Elvas & Estremoz

The marble of Estremoz and the star-shaped walls of Elvas, with its 843-arch aqueduct.

A day of fortresses in the Alentejo: it begins in Estremoz, the marble town, and continues to Elvas, with its star-shaped walls and the great aqueduct that leads into the town. There are only two stops, leaving time to walk the ramparts and enjoy a good lunch. For lovers of fortresses and history.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Estremoz

   Estremoz is the marble town: you see it in doorsteps, pavements and even house walls. At the top stands the castle keep, beside the pousada hotel, with views over the plain. Down below, on Saturday mornings, the main square fills with the market, selling cheese, cured meats, pottery and antiques. Look out for the Estremoz clay figurines, a tradition recognised by UNESCO. Get to the market early, when there is the most choice.

2. 

   2

   Elvas

   Elvas, close to the Spanish border, is one of the largest fortified towns in Europe, with star-shaped walls, forts on the surrounding hills and an aqueduct striding across the valley. The whole ensemble is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside the walls are squares, churches and narrow lanes, and the Graça fort on the hill shows the true scale of it all. Entry fees are paid separately. Wear comfortable shoes and try Elvas plums, a long-standing local sweet.

The essentials

Duration

8 h · Full day

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Fortress and history lovers.

The route