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Where to Stay in Tavira, Portugal - The Best Areas

4th March 2023

Tavira is the epicenter of Algrave and Moorish heritage, and it is brimming with culture. This charming town is both colorful and small. The cityscape is dominated by a massive Roman bridge, ruins of a castle, and cobbled streets. It’ll almost feel like you’ve been whisked away to a world away from the stresses of modern life. Best of all, the city can be easily explored on foot, and you don’t have to worry about transportation issues.

While the town is gorgeous, with picturesque plazas and lovely restaurants, Tavira still has a fishing port and market, along with some of the most beautiful stretches of golden beaches. They’re known to be some of the most pristine beaches in Portugal and are basically untouched. Tavira is also incredibly close to Ria Formosa Natural Park, which is full of cycling and trekking trails.

When it comes to where to stay in Tavira, there are many options to consider. From the budget-friendly to the luxurious, options are numerous. Here, we’ve prepared our recommendation for some of the best places to stay in Tavira.

Related reading:
Check out all the best things to do in Tavira
Or all the best things to do in the whole Algarve region!

Tavira City Center

This is one of the best areas to stay in Tavira so makes the top of our where to stay in Tavira list. The historic center is a delightful maze of cobbled streets, along with small plazas that lead to the flowing Gilão River.

Staying in the city center means that you’re only a stone’s throw away from exploring the town, and can discover the rich history of Tavira. The town itself is peppered with castles and remnants of the city that date all the way back to the Moorish era.

Other than the historic buildings, there are also more 36 churches, plenty of scenic viewpoints, and a daily market. Even though Tavira is on the smaller side, it’s full of character. You’ll want to make sure that you have comfortable footwear to explore this delightful town.

Best Hotels in Tavira City Center

Budget | HI Tavira

In terms of where to stay in Tavira, this youth hostel is centrally located and just a short distance away from the train station. Rooms here either have private double and twin rooms or shared dormitories. Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas of this hostel, and guests can even cook their own meals in the communal kitchen.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – HI TAVIRA

Mid-Range | Tavira Lovers City Centre Apartment II

This is one of the best places to stay in Tavira if you’re looking to reside in the heart of the city. Just mere minutes away from most of Tavira’s incredible sights, this apartment is tucked away in a quiet corner. Apartments come with a kitchenette equipped with an oven, microwave, and dining area.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Lovers City Centre Apartment II

Luxury | Vila Gale Tavira

Other than being in an incredible location, this place has an impeccable design that speaks to the history of the area. All rooms here are air-conditioned and have access to the large outdoor pool. There’s even an indoor pool and a children’s club. The hotel also boasts a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese dishes. This is truly one of the best places to stay in Tavira.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Vila Gale Tavira

Not sure if Tavira is for you? Check out our guide to all the best towns to stay in the Algarve!

Cabanas

Cabanas is another one of the best areas to stay in Tavira. Cabanas itself is just a short distance away from Tavira and is a popular holiday destination in the Algarve. Known for its relaxing ambiance, along with its cafes and restaurants, a short ferry ride will take you to a pristine beach –known locally as Praia de Cabanas.

The origin of this area goes back to the old days of tuna fishing, and you’ll be awestruck by the gorgeous fishing village that still stands today. You also wouldn’t want to miss the picturesque views; the beach of Cabanas is practically situated right in front of the village. This is where to stay in Tavira if you like your seafood! While here, don’t forget to sample some of the freshly-collected oysters and clams in one of the many restaurants located along the waterfront.

Best Hotels in Cabanas

Budget | Cabanas Village by My Choice Algarve

Wondering where to stay in Tavira? Its proximity to Cabanas Beach gives this accommodation a fantastic location. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool, bar, and concierge service that guests can utilize. This apartment-style accommodation also comes with a balcony, kitchen with a dining area, and a washing machine. If you’d like to cycle around the area, there’s a bicycle rental service.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Cabanas Village by My Choice Algarve

Mid-Range | Pedras Da Rainha

One of the best places to stay in Tavira, and located near Cabanas, this resort has not one but two pools. It even boasts a tennis court, bowling alley, and massage services. All the studios and apartments are air-conditioned and have a balcony, kitchenette, and spacious living area. If you’re hungry, the restaurant on-site serves up local and international dishes. There’s also a games room and a children’s playground for plenty of fun.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Pedras Da Rainha

Luxury | Hospedaria

This luxurious property has airy rooms that make the perfect accommodation for any holiday. Just a short distance from Cabanas Beach, your stay will come with parking, air conditioning, and a private bathroom. There’s also a lovely balcony with a garden that you can relax in after a day soaking up rays at the beach.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Hospedaria

Ilha de Tavira

This area is exceptionally close to Tavira and is one of the Algarve’s most popular beach destinations. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Tavira. This sand stretches for more than 15km and is one of the few islands where there’s a campsite.

Beach lovers can dine at one of the many cafes and restaurants while soaking up the sun. There’s a total of three different beaches on the island, so you can hop from beach to beach if you’re looking for somewhere that’s a little quieter. The main beach is Praia de Ilha de Tavira. There’s a more peaceful beach called Praia da Terra Estreita, and another one called Praia do Barril.

While perfect for a day trip, you might want to bring your own parasol or rent one. There are only lifeguards during the summer, and it’d be wise to pack a picnic basket and bring along a cooler filled with ice-cold drinks to deal with the sweltering heat.

