Things to do in Tavira

Activities, attractions and tours

Tavira Castle which includes a city
Roman Bridge
Praca da Republica showing a fountain and a square or plaza
Ilha de Tavira Beach which includes general coastal views and a lighthouse
Tavira
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Top places to visit

1. Tavira Castle

Tavira Castle is one of the historic town’s most prominent landmarks. Known locally as Castelo de Tavira, the castle is a remnant of Tavira’s dramatic past. Go on a trip through time when you explore the ruined fortress and climb to the top of its battlements. The views from the old castle tower encompass the town’s historic streetscape and the surrounding nature reserves.
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Tavira Castle

2. Roman Bridge

Wander across the Roman Bridge (Ponte Romana) and look upriver at the old town of Tavira. The bridge that stands today does not look like the structure that was originally built here. The original bridge dates back to the 12th century, when the ancient township was a part of al-Andalus, the Moorish territory that stretched across Islamic Iberia.
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Roman Bridge featuring a bridge and a river or creek

3. Praca da Republica

Praça de República is the historic heartland of the town, where townspeople and merchants would gather daily to meet and trade goods. Go for a stroll around this preserved plaza and admire the architecture of its pretty 19th-century townhouses and riverfront amphitheater.
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Praca da Republica showing a fountain and a square or plaza

4. Terra Estreita Beach

Terra Estreita Beach is a spacious sandy beach in front of the tiny fishing village of Santa Luzia on Tavira Island (Ilha de Tavira). Named for the narrow sandbar on which it sits, Terra Estreita Beach is loved for its secluded atmosphere and natural appeal. The beach is located within the Ria Formosa Natural Park and is home to interesting flora and fauna. Swim in the waters and relax on the soft golden sands of this beach with a laidback atmosphere.
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Terra Estreita Beach featuring a beach and general coastal views

5. Misericordia Church

Gaze in awe at the beautifully carved front portal of the Misericórdia Church. Also known as the Mercy of Tavira, this 16th-century church is regarded as one of the region’s architectural treasures. Inside the church, you’ll find three naves adorned with blue-and-white tiles and Baroque imagery.
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Misericordia Church showing interior views, heritage elements and a church or cathedral

What to do in Tavira

Popular places to visit

Tavira Castle which includes a city

Tavira Castle

Look out across the rooftops of historic Tavira from a tower in this ruined fortress, which has withstood royal sieges, pirate attacks and natural disasters.

Tavira Castle
Roman Bridge featuring a bridge and a river or creek

Roman Bridge

Despite its name, Tavira’s central footbridge wasn’t constructed during the Roman Empire, but it does sit where an ancient bridge once was.

Roman Bridge
Praca da Republica showing a fountain and a square or plaza

Praca da Republica

Check out Tavira’s main square, which served as the town’s marketplace for centuries and is now surrounded by restaurants and elegant heritage buildings with preserved façades.

Praca da Republica
Misericordia Church featuring a city

Misericordia Church

Dating back to the 16th century, this church is one of the Algarve’s most exquisite pieces of Renaissance architecture that includes remarkable stonemasonry.

Misericordia Church
Tavira Castle

Mother Church of Santa Maria do Castelo

Though Mother Church of Santa Maria do Castelo might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Santa Maria e Santiago while you are here.

Mother Church of Santa Maria do Castelo

Old Town

Learn about the local history of Santa Maria e Santiago when you spend time at Old Town. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Old Town

Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Mall

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Mall during your trip to Santa Maria e Santiago. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Mall

Benamor Golf

Play a round of golf at Benamor Golf and enjoy other activities in Conceição such as boating. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Benamor Golf

Tavira Tower

You can learn about the history of Santa Maria e Santiago with a trip to Tavira Tower. Amble around this relaxing area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its lively bars.

Tavira Tower

Areas of Tavira

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Picota

When in Picota, you can plan a visit to Roman Bridge and Old Town, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Picota
Photo by Travelholic Path

Castro Marim

Alcoutim

Alcoutim

Frequently asked questions

Is Tavira worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Tavira is explore Ilha da Fuzeta. Check this top sight off your list, then discover more of the area's underwater activities and golfing.
How do I spend a day in Tavira?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ilha da Fuzeta and Praia Fuseta. Then, check out other areas of Tavira for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tavira?
The top tourist attraction in Tavira is Ilha da Fuzeta, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Tavira?
Book a trip to Tavira for three days and you'll have enough time to tick off its most in-demand sights and get a feel for the local way of life. For the chance to enjoy attractions in nearby areas and venture off the tourist trail, consider sticking around for seven to ten days.
Is Tavira a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Tavira. Several attractions, including Tavira Tower and Terra Estreita Beach, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Tavira's best neighborhoods, Santa Maria e Santiago is 0.16 kilometers away from downtown, while Conceicao e Cabanas de Tavira is 5 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Tavira with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all of your group, here are some fabulous ideas for what to do in Tavira with kids.

What to do in Tavira for adults?
Casa das Portas is one of the best things to do in Tavira. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Tavira?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Tavira is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Terra Estreita Beach is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.