Tavira Guide

Things to do in Tavira

Information about typical activities to do in Tavira. We recommend also taking a look at our section of Tours and Guided Tours in Tavira.

Walk around town

You will find out that walking is one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful city architecture and the easiest way to quickly reach popular touristic spots. From the city hall you can easily go the the Castle by walk or sit and enjoy the sun in the old Roman Bridge. When the sun is going down sit and enjoy a refreshing drink in the old Market esplanades while watching the river and the fishing boats.

River Walk

The Séqua river acquires the name Gilão river when it enters the city. Try walking from near the train bridge all the way to the fishing boats harbour; then, cross the bridge to the other side and do the opposite way, it’s a fun way to enjoy the landscape and if you are lucky around sunset you will be able to spot the wild otters that come for fish in the low tide.

Travel to the Beach

Go to Tavira Island, you can either take a boat from Quatro Águas, or from the city center near the fishing boats harbour. See the detailed schedule for Transportation to the Island of Tavira in the Tavira Island page.

Mostly all the beaches in Tavira are supervised and are awarded with the Blue Flag for quality. The sand is very white and the water tends to be around 16C to 20C in the summer. Be aware of the strong sun and always wear a good protective sunscreen. Also avoid going being exposed between 12 and 3 p.m., people with very white skin tend to get burned very quickly and it’s a bit painful.

Bird watching

Birdwatching is becoming a more popular activity around the Natural Ria Formosa Park which is considered a paradise when it becomes to birdwatching activities.
There are several organizations that set up walks and excursions you can join with groups o people, for instance take a peek at www.algarvebirders.com or www.natura-algarve.com.

Visit Cabanas and Santa Luzia

I should say that, after Tavira city centre, these are the next 2 places you want to visit. Together Santa Luzia and Cabanas de Tavira are two small fishing villages that stopped in time but continue to impress when it comes to typical gastronomy and tradition.