Best Hotels in Ilha de Tavira

Budget | Luz De Tavira

Just a short distance from Ilha de Tavira, this accommodation has a pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and even BBQ facilities. The country house also has a garden and terrace available. If you don’t want to head to Ilha de Tavira while staying at this accommodation, you can pop by Barril Beach instead.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Luz De Tavira

Mid-Range | Casa da Praia

Located in Tavira, this accommodation is a short distance away from Ilha de Tavira, Terra Estreita Beach, and Barril Beach. You’ll have lush garden views from your room, and get to enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and room service. Each apartment also comes with a microwave and fridge. Guests at the apartment can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast in the morning, along with hiking and cycling that’s just on the doorstep. This accommodation is definitely a no brainer in deciding where to stay in Tavira.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Casa da Praia

Luxury | Holiday Home Aldeamento Pedras d’el Rei

This holiday home is incredibly popular and not far away from Barril Beach, Ilha de Tavira, and the Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Center. Your holiday home comes with views of the garden, along with complimentary Wi-Fi and private parking.

There’s a fully equipped kitchen and washing machine, along with anything else you may need for a comfortable stay. Enjoy the outdoor pool and have a BBQ using the facilities available at this holiday home.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Holiday Home Aldeamento Pedras d’el Rei

Santa Luzia

If you’re thinking about where to stay in Tavira, this area is essentially the perfect example of a traditional Algarve fishing village. It is also known as the region’s octopus capital. When in Santa Luzia, you’ll notice the empty pots that are stacked by the quayside for the fishermen to catch the octopi. Needless to say, there are plenty of highly regarded seafood restaurants that serve up delicious octopus.

From Santa Luzia, you can also ride a ferry to one of the quietest beaches in the region – Praia da Terra Estreita. Its convenient location also puts it close to Tavira. You could even hop on a boat to explore the stunning Ria Formosa.

Best Hotels in Santa Luzia

Budget | Quintinha da Foz Guest House

Located not far from Santa Luzia and Tavira, this pet-friendly house has double rooms with free Wi-Fi and complimentary parking. This is a great place for budget-friendly travelers deciding where to stay in Tavira. While you’ll be sharing the common areas with the hosts, you’ll have your own room and can opt for breakfast in the morning at an additional charge. Bicycles are available for rent, or you can relax in the garden before taking a dip in the small pool.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Quintinha da Foz Guest House

Midrange | Santa Luzia Green Apartment

This is one of the top picks when it comes to places to stay at Santa Luzia. You’ll wake up to incredible lake views, and your room comes with a garden and BBQ facilities. You’ll also enjoy air conditioning along with complimentary Wi-Fi and parking. All apartments are fully equipped with everything you may need, including a sun terrace.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Santa Luzia Green Apartment

Midrange | Apartamento Santa Luzia

Just a short distance away from the beaches, this apartment is located in Santa Luzia and has complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and parking. You’ll have access to the outdoor swimming pool, garden, and patio. Each apartment has everything you may need – from a washing machine to a bathroom with a bidet.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Apartamento Santa Luzia

Cacela Velha

This area is absolutely gorgeous, and not too far from Tavira. It’s also situated on top of a hill and has some stunning views of the Ria Formosa. This small village is a great place to catch some fantastic sunsets. There’s also the chance for visitors to board a small ship to explore a desert island that has the whitest sand along its endless shores. Eating freshly-caught seafood in this area is something you should definitely experience.

Cacela Velha has a beach located on the Eastern side of the Ria Formosa National Park. To reach the beach, you can take a boat trip across the lagoon near the village, or hike from Manta Rota. This is one beach you wouldn’t want to miss – it’s listed as one of the 15 best beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. While it’s also significantly quieter than most beaches, there aren’t any facilities.

Best Hotels in Cacela Velha

Budget | Vivenda para férias (Algarve)

You don’t have to rack your brains to decide where to stay in Tavira. Just a short distance away from Manta Rota Beach, this accommodation has complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and even bikes. There’s a restaurant on-site, and this holiday home also has a 24-hour front desk and complimentary parking. As you settle into your relaxing accommodation, you can choose to play tennis on site or embark on a hike in the surrounding area.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Vivenda para férias (Algarve)

Mid-Range | Praia da Lota Resort – Hotel

In proximity to Cacela Velha Beach, this resort has everything you need, from rooms with a lovely sea view to an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, on-site bike rental, and more. A delicious breakfast buffet is also included in your stay. Guests can even get massages or sign up for a yoga or Pilates class. This is truly an ideal resort to relax and rest.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Praia da Lota Resort – Hotel

Luxury | Holiday home Estrada Manta Rota

This air-conditioned accommodation has a total of three bedrooms, along with a kitchen and washing machine. Not far from both Cacela Velha Beach and Manta Rota Beach, the accommodation comes with complimentary private parking, so you can easily drive to these two beaches. There are also BBQ facilities that you can enjoy at this comfortable holiday home.

CHECK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY – Holiday home Estrada Manta Rota

We hope this article helps you decide where to stay in Tavira, Portugal. While the town itself isn’t huge, there are plenty of areas for you to stay in, and it’s important to pick the best area to stay in Tavira that suits your unique needs.