Things To Do
in Évora

A garlicky bread soup made with stale bread, cilantro, olive oil and sometimes a poached egg—comforting and widely available in local restaurants.

Must-Try!

A traditional dish of breadcrumbs or leftover bread fried with garlic, olive oil and often pork or sausages—hearty and typical of rural Alentejo homes and tascas.

Local black pig (porco preto) preparations and meat-and-clams dishes highlight the region’s pork traditions; look for slow-roasted or stewed pork on menus.

A distinctive, PDO-protected sheep’s cheese from the Évora area—salty and slightly spicy, excellent with local bread and wine.

The municipal market sells fresh produce, olives, cheese and charcuterie—great for sampling local cheeses, olives and breads or buying picnic supplies.

Small traditional taverns (tascas) and cafés serve petiscos (Portuguese tapas-style small plates) and quick regional snacks—try bread-and-olive-oil, cured meats and local cheeses.

A polite 'Olá' or 'Bom dia' (good morning) and a handshake are customary when entering shops or meeting people; friends may kiss each cheek in informal settings.

Dress modestly when entering religious sites; remove hats and be quiet and respectful inside chapels and churches.

Meals are social—take your time and enjoy conversation. Waitstaff may bring bread automatically; ask if you have allergies or special dietary needs.

The Alentejo favors a slower pace—expect a relaxed tempo in service and interactions; tours keep schedules, but social meetings are flexible.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory—rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants. For taxis and small services, rounding up is fine.

Portugal uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops; smaller cafés, tascas and market stalls may be cash-only—carry some euros. Contactless payments are common.

Hot and dry with daytime highs often in the high 20s to mid-30s °C (80s–90s °F). Many locals escape the heat in the afternoon—museums and churches provide cool refuge. Book accommodations early and carry sun protection and water for daytime exploring.

Comfortable temperatures with the harvest season in vineyards—pleasant for outdoor activities, wine tours and walking. Occasional rain begins later in the season.

Mild but rainy—daytime temperatures often in the 10–15 °C (50s °F) range, with cooler nights that can approach single digits. Fewer tourists and lower prices, but check opening hours for some attractions.

One of the best times to visit: mild weather, blooming wildflowers, comfortable hiking conditions and vineyards coming to life—ideal for photography and outdoor exploration.

An easy urban walk following sections of the city’s aqueduct—good for short outings with photographic views of arches and adjoining neighborhoods.

Estate walks among vineyards, olive groves and cork oaks—often combined with tastings at the winery; moderate difficulty and highly scenic.

Gentle trails around the medieval village of Monsaraz and along the Alqueva reservoir—excellent views, birdwatching and sunset/wildflower walks.

Numerous quiet tracks and rural roads radiate from Évora through cork-oak montados and farmland—ideal for self-guided walks, birdwatching and photography.

Long-time residents often have deep agricultural and rural family roots; expect a friendly, slower pace and strong local traditions.

The University of Évora brings a student population that energizes parts of the town with cultural events, cafés and a youthful presence.

A steady stream of cultural tourists, especially in peak season, plus day-trippers from Lisbon and some international visitors seeking UNESCO heritage and regional gastronomy.

Some international retirees and expatriates live in the Alentejo for its slower pace, affordability and climate.