Things To Do
in Vendas Novas
Vendas Novas is a quiet town in the Évora district of Portugal, tucked into the Alentejo plains between cork oak groves and olive orchards. It serves as a relaxing base for exploring rural Alentejo, with whitewashed houses, a sunlit central square, and easy access to nearby wine estates. The town offers authentic countryside life, generous sun, and a gateway to historic towns like Évora and Montemor-o-Novo.
Surrounded by farmland and expansive skies, Vendas Novas blends rustic charm with authentic regional culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque town center of Vendas Novas, taking in the charming architecture and the vibrant local life. Stop by a quaint café to savor a traditional Portuguese breakfast, complete with fresh pastries and a strong cup of coffee. As you stroll, don't miss the local shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby parks such as the Parque de Vendas Novas, where you can enjoy leisurely walks amidst nature. Bring a picnic and relax under the shade of the trees while observing the lively atmosphere. Alternatively, explore local eateries for a taste of regional delicacies.
As evening falls, head to a local restaurant for dinner, experiencing the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the town to enjoy the evening ambiance, perhaps stopping for gelato at one of the local gelaterias. End the day by witnessing the stunning sunset over the countryside.
Embark on a cultural day trip to nearby Évora, known for its historical significance and beautiful architecture. Start with a visit to the impressive Roman Temple of Évora, followed by a leisurely exploration of its medieval streets. Stop at a local bakery for a quick snack before continuing your adventure.
In the afternoon, head to the Chapel of Bones, a fascinating and slightly eerie site that offers a glimpse into the past. Enjoy lunch at a local tavern, sampling regional wines and traditional dishes. Spend some time at the Évora Museum, which showcases the area's rich history through various exhibits.
Return to Vendas Novas in the evening and relax at a bar with live music, immersing yourself in the local nightlife. Share stories from your day with fellow travelers while enjoying a drink. Consider ending the night with a tranquil walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-3 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $40-60 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.8-2.3 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $800-1100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful small-town atmosphere
- Excellent regional cuisine and wine
- Access to scenic countryside and wine estates
- Friendly, welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Public transport can be infrequent
- Longer travel times to major cities
- Summer heat can be intense for some visitors
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Vendas Novas
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled square with whitewashed buildings, captured in the soft morning light and early-town activity.
Historic parish church with a stone façade and interior details that shine in natural light.
Open views over groves and fields along the Alentejo plains, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Terraced vineyards showing seasonal color and lines that lead the eye toward the horizon.
Food in Vendas Novas
Vendas Novas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rustic bread and garlic soup enriched with olive oil and finished with a poached egg.
Must-Try!
Pork cooked with garlic and paprika, often served with cilantro and potatoes, showcasing bold regional flavors.
Crunchy migas (bread crumbs) fried with garlic and pork, a beloved Alentejo staple.
A local aged cheese from nearby regions, perfect with bread and a glass of wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market offering fresh seasonal produce, cheeses, olives, and regional breads; great for sampling local staples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde'; handshakes are common when meeting someone new.
Address elders with 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' and use polite phrases in daily interactions.
Dress modestly and remove hats when inside religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Vendas Novas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common.
Credit cards are widely accepted in towns; cash remains common in small cafés and markets; mobile payments are increasingly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Mild days with cooler evenings; harvest season in many farms provides opportunities for tastings and photogenic vineyard scenes.
Mild with occasional rain; temperatures rarely drop far below freezing, but bring a light jacket for cooler nights.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking, photography, and market visits.
Vendas Novas at Night
Hiking in Vendas Novas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle 5–8 km loop through olive groves and cork oak forests near Vendas Novas.
A moderate 7–12 km hike with views toward the plains and distant hills.
6–9 km along a seasonal watercourse with farmland scenery and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Vendas Novas by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 100–120 km from Vendas Novas; 1.5–2 hours by car.
Smaller regional airport to the south with limited services; roughly 60–70 km away.
Major southern hub offering many international connections; about 250–270 km away; 2.5–3 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging rural population with strong family ties and seasonal agricultural work.
Residents involved in cork, olive oil, and wine production.
Some second-home owners and travelers drawn to the Alentejo countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The prevalent sport across the region with local pitches and small clubs.
Indoor version of football popular in community centers and youth programs.
Local events and informal runs through the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vendas Novas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy bean stews, greens, roasted peppers, and olive oil–based dishes; ask chefs for vegetable stews and migas without meat, and pair meals with bread and olive oil.