Marble & Carpets

The marble towns, the palace of the Braganças and the carpets of Arraiolos.

Two days in marble country, with a night in Estremoz so nothing feels rushed. Hand-stitched carpets in Arraiolos, the town where even the pavements are marble, and the palace of the Dukes of Braganza in Vila Viçosa. Your driver stays with you both days; the hotel is booked and paid by you. For couples with time to spare.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Arraiolos

   Arraiolos is known for its hand-embroidered rugs, made here for centuries, and you can still watch embroiderers at work in the town's workshops. There is also a centre devoted to the rugs, where you can learn about the stitches and patterns. On the hilltop stands the castle with its round wall, unusual in Portugal, overlooking the white town and the plain. If you plan to buy a rug, ask to see the work up close and compare. Visit in the morning, when the workshops are open.

2. 

   2

   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.

3. 

   3

   Vila Viçosa

   Vila Viçosa is the town of the Dukes of Braganza, and the Ducal Palace, with its long marble façade facing the square, is the main visit. Inside are rooms with painted ceilings, tapestries, kitchens hung with copper pans and the apartments of Portugal's last royal family. The tour is guided and paid separately. Around it, the streets have grand houses and churches, and the marble quarries are close by. Leave time for a coffee in the square and a convent sweet.

The essentials

Duration

2 days · Two days, night in Estremoz

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

Couples with time.

The route