Beja is a relaxed historic city in Portugal’s Alentejo region. It’s known for its castle, Roman ruins, museums, and of course, Portuguese food; perfect for history lovers and slow travel seekers.

About Beja

Beja is a small city of about 35,000 people located in the heart of the Alentejo region of Portugal. Beja is one of Portugal’s oldest and most historically rich cities. If you’re visiting Beja, or planning a trip through southern Portugal, you’ll find this charming city full of fascinating stories and ancient landmarks.

Beja was originally a Celtic settlement, but it gained real importance during Roman times when it became known as Pax Julia. It was named by Emperor Augustus after a peace treaty was signed there. As part of the Roman Empire, Beja became a thriving center with roads, walls, and agricultural traditions that still influence the region today.

After the Romans, Beja passed through the hands of the Visigoths and then the Moors, who left a strong architectural and cultural legacy. In the 12th century, it was taken back by the Portuguese forces during the Christian Reconquista.

Today, Beja is a peaceful city where you can explore centuries-old sites such as, the Beja Castle, which was built in the 13th century, the Regional Museum, and Roman ruins, all while soaking up that relaxed Alentejo vibe. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for unique places to visit in Portugal, Beja offers a perfect blend of past and present.

My Beja Experience

I visited Beja recently and was in complete awe of its beauty. I once again felt like I was stepping back in time while I explored the castle and the town. It’s so amazing to see the architecture so old that it existed far before America was even a country! I love exploring all these historic places and imagining how life would have been back then. 

Beja is about 1:40 away from Tavira, which makes it an easy getaway. I went for an overnight visit to explore. I did so on a Sunday and Monday, which was a mistake on my part, as many things were closed. There was a lot I did not get to visit, such as the museums. It was still a nice, relaxing getaway though, and the pretty views of Alentejo were spectacular. 

Trip details: 

I went with a friend and we stayed at the Holiday Inn Beja. It was a nice, clean hotel with friendly staff. There was a nice pool area but unfortunately it was a bit too cold to go out. It was a good location, about a 10-minute walk from the centro. One of the highlights of the hotel is the artwork on the outside. The facade of the Holiday Inn in Beja features two striking murals by renowned Portuguese street artist Vhils. The mural honors literary icons Florbela Espanca and Mário Beirão, both of whom have strong ties to the Alentejo region. Created using Vhils’ signature carving technique, the portraits are part of a broader urban renewal project that blends Beja’s cultural heritage with modern design, making the hotel a unique visual landmark in the city. 

Gluten-Free Eating in Beja

On our first day, we had a small snack and drink at Desafinado. We got chips that were celiac-friendly, and they were really delicious. Pretty sure they were fresh-cut potatoes because they were amazing and didn’t taste processed at all. For dinner, we actually did something I don’t usually do and ordered in. It was really cold and windy so we decided not to go out. Instead we ordered sushi from Sushi Tian Tian. We ordered a 65-piece assortment to share and I was able to eat some of it, however they didn’t have gf soy sauce, so I ate them dry. The next day for lunch we had a place called Let’s Meat, it was really delicious. I had the mixed grill plate, which had 3 kinds of meat and some rice with it, and of course, a glass of wine. 

What to See in Beja

• Beja Castle (Beja, Portugal)- Beja Castle is the city’s main attraction. The star attraction is the 40-meter marble keep, which is the tallest in Portugal. Climbing to the top rewards you with sweeping views over the Alentejo plains that feel endless in the best way. If you want that “wow, this place hasn’t changed much in centuries” feeling, this is it.
• Igreja de Santo Amaro– This small church is one of the oldest in Portugal and part of the Beja Regional Museum. It’s simple on the outside but historically significant, especially if you’re even mildly into Roman and early Christian history. It’s a quiet stop that adds depth to a Beja visit without taking much time.
• Praça da República– This is Beja’s social heart. The square is surrounded by traditional arcades, cafes, and historic buildings, making it a great place to grab a coffee and people-watch. It’s also one of the most photogenic spots in town, especially in the late afternoon light.
• Pax Julia Theatre– Named after Beja’s Roman name, Pax Julia, this municipal theater hosts performances, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year. Even if you don’t attend a show, it’s a reminder that Beja isn’t frozen in time. It still has a modern cultural pulse.
• Jardim Gago Coutinho e Sacadura Cabral-This small, peaceful garden is a nice break from sightseeing. It’s shaded, relaxed, and a good place to sit for a few minutes if the Alentejo sun is doing the most. Not a must-see, but a pleasant pause between attractions.
• Municipal Market of Beja– Make a quick stop inside the market for Alentejo cheese, bread, and local treats.
• Roman Villa of Pisões-(Near Beja, Portugal) Located just outside the city, this archaeological site shows off well-preserved Roman mosaics, baths, and foundations from a former villa. It’s an easy add-on if you have a car and want a better sense of Beja’s Roman roots. Go early or late in the day to avoid the heat.

Planning Your Visit to Beja, Portugal

Closest airports
The closest airport is Beja Airport (BYJ), located about 10 km from the city, but it does not currently have regular commercial flights. Most travelers fly into Faro Airport (FAO), about 110 km south, or Lisbon Airport (LIS), about 135 km north. Both offer good flight options and easy onward travel.

How to get to Beja
Beja is easy to reach by car, which is the most convenient option, especially if you plan to visit nearby Roman ruins or explore the Alentejo region. There are also train and bus connections from Lisbon and Faro.

How long to stay
One day is enough to see Beja’s main sights, but two days allows for a slower pace, museum visits, and a short excursion outside the city.

Best time to visit
Spring and fall are ideal, with warm days and fewer crowds. Summers can be very hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings or late afternoons.

Travel Tip:

Many museums in Beja are closed on Mondays and Sundays, so plan accordingly!

Overall, I had a great time in Beja. I wish I had gone on different days because like many places in Portugal, things are closed on Sundays and Mondays. I guess I’d better plan another trip! 

Thanks for reading! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @vegas.to.portugal and on TikTok @expat.in.portugal to see more of my pics from Beja and more of my life living in beautiful Portugal. 💙