Guided tour of Faro and East Algarve in a Small Group
Excursions & day trips

Guided tour of Faro and East Algarve in a Small Group

4.3/5
Excellent
Based on 17 reviews
from
£84.00
Free cancellation
Language: German, English, French
Mobile voucher accepted
Duration: from 4 hours to 8 hours
Why you’ll love this…
  • You'll wander the winding streets of Faro's old town and visit its 13th-century cathedral
  • The busy fishing town of Olhao is ideal for scouring the markets and finding a lunchtime treat
  • In Tavira, walk along the castle ramparts and get to know the riverside café scene
  • You can take a moment to breathe in the Atlantic views at the coastal hamlet of Cacela Velha
  • Your local guide is an expert on the historic cities and villages of the eastern Algarve
What to expect

Portugal's eastern Algarve is like the calm and interesting older sibling to the more popular and bustling western Algarve. On your eight-seater minibus tour, you won't find the wild nightlife of Albufeira. Instead, your small group will check out village communities, historic architecture, and the region's oldest city. You'll visit Faro, Olhao, Cacela Velha and Tavira, as well as travel through rolling countryside in the Ria Formosa National Park. Joana, a local guide, says “some of the places we visit date back to as early as the 4th century BC. Between the local markets, castles and cathedrals you get a real sense of life through the ages here”.

It all kicks off in Faro, the regional capital, where you'll have free time to explore the old town and its star attraction, the cathedral. Joana adds “the mix of modern and Medieval in Faro makes it a favourite of mine – I never get tired of its cobbled streets and friendly locals”. Next up is Olhao, a village on the banks of the Ria Formosa. You'll visit its famous fish market and then have some free time for shopping and lunch – surely it has to be fresh seafood, right?

In the afternoon, you'll head to Tavira, home to a whopping 36 churches, and a castle, where you can go for a stroll along its ramparts. Venturing further up the coast, past hillsides bursting with olive groves, we reach Cacela Velha for our final visit. This coastal hamlet with just a handful of whitewashed houses boasts a simple yet elegant church, and an old fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Read more
What's included
  • check Transport in an eight-seat minibus
  • check Guide
What to remember
  • Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
  • Food and drinks not included
Read more
Provider
TUI PORTUGAL
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Excellent

4.3/5

Based on 17 reviews from verified customers

41%
47%
12%
0%
0%
  • steffhan

    From United States of America - July 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    25 - 34 years old

    Great

    Overall rated

    4/5

    Unser Guide war spitze, gab tolle Tips was man sich in der kurzen Zeit wo am besten ansehen sollte, wo man einen kurzen Snack bekommt denn Mittagessen ...

  • Sorin

    From United States of America - June 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    45 - 54 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Organisatorisch sehr gut aber die Preise bisschen zu hoch.

  • De Bub

    From United States of America - June 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    55 - 64 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    4/5

    Es fehlte eine Erklärung über Portugal allgemein. Die zu den Zielen waren OK

  • Katrin

    From United States of America - June 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    45 - 54 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Eine schöne Tour im Kleinbus. Unser Fahrer/Tour Guide (leider weiß ich seinen Namen nicht, er ist Holländer) war super! Viel gesehen und erfahren, ins ...

  • Die Berliner

    From United States of America - May 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    35 - 44 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Schöne Orte besucht und dazu gute Erklärungen von Tom erhalten. ????

  • Atirb Reldiez

    From United States of America - May 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    55 - 64 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    4/5

    Kleinbus war sehr pünktlich. Reiseleiter-Fahrer hat viel über die Gegend erzählt und uns in den Städten ausreichen Zeit gelassen um noch selber etwas ...

You might also like

Lisbon tour from the Algarve with sightseeing bus and free time
Excursions & day trips

