list of the five top day trips that are really easy to pull off from Évora.

Monsaraz: A Medieval Gem

Right, so, Monsaraz. Just picture this: a totally dreamy hilltop village that basically shouts “medieval!”. Yet, I mean it’s pretty close. It’s almost like you’ve stepped straight into a history book; a properly picturesque setting overlooking the Alqueva Dam. By the way, as a matter of fact it’s one of the oldest settlements in Portugal, I think, or so someone told me. You definitely need comfortable shoes; like your, as you’re going to want to wander around and check out the castle and, oh, the views! Plus, actually the whole atmosphere is just pretty unique. Then, as a matter of fact it feels so peaceful. When I say the “air is crisp,” like your in a shampoo commercial, I mean it, you know?. Now, what’s cool is how well-preserved the history feels here.

Anyway, there’s also a pretty fascinating story associated with its construction. Right, so, in 1232, King Sancho II gave it to the Knights Templar, charging them to transform it into an impregnable fortress against attacks coming from Castile. Also, very little has happened there in recent times, yet, to keep the atmosphere in medieval condition for the joy and exploration of visitors. Then, in some respects the little white houses that were carefully decorated with bougainvillea, giving the village its colourful, yet classic beauty, have made their stay permanent over the span of the centuries.

Arraiolos: Rugs and a Circular Castle

Okay, alright, let’s check out Arraiolos. It’s a bit smaller, actually, but that doesn’t make it any less charming. Actually, it is well-known because they’ve been crafting beautiful, hand-stitched rugs for centuries; seriously. To be honest, you know you just sort of wander in and there they are! Then, similarly to window shopping, but a bit better. So, pretty much, as I was saying the quality is amazing. As a matter of fact you can even visit one of the workshops and check out the artisans at work. Meanwhile, it gives you a peek into what the craft is actually like.

Anyway, so, that’s kind of neat. That, I’m saying it. Arraiolos also has an incredibly cool circular castle. Oh, it’s just unique; virtually no other castles are like it. That’s not something you see everyday. Then, actually walk around on top. Actually, the views from up there? They’re fantastic. So, in fact Arraiolos definitely gives you that cozy Alentejo feel that is just perfect for some rural peace. Basically, that makes for great pics too.

Vila Viçosa: The Marble Town

Oh, next, let’s talk about Vila Viçosa. Well, clearly, if you like the look of marble, that is the spot. Pretty much everything there is made of the stone! Honestly, the local saying should be “more marble than people.”. Honestly, like your in a movie; this place is gorgeous. Then, basically, the Ducal Palace is the big thing to see. Frankly, it’s extremely stunning.

Just, in a way walk through its opulent rooms. That said, in other words just kind of try to picture what the lives of Portuguese royalty used to be. Meanwhile, so rich. Right, so, in fact they’ve done a seriously awesome job maintaining that old-school royal atmosphere. In that case, after that just stroll through the town’s squares and parks, for instance, and it gives a chance to chill, you know. Or, by the way there are even little cafes all over the place to spend time. Any way, Vila Viçosa it’s all elegance. Obviously, a bit of bling, if you’re feeling in a royal mood. Learn more of its legacy here.

Évoramonte: A Castle with a View

Yet, if you love castles, then there’s Évoramonte. So, just, sort of. It’s basically like this cool mountaintop village dominated by one serious castle. I mean it has one super intriguing history and design. Just picture that the fortress there was a spot where Portugal and Spain signed a pretty significant peace treaty back in 1834. Actually, that is why some might feel that the air is thick with historic importance!

Of course, by the way the castle’s architectural details are kind of fascinating. What’s more, the castle offers truly sweeping views of the Alentejo plains; obviously. It really is just gorgeous and so peaceful up there. Actually, the small village around the castle itself has got that typically quiet Alentejo vibe; that, naturally. Well, it would, of course wouldn’t it!. You know what I mean, where you can just completely unwind, kind of, kind of wander through little lanes without too much hassle. Also, explore the rural sites.

Estremoz: Another Marble Delight

Okay, now let’s swing by Estremoz. Well, in that case yes, it is yet another town rocking the marble thing; kind of. Meanwhile, similarly to Vila Viçosa. Just to be clear, Estremoz features the really gorgeous Queen Santa Isabel Castle that sits, arguably pretty imposingly. I mean just sitting, you know, watching the town down below. Actually, but you definitely will want to climb to the top! Seriously awesome, sweeping views. That said, at the end of the day you’ll be glad you climbed those walls, that, of course, obviously.

Honestly, just to start, Estremoz has this giant town square, and pretty seriously it’s one of the biggest in Portugal. So, honestly it is definitely lively on market days (especially Saturdays) . In other words you can discover all sort of regional products there! So, I mean you need the local crafts. The square provides awesome picture opportunities . At the end of the day if marble gets to your attention, then you already know what you have to visit next.