Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, Tavira & Vila Real de Santo António

The East is still the picturesque side of the Algarve! Venture into charming villages, see ancient buildings that hold many historic stories and admire various architectural landmarks. Away from the typical developed tourist towns, this full-day tour takes you to Sotavento, or eastern Algarve.

Start with a visit to the Old Town in Faro, meander through narrow streets and small squares to the Arco da Vila—built by order of Bishop Francisco Gomes, who oversaw the city's reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake.

Heading further eastwards, your next stop is Olhao, one of the most ancient towns in the Algarve. The town is known for its peculiar cubist houses. Embracing RIA Formosa Natural Park, Olhao has the second most important fishing harbour in the Algarve and offers the visitors a diversity of local fresh products found in the local markets. Ria Formosa is also an official Natural Park, a stopping place for hundreds of different birds, so make sure to capture the natural beauty around you.

Tavira known as “the Venice of the Algarve” is one of the most charming and beautiful villages in the region. The traditional architecture of the houses with its peculiar roofs named “4 águas” can be seen from the Walls of the Castle with its enchanting garden. The Roman Bridge join together the two banks separate by Gilão River and Ria Formosa natural park offering the visitor an unforgettable and memorable day.

End up the tour in Vila Real de Santo António, the beautiful city right on the border with Spain.