Looking for the best day trips from Tavira Portugal? Then you’re in the right place. Tavira is one of my favorite places to visit in the Algarve and after spending a few days in the charming town, I usually explore the surrounding towns and cities of the Algarve.
From the charming fisherman’s village of Santa Luzia to the busy beaches of Albufeira, there are plenty of fun day trips from Tavira you can take and I’m here to share the best ones with you.
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Day trips from Tavira Portugal
Faro
Faro is one of the most underrated cities in Algarve. Yet it’s the capital city of the region and home to the only airport in Algarve. But most travelers just continue straight to other destinations.
There are a lot of great things to do in Faro. I highly recommend going on a day trip to Faro to explore the old town and explore Ria Formosa from a different angle.
Jump on one of the Faro boat tours to go bird watching or explore the barrier islands. If you prefer walking, take on the Ludo Trail and look for birds – maybe you’ll even see Flamingos. Faro also has a lively marina where you can grab a bite to eat.
If you’re not convinced yet, make sure you read my post: Is Faro worth visiting?
Olhão
One of the best day trips from Tavira is to Olhão. This is a lovely city with a vibrant marina. Mostly known for hosting the best food market on the Algarve, located in two distinct, red brick buildings by the waterfront, there’s a lot more to Olhão.
Dive into the maze of barren streets and you’ll discover small squares and narrow alleys, impressive street art telling the tale of Olhão’s past as a fishing village, and beautiful churches.
While there are a lot of things to do in Olhão on land, the most beautiful explorations are made on the sea. Make sure you join one of the boat tours in Olhão to see the true beauty of Ria Formosa’s western Barrier Islands.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is one of the best activities you can do on the Algarve and a day trip from Tavira to explore the mesmerizing cliffs and beaches is well worth it.
The trail takes you along the rugged cliffs between Marinha Beach and Carvoeiro. You’ll pass the Alfanzina Lighthouse, Benagil Beach where you can take a boat tour to Benagil Cave, several sinkholes, and natural arches. The views are constantly breathtaking!
I highly recommend joining this tour which includes transport from Tavira and back, and snorkeling gear to use at Marinha Beach.
Albufeira
Albufeira is a fantastic destination if you’re looking for an active day trip. There are heaps of fun activities in Albufeira like going on a boat tour from Albufeira to Benagil Cave or parasailing. It’s also amazing to go kayaking in Albufeira to see the rugged cliffs and hidden caves.
But even if you prefer staying on land, Albufeira’s Old Town is incredibly charming and there’s a vibrant energy for shopping, sightseeing, eating, and drinking. Make sure you read my complete post about the best things to do in Albufeira before you go.
Loulé
One of the best Tavira day trips to the inland is the gorgeous town of Loulé. It’s most famous for the castle ruins overlooking the town where you can see old weapons and the recreation of a medieval kitchen.
Loulé is also a great destination for art lovers as many artists have found inspiration in the small town. Art shops and handicrafts like pottery are great souvenirs from there. You might even get your hands dirty and join a creative workshop to make your own art pieces.
Wine lovers will certainly enjoy an Algarve wine tour to Quinta da Tôr family-run winery.
Cabanas de Tavira
Only a 5-10 minute drive from Tavira, you find the charming fisherman’s town of Cabanas amidst the relaxing Ria Formosa Natural Park.
It makes for an enjoyable day trip from Tavira where you can enjoy the boardwalks and salt marshes. There’s a big chance of seeing wading birds strolling around the shallow water and smaller birds circling above your head hunting for prey.
I also recommend going on this dolphin watching tour to get out on open water. There’s a big chance of spotting them, but if you’re not lucky, it’s still beautiful to see the beautiful coast from the sea.
Santa Luzia
Nestled within the Ria Formosa Natural Park only a 10-minute drive from Tavira, you find Santa Luzia. One of the most authentic and lovely fisherman’s villages on the Algarve.
I absolutely love this little place with its narrow streets and tiled houses. You can still see the fisherman shacks being in use near the marina and the waterfront is dotted with colorful wooden fishing boats.
There are a few local restaurants and bars to grab a bite and if you’re up for it, I suggest walking the promenade all the way to the pedestrian bridge to Tavira Island.
There’s a cute little tourist train that once used to transport tuna and tools for fishermen that you can take to the other side of the island for only a few Euros.
Seville, Spain
Did you know that you actually can go on a day trip from Tavira to Seville in Spain? By car, it’s only about 1 hour 50 minutes (and if you fill up petrol in Spain it’s actually cheaper), but there are also buses taking about 3 hours each way.
there are so many fabulous things to do in Seville in a day like visiting the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower which are UNESCO World Heritage sites together with the Real Alcazar.
Make sure you book tickets in advance to get a time slot that suits your itinerary.
You can also get time to stroll around Santa Cruz neighborhood where you can grab a bite to eat. Continue to Plaza de España and end your day by the Guadalquivir River where you’ll see the Torre de Oro and the iconic Triana Bridge.
Reflections on Tavira day trips
Summing up the best day trips from Tavira Portugal, there are plenty of different destinations to choose from. There’s something for everyone whether you prefer doing water sports in Albufeira or browsing the art galleries in Loulé.
Read next: Is Tavira worth visiting?
Happy travels!
