Family Adventure in Historic Évora

Évora Fit for Royalty

Today was a day of regal exploration in Évora, a city that whispers tales of kings and queens, ancient battles, and artistic endeavors. With Andreas and Sophie by my side, I was eager to delve deeper into the heart of Portugal's rich history and indulge in the culinary delights this region has to offer. It felt like stepping back in time as we wandered through the historical sites, each corner revealing a new layer of Évora's captivating story.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Le Coeur Bistro. The cozy atmosphere, reminiscent of an Irish pub, was a charming start to the day. I opted for a traditional Portuguese pastry and a strong coffee, while Andreas enjoyed a hearty breakfast with local cheeses. Sophie, ever the adventurous one, tried a fresh papaya and shrimp starter, which she declared delicious. It's always a joy to see her embrace new flavors!


Discover the rich flavors of Portugal at Le Coeur Bistro in Évora, where every dish tells a story.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore Pátio de São Miguel. This historical site has been a strategic point in the city since Roman times. As we walked through the grounds, I imagined knights and kings traversing the same paths. The architecture was a mix of different eras, reflecting the various military occupations and events that shaped the city. It was fascinating to learn about its role as part of the old Moorish castle and later as a royal palace.


Explore the enchanting Páteo de São Miguel in Évora, a stunning castle-like tourist attraction that captures the essence of Portugal's rich history and architecture.

The beauty of Évora lies not just in its stones, but in the stories they tell.

Next on our itinerary was the Royal Palace of Évora, also known as Palácio de Dom Manuel I. This palace has a rich history, beginning as a convent in the 13th century and evolving into a grand Renaissance palace under King Manuel I. Although much of the palace has been lost to time, the remaining Galeria das Damas offered a glimpse into its former splendor. Sophie was particularly intrigued by the azulejo tiles, imagining the royal ladies who once graced these halls. It was easy to picture playwrights like Gil Vicente and explorers like Vasco da Gama seeking audiences with the king within these very walls.


Explore the Royal Palace of Évora, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and lush gardens in the heart of Portugal's cultural treasure.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, it was time to indulge in the flavors of the Alentejo. We headed to Aromas do Campo for lunch, a restaurant known for its dishes inspired by the local countryside. The restaurant is located in the historic center of Évora, which added to the charm. We shared a variety of traditional dishes, including migas and porco preto, savoring the authentic tastes of the region. While some reviewers mention the cheese board is like one from the supermarket, we enjoyed the flavors. Andreas particularly enjoyed the local wine selection, a perfect complement to our meal. It was a delightful culinary experience that truly captured the essence of Alentejo.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Aromas do Campo in Évora - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we ventured to Cartuxa - Quinta de Valbom - Fundação Eugénio de Almeida, a winery with a fascinating history. The winery is closely linked to the Society of Jesus, dating back to 1580 when it housed the teaching staff of the University of Évora. We took a guided tour, learning about the winemaking process and the history of the estate. Of course, no visit to a winery is complete without a tasting! We sampled several of their renowned wines, including the famous Pêra Manca, each sip telling a story of the Alentejo terroir. The experience was not only educational but also a true delight for the senses.


Explore the exquisite wines and stunning landscapes of Cartuxa - Quinta de Valbom, a premier winery and cultural gem in Évora, Portugal.

As the day drew to a close, we sought a relaxing spot to unwind and reflect on our adventures. We found ourselves at ADC Wine & Food Bar, a hidden gem within Albergaria do Calvário. This wine bar offered a cozy atmosphere and a delightful selection of local wines and snacks. We savored a tasting menu of Alentejo delicacies, including regional cheeses, cured ham, and olives, perfectly paired with a crisp white wine. It was the perfect way to end our royal day in Évora.


Experience the best of Évora's culinary scene at ADC Wine & Food Bar, where local wines and flavors come together in a cozy setting.

For dinner, we chose Tua Madre, an Italian restaurant with an Alentejo twist. Chef Francesco Ogliari creates a unique fusion of Italian techniques with local ingredients, resulting in a truly innovative dining experience. We started with the carpaccio de tomate and gaspacho de morangos, both refreshing and bursting with flavor. For our main courses, we indulged in the ravioli de borrego and tagliatelle, each dish showcasing the best of both culinary worlds. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was a memorable meal that perfectly captured the essence of Évora's culinary scene.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Tua Madre in Évora, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and culinary tradition.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the ancient megalithic sites just outside Évora, including the Almendres Cromlech and the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro. We'll also visit the Centro de Arte e Cultura - Fundação Eugénio de Almeida, eager to see more of what the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation supports. Before that though, we'll have breakfast at Restaurante A Casa, and lunch at Cavalariça Évora. And I'm hoping we can find some time to do some shopping at Gente da Minha Terra.

As I reflect on our day, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Évora has a way of captivating the senses and stirring the soul. It's a city where history comes alive, where culinary traditions are celebrated, and where the warmth of the people makes you feel right at home.