Tavira
(map)
Tavira
is situated in the East Algarve, only 20 km drive from the Spanish border. The old roman bridge over the river Gilão connects the two parts of the town. Tavira has a romantic feel, nestling there right on the waterfront. It is said that this is the town with the most churches in the Algarve. Narrow paths, up and down steps and hills, offering fantastic views, lead you to an imposing castle and the old Pousada (a Pousada is a 1st class hotel installed in an important historical heritage of Portugal. Previously these buildings were the exclusive property of the Portuguese state, but nowadays some are owned by investment companies).
Tavira was famous for fishing, fish salting, and especially for tuna. In the 14th/15th century the port became very significant. Dried fruit, wine and salted fish were being exported all over the world. Today tourism is the number one trade, as is, to this day, the world famous, first class salt called "Flor de sal" or in France "Fleur de sel", an ingredient without equal for gourmet kitchen use as well as in a relaxing bath or in cosmetics - pure nature.
Tavira has a marked Roman influence. If you are interesting in history or arcitecture this is the place to visit.
Tavira is full of culture and museums, and during the summer you can listen to the wonderful open air music events downtown.
Many restaurants, cafés and bars invite you to take a break. During your stay breath in the slow lifestyle of Southern Europe and enjoy!
Tavira has an old and a modern market hall; the old market is often used for exhibitions. For some, Tavira is the pearl of the whole Algarve, form your own opinion.
Sightseeing:
Plenty of historical buildings like churches, the townhall and the convent are worth a visit.
Here is a small selection:
- "Câmara Obscura" : in the Torre de Tavira (the old water tower), gives you a 360° virtual tour of Tavira
- beach: a ferry or a water taxi from "Quatro Águas", the station near the old market, brings you to the open sea by the "Ilha de Tavira" island, about 10 minutes over the river Gilão passing the Ria Formosa channel;
- train: going by train: "Linha do Algarve" is the railway from Lagos in the West - Faro - Tavira - Vila Real de St° António in the East of the Algarve
- Regular flea markets and gypsy markets
This information is a service of "visit eastalgarve" and it is only for your guidance. If you should find, despite of our greatest efforts, an error in our source of information, unfortunately we cannot assume liability. 
