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Where to Stay in Tavira
Tavira is the Algarve’s most elegant town: a river crossed by an old bridge, dozens of churches, tiled houses and a barrier island with one of the region’s best beaches. It’s calmer and more traditional than the central Algarve. Here’s where to stay.
Quick answer: stay in the old town for charm, restaurants and walking. Choose the edge of town for resort hotels with pools, or nearby Cabanas and Santa Luzia for fishing-village calm and beach access. For history, book the Pousada Convento de Tavira. See places to stay in Tavira.

The best areas
Old town
On both sides of the river, with squares, churches and riverside restaurants. Try the Pousada Convento de Tavira in a former convent, or the adults-only AP Maria Nova Lounge with its rooftop pool.
Edge of town
Larger hotels with pools and gardens, a short walk or shuttle from the centre. Try Vila Galé Tavira or OZADI Tavira.
Towards the beaches
Resorts near the lagoon and the island beaches, such as Vila Galé Albacora and Pedras d’El Rei, near the Barril beach.
Countryside
Quiet adults-only stays among orange groves, such as Quinta da Lua.
Cabanas and Santa Luzia
Small fishing villages on the lagoon, with boats to the island beaches.
Tips
- Getting around: Tavira has a train station on the Faro to Vila Real line.
- Beaches: the town beaches are on the islands, reached by ferry or boat. See ferries in Portugal.
- Calm: nightlife is low-key, so it’s ideal for couples and families.
More: the best hotels in Tavira, Tavira and the eastern Algarve and where to stay in the Algarve.
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