Vilamoura to Faro, Olhao and Tavira: Private day trip

Faro invites you through ancient arches to sea views, sacred relics, and sunlit calm.

Where sea breezes meet ancient walls, Faro is the soulful capital of the Algarve. Begin in the Cidade Velha, stepping through the Arco da Vila into a walled maze of cobbled streets and palm-lined courtyards. Visit the hauntingly beautiful Igreja do Carmo and its Chapel of Bones, then browse the peaceful Museu Municipal, housed in a serene former convent. Stroll the marina at golden hour or sip a cocktail above it at Columbus Bar. Faro blends serenity and intrigue — salt air, historic tiles, and Moorish arches guiding your way.

Visit Olhao to experience an authentic fishing town and learn more about the area’s Moorish influences.

Explore the twin iron market halls of Mercado de Olhao, filled with fish, olives, cheeses, and spices to tempt your senses. Then, you’ll stroll around the Old Town to enjoy its whitewashed houses with flat roofs, a cubist influence arising from the city’s North African connections. For a break from walking, take a boat tour of the Ria Formosa, where you’ll drift past sandbanks, oyster farms, and flamingos. While you’re in town, sample the local delicacy, choco frito (fried cuttlefish).

Enjoy the serenity of Tavira’s impressive gardens, courtyards, and picturesque river.

Explore Tavira’s most iconic sites, including the Ponte Romana (Roman Bridge) and the Riverside Promenade. Here, you can stroll through the heart of town and enjoy views over the water. Then, head to the Castle Ruins and climb to the panoramic gardens. Here, the old water tower projects a 360° view of the entire town. Finally, visit the barrier island beach of Praia do Barril by mini train or footbridge. The island is home to the haunting Anchor Cemetery, an unforgettable and poetic place for photographers to capture. Be sure to try the fig and almond tart at A Ver Tavira for rooftop views.