How to Best Experience Evora, Portugal: Kid-Friendly Hotels, Wineries & Wild Fun in Alentejo
Experience Evora, Portugal and Alentejo
The Alentejo region of Portugal offers an unforgettable mix of history, relaxation, and fun for all ages. We made Evora our base for exploring the area, staying at the charming Convento do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa, a luxurious yet family-friendly hotel just a short drive from the heart of Évora. From stargazing with a glass of Alentejo wine to roaming olive groves and discovering ancient landmarks, here’s how to best experience Evora, Portugal and beyond with family.
Where to Stay: Convento do Espinheiro – A Family-Friendly Oasis
Our stay at Convento do Espinheiro was the perfect blend of comfort, history, and convenience. The hotel, set in a former 15th-century convent, has been beautifully transformed into a resort with plenty to offer families. We chose a room with a balcony, perfect for unwinding with a glass of Alentejo red wine under a canopy of stars once the kids were asleep.
The indoor and outdoor pools were a hit with the whole family. There is a small playground on-site that gave the kids a place to burn off some energy while we relaxed. The hotel also offered a complimentary wine tasting, showcasing the region’s famous varietals. Breakfast each morning was plentiful, and on our first evening we dined at Restaurante Divinus, located in the hotel’s atmospheric old wine cellar. The standout dish? A perfectly cooked lamb loin with layered potatoes.
Check out this decadent Lamb Loin with Trumpet Mushroom Recipe
Make crispy, buttery layered potatoes a la plancha at home!
Day 1: Exploring the Best of Évora
We dedicated our first full day to discovering Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval landmarks.
1. Miradouro do Jardim Diana
After parking on the edge of town we wandered towards the center of the city and began at this scenic viewpoint overlooking the city and the countryside beyond. It’s a peaceful spot and a great place to orient yourself.
2. Templo Romano de Évora (Roman Temple of Évora)
Dating back to the 1st century AD, this iconic Roman temple—often called the Temple of Diana—is one of the best-preserved Roman structures on the Iberian Peninsula. It sits at the heart of Évora and is a striking reminder of the city’s ancient past.
3. Catedral de Évora (Évora Cathedral)
Next, we visited the stunning Gothic cathedral, built in the 12th century. Climbing to the roof of the cathedral rewarded us with panoramic views of the city—well worth the effort.
4. Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones)
This eerie yet fascinating chapel inside the Church of St. Francis is lined with thousands of human bones, arranged to make visitors reflect on the transience of life. Though a bit spooky, it was also one of the most memorable stops of the day.
5. Jardim Público de Évora
To balance out the historical sightseeing, we headed to this public garden. The Parque Infantil (playground) gave the kids room to run and climb, while we enjoyed a cold cerveja from the nearby kiosk. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of touring.
6. Dinner at Taberna Típica Quarta-feira
For dinner, we enjoyed a set-menu experience at Taberna Típica Quarta-feira. There’s no menu—just whatever the chef is inspired to make that evening. Even our pickier eaters were delighted with the dishes, which showcased authentic Alentejo cuisine in a fun, casual atmosphere.
- Alentejo cuisine is a traditional, rustic Portuguese style of cooking that emphasizes simple, local ingredients and slow, hearty dishes.
Day 2: Wild Fun at Monte Selvagem Animal Reserve
Looking for something a bit more active and kid-focused, we set off to Monte Selvagem Reserva Animal, located in Lavre, about 45 minutes from Évora. This animal park is a fantastic blend of zoo, nature reserve, and adventure playground.
The kids loved the treehouses, slides, swings, and the massive inflatable bounce pad. Along the way, we encountered zebras, lemurs, ostriches, and a hands-on petting zoo. It was a perfect blend of education and play.
After our adventure, we returned to Évora and enjoyed dinner at Dom Joaquim, a sleek, modern restaurant known for elevating traditional Portuguese dishes with contemporary flair.
Day 3: Wine, Picnics, and Alentejo Countryside Charm
No trip to Alentejo is complete without visiting a winery, and we chose the modern and eco-conscious Herdade do Freixo for a tour and picnic experience.
Although we typically gravitate toward smaller, boutique vineyards, Freixo impressed us with its innovative architecture, commitment to sustainability, and stunning setting. After a guided tour through their underground winery, we picked up a prepared picnic and found a shady spot beneath cork trees overlooking the rolling Alentejo hills. Charcuterie, queijo (cheese), fresh bread, and local wines made for a relaxing, delicious afternoon.
It was the perfect ending to our Alentejo adventure.
Our trip occurred in spring and many of the wineries were taking a break (ie closed) before the busy summer tourist season. Make sure to book any winery tours and tastings ahead of time so that you don’t miss out on this great experience.
Final Thoughts: Why Families Should Visit Évora and Alentejo
Evora is a city where ancient history and family fun coexist beautifully. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins, sipping wine under the stars, or letting the kids run wild at an animal park, there’s something for everyone in Alentejo. With a home base like Convento do Espinheiro, this trip felt both luxurious and low-stress. Visiting in March provided off season prices. Consider heading to the region in spring or fall to avoid peak summer prices.
Evora may be small enough to explore in a day, but the surrounding region offers days’ worth of experiences for families who want to slow down, connect, and enjoy the best of Portugal’s countryside.
