Reviewed on Oct 20, 2025
Despite its name, Tavira’s central footbridge wasn’t constructed during the Roman Empire, but it does sit where an ancient bridge once was.
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.
Dating back to the 16th century, this church is one of the Algarve’s most exquisite pieces of Renaissance architecture that includes remarkable stonemasonry.
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.
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.
Stretch out on the broad beach facing Tavira’s neighboring island, where the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean meet soft, golden sands.
