Algarve by train

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Exploring the Algarve by Train: From Tavira East and West

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There’s something quietly magical about riding the regional train through the Algarve. No traffic, no rush — just the rhythmic hum of the tracks and a slow parade of landscapes slipping past the window. From Tavira’s charming station at 400m from Taste Tavira AL, you can head either east toward Vila Real de Santo António , or west to Lagos . Both directions promise their own delights.

🌅 Eastbound to Vila Real de Santo António

The journey east takes around 25 minutes , with frequent daily departures. It’s a short but scenic ride through salt flats, citrus groves, and sleepy hamlets of the eastern Algarve.

Recommended stops along the way:

  • Monte Gordo : A touristic beach town with golden sands, perfect for a seaside break just minutes from the station.

Once you arrive in Vila Real de Santo António , the streets open up in clean lines — a legacy of Enlightenment-era urban planning. Sit for a bica on the grand square, or stroll the riverfront promenade along the Guadiana River, just steps from Spain.

🌊 Westbound to Lagos

Heading west is a longer ride — nearly three hours , often with a transfer in Faro . But the trip is more than transport; it’s a slow dive into the changing rhythms of the Algarve.

Where to stop along the way:

  • Fuseta : A charming fishing village known for its fresh seafood and calm beaches, easily reachable from the station.
  • Olhão : Known for its lively fish market and traditional charm, this coastal town invites you to explore its tiled streets and sample fresh seafood.
  • Faro : The Algarve’s capital with a beautiful old town, historic walls, and a vibrant café culture — a perfect stopover.
  • Portimão : Famous for grilled sardines and riverside dining, it’s a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy local flavors.

Arriving in Lagos , you’ll be greeted by golden cliffs, cobbled lanes, and a laid-back surf-town vibe. It’s worth staying a night if you can.

🎟️ Travel Tips

  • Tickets are affordable and can be bought at the station or online at cp.pt.
  • Trains are comfortable , though simple — no reserved seating, but plenty of charm.
  • Schedules vary slightly on weekends or holidays, so check ahead if you’re planning a longer day out.

Whether you’re seeking beach time, history, or just a slow way to see more of the Algarve, the train from Tavira offers a window onto the region’s quiet beauty — one stop at a time.

Faro – History and Hidden Corners in the Capital of the Algarve

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Often overlooked in favour of beach towns, Faro is the cultural and administrative heart of the Algarve — and absolutely worth a visit. While its airport may be most travellers’ first glimpse of the region, Faro is far more than a transit point: it’s a city steeped in history, charm, and quiet sophistication .

Best of all, Faro is easily accessible by train from Taste Tavira AL . The charming Tavira train station is just a five-minute walk (400 metres) away. From there, you can enjoy a scenic 40-minute ride through the eastern Algarve’s countryside straight into Faro’s historic centre — relaxed, car-free, and affordable.

Begin in the Cidade Velha , the old walled town. Enter through the neoclassical Arco da Vila and step into a cobbled world of ancient churches, peaceful squares, and Roman ruins. The cathedral (Sé) , with its mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque features, offers a climbable bell tower with sweeping views over the Ria Formosa lagoon .

Speaking of the lagoon — Faro is also a gateway to nature. The Ria Formosa Natural Park is right on the city’s doorstep, offering boat tours, birdwatching (keep an eye out for flamingos), and a chance to visit island beaches like Ilha Deserta or Ilha do Farol .

Faro has a distinct, low-key elegance, with museums, art galleries , and a lively local dining scene. Don’t miss the haunting Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) inside the Carmo Church, a striking reminder of the region’s Catholic heritage. For something lighter, grab lunch at one of the many modern bistros or traditional tascas , and enjoy a stroll along the marina before heading back to Tavira.