Tavira

Tavira sits 30 km east of Faro on the Gilao river in the Algarve region of Portugal, and the CP regional train makes it the easiest full day out from Faro. The journey takes roughly 35 to 40 minutes from Faro station and costs about EUR 3 to 4 one way, so no car is needed. Trains arrive at Tavira station on Largo da Estacao, from where the old centre is a walk of around 1.5 km along the river. The town is known for its seven-arched Roman Bridge (the Ponte Romana, rebuilt over earlier foundations), the gardens and ramparts of the Castelo de Tavira, the Igreja da Misericordia and a skyline often described as having 37 churches. A sensible one-day arc starts with a morning walk from the station to Praca da Republica, then across the Roman Bridge to the quieter Rua da Liberdade side of the river. The castle garden is a short climb above the square and gives a view over terracotta roofs and the river mouth. Late morning is a good time to visit the municipal market on the riverfront, where fish and produce stalls operate in the mornings. Lunch is best taken at one of the riverside restaurants around Praca da Republica and Rua Jose Pires Padinha, where grilled fish, octopus and cataplana are common Algarve dishes; booking is wise at weekends in high season. In the afternoon, visitors can take the ferry from Quatro Aguas, about 2 km from the centre, to Ilha de Tavira, a barrier island with a long sandy beach inside the Ria Formosa natural park. The ferry runs frequently from spring to autumn and less often in winter, so the last return crossing should be checked on arrival. A walk along the island beach, a swim from late May to September and a drink at a beach cafe suit the afternoon. Return trains to Faro run through the evening, though the final service time should be confirmed at cp.pt. The best weather for walking is April to June and September to October, while July and August bring heat and crowds on the island. Winter days are mild and quiet, though ferry services are reduced. Tourist information is available through the municipality at cm-tavira.pt. The route is flat for most of the old town, with a modest climb to the castle.