From Albufeira: Eastern Algarve Full-Day Private Tour

Exploring the captivating eastern region of the Algarve from Albufeira promises an unforgettable day immersed in Portugal’s rich history and stunning landscapes. This private tour guides visitors through Faro, Olhão, Tavira, Cacela Velha, and Vila Real de Santo António, offering a comprehensive experience of the area’s enchanting towns, vibrant markets, and iconic landmarks. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can delve deeper into the area’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, making the most of this enchanting adventure. Whether seeking to uncover hidden gems or simply bask in the region’s allure, this comprehensive tour presents an enticing opportunity to discover the enchanting Eastern Algarve.

Key Points

• This full-day private tour from Albufeira explores historical landmarks, picturesque towns, and natural beauty in the Eastern Algarve region.
• Key destinations on the tour include Faro, Olhão, Tavira, Cacela Velha, and Vila Real de Santo António.
• Highlights include visiting the 13th-century city center of Faro, exploring the bustling Olhão market, and admiring the panoramic views from Cacela Velha.
• The tour includes complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees to monuments and museums.
• The tour lasts 10 hours and is available in English, French, and Portuguese.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day private tour from Albufeira provides a comprehensive exploration of the eastern Algarve region, offering visitors an opportunity to discover its historical landmarks, picturesque towns, and natural beauty.

Priced at $327.68 per person, the tour lasts 10 hours and is available in English, French, and Portuguese. Guests enjoy complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the services of a knowledgeable guide.

The itinerary covers highlights such as the 13th-century city center of Faro, the lively market of Olhão, the charming town of Tavira, the stunning views from Cacela Velha, and the architectural similarities of Vila Real de Santo António to Lisbon.

With a private group setting, this tour offers an in-depth and personalized experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour provides an in-depth exploration of the eastern Algarve region, visiting several notable destinations along the way.

Guests first explore the 13th-century city center of Faro, the capital of the Algarve province, where they can wander the historic streets and admire the architectural heritage.

Next, the tour heads to Olhão, home to a bustling market that’s a key site for the local fishing industry.

In Tavira, travellers discover the town’s castle, stroll across the Roman Bridge, and visit various churches.

At Cacela Velha, they enjoy panoramic views from the Fortaleza and see the whitewashed houses of Ria Formosa Natural Park.

The tour culminates in Vila Real de Santo António, a town with architectural similarities to Lisbon.

Faro Exploration

Guests first explore the 13th-century city center of Faro, the capital of the Algarve province, where they can wander the historic streets and admire the architectural heritage.

The group visits the impressive Faro Cathedral, a Gothic-style structure with intricate carved portals and a bell tower that offers panoramic views over the city.

They also stroll through the charming Old Town, with its whitewashed buildings, cobblestone lanes, and lively plazas.

At the vibrant marina, they witness the daily activities of the fishing community and learn about the region’s maritime traditions.

Throughout the visit, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into Faro’s rich history and cultural significance as a key port city along the southern Portuguese coast.

Olhão Market Visit

After exploring the historic heart of Faro, the tour continues eastward to the vibrant fishing town of Olhão, where guests browse the famous market, a key site for the local fishing industry.

Here, they’ll be immersed in the bustling atmosphere as they wander through the maze of stalls overflowing with fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local delicacies.

The market’s unique architecture, featuring distinctive chimneys and whitewashed buildings, adds to the charm of the experience.

Visitors can interact with the friendly vendors, sample local specialties, and soak in the lively maritime culture that defines this coastal community.

The market visit offers a captivating glimpse into the Algarve’s thriving fishing heritage and provides a memorable sensory experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tavira Discovery

From Olhão, the tour heads northeast along the Algarve coast, arriving in the historic town of Tavira, where visitors explore its well-preserved Moorish architecture and scenic riverfront.

They’ll wander the charming streets, admiring the 13th-century castle and Roman bridge that span the Gilão River, and stop to visit several of the town’s distinctive churches, each showcasing unique architectural styles.

The group will marvel at the intricate tilework and ornate altars inside the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, then cross the river to see the Igreja da Misericórdia, known for its distinctive façade.

With ample time to soak in Tavira’s historic ambiance, the tour continues its exploration of the Eastern Algarve.

Cacela Velha Views

Next, the tour explores the charming village of Cacela Velha, perched atop a hillside overlooking the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Visitors marvel at the panoramic vistas from the Fortaleza, an imposing 17th-century fortress that commands sweeping views of the tranquil lagoons and marshlands below.

Amidst the whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, they gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty that has long captivated residents and travelers alike in this corner of the Algarve.

Some highlights of Cacela Velha include:

• Strolling along the peaceful promenade and taking in the stunning coastal scenery

• Visiting the Igreja Matriz, a beautiful 16th-century church with Manueline architectural elements

• Learning about the village’s rich history, from its Roman origins to its strategic coastal defenses

• Enjoying the serene atmosphere and slow pace of life that characterize this picturesque destination.

Vila Real De Santo António

The tour then ventures to Vila Real de Santo Antão, the easternmost town in the Algarve region and notable for its architectural similarities to Lisbon.

Visitors can’t help but admire the town’s orderly grid layout and picturesque promenade along the Guadiana River, which forms the border between Portugal and Spain.

They learn that this planned town was founded in the 18th century under the direction of the Marquis of Pombal, and its design reflects the Enlightenment principles of the era.

Guests have the opportunity to explore the town’s charming streets, admire the distinctive Portuguese architecture, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and development.

The tour’s stop in Vila Real de Santo Antão provides a fitting finale to the day’s exploration of the Eastern Algarve.

Inclusions and Important Details

The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert guide, lunch, drinks, and entrance fees to any monuments and museums visited along the way.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the tour involves walking. Smoking and alcoholic drinks aren’t permitted inside the vehicle. It’s worth noting that the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

The tour’s inclusions provide a hassle-free and immersive experience:

• Air-conditioned transportation for comfort

• Knowledgeable guide to provide historical context

• Complimentary lunch and drinks to refuel

• Seamless hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Specific Interests?

Yes, this private tour can be customized to the clients’ specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary and focus areas based on the preferences of the tour participants.

What if We Have Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

The tour provider accommodates dietary restrictions and preferences. Travelers can request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals during booking, and the guide will ensure appropriate meal arrangements are made throughout the day.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

The tour does not require any special equipment. Participants should bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as the itinerary involves some walking. Smoking and alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle during the tour.

Can We Make Additional Stops During the Tour if Time Allows?

Yes, the private tour allows for additional stops during the day if time permits. Travelers can discuss any special interests or sights they would like to see with the guide, who will accommodate requests when feasible.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

Yes, the tour provider offers discounted rates for seniors aged 65 and above, as well as for children under 12 years old. Customers can inquire about these discounted fares when booking the tour.

Recap

This full-day private tour through the Eastern Algarve promises an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s rich history and captivating landscapes.

From exploring Faro’s historic landmarks to discovering the vibrant Olhão market, the journey also includes visits to the charming towns of Tavira, Cacela Velha, and Vila Real de Santo António.

With the convenience of hotel pickup, a provided lunch, and an expert guide, this tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to uncover the enchanting Eastern Algarve.

You can check if your dates are available here: