Lisbon, Sintra & Évora: Portugal's Secrets Road Trip

Welcome to Lisbon! Let's explore together: pick up your car rental on arrival and get ready for adventure by driving to Évora. It's an easy 1.5-hour drive covering 83.3 miles (134 km).

Suggestion for the day: Exploring Évora 

Experience the historical richness and cultural charm of Évora. This UNESCO World Heritage city is known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture, as well as its picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere. 

Dont Miss:

• Roman Temple: Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Roman Temple, also known as the Temple of Diana. This well-preserved structure dates back to the 1st century AD and stands as a testament to the city’s Roman heritage.
• Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora): Visit the Évora Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure that dominates the city’s skyline. 
• Chapel of Bones: Head to the Chapel of Bones, a fascinating and macabre site built from the bones of thousands of monks. This unique chapel serves as a reminder of the transience of life.
• Giraldo Square (Praça do Giraldo): Stroll through Giraldo Square, the vibrant heart of Évora. 
• University of Évora: Visit the University of Évora, one of the oldest universities in Portugal. 
• Aqueduct of Água de Prata: See the Aqueduct of Água de Prata, an impressive 16th-century aqueduct that once supplied water to the city. 

Tips for Your Trip:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and exploring historical sites.
• Respect religious and historical sites during your visit.
• Purchase local crafts, ceramics, or traditional Alentejo products as souvenirs.

* Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

Suggestions for the day: Évora's Surrounding Areas & Alentejo’s Charm. 

• Almendres Cromlech: A prehistoric megalithic site dating back to 6000 BC.  Explore the mysterious standing stones, some weighing up to 40 tons, and contemplate their significance in ancient rituals.
• Monsaraz: This is a charming hilltop village overlooking the vast Alqueva Lake.  Wander the narrow cobbled streets adorned with whitewashed houses, explore the imposing 13th-century castle, and savor the breathtaking panoramic views.
• Marvão: Take a day trip to the medieval town of Marvão, a fortified hilltop village offering stunning views and historical charm.
• Wines and Vineyards: Visit one of Alentejo's incredible wineries and vineyards. We recommend Herdade do Esporão, Monte da Raposinha, Cartuxa, Herdade do Sobroso, Dona Dorinda, Herdade das Servas, or Quinta do Carmo for a wine-tasting experience that can also include lunch or dinner and a visit to the incredible vineyards.
• Alentejo Flavors: Return to Évora and indulge in a traditional Alentejo dinner. Savor regional specialties like Migas Alentejanas (a shepherd's stew), Carne de Porco à Alentejana (pork with clams), and Azeitonas (marinated olives). Pair your meal with a glass of Alentejo wine, known for its bold and earthy character.

Get ready for an exciting road trip from Évora to Sintra! This scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive covers approximately 112 miles (180 km).

Suggestion for the day: Day Trip to Fairytale Sintra

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a mesmerizing cultural landscape, characterized by winding mountains, lush forests, and remarkable architectural wonders. In the 19th century, Sintra emerged as the epicenter of Romantic architecture in Europe, renowned for its distinctive palaces and whimsical designs that could easily inspire fairytales.

Don’t Miss:

• Early Start & Pena Palace: Start your exploration with the iconic Pena National Palace, a vibrant masterpiece perched atop a hill. Marvel at its eclectic architectural styles, ranging from Romanticism to Moorish Revival. 
• Quinta da Regaleira: If you have time and a taste for adventure, delve into the mysteries of Quinta da Regaleira. This enigmatic estate features a labyrinth of hidden grottoes, tunnels, and secret passages waiting to be discovered. 
• Moorish Castle: For history buffs, the Moorish Castle offers a glimpse into Sintra's medieval past. 
• Sintra Village & Lunch: Head back to the charming village of Sintra. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful houses and quaint shops. Explore the Sintra National Palace, the former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. 
• Monserrate Palace: For those seeking a different architectural style, consider visiting Monserrate Palace. This 19th-century palace boasts a captivating blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian influences. 

Tips for Your Trip:

• Consider booking a guided tour to Sintra ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on the top sights, we can help arrange this for you.
• Purchase your tickets to Sintra attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider purchasing the Sintra Card for discounted entry to several attractions and public transportation within Sintra.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
• The drive from Lisbon to Sintra takes about 30 to 40 minutes, while the train journey takes approximately 40 minutes.