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Tavira is a Portuguese town in the east of the Algarve, with a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians and Romans. Learn about its Moorish heritage, its role in the Reconquista, its earthquake damage and its cultural and natural features.
- What to See and Do in Tavira
- The Roman Bridge – Ponte Romana de Tavira
- Republic Square
- Castelo de Tavira – Tavira’s Castle
- Igreja de Santa Maria Do Castelo
- Igreja Matriz de Santiago
- Camera Obscura Tavira
- Igreja Da Misericórdia
- Jardim Público de Tavira – Jardim Do Coreto
- Mercado Da Ribeira
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Tavira has a unique place in the Algarve. It’s one of the oldest settlements with a rich history spanning the Phoenicians, the Romans, through to the Moorish period. You’ll find evidence, history, and archaeological influence from its long history. Most people tend to start exploring Tavira from the centrally located Praça da República. You’ll find...
The first thing many people notice is Tavira’s historic bridge. Ponte Romana de Tavira. Although the name might trick you into thinking it’s Roman, it’s actually not. It was built sometime around the 12th century, to replace a bridge believed to have Roman origins. It’s unconfirmed if even the Roman bridge existed, but the name stuck! Much of the s...
The western side of the Roman Bridge will lead you to Praça da República, a public square that forms the town centre of Tavira. It’s a large square surrounded by cafés and at its centre is an outdoor amphitheatre. During Tavira’s lively events calendar you’ll see it used for all sorts of public performances, from local musicians to theatre and danc...
A short walk from Praça da República, you can find the remains of Castelo de Tavira. The once impressive castle was the location of fierce fighting between the Moors and Portuguese forces during the reconquest period. It’s believed the first castle was of Moorish origin, but evidence of a Phoenician settlement has been found as well. Following the ...
Exiting out of the rear of the castle will lead you to Largo Abu-Otmane, the location of two of Tavira’s notable churches – it has 37! The first you’ll come across is Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo. It’s bell towers and large white and yellow clock faces are easily recognisable from all over Tavira. The original church was built in the 13th centu...
A short walk from Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo is Igreja Matriz de Santiago. It’s more sedate in both its architecture and scale, but still a fairly interesting focal point. Once again, it’s possible to head up its bell tower, but if you’ve already taken in the views from either the castle or Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, you may not want t...
The final attraction in this small area of Tavira is the Camera Obscura Tavira. The attraction is built inside an old water tower which you access through an outside staircase. Inside it, you’ll find the Camera Obscura and a lesson on one of the basic principles of photography. What is it? Well, it’s essentially a lens and mirror system, that proje...
Heading back towards Praça da República you’ll find Igreja da Misericórdia. It’s Tavira’s grandest church and the last church we’ll mention in this guide – there’s at least a few more we could mention! Igreja da Misericórdia was built in the mid-16thcentury and is perhaps the finest example of Renaissance architecture in the Algarve. Admittedly, fr...
For something a little more relaxed, take a short walk through Jardim do Coreto. It’s where you’ll really learn to appreciate the slow pace of life Tavira offers. It’s a small, but idyllic palm tree lined park with plenty of benches and outside seating. A popular spot for the locals to catch up in the shade and drink coffee. At the centre, you’ll f...
Continue to the eastern end of the park and you’ll soon meet the Mercado da Ribeira. It’s the original central market that’s since been replaced by a bigger and more modern building a little further away. Unfortunately, you won’t find the traditional market goods inside, but you will find several cafés, restaurants, and an ice cream shop. Several o...
Tavira is a small town with a rich history, a scenic river, and a stunning island beach. Learn about its Roman bridge, castle, churches, and how to visit its lagoon and sandbar islands.
Tavira is the most charming town in the Algarve, making it a fantastic destination for a holiday or day trip. The town lies along the slow-flowing Gilão River and offers a delightful combination of traditional Portuguese heritage and deep-rooted Moorish influences.
- Philip Giddings
Nov 21, 2023 · Embark on a journey through the enchanting town of Tavira, Portugal, as we unveil the 19 best things to do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our comprehensive guide provides insider tips and a handy map to ensure you make the most of your Tavira experience.
Jul 8, 2024 · Forget the crowded Praia do Camilo in Lagos or Praia da Rocha in Portimão, Tavira has one of the most pristine beaches in the Algarve Region – Tavira Island. Set over 7km of sandy shoreline, the sandbar island never seems overcrowded and is easily accessible to the town by an inexpensive ferry.
Dec 13, 2023 · Thinking of visiting Tavira in Portugal and wondering what to expect? In this guide, we share some of the very best places to see and things to do in Tavira on your first visit. We also include a few of the nicest places to visit near Tavira that are really worth your time as well.
Set on either side of the meandering Rio Gilão, Tavira is arguably the Algarve's most charming town. The ruins of a hilltop castle, an old Roman bridge and a smattering of Gothic and Renaissance churches are among its historic attractions.
