*** WE HAVE CHANGED VENUES, WE ARE NOW GETTING MARRIED IN EVORA BUT THE DAY HAS REMAINED THE SAME***
This beautifully weird Chapel was decorated with bones in the 16th Century (two centuries before the Paris Catacombs!) by Franciscan monks in an attempt to remind the locals how fragile life is and that death ultimately comes for us all. The walls and pillars of the chapel, built in the century XVII, are lined with thousands of human bones and skulls. Worth a visit!
While this Roman temple is certainly worth its own visit,
if you are running short on time no worries because the white church behind the temple is actually the church where we will be getting married, so you'll get to see this no matter what!
If you like history this might be for you! The Cromlech of the Almendres is a megalithic complex in Evora, Portugal, dating back 7,000 years ago. This makes the sacred stone sites 2,000 years older than the world's most famous Neolithic monument, Stonehenge.
Although the restaurant doesn't look like much, this place was probably top 3 best meals we've ever had! (We are foodies - We've been lucky enough to have eaten at a restaurant voted best in the world (Central in Lima, Peru) we thought this was of the same caliber). The restaurant has turned down Michelin stars and operates in a unique way, they cook whatever they want and bring it to you! There are no menus to select from but trust that it will be an amazing meal at an amazing price. It is a tasting menu so they bring out several dishes so make sure to come hungry and make a reservation ASAP as this is the most sought after meal in Evora! If you don't to take our word for it, just check the reviews.
This restaurant was incredible and worth a visit. They are a Michelin star restaurant at an amazing price. We recommend the Queijo Assado com Oregaos e Tostas to start and Bochecha de Porco Assada em Vinho Tinto & Bife de Lombo Grelhado for mains. Save some room for the olive oil ice-cream because it was 10/10!
Cute & cozy restaurant with fresh home cooked meals. All the plates are regional so it's a great place to get a feel for the local cuisine! The coolest part is that they also have decorated using traditional Portuguese relics of the past and it's still an operational windmill.
For when/if you get a little homesick!
Castelo de São Jorge, or St George's Castle, is an architectural wonder in Lisbon. It sits on top of the city's highest hill, providing incredible views of Lisbon and the beautiful Tagus River. Inside the castle, you'll discover the site's remarkable history; from ancient courtyards to battlements and an old Moorish wall, Sao Jorge Castle holds significant historical and archaeological value.
Built in the 16th century, the Belem Tower was built to defend Lisbon from enemy ships. Around 1515, architect Francisco de Arruda designed the iconic monument and it served the purpose of being a fort that protected Lisbon from incoming raids along the Tagus River. It also marked the beginning of voyages for sailors.
An observation deck where you can see the beautiful terracotta rooftops of Lisbon and the famous blue tiles.
This huge stone caravel was built in 1940 for the Portuguese World Expo by the architect Cottinelli Telmo and the sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida. It was only given permanent status in 1960 to celebrate the fifth centenary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator.
Try to identify the main navigators, such as Bartholomew Dias – who turned the Cape of Torments into the Cape of Good Hope; Vasco da Gama – who discovered the maritime route to India; Pedro Álvares Cabral – who discovered Brazil; and Magellan – the first European to cross the southern Pacific and circumnavigate the earth.
With ceilings draped with flags and walls lined with portraits—all reminders of the local and national legends who have walked through these doors—Tasca Do Chico oozes nostalgia. This is an intimate bar setting in Bairro Alto, where you're likely to be rubbing elbows—and backs, and feet—with your neighbor. Just go with it; after all, the closeness is all part of the fun. Come here on Mondays and Wednesdays for Fado Vadio nights, when locals and amateurs take the stage.
Step back in time with a visit to Mesa de Frades, built in a former chapel in Alfama, with the original tiles and murals still on the walls. The musical lineup toes the line between emerging fadistas and established stars, and the intimate setup offers an otherworldly ambience; performers will walk between tables during their sets, giving you a front-row look at the action, no matter where you're sitting. The experience is nonpareil.
Our favorite quick snack in Lisbon! The line can get pretty long but it moves quickly so don't let that deter you from trying a bifana! Make sure to add mustard and hot sauce for the real local experience! Note that it is cash only and there is no place to sit down inside but there is a small square next to it with some benches!