Lisbon tour from the Algarve with sightseeing bus and free time

Few capitals are as diverse as Lisbon. From the tightly packed alleys of the old town to the elegant boulevards of Baixa Pombalina, it's a city bursting with charm and life – and classic yellow trams. Gonçalo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Much of Lisbon was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, and was then rebuilt under the Marquis of Pombal's guidance into the first city with innovative earthquake-resistant designs – hence today's name for the district: Baixa Pombalina.'Things kick off reasonably early, allowing you to reach Lisbon in good time. Get ready for spectacular views over the city as you cross the Golden Gate-like 25th April Bridge over the River Tagus to the seafront district of Belém. You'll get to see Belém Tower, the Monument of Discoveries and much more. Gonçalo says, 'Belém Tower was built in the early 16th century and is an iconic symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. It once stood on a small island near the riverbank, but as the river's course changed, it now sits near the shore. Over the years, it's served as a defence point, a lighthouse, a customs house, and even a prison.'Next, sightsee by bus passing by the Basilica Estrela among other sights. Your guide will then point out the best areas of the city to check out during your free time – whether you prefer to shop, dine or simply stroll streets lined with impressive buildings from Portugal's imperial days. You'll return to the Algarve via the Vasco da Gama Bridge – the longest in Europe.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Guided evening 4x4 tour of Monchique Hills with dinner
Excursions & day trips

Guided evening 4x4 tour of Monchique Hills with dinner

This trip has to be one of the best ways to discover the real Algarve. Jump into a 4x4, leave the coast behind and make your way up into the Monchique hills. You'll discover the real heart of the region, one that most visitors never get to see. Ines, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘These hills feel almost untouched by time, with little farming villages where life moves at a slower pace, offering a glimpse of traditional Portuguese life.'Travelling in small groups winding along earth tracks and past tiny villages, you'll get a sneak peek of a peaceful lifestyle that's quickly disappearing. One of the highlights is the whitewashed village of Alferce, home to a pretty church dating back to the 16th century. Any cultivatable patches of land in the area are filled with citrus orchards and eucalyptus groves. Next, you'll continue on your journey to explore the natural wilderness of Barrancos dos Pisoes.There'll be plenty of stops along the way to capture those perfect holiday pictures and then we'll travel up to the highest point in the Algarve. At this special viewpoint, you'll watch the sky change colour as the sun sets and toast the view with a glass of sparkling wine. Hop back into the 4x4 and as darkness blankets the landscape, you'll head to a local restaurant for a traditional dinner including specialities from the Monchique hills.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, fr, pt 

Eastern Algarve day tour with Faro visit and live Fado music show
Excursions & day trips

Eastern Algarve day tour with Faro visit and live Fado music show

The east is one of the jewels in the Algarve's crown, and this full day excursion offers a flavour of its local culture as well as a chance to get to know its biggest city. You'll visit Faro, Olhao, and Tavira and travel through beautiful countryside in the Ria Formosa National Park. Sofia, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘This excursion is special because it brings the local culture to life. You'll see a performance of Fado music which is the heart of Portuguese tradition, a soulful singer fronts a group of musicians and together they convey passion, struggle, and longing. It's a hugely significant part of Portuguese culture.'We'll begin in Faro, the regional capital, where you'll have free time to explore the old town – the cathedral is a must-see. Next up is Olhao, a village on the banks of the Ria Formosa. You'll visit its famous fish market and then enjoy free time for lunch and shopping. Sofia adds, ‘As well as showcasing the fruits of the sea, the market is a good place to make contact with smallholders selling their own produce, such as honey, jams, cakes, and liqueurs.'In the afternoon, we'll head to Tavira to see its top sights and visit the castle for a stroll along its ramparts. Along with the castle, the seven-arched Roman bridge and a pair of historic churches are just a handful of the best things to do in Tavira. Cap off the day by dropping into a church for a live show of fado singing – the melancholic music genre that is a national treasure.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Sunset sailing in the Algarve with tapas, drinks and swimming
Excursions & day trips

Sunset sailing in the Algarve with tapas, drinks and swimming

If you're looking for the perfect spot to truly appreciate the beauty of the Algarve, then this is it. From aboard a classic boat, you'll be taking in the sweeping bays and peninsulas of the Algarve's artfully carved coastline. From Marina de Portimão, you'll be cruising onboard the Gageiro, one of the last traditional sailing ships from 1947. It's a comfy place to be soaking up every inch of the Algarve's coastline as you head towards the beach at João d' Arens, where the rocks wrap themselves around the shore to make a protected bay. There's plenty of time here to take a dip in the refreshing waters and splash about. . Once you've dried off, you can tuck into some tasty tapas onboard, quench your thirst and have a glass of local wine.Then, with dusk approaching, the real adventure begins, as the engine is turned off and the sails are raised. Feel the power of the wind as you set sail with a coastal sunset view to rival the best in Europe.

