Things to Do in Beja

A 13th-century castle with a 40-metre keep tower, offering panoramic views over the Alentejo plains. The outer grounds and museum are free; the tower climb costs €2.

🕐 Tue–Sun 9:30–12:30 & 14:00–17:00; closed Mon

💡 Go at sunset for the best light. Pack water in summer; the stairs are steep and shaded rest stops are few even inside the tower.

Local art and archaeology museum housed in a former 15th-century convent. Entry is free on Sundays until 14:00; otherwise €3.

🕐 Tue–Sun 9:30–12:30 & 14:00–17:00; closed Mon (free Sun mornings)

💡 Don't miss the 16th-century Flemish triptych and the cloister garden. Arrive early Sundays to avoid queues.

A small Visigothic church from the 6th century, one of Portugal's oldest intact buildings. Free entry, often quiet.

🕐 Tue–Sat 9:30–12:30 & 14:00–17:00; closed Sun–Mon

💡 Check the key is with the tourist office across the street (open till 17:00) if you find it locked. It's worth the 5-minute walk from the castle.

A well-preserved Roman bridge over the Ribeira de Beja, still used by pedestrians. No signage, just a quiet spot with views of the river and old town.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Combine with a walk along the riverbank paths. Best enjoyed early morning when it's empty.

A large, shaded park with walking paths, a lake, and a small playground. Great for a picnic away from the town's cobbled streets.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Bring your own snacks; the only café is pricey. The lake loop is about 1.5 km and mostly flat.