Elvas is a charming town in the eastern Alentejo region of Portugal, known for its impressive fortifications and numerous historic landmarks. The town has a rich history dating back to Roman times, making it a popular destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Visitors can wander the streets of the old town, explore the fortifications, including the iconic medieval castle and the star-shaped walls, and visit the many historic churches and monuments. Elvas is also a great destination for foodies, with hearty traditional cuisine and delicious local wines on offer. The town is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside, including the Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, and the nearby Spanish town of Badajoz.

The nearest airport to Elvas is Lisbon Portela Airport, which is around 220km away. From Lisbon, visitors can take a train to Portalegre, which is the nearest major city to Elvas, and then take a bus or taxi for the final leg of the journey. Alternatively, visitors can hire a car in Lisbon and drive to Elvas, which takes around 2.5 hours.

The best time to visit Elvas is from March to June or from September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer months can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 35°C, making it less comfortable for exploring the town and the surrounding countryside.

Elvas has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cool winters. In summer, temperatures average between 26°C and 35°C, while in winter they can drop to around 5°C. The most rainfall occurs between November and January.

Accommodation options in Elvas range from budget-friendly guesthouses to fancy hotels. Budget options start at around €40 per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost around €80-100 per night. Luxury hotels can cost upwards of €150 per night.

Food in Elvas is generally very affordable, with a meal in a local restaurant costing around €10-15 per person. Visitors should also try the local wines, which are very tasty and reasonably priced.

Elvas is generally a safe destination, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Women and LGBTQ+ travelers should feel relatively safe in Elvas, although some caution is advised at night in larger cities. Portugal is generally a tolerant and inclusive country.

Elvas has a population of around 16,000 people, with a mix of older and younger residents. The religion is predominantly Catholic, and the language spoken is Portuguese. There is a small minority of foreigners living in the town, including people from Brazil, Africa, and other European countries.

Some popular activities for visitors to Elvas include exploring the fortifications and historic landmarks, such as the castle and the star-shaped walls, visiting local museums and art galleries, trying the traditional food and wines, and exploring the surrounding countryside and natural parks.