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en 

Serra do Caldeirão by 4x4 with seasonal swim stop
Activities

Serra do Caldeirão by 4x4 with seasonal swim stop

Rev up your engines and set your sights on adventure with an open-top 4x4 tour of Serra do Caldeirão, a rugged escape just north of the Algarve. This action-packed outing offers panoramic views and a deep dive into the wild, mountainous landscapes for a day you won't forget.You'll start off in Albufeira and wind through charming villages and fields on your way to Alte, a quaint village celebrated for its peaceful vibes, cultural heritage, and breathtaking surroundings. Here, savour the local flavours with a visit to a distillery where you can sip on Medronho, a traditional Algarve spirit. The adrenaline ramps up as you hit off-road trails to Malhão, pausing to soak in the views that stretch endlessly.From April to October, you'll take a refreshing stop at Barragem da Califórnia, a serene mountain oasis perfect for a swim. Just a note, the swim stops on this tour take a break from November to March, but whatever the season, your journey ends on a high note at the Cova da Muda viewpoint and the magical Fonte Férrea.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, fr 

Full-day Algarve 4x4 sightseeing tour with boat ride
Activities

Full-day Algarve 4x4 sightseeing tour with boat ride

Jump into the heart of Ria Formosa on a thrilling full-day tour from Albufeira, cruising through picturesque villages and vibrant landscapes in an open-top 4x4. Experience the bustling life of Olhão and enjoy a relaxing boat ride through Ria Formosa, with a stop at an island along the way. Santiago, one of our local expert guides, is a really big fan of how this tour shows off this part of Portugal in an adventurous way. The 4x4 you'll use immerses you more into the locations you'll visit a lot better than a bus or minivan would. Plus, since it's open-top, you don't have to worry about window glare when you're taking pictures while you're on the move.Hop aboard your open-top 4x4, and you'll venture off the beaten path to uncover the hidden beauties of Ria Formosa's diverse ecosystems. Learn about the sustainable practices that help preserve the area's unique environment, including salt extraction and microalgae cultivation – vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the local economy. You'll also visit the town of Olhão, a lively centre of fishing and maritime traditions. Here, stroll through bustling markets filled with fresh seafood, mingle with the locals or grab some unique souvenirs. After some free time, you'll board a boat to glide over the serene waters of Ria Formosa. There's a stop at another of the natural islands, too, where you can relax and swim in the calm waters.

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en, fr 

Guided tour of Faro and East Algarve in a Small Group
Excursions & day trips

Guided tour of Faro and East Algarve in a Small Group

Eastern Algarve is one of Portugal's most beautiful regions – and this excursion in an eight-seat minibus is ideal for discovering its pretty villages and biggest city. You'll visit Faro, Olhao, Cacela Velha and Tavira and as well as travel through beautiful countryside in the Ria Formosa National Park.

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en, fr 

Tour of authentic Andalusian town Ayamonte from the Algarve
Excursions & day trips

Tour of authentic Andalusian town Ayamonte from the Algarve

Perched on the banks of the River Guadiana that separates Portugal and Spain, Ayamonte blends the best of both country's cultures. Discover Andalusian charm and delicious cuisine on this tour of an Iberian gem.Located just a stone's throw from the border, arriving in the Spanish town you'll get an impressive view of Portugal's Castro Marim castle – a remnant of the centuries of war between the two. Delve deeper into the history here with a guided tour of the medieval quarter and admire the traditional blue and white tiles at every turn.After free time to sip coffee in the square, shop the boutiques or rummage for trinkets and treasures in the marketplace, you'll be ready for lunch. Stop by Vive Ayamonte gastro-shop and a feast of tasty tapas, traditional paella and wine awaits. What's more, it's all served up with a side order of fantastic flamenco entertainment in their beautiful courtyard, reserved exclusively for TUI.

free cancellation
Available in:

de, en 

Lisbon City & Shopping Tour
Excursions & day trips

Lisbon City & Shopping Tour

A visit to Portugal isn't complete without a trip to Lisbon. This day trip to the capital includes a stop in Belém to see the elaborately decorated Jeronimos Monastery and Belém Tower. You'll then enjoy free time to explore Lisbon old town – go shopping, check out the Alfama neighbourhood, head to St George's Castle or hop on a traditional tram.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Slide & Splash Ticket
Tickets and events

Slide & Splash Ticket

Spiralling chutes. Shriek-inducing slides. Laughs a minute. And plenty of space for you to relax in the sun while the kids have fun. That's what Slide & Splash waterpark in Lagoa is all about. And this summer, it's even better than ever with the addition of The Big Wave and Disco River.

free cancellation
Entrance Fees Included