Exploring Évora: A Romantic Getaway in Portugal

A Day Among Royals and Regional Flavors

Today, Lena and I embarked on a journey that took us from the historical depths of Vila Viçosa to the delightful tastes of Évora. It was a day filled with royal echoes and the discovery of Alentejo's culinary soul. As a software developer, I often find solace in the structured world of coding, but these trips with Lena always remind me of the beauty found in exploring the unknown and unplanned.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Nã T'acho Restaurante Atípico in Évora. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a unique dining experience were exactly what we needed to kickstart our day. I opted for the local pastries, while Lena enjoyed a traditional Portuguese coffee. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, setting a positive tone for the adventures ahead.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off for Vila Viçosa, a town renowned for its regal history and, intriguingly, its marble. As we drove, the landscape transformed, revealing the vast plains of the Alentejo, dotted with cork trees and olive groves. It's a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Berlin, and I found myself appreciating the tranquility and open space.

Our first stop was the Castle of Vila Viçosa. Surrounded by a trench and cylindrical turrets, the castle immediately transported us back in time. Originally the seat of the House of Braganza, before they moved to the Ducal Palace, the castle now houses the Archeology Museum and the Museu de Caça (Hunting Museum). Lena was particularly fascinated by the archeological finds, while I found myself drawn to the architecture, imagining the lives of those who once walked these halls.


Discover the grandeur of the Castle of Vila Viçosa, a historical gem in Portugal offering captivating architecture and panoramic views.

The past is not dead. In fact, it's not even past.

Next, we ventured to the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa. The palace's façade, constructed from locally-extracted Monte Claros marble, was truly breathtaking. As we stepped inside, we were immediately enveloped in a sense of grandeur and history. The opulent interiors, filled with intricate tapestries, elaborate ironwork, and exquisite objets d'art, offered a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese royalty. Lena was particularly impressed by the Queen Amélia's apartments, while I was captivated by the series of wall paintings depicting the 15th-century battle of Ceuta.


Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, an essential stop for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Wandering through the palace, I couldn't help but reflect on the weight of history and the stories these walls could tell. It's moments like these that make traveling so enriching, offering a chance to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures.

Before leaving Vila Viçosa, we took a stroll through the town, admiring the marble details that adorned many of the buildings. It's incredible how this material, quarried from the surrounding area, has shaped the town's identity and economy. We even considered taking a marble tour, but decided to save it for a future visit.

Back in Évora, with the afternoon sun casting long shadows, we visited the Museum Frei Manuel do Cenáculo. Housed in a former archbishop's palace, the museum showcases an impressive collection of art and artifacts, many of which were gathered by Frei Manuel do Cenáculo himself. As a software developer, I appreciate the order and structure of well-curated collections, and this museum certainly delivered. Lena was particularly drawn to the religious art, while I was fascinated by the archeological exhibits.


Discover the artistic and historical treasures at Museum Frei Manuel do Cenáculo in Évora, a must-visit for culture lovers and history buffs.

By now, our stomachs were beginning to rumble, so we made our way to O Templo for lunch. This restaurant promised a true Alentejana experience, and it did not disappoint. The owner, Vasco, greeted us warmly, making us feel like guests in his own home. We started with the traditional bread, olives, and torresmos, accompanied by the house wine. For the main course, I opted for the slow-cooked Iberian pork cheeks in red wine, while Lena chose the traditional lamb roast. The flavors were rich and authentic, providing a true taste of the Alentejo region. It reminded me a bit of my grandmother's cooking back in Czechia, simple but full of love and tradition.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at O Templo in Évora—where tradition meets flavor in an inviting atmosphere.

After such a fulfilling lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Ervideira Wine Shop. As you know, I am not the biggest wine connoisseur, but I do enjoy a good glass of local wine from time to time. The shop offered a wide selection of Ervideira wines, known for their bold flavors and complexity. We picked up a bottle of red to enjoy back at the hotel, a perfect way to end the day.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Alentejo at Ervideira Wine Shop, Évora's premier destination for local wines and tastings.

For dinner, we had reservations at Momentos Évora, a restaurant known for its creative cuisine and intimate atmosphere. The owner and chef, Jorge, is passionate about using fresh, local ingredients to create unique and memorable dishes. We put ourselves in his hands, and he crafted a vegan meal for us. Each dish was a work of art, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It was truly a culinary experience to remember. I was reminded of the innovative spirit we try to foster in our software development team back in Berlin, always pushing the boundaries of what's possible.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Momentos Évora, where local flavors and warm hospitality create an unforgettable dining experience.

As we walked back to the hotel under the starlit sky, Lena and I reflected on the day's adventures. From the royal echoes of Vila Viçosa to the culinary delights of Évora, it had been a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. These are the moments that make traveling so rewarding, offering a chance to connect with each other and the world around us.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Évora's wine scene, with visits to Cartuxa, Quinta do Carmo, and Fitapreta Vinhos. I'm particularly looking forward to learning more about the winemaking process and tasting some of the region's finest wines. And perhaps, we'll find a cozy bar like Bar Culpa Tua to relax and reflect on our adventures.

Until then, good night from Évora!