We have tried all of the pastel de nata houses in Lisbon and this is our top pick! There are more than one location but this one is right next to the Praca do Commercio (large plaza by the ocean) so a great stop while exploring the city. If you want to weigh in on our Nata debate, try Manteigaria (a competitor of Castro and our second favorite nata) and let us know which you prefer!
Sintra is a small magical town north of Lisbon easily accessible by train. If you plan to visit, some of the best spots are Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Praia Ursa Beach, the Palace of Monserrate and exploring the old town in city center.
Cascais is a seaside town south of Lisbon and commonly known as the Portuguese riviera. The photo is of Santa Marta Beach, a small beach located in city center with some of the best views! It's right next to museums and art exhibits so there is so much to do! If you are interested in staying in Cascais for a few days then check out the Boca do Inferno, Cabo da Roca (the most western point of Europe), and the neighboring town of Estoril!
The medieval town of Obidos is a quaint, picturesque castle town north of Lisbon with an extremely long history. It is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval villages, it's the best example of a traditional Portuguese village. In 1951 the castle and the entire village were classified as national monuments and they are famous for cherry liqueur called "ginja" served in chocolate shot glasses.
Portugal's most famous fishing village known for the world's largest waves! Although the best time to see the swells are from March to October you may get luck so check the surf forecasts before heading to Nazare.
Algarve is the southern region of Portugal and located about 2 hours and thirty minutes south of Evora by car. The end of June/beginning of July is the perfect time to visit the Algarve because the sun is shining and the beaches aren't as crowded as they will be in the following months! If you love cliff-back beaches then you will want to stick to the western side of the southern coast! If you prefer flat beaches with warmer water then head to the east toward Spain (the closer to Spain, the warmer the water!). Algarve is a popular tourist area so book restaurant reservations in advance and be open to trying some of the best seafood!
The famous Benagil Caves are one of the must-visit attractions in the Algarve. If you want to visit the caves, there are several boat tours that pass through the caves that usually include dolphin spotting and barbecues on the beach! We have attached the website to one of the tour companies but feel free to use whatever company works best for your schedule and needs!
Coastal trail with panoramic sunsets and ocean vistas, ideal for hikes and cliff walks. Spot fossils and shells while enjoying serene rock formations and sea cave views by boat.
Scenic coastal strip flanked by striking cliffs and turquoise waters, featuring soft sand and a boardwalk. Enjoy serene beach ambiance and picturesque views!
A bit further up the coast from Dona Ana is the sandy paradise of Praia do Camilo. Discover its crystal clear emerald and turquoise ocean and the incredible rock formations that surround the beach. Over time, the weather has created holes in the cliffs, forming natural tunnels and archways through other beaches! Note: There are 200 wooden steps down to the beach so be prepared for a workout.
This is one of the best traditional markets in Algarve! Fun fact, Nicole's father is from this town and she spent most of her childhood summers here! Her grandmother actually still buys all her produce and seafood from this market so you might run into her if you stop by! The market has fresh daily caught seafood and a restaurant inside where they can prepare whatever you just purchased at the market in whatever style you want!
A cute coastal town with lots to offer! Stroll around the old town and explore the cute alleyways or take the small train that gives you a quick tour of the town, allowing you to stop and visit some of the best things to see. If you are spending time in Tavira make sure to check out the Tavira Castle Gardens, the Roman bridge, try the fig icecream at Gelataria Delizia, walk the Tavira salt pans and discover the Ilha de Tavira (island of Tavira). The Ilha de Tavira is perfect for swimming or sunbathing and has some of the warmest waters in Portugal! Our favorite place to stay in Tavira is the Convento das Bernardas (can be rented on Airbnb) it's an insanely beautiful renovated convent with two salt water pools! We have attached the link to one of the rentable apartments but there are more if you search the name on Airbnb! If you have questions, reach out to Nicole or Kevin and we can help book your stay!
One of the best restaurants in Algarve without a doubt. They are famous for their piri piri chicken and we make sure to visit everytime we are in Algarve! Note that you cannot make a reservation so it's first come first serve and they do not accept credit cards so bring cash.
Great hidden gem with a cozy atmosphere and even better food! This rooftop restaurant has amazing service and cocktails! Make sure to make a reservation in advance as they book up fairly quickly!
This small but well-stocked wine bar was the absolute highlight of our trip to Carvoeiro. We recommend ordering the braised pork cheeks, tender octopus, bacalhau a bras or spicy pica pau.