Whether you’re flying into Faro or you’ve spent a few days in Algarve’s capital city and want to continue your journey to Tavira your travel options are many. From public transport to private transfer, it can be hard to decide what option suits you the most.
I’m here to help you plan how to get from Faro to Tavira and from Faro Airport to Tavira so that you can spend time enjoying your vacation.
If you are still planning your trip, I highly recommend spending at least a day in Faro before you move on, as the underrated Algarve capital has a lot to offer.
Whether you’re on a budget or want to transport your entire family in the easiest way possible, I’ve got you covered.
Tavira is one of the most beautiful places to stay near Faro, so you will surely enjoy your destination no matter how you choose to travel.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
How to get from Faro to Tavira
From Faro to Tavira, you can choose between various transportation options depending on your budget and preferences.
One of the most cost-efficient ways is by taking while the most comfortable ways might be a private transfer or renting a car for easily moving around the coast.
Drive from Faro to Tavira
Driving from Faro to Tavira using a rental car is a great option if you want the freedom to explore the Algarve region at your own pace.
You can drive through the A22 motorway that links Faro to Tavira, which covers a 35 Km distance and will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
The A22 is a toll motorway, so make sure you check with the rental company if and how to pay, as many of the toll roads in the Algarve are automatic.
There are a few stops near Tavira, such as the picturesque fishing village of Santa Luzia, and Cacela Velha, home to stunning views of the Ria Formosa Lagoon which you can easily get to if you rent a car.
Overall, driving from Faro to Tavira is a great way to appreciate the beautiful scenery of the Algarve region and gives you the freedom and flexibility to discover more places along the way.
It is always a great idea to book your car rental with a reputable agency online in advance to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
I recommend DiscoverCars as they let you compare different companies to find the best deal for you at the best price. You should book it early, especially in the high seasons to assure the best prices, but also to assure a rental car, because in the summer months particularly, they get booked out quickly.
Check availability and prices here
From faro to Tavira: Bus
Traveling by bus from Faro to Tavira is a reliable and affordable option. From Faro, you can take a short taxi or bus ride to the Faro central bus station.
From there, you can catch a bus to Tavira, and the journey takes about an hour. There are several departures daily, and one-way ticket prices start from €4.50.
Buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, with ample room for luggage. You can purchase tickets online, at the bus station, or on the bus, although we recommend purchasing tickets in advance to guarantee a seat.
On the route from Faro to Tavira, the bus will pass through several scenic towns and villages, making it a delightful ride for sightseeing. Additionally, Tavira bus station is located in the town center, making it easy to access your hotel.
Overall, traveling by bus from Faro to Tavira is the best option for budget-conscious travelers looking for a reliable and comfortable journey.
Train from Faro to Tavira
Traveling from Faro to Tavira by train is another comfortable and affordable option. Faro train station is situated about a 10-minute drive from the city center.
The train ride is scenic and takes around 30 minutes, passing through charming towns and villages along the way.
One-way ticket prices start from about €3, depending on the time of day and type of train you choose. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online in advance.
There are several daily departures of trains from Faro to Tavira, and the train station in Tavira is conveniently located in the town center, making it easy to access your accommodation.
Overall, The Faro to Tavira train is a great option for those seeking a comfortable, reliable, and eco-friendly journey. It is an affordable alternative to driving or taking a private transfer, and you get to enjoy scenic views along the way.
Faro to Tavira transfer
Traveling from Faro to Tavira is straightforward, with several transfer options available. I recommend Welcome Pickups as a reliable company, it is a great option to get you, your family, and all the luggage quickly and hassle-free straight to your accommodation.
Sunline Transfers also offers shared shuttle services for those who prefer to share the ride.
Overall, Faro to Tavira transfer services from Faro to Tavira is a reliable option for travelers looking for a comfortable ride to their destination without the hassle of public transport.
The private transfer services offer the most convenience, while shared shuttle services are a budget-friendly option.
Taxi from Faro to Tavira
Traveling by taxi from Faro to Tavira is another comfortable option, but it usually is more costly than a private transfer. From Faro, you can easily find a taxi in the streets or ask your hotel to book one.
You can make arrangements and book them in advance online or by phone. The taxi route from Faro to Tavira follows the A22 motorway, which is a direct and scenic drive.
Overall, traveling by taxi from Faro to Tavira is a comfortable and straightforward option, especially for those carrying heavy luggage or traveling in a group. However, it is the most expensive option compared to other forms of transportation. Thus, I do recommend booking a private transfer instead.
How to get from Faro Airport to Tavira
Traveling from Faro Airport to Tavira is easily done with different modes of transport from public transportation to private transfers or getting a rental car.
