Tour Description
Tavira is a charming town in the East Algarve, not far from the border with Spain.
Set in the margins of the River Gilão, next to the Ria Formosa and an eight-mile-long beach, Tavira is a relaxing retreat!
The town shows an alluring Portuguese appeal, with crisp white walls, fine azulejo tiles, and waves of triangular roofs.
Details of a church in Tavira
Along the quiet streets, layers of history can be witnessed, from doorways decorated with Islamic motifs to Baroque flourishes.
From the ruins of the Castle, surrounded by oleanders, jacarandas, and bougainvilleas, you get a privileged view of the town’s typical roofs and its over 30 churches.
Taking a boat from the bustling fishing port, you exit the river to cross the main channel of the Ria Formosa lagoon, a rich nature reserve of exceptional beauty, perfect for birdwatching and nature observation.
Fishing boats in Tavira
The ferry ends its short journey on one of the best beaches in the world, Tavira’s Island. Be prepared for miles of golden sand and turquoise waters, awarded with a Blue flag.
With just a few restaurants and bars, it’s a peaceful and safe beach.
In the surroundings, within a short distance, you can enjoy a completely different landscape and ways of life, marked by fields of orange trees, heavy with the scent of blossom.
Scattered white houses with lacy chimneys show an off-beat Algarve, where eagles soar.
And being in Portugal, you know that you’ll be treated to excellent food and wine.
Anchor cemetery in Barril Beach Tavira
In Tavira, there is a combination of ingredients from the coast and the countryside. From the sea, comes the freshest fish and seafood, cooked with simplicity and respect, paired with salads seasoned with one of the best olive oils in the world.
If you are a meat lover, you won’t be disappointed, with stews and grilled dishes.
And the sweets are an exquisite mix of almonds, figs, honey, and carobs, abundant in the area.
In Tavira, you’ll surely have a relaxing time, with heritage, nature, stunning beaches, and fun activities!
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival
Meet & Greet Airport Transfer to the hotel (pick-up available for other locations, on request, with extra charges)
Rest of the day at your leisure
Tavira, river Gilao
Day 2
Day at your leisure
Suggestions for activities: visit the beautiful Roman bridge. In the end, you can see from the street the São João da Barra Fort.
The Bridge, once crossed by cars and people, was partially destroyed by a flood on the 3rd of December 1989 and restored sometime later, but now just pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles are allowed. Tavira always managed to maintain its original appearance and yet, evolve in time.
Roman bridge in Tavira Venice of Algarve
Day 3
Day at your leisure
Suggestions for activities: Visit the Tavira Castle at the top of the Old Town. It isn’t known when the first castle at this site was built but sources say a fortress was already being rebuilt by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC. The Castle probably dates back to the 11th century. Tavira’s Castle was small and rectangular. It now consists of the remains of two square towers, one octagonal tower, and walls on three sides. None of the towers nowadays possess the characteristics of a keep but there surely had been one. The interior is used as a small garden. You can have a unique view from the walls and towers of Tavira to the sea. The castle can be visited, for free, during the daytime. Around the old town, you can find several parts of the towers and walls of the old medieval city walls but are not open to visitors.
Tavira, river Gilao
Day 4
Transfer to the Airport for Departure
Info
Maria Nova Hotel, Tavira
Maria Nova Hotel, Tavira
- This product is only for twin rooms (2 pax per room)
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- Single rooms are available on request with an extra supplement
- Please inform your arrival and departure details – Flights details (arrival/departure) must be sent 30 days before arrival
- Pick-up and drop-off are free from/to Faro Airport, Faro bus station, and Faro train station. Other locations please request a transfer with an additional cost.
Hotel
Maria Nova Hotel (4****) or similar
Located a 5-minute walk from Tavira’s bustling town centre, Maria Nova Lounge Hotel – Adults Only enjoys a quiet hillside location. Its modern rooms feature a private balcony with panoramic views. Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools.
Maria Nova Hotel’s rooms are decorated with tiled floors, wooden furniture, and large windows. All rooms have a minibar, satellite TV, and an en suite bathroom.
The Bar Panorâmico offers an extensive list of cocktails and stunning views over Tavira.
