Elvas Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Unesco • Locality

Facts and practical information

Elvas, located in the Portalegre region of Portugal, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This charming town is known for its well-preserved fortifications, which have earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the main attractions in Elvas is the stunning Elvas Aqueduct. Built in the 16th century, this impressive structure spans over 7 kilometers and is considered one of the largest of its kind in the world. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the aqueduct, marveling at its architectural beauty and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

History enthusiasts will be delighted by the numerous historical sites scattered throughout Elvas. The imposing Elvas Castle, dating back to the 13th century, stands as a testament to the town's strategic importance during the Middle Ages. Inside the fortress, visitors can explore the ancient walls, towers, and battlements, getting a glimpse into the town's storied past.

For a deeper understanding of Elvas' history, a visit to the Military Museum is a must. Housed in a former military barracks, this museum showcases a vast collection of weapons, uniforms, and artifacts from different periods of Portuguese military history. The museum also offers a unique opportunity to explore the underground tunnels that were once used for defense purposes.

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Elvas as well. The town is surrounded by a picturesque countryside, with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Visitors can take scenic hikes or bike rides, immersing themselves in the peaceful and idyllic landscapes that make this region so special.

As evening falls, Elvas comes alive with a vibrant dining scene. From traditional Portuguese taverns serving hearty regional dishes to trendy restaurants offering innovative gastronomic experiences, there is something to suit every palate. Be sure to try the local specialty, Alentejo-style pork dishes, paired with a glass of the region's renowned wines.

Alternative names: Population: 9.9 thous.Area: 243.74 mi²Elevation: 1053 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 38°52'45"N, 7°9'57"W

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PortalegrePortugal

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Elvas Top Attractions

Elvas Attractions - What to See and Explore

Elvas offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Aqueduto da Amoreira, Castelo de Elvas, Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral, Forte da Graça. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Historical place • Forts and castles
Aqueduto da Amoreira
The Amoreira Aqueduct is a 16th-century aqueduct that spans the Portuguese municipality of Elvas, bringing water into the fortified seat.
Historical place • Forts and castles
Castelo de Elvas
The Castle of Elvas is a medieval military fortification in Portugal, in the civil parish of Alcáçova, municipality of Elvas, part of a first line of defense in the Portuguese Alentejo, in conjunction with the military forts of Ouguela, Campo Maior, Olivença and Juromenha.
Church • Gothic architecture
Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral
The Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral also called Old Cathedral of Elvas is a religious building of the Catholic Church in the Republic Square, in the parish of the Assumption in the city of Elvas, in the district of Portalegre in Portugal.

City wall
Forte da Graça
The Nossa Senhora da Graça Fort, officially Conde de Lippe Fort and known historically as La Lippe, is a fort in the village of Alcáçova, about 1 kilometre north of the town of Elvas in the Portalegre District of Portugal.
Cemetery • Memorial
British Cemetery
The British Cemetery at Elvas, Portugal is one of the oldest British Military Cemeteries in existence.
38°52'50"N • 7°9'48"W
Garrison Border Town of Elvas and its Fortifications
Elvas is a Portuguese municipality, former episcopal city and frontier fortress of easternmost central Portugal, located in the district of Portalegre in Alentejo. It is situated about 200 kilometres east of Lisbon, and about 8 kilometres west of the Spanish fortress of Badajoz, by the Madrid-Badajoz-Lisbon railway.

Day trips

Elvas – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Elvas, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Roman Temple of Évora (Évora), Cathedral of Évora (Évora), Capela dos Ossos (Évora).

45 milesSW
Ruins of 1st-century Roman temple
Roman Temple of Évora, Évora
The Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, is a well-preserved ancient structure that stands as a testament to the historical grandeur of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city in Portugal. This iconic edifice, dating back to the 1st century AD, is...
45 milesSW
Church, Gothic architecture, Sacred and religious sites
Cathedral of Évora, Évora
The Cathedral of Évora, officially known as Sé de Évora, stands as a striking architectural masterpiece in the heart of the ancient city of Évora, Portugal. This formidable monument, a testament to the city's rich historical tapestry, is one of the most significant...
45 milesSW
Historic chapel lined with human bones
Capela dos Ossos, Évora
The Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones, is a hauntingly memorable monument located in the city of Évora, Portugal. This small interior chapel is part of the larger Church of St. Francis and stands as a chilling reminder of the transient nature of human life.
15 milesSW
Architecture, Museum, History museum
Paço Ducal, Vila Viçosa
The Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa is a royal palace in Portugal, located in the civil parish of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, in the municipality of Vila Viçosa, in the Alentejo, situated about 150 km east of the capital Lisbon.
36 milesN
Historical place, Archaeological museum, Museum
Roman villa of Ammaia, Marvão
The Roman ruins of Ammaia are located in Portugal within the Nature Park of the Serra de São Mamede, a mountainous expanse of forest in the civil parish of São Salvador da Aramenha, municipality of Marvão, along the border with Spain.

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Best Time To Visit Elvas

Learn when is the best time to travel to Elvas weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in April and May.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in July. Most of it rains in November and December.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Elvas?

The top attractions to visit in Elvas are:

What is the best time to visit Elvas?

June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in April and May. The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January and February.