Algarve’s traditional towns and villages

Start discovering Algarve’s history and culture. Tour the picturesque Eastern Algarve, passing through Faro, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António. In Faro, do not miss the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa [natural park], and Cidade Velha [the old city], including the Cathedral and Castle. In Tavira, discover fantastic beaches and islands, climb up to the castle for fantastic ocean views, and be amazed by the regional arts and crafts. In Vila Real de Santo António, right on the Spanish border, stroll through Praça Marquês de Pombal, along the riverside area, and try one of the many local gastronomy restaurants.

Don’t miss going up to the mountains and the west coast, exploring Silves, Monchique, and Aljezur. This long route has Silves as its first stop, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, where it is worth visiting the Castle, erected by the Moors in the 11th century on Roman foundations, the Cathedral, and the Arade river dam. Then travel to Monchique, located on the mountain that separates Algarve from Alentejo, and there finds Algarve’s highest point. The route ends at Aljezur, where in addition to the Castle and the church of Misericórdia, you can find beautiful beaches on Portugal’s west coast.