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So let’s talk about Faro and Tavira, two spots in the sunny Algarve that you’ve got to choose between.
Faro, the capital of the Algarve, is lively with a lot going on. The center has lots of what you would expect, shops, restaurants, bars, and the ancient walled city full of interesting historical sites.
On the flip side, you have Tavira. Tavira is like the Algarve’s best-kept secret. It’s quieter, sure, but it’s got charm by bucketload. It’s the ideal place to unwind, offering a slower pace without skimping on historical richness.
When vacation time is of the essence, choosing the right spot is key! I’m here to arm you with all the insights, so you can make the best pick for your travel adventure.
Highlights of Faro
The main attractions to include in your Faro Itinerary would be the charming Old Town (Cidade Velha) and the ancient streets leading to the Faro Cathedral.
The city is also the gateway to the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park! If you are a nature lover, it’s a must-visit for its saltwater lagoons and islands that are paradise for birdwatchers.
Another main attraction is the Faro’s Maritime Museum (Museu Marítimo Almirante Ramalho Ortigão), offering an insight into the local seafare traditions.
Highlights of Tavira
Tavira is known for its beautiful Old Town and the historical ruins of Tavira Castle. It has a charming Roman Bridge over the Gilão River, adding to the city’s scenic beauty. On both sides of the river, you will find local shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Tavira is sometimes called the “city of churches,” with over 20 churches and chapels spread across the city, each showcasing a range of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque.
Notable examples include the Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, which houses the tombs of seven Knights of the Order of Santiago, and the Misericórdia Church, known for its beautiful façade and interior azulejos (tiles).
Don’t miss the Camera Obscura for a unique panoramic view of Tavira, showcasing the city’s dual charm.
Where are Faro and Tavira?
Best Way To Reach Faro & Tavira
Getting to both Tavira and Faro is easy if you are flying! There is an International Airport in Faro which makes Faro the more convenient choice.
Tavira is only a 30-minute car ride from the Faro airport or an hour by public transit.
If you choose to stay in Tavira, you might want to rent a car at the airport so that you can have full freedom to explore Southern Portugal.
Best Things to Do in Faro vs Tavira
These cute little coastal towns both offer a variety of things to keep you busy whether you are visiting solo or with friends.
Faro
One of the reasons I found Faro worth visiting was the historic Old Town! I love exploring an ancient fortified city. And this one is so well preserved!
Within the city walls, you will find the Faro Cathedral and Faro Archaeological Museum, an old convent you can visit for €2 per ticket.
There are also a number of restaurants and bars located within the Cidade Velha. Don’t forget to visit all the archways which are the entry points to the Old Town.
If you are looking for something on the spookier side, visit the Capela dos Ossos de Faro, also known as the Bone Chapel! Here you will find more than 1200 skulls built into the wall!
Eat your way through Faro on this walking tour!
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Tavira
The main attraction to visit in Tavira is the Tavira Castle, which isn’t just old, It’s ancient with roots going back to the 8th century BC when the Phoenicians were around.
The walk up to the castle is pretty cool, it’s like stepping back in time as everything is as it was. The old narrow streets and quaint little stone houses sit the same as they have for centuries.
The castle grounds contain a garden and an incredible view of the town of Tavira. It is a nice place to take pictures.
Other notable things to do are visit the many churches and admire the azulejos tiles, learn about the history of salt panning in Tavira, or catch a ferry to the beach.
Where To Eat
Faro
One of the most traditional dishes in the Algarve is “Conquilhas à Algarvia”. It’s a dish made of small, tasty clams cooked with garlic, olive oil, and white wine.
Some add cilantro for an extra kick. Served with fresh bread to dip in the sauce, it’s simple yet delicious!
One of the best places in Faro for seafood is Á do Pinto! I sampled the seafood rice filled with prawns, clams, and mussels and paired it with a local white wine!
Wine lovers need to check out the Bago Wine Bar! They have an excellent selection of wines and tapas. It is the perfect spot to hit right before dinner.
Tavira
Tavira has no shortage of riverside restaurants serving up fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese food. The best restaurant I found was Borda D’Agua Gastrobar! Here I indulged in the fish and salad dishes.
Borda D’Agua Gastrobar has a nice outdoor patio that I had to skip due to the weather, but hopefully, you don’t have to!
Best Time to Visit
When visiting Tavira or Faro you want to plan for the sunny and dry season, which is typically between April to October.
If you are looking for the perfect time then I would aim for April and May. It is just before the busy tourist rush season.
Visiting the Algarve in the off-season such as January, February and March will be very quite, which can be nice. However, it will likely be rainy and overcast.
Nightlife
Faro
The nightlife in Faro is fairly understated. There are a few bars all concentrated in the heart of the old town. You won’t find lively beach clubs, just some bars playing good music and serving up some tasting drinks, try the sangria!
If you are looking for recommendations, try Palimpsestu art bar, or the Piper’s Irish Pub!
Tavira
Tavira is fairly low-key when it comes to nightlife. You will find cozy bars playing great music and serving craft cocktails, but you won’t find anything too lively.
If you are looking for a sports bar you can check out Fanu Sports Bar and for a tasty cocktail head over to Arcada Cocktail Club.
Getting Around
Faro
All the main sites are within walking of the Old Town in Faro. If you are looking to stay outside the center there is good public transportation of buses.
If you want to visit the beaches closest to Faro you will want to either rent a car, take a cheap taxi, or ferry service from the marina.
Find the ferry at Porta Nova pier, and takes about 30 minutes.
Tavira
The same rules for getting around Tavira are the same as Faro. You will need to take a ferry to the beaches, taxi or have a rental car, which I recommend!
The main train station is a quick walk to the main town and castle.
Where to Stay
Faro
If you don’t have a car the best area to stay in Faro is around the city center! I can recommend a few places all highly rated:
- 3HB $$$
- A Casa D’Amelie $$
- Lemon Tree Stay $$
Tavira
Which Should I Choose?
Since Faro and Tavira are so close to each other you likely can visit both in a trip, the question is which town should you stay? I would recommend a couple of days in Faro and then spend a day in Tavira.
If it were up to me, I would opt for the charming and lesser-known, Tavira. Ultimately, I don’t think you could go wrong with either destination!
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