A historic city in Portugal’s Alentejo region, Beja has long been popular with culture aficionados. With heritage highlights including a magnificent castle and medieval edifices, it’s a wonderful place for a wander — and the southern plains which surround it are studded with vineyards and opportunities for outdoorsy adventure. Our pick of the best places to stay in Beja is a laid-back, traditional hotel in the heart of town, well-placed for active friends, families and couples.

Begin your explorations with a tour of the impressive Beja Castle, before admiring the Renaissance-era Misericórdia Church, and the beautiful Convent of Nossa Senhora da Conceição. The convent is home to an excellent regional museum, which is also well worth visiting. Stroll along narrow lanes lined with tiled houses, shops, galleries and cafes, and sip a mid-morning coffee or tuck into flavoursome fare with friends at lunchtime. Expect fantastic people-watching from eateries which spill out onto the street.

Venture into the surrounding countryside for tours and tastings a top-notch wineries, to discover olives groves and to delve into the region’s famous cork production. Hiking and cycling trails abound, and there are pretty villages to see in all directions. Return to the best place to stay in Bela for delicious dinners of seasonal specialities after a refreshing dip in the pool.

The Best Places to Stay in Beja

For Traditional Charm

• Pousada Convento Beja is a charming traditional hotel in the heart of Beja. Expect generously proportioned rooms and suites with simple furnishings, plus large gardens, a swimming pool, tennis court and regional restaurant. Great for all ages and appealingly affordable. 

For an apartment or holiday villa

Travel information

• Fly to Lisbon International Airport and travel just under two hours by bus, train or taxi to Beja. There is also a small airport just outside of Beja. Alternatively, most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• The Algarve is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C between June and early September. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays, or in spring and autumn, when the weather is also slightly cooler.

Still Not Sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Evora.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Alentejo.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.