What to see and taste in Alentejo, Portugal: 9 sights and flavours you can’t miss

If you're planning a trip to Portugal and want to escape the tourist crowds of Lisbon and Porto, there's one region that stands out for its authenticity, serenity and sheer beauty: the Alentejo. With its rolling plains, whitewashed villages, wild Atlantic coast and deep cultural roots, this part of Portugal is a dream for travelers seeking slow travel and meaningful experiences.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what to see in Alentejo, Portugal - from UNESCO-listed cities to hidden coastal gems. You’ll discover why this region is often considered the soul of the country and how to experience it fully, especially through hiking and biking routes designed for independent explorers.

Visiting Alentejo is like stepping into a living postcard where time moves more gently. This vast and varied region invites us to slow down and connect with Portugal’s rural soul, whether we’re wandering through medieval hilltop towns, tasting wines from sun-drenched vineyards, or simply enjoying the silence of the open plains.

The Alentejo covers nearly a third of Portugal’s landmass, yet it remains one of the least densely populated areas. Its slow rhythms, rustic charm and unspoiled nature make it a refuge from the hustle of modern life. The landscape shifts from golden wheat fields and cork oak forests to dramatic coastal cliffs and deserted beaches.

From Roman ruins and Moorish castles to Gothic cathedrals and megalithic monuments, the Alentejo is steeped in history. The region’s towns and villages preserve centuries-old traditions in architecture, cuisine and craft, especially pottery and weaving.

Alentejo’s beauty lies in its diversity, from fortified hilltop towns to untouched coastal stretches. Whether we’re drawn to ancient cities steeped in Roman and Moorish history or to wild, wind-swept beaches perfect for solitude and adventure, each destination reveals a different facet of the region’s soul. These top places capture the essence of Alentejo, timeless, vast and quietly captivating, inviting us to explore at our own rhythm.

Often called the "Museum City", Évora is the cultural capital of the Alentejo and a must see. Walk its cobbled streets and you'll come across:

• The Roman Temple of Diana;
• The haunting Chapel of Bones;
• The grand Évora Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece;
• Whitewashed houses with wrought-iron balconies and yellow trim.

Perched high above the Alqueva Reservoir, Europe’s largest man-made lake, Monsaraz is a medieval village frozen in time. Its narrow streets, stone houses and ancient castle offer sweeping views over the countryside and water. The night sky here is also part of the Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve, ideal for stargazing.

For a completely different Alentejo experience, head west to the Costa Vicentina, part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. Here, rugged cliffs drop into turquoise waters, and wild beaches stretch as far as the eye can see.

Vila Nova de Milfontes is a charming seaside town and a perfect base for coastal exploration. The nearby hiking and biking trails are part of the Rota Vicentina, one of Europe’s most scenic long distance paths.

In the northern Alentejo, close to the Spanish border, Marvão and Castelo de Vide offer a different flavor of the region. These mountaintop villages are surrounded by nature and dotted with ancient fortifications.

• Marvão offers dramatic views and a well-preserved medieval castle;
• Castelo de Vide is known for its Jewish quarter and natural springs.

Further south, Beja showcases the Alentejo’s agricultural heartland. Visit the towering Beja Castle, explore the Regional Museum housed in a former convent, and sample regional olive oils and wines.

Gastronomy and wine are at the heart of the Alentejo experience, offering a deep connection to the land and its traditions. Meals here are more than just food, they are a celebration of local flavors, seasonal ingredients and generations-old recipes passed down through families.

Whether we're enjoying a simple countryside lunch or a refined tasting menu at a vineyard estate, the region’s culinary identity shines through in every bite and sip.

The Alentejo is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes made from local ingredients. Don't miss:

• Açorda alentejana: a garlic and coriander broth with bread and poached egg;
• Migas: fried bread crumbs with pork or sausages;
• Queijo de Serpa: a tangy sheep’s cheese;
• Black pork dishes: made from pigs raised on acorns.

Alentejo wines are among the best in Portugal. The region produces both bold reds and refreshing whites. Many vineyards offer tours and tastings, and cycling through wine country is a highlight of many self-guided tours.

The region is committed to sustainable tourism. Most accommodations are family-run, trails are maintained with minimal environmental impact, and traditional ways of life are respected.

By choosing self-guided hiking or biking tours, you support local economies while traveling at a slower, more thoughtful pace.

One of the best ways to experience the soul of Alentejo is through self-guided outdoor adventures. Authentic Trails offers several well-designed, flexible itineraries in the region that include:

• Comfortable, locally-owned accommodations;
• Daily luggage transfers;
• Route maps and GPS;
• Emergency support and travel documentation.

Here are some excellent options for discovering the region through immersive and active experiences:

🥾 Costa Vicentina Self-Guided Hike Tour
Follow the breathtaking cliffs and pristine beaches of the Atlantic coast. This hiking tour covers the most iconic sections of the Rota Vicentina.

🚴 Costa Vicentina Natural Park Self-Guided Bike Tour
Explore the protected coastal region on two wheels, with stops in authentic seaside villages and wild nature reserves.

🥾 Costa Vicentina Natural Park Essential Hike Tour
A shorter hiking experience ideal for travelers with limited time who want to capture the essence of the Alentejo coastline.

🚴 Costa Vicentina Natural Park Essential Bike Tour
This compact biking itinerary covers scenic routes and key highlights of the southern Alentejo coast.



So, what to see in Alentejo, Portugal? The answer lies not only in monuments or viewpoints but in the feeling of freedom, simplicity and connection that this remarkable region offers.


Start your Alentejo journey today with a self-guided adventure that lets you explore at your own pace - authentic, immersive and unforgettable.