Tourist Information
Faro
This city and surrounding region developed and gained standing during the Roman period. It was then known as Civitas Ossobonensis, with its borders stretching to where modern Tavira lies. A wander around Faro shows the architectural heritage of the city from roman, arab and christian periods such as as remains of its walls, the Arab Gateway - part of the Arco da Vila- recalls one of the entries into the walled centre, known as Vila-Adentro (Inner Town), and the Sé Cathedral which was built on the site of the former Mosque.
On the outskirts of the city, the sheer beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park ensures it is well worth a visit.
Tavira
The origins of Tavira date back to the roman occupation but it gained more importance during the Moors occupation. Tavira has 21 churches, and old Arab quarter, the ruins of a castle that offer a fantastic view of the city, a roman bridge and several nice alleys throughout the city.
Located 11 km from Tavira, this picturesque village offers the sea and the islands of Ria Formosa Park. In addition to this panoramic view, you will in the village its beatiful church and the Cacela Velha Fort built in the 17th century.
Albufeira
The streets in the Cerro da Vila (mediaeval area) still preserve the picturesque appeal of whitewashed houses and steeply narrow streets. In Travessa da Igreja Velha, an old moorish arch indicates the place where of a primitive mosque, later transformed in the town's first church.
On the beach, the bright colours of the fishing boats contrast with the blue of the sea. The fishermen carry on the task of mending and preparing the nets, as they have done for hundreds of years.
A walk by the sea will offer you a magnificent view over the city, the beaches and the cliffs which are part of the charm of Albufeira. The sidewalk leads to the pretty cave at Xorino, where according to the local tradition the Moors took refuge when the town was reconquered by the Christians in the 13th century.
Silves
Considered one of the oldest cities in Portugal, Silves has beatiful monuments such as the castle and the former cathedral of Silves. The castle was built between the 8th and 10th centuties and is a trace of the Moor presence. The castle is also known as the red fortress due to its color. The cathedral was built between the 13th and 18th centuries. As a result, it encompasses two architectural styles: the Gothic and the Baroque.
Portimão
Centuries-old Portimão attracts many tourists for its beaches and more. In the city you can learn from its culture and history in the Portimão Museum built in an old cannery from the 19th century. You should also visit its beatiful streets, as well as the church Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the Jesuits church and college. The Santa Catarina Fortress offers an spectacular view of one the most famous beaches in Portugal, the Praia da Rocha beach.
Lagos
When you visit Lagos, take some time to wander through the alleys of its historic centre and enjoy the city atmosphere. Afterwards, visit the authentic Mercado Municipal (city market). After visiting the historic centre, discover the Fort of Ponta da Bandeira, built in the 17th century. Here you can admire the small but beautiful Chapel of Santa Bárbara, covered with glazed tiles, and the magnicent view over the sea.
Located near, you should visit Ponta da Piedade, which is an exceptional natural place with beatiful cliffs, arches and caves you can visit by boat. Ponta piedade offers a stunning view of St. Vincent cape.
Sagres
Sagres is the southwesternmost town in Portugal that since the middle ages was considered the end of the world. There you should visit the Cape St Vincent and the Sagres fortress.
Cape St Vincent is a natural reserve home to several species including otters, herons and Bonelli's eagles.
The fortress was built on top of the Ponta de Sagres in the 15th century to protect that part of the portuguese territory.