For public transport, you might have to change in Faro city center before continuing the journey. I will cover it all here so that you can travel from Faro Airport to Tavira in the best way for your preferences.
Rental car from Faro Airport to Tavira
Renting a car to travel from Faro Airport to Tavira is an excellent option for a stress-free journey. The journey takes roughly 30 minutes, and there are several rental car companies within the airport, including Europcar, Hertz, and Avis.
Booking online in advance will save you time and allow you to compare prices across different providers. The route to Tavira is simple, as the most popular route is via the A22 highway.
Gas prices in Portugal are also generally lower than in other EU countries (though I found it slightly higher than neighboring Spain), and toll roads are very frequent. Be sure to confirm with the rental car company about payment options for toll roads.
Upon arriving in Tavira, parking can be a challenge in the old town, so ensuring the accommodation has parking facilities is essential. However, I have usually always managed to find a spot at a free outdoor parking lot next to the bus station.
Finally, once you’ve arrived in what I think is one of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve, you can enjoy all the wonderful things to do in Tavira before continuing on an Algarve road trip or use the town as a base for day trips from Tavira.
Check availability and prices for rental cars here
Faro Airport to Tavira bus
If you prefer public transportation, taking a local bus is an affordable option to travel from Faro Airport to Tavira. The journey on Bus 16 takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes and costs €3.85 one-way.
You can purchase tickets from the driver when you board the bus. Alternatively, you can also book Faro Airport to Tavira bus tickets online in advance, as some bus companies offer the bus Faro-Tavira option.
Two of the most popular local bus companies are EVA and FlixBus. Faro Airport to Tavira buses run every hour from Monday to Friday, with fewer services on Saturdays and Sundays.
The bus stop at Faro Airport is near the terminal building, making it accessible and easy to locate.
While taking a Faro to Tavira bus is cheaper than renting a car, there are a few things to consider. Buses can be busy, especially during peak season, and you may need to transfer to another service for onward travel.
Finally, the bus route takes you along the coast, providing breathtaking views of the Algarve. Once you arrive in Tavira, the bus station is located in the city center, a few minutes walk from the Roman Bridge, making it a great location to access local accommodations.
Overall, taking a bus from Faro Airport to Tavira can be an affordable and convenient option for those on a budget or who prefer not to drive.
Faro Airport-Tavira train
While there is no train station at Faro Airport, it is still possible to travel to Tavira by train with a few extra steps.
First, you need to take a local bus or taxi from Faro Airport to Faro train station. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Once at Faro train station, you can purchase a ticket to Tavira as explained above in the “Train from Faro to Tavira” section. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and trains run on a regular basis from early morning until late at night.
While the train is a convenient mode of transportation, you should note that there are limited direct services between Faro and Tavira, and it’s essential to factor in the extra time and cost of getting to and from the Faro train stations.
Transfers from Faro Airport to Tavira
There are several options for Faro Airport to Tavira transfers. This is a hassle-free way to get to your hotel in Tavira as smoothly as possible.
Faro Airport to Tavira transfer services allow you to book online, confirm the price in advance, and ensure a hassle-free and comfortable journey.
Prices for these services vary depending on the number of passengers and the time of travel. I recommend Welcome Pickups for easy pickup at the airport and drop-off at your hotel.
Another transfer Faro to Tavira option is to book a transfer through your accommodation provider. Many hotels, apartments, and resorts offer transfer services for their guests, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option.
Taxi from Faro Airport to Tavira
Finally, you can take a taxi from Faro Airport to Tavira. Taxis are available outside the terminal building at Faro Airport, and the journey to Tavira takes around 30 minutes. Taxis are metered, and prices can vary depending on the time of day and traffic.
The typical cost for a one-way trip is around €45-€60, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Several taxi companies operate at Faro Airport, including Mytaxi and Taxi Faro.
How to get around in Tavira
Tavira is a highly walkable town and there’s no need to use public transport to get around. That said, many travelers like to book a tuk-tuk tour of Tavira to see the highlights or jump on the hop on hop off tourist train.
Personally, I love walking around Tavira. It’s got this tranquil atmosphere to it even in high season. There’s no reason to take a bus anywhere in the little town.
However, if you plan on going to Pedras d’El Rei to cross to Tavira island (to Barril beach and the Anchor Cemetery) you can take bus 105 from Tavira bus station.
Reflections on getting from Faro to Tavira
While Tavira is still a lesser-visited town, as it is situated in the eastern Algarve, it has a pretty good transport network, especially from Faro and from the airport.
I think it is safe to say that you will easily reach this charming Portuguese holiday paradise, so there is no excuse not to visit. If you’re not convinced, read my post about why visit Tavira, and for more suggestions about day trips check out my guide here.
Happy travels!
