Boat tours

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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.

Fuseta – Oyster Beds, Island Beaches, and Life on the Lagoon

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Fuseta is a small fishing town tucked between the Ria Formosa lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s one of the best places to experience the quieter, more authentic side of the Algarve. Unlike larger resorts, Fuseta still feels like a working village—where fishermen mend nets in the harbor and tide charts matter more than time.

One of Fuseta’s most fascinating features is its connection to the local oyster industry. The shallow, nutrient-rich waters of the Ria Formosa provide perfect conditions for oyster farming. At low tide, you can spot rows of oyster beds stretching out across the lagoon. Several small producers offer tastings and boat tours, where you can learn how oysters are grown and harvested—often followed by a chance to taste them, freshly opened and with just a squeeze of lemon.

For swimming and relaxing, Fuseta offers two great options. The main beach sits inside the lagoon and is ideal for families with young children—calm, shallow waters and no waves. For a wilder beach experience, take the short ferry or water taxi to Ilha da Fuseta, a barrier island with wide Atlantic beaches and soft sand that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Fuseta is also a great spot for kayaking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying grilled seafood by the water. Life moves at a gentle pace here, shaped by the rhythm of the tides. Whether you’re slurping oysters, paddling through the channels, or walking barefoot on the sand, Fuseta offers a simple but unforgettable slice of Algarve life.