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

Exploring the Best of the East Algarve: Faro, Olhão, Tavira, and Vila Real de Santo António

If you’re looking for a full day exploring some of the most picturesque coastal towns in the Algarve, this guided tour from Faro offers a balanced mix of history, local flavor, and stunning scenery. For around $62, you get to visit Faro’s Old Town, wander through Olhão’s iconic fishing port, stroll along Tavira’s charming streets, and peek across the border at Vila Real de Santo António. The trip lasts about 9 to 10 hours, with hotel pickup included, making it a hassle-free way to see a broad cross-section of the region.

What we love about this tour is its ability to combine guided insights with free time to soak up each town’s unique atmosphere—whether that’s shopping in Faro, sampling fresh seafood in Olhão, or exploring Tavira’s historic fortress. Plus, the air-conditioned coach with WiFi means we arrive relaxed and connected.

A potential consideration is that Vila Real de Santo António can feel somewhat rushed, and some travelers have noted that it was dropped from the itinerary without notice—as one reviewer lamented. So, if seeing the entire border town is a priority for you, it’s worth clarifying with the operator beforehand.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of guided commentary and leisure time. It’s especially good for those interested in local history, architecture, and authentic Algarve fishing villages. If you prefer more time in each place or deeper historical insights, you might find this tour somewhat brief. Nevertheless, it offers excellent value for those wanting a taste of multiple towns without the hassle of planning transport.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Visits four charming towns, each with its own character
• Combines Guided and Free Time: Learn history with the guide, then explore on your own
• Includes Hotel Pickup: Convenient door-to-door service within the Algarve region
• Affordable Price Point: At around $62, it offers good value for a full-day experience
• Highlights Local Culture: Markets, castles, and scenic river views enrich the day
• Some Downsides: Possible gaps in itinerary details and variable stops according to reviews

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins early, with a pickup from your hotel in the Algarve, and sets a comfortable pace with air-conditioned transport and WiFi onboard. Our first stop is Faro, the regional capital, where we walk through the Old Town. The highlight here is the Arch of Vila, a medieval gate with Saint Thomas depicted on it—an ideal photo opportunity and a gateway into the charming cobblestone streets. We’re given some free time to browse local shops, which sell everything from souvenirs to treats, perfect for a quick snack or a unique gift.

Next, we cross into Olhão, a town famed for its massive fishing port and colorful cube-shaped houses. The Mercado de Olhão is a real highlight, bustling with vendors selling fresh seafood, local produce, and regional specialties. Several reviews praise Olhão’s market, with one saying, “Shopping at the market in Olhão was great,” and others noting the town’s Moorish-style architecture and historical links with Africa.

After Olhão, we traverse the Roman bridge to reach Tavira, often called the “Venice of the Algarve” because of its scenic Roman bridges and Renaissance churches lining the Gilão River. The Tavira Castle offers panoramic views, and its ruins evoke stories from centuries past—though entrance to the castle itself is at your own expense. Here, you can wander through narrow streets, absorb the peaceful ambiance, or enjoy a relaxed lunch (food is not included, but the guide can suggest local eateries).

The final official stop is Vila Real de Santo António, situated near Spain, with views over the Gilão River and Ria Formosa Natural Park. This town, although smaller, provides a picturesque end to the day, with scenic vistas and a chance to see how close Algarve’s border is to Spain.

Some travelers have expressed disappointment when Vila Real was dropped from the itinerary without notice, so it’s wise to confirm the full plan in advance if that’s important to you.

The Practicalities and What to Expect

The tour is operated by MTS Globe Portugal, with a small group size capped at 55 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience. The hotel pickup makes logistics easy—just be sure to confirm your location to avoid last-minute surprises. The coach is modern, with WiFi, so you can stay connected or plan your photos on the go.

The timing is well-structured: about an hour in Faro, an hour in Olhão, an hour in Tavira, and a final stop at Vila Real. The lunch break is on your own, giving you flexibility to choose from local cafes or markets, which many reviews praise for their quality and variety.

While the admission fees to attractions like Tavira Castle are not included, the outside views and photo opportunities alone make the stops worthwhile. The guided commentary is available in multiple languages, helping you understand each town’s history and significance.

One reviewer noted that some stops, like Tavira, felt a little rushed, especially if you want to take time exploring the shops or the castle. Others appreciated having a knowledgeable guide—Ana received high praise for her enthusiasm and insights.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

What genuinely stands out about this tour is its ability to showcase the diverse character of East Algarve. Faro’s old town offers a glimpse into its maritime and historical past, with winding streets and centuries-old architecture. Olhão’s market and fishing port connect you to local life and the region’s seafood culture. Tavira’s blend of Roman and Moorish influences creates a picturesque setting, with its charming bridges and hilltop castle. Vila Real adds a touch of border-town serenity with scenic river views and a relaxed vibe.

Several reviews mention the quality of the guides’ knowledge and how they enhance the experience. One reviewer said, “Hearing some of the history of these places was great,” and another appreciated the multilingual commentary that allowed everyone to engage fully.

The scenic views along the Gilão River, the colorful market stalls, and the historic architecture make this a well-rounded day trip. For those interested in local food and crafts, the markets provide authentic opportunities to sample and purchase regional products.

Weighing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At roughly $62, this tour strikes a good balance between price and experience. You’re not just paying for transportation—you’re gaining insights into historical sites, local culture, and scenic vistas. The inclusion of hotel pickup and WiFi enhances convenience, especially after a long journey.

However, keep in mind that some reviews mention long stops and the possibility of certain stops being less comprehensive or cut from the plan. If you’re eager to spend more time in each town or want detailed guided visits inside the attractions, this might feel a bit limited. But if your goal is to get a broad overview of East Algarve’s highlights, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable introduction.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who prefer a guided overview with manageable logistics. If you’re interested in local markets, scenic views, and historic towns, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also a good choice for those with limited time, as it packs a lot into a single day without the hassle of transportation planning.

However, for those seeking deep dives into history or more personalized exploration, this might feel a bit rushed or superficial. It’s best suited for visitors who want to sample the region’s highlights without spending multiple days trying to piece everything together themselves.

The Sum Up

This Best of the East Algarve tour offers a practical way to see a handful of charming towns in one day, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided trips. The combination of beautiful scenery, local markets, historic sites, and knowledgeable guides makes it a worthwhile option for many travelers. Expect a well-organized experience that balances structured sightseeing with free time to enjoy each town’s unique atmosphere.

While some reviews mention minor issues like the potential for certain stops to be cut or rushed, overall the trip provides excellent value—highlighting the Algarve’s diverse character from historic Faro to peaceful Vila Real. Whether you’re interested in photography, local culture, or simply exploring new towns, this tour can provide a memorable taste of Portugal’s southeastern coast.

FAQs

• What towns does the tour visit?
  The tour visits Faro, Olhão, Tavira, and Vila Real de Santo António, with some stops for sightseeing, shopping, and exploring.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the Algarve region, with air-conditioned coach transport and WiFi onboard.

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

• Are meals included?
  No, meals are not included. You’ll have free time to eat in Tavira or Olhão, and the guide can recommend local restaurants.

• Can I visit the inside of attractions?
  Entrance fees for sites like Tavira Castle are not included, so you can explore exterior views or pay for entry if desired.

• Is this tour suitable for all ages?
  Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the walking involved and the time spent on the coach. It’s a good option for those interested in sightseeing and local culture.

In summary, this tour offers a practical, well-organized way to experience some of Algarve’s most scenic and culturally rich towns. It’s best suited for travelers who want a broad overview and appreciate guided insights, while those seeking in-depth exploration might prefer to spend more time in each location independently.