Tavira, Portugal — My World Experience

Tavira is a quaint little city located just over the border from Spain in Portugal. In the off season it is a great place to go because in the South of Portugal the weather is mild, perfect for golfing, hiking, and exploring without getting drenched in sweat. The perfect time to go is around March to April. There are not many young travelers during these months, more retirees, however, the prices are much cheaper around this time and tours are just starting up again after the winter season.

01 THING TO DO

Tavira Island

Go to the island - in the off season, around March to April, the beaches are stunning because there are no people on the island. There is a 11km (about 7 miles) walk around the island. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Algarve but also where naturism, also know as nudism, is legal.

Boat taxi - About €16 for up to 6 people. My suggestion is at the dock ask if people want to split the cost with you.
Ferry - €2 one way. It is the cheapest option but at the moment (April 2019) they are re-doing the dock on the island so only the taxis are running.

Walk around

Look at the ruin castle that pops up around all the newer buildings. There is also a beautiful garden inside a part of the ruins. They ask for a small donation, but it is worth it. Around the walls there are several places to climb up and see over all the city. It also has a nice view of the church, which is right next to it. The bus station seems a little run down but in the late evening the lighting on it is fantastic. The nice thing about the city is there are several hills around the river, so you can find many view points.

Markets

Old town Market - There is the older market that has become more touristy right down town but if you walk out towards the end of the port there is a modern building.

Mercado Municipal - This is the new market full of fish and fresh foods. You can also find the local alcohols there.

02 WHERE TO EAT

Artefact - A farm to fork restaurant tucked away 800 meters behind the castle. From the meat plates to the vegetarian, this restaurant knows food. We had to come back another time to try different plates because everything was so perfect the first time. They have an almond liquor made in house served with ice and lemons. It is served as an aperitif. The waiters are also so much fun and welcoming. Make a reservation!

Come na Gaveta - Close to the center, just a short walk up the Main Street. Fresh and high-quality food. Still nothing compared to Artefact. On the weekends they have live music.

Ti Maria - Out of the city center located in a more residential area. From outside it looks very small but there are several rooms inside to accommodate big parties. Plus outside sitting in the front and in the back patio. The tapas here are fantastic! I highly recommend the goat cheese plate. It is something very special to this restaurants. Everything is done very well especially the seafood.

03 WHERE TO STAY

Maria Nova Lounge Hotel - This was the first place I saw hotels advertising for kid free hotels, in fact, Maria Nova is a kid free space. The hotel is very expensive in the summer (high season for travel) but in the off season around March it is reasonable. They have a lot of services and a pool bar (best part of any hotel). It also has a bar located on the top of the building with an amazing view over the city.

04 HOW TO GET THERE

There really isn’t public transportation because it isn’t a major tourist destination. Portugal and Spain have very cheap rental cars for about €10 a day. This is also the easiest way to get around. The drive from Spain is beautiful, but plan for the road tolls along the way as they can add up.