Straddling the Rio Gilao, Tavira graces the Algarve Coast of Portugal with centuries-old castles, Renaissance churches, sandy beaches and a sprawling nature park. Memorable abound in Tavira, from the charming Old Town area to the natural splendours of Tavira Island and Cabana Beach.

Things to do

Wander through the Old Town, an Arabic-style enclave with latticed doors, narrow winding streets and the nearby Ponte Romana bridge. A Roman structure with 17th-century incarnations, the seven-arched bridge offers excellent sunset views. It also borders the Praca da Republica riverfront square where you can wine and dine along the waterfront promenade and enjoy performances at the amphitheatre.

Explore Tavira’s ancient structures, including Santa María do Castelo Church, to see the tombs of knights who fought the Moors invasions. At the 1540s Igreja da Misericordia church you can get a glimpse of Renaissance-era carved doorways and a cherub-adorned baroque altar. Climb the hill to Tavira Castle to discover octagonal towers and fortified walls dating back to medieval times.

A short walk from Tavira Castle takes you to the Tower of Tavira, a former water tower that houses the Astronomical Observatory with its own camera obscura. Marvel at the 360-degree views of the city through live images captured in real time.

Take a ferry or water taxi to Tavira Island to enjoy the seven-kilometre-long Cabanas Beach and natural salt pans filled with flamingos and spoonbills. Explore Ria Formosa Natural Park, designated one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal. You can go hiking and wildlife watching through woodland forests, marshes and freshwater lagoons.

Getting around

Taxis, tuk-tuk vehicles and cycle rentals offer transportation throughout Tavira. You can pick up a rental car in town or at Faro Airport, about 40 kilometres away.