Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira
Faro, Portugal

Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira

Outty Ranking 57 3.9 · 31 traveler reviews9 hoursFrom $64
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Outty Ranking

57/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

3.9/5

Based on 31 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira worth booking?

Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira is a 9-hour experience in Faro, Portugal, from $64 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.9/5 rating across 31 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
57 / 100
Rating
3.9/5 (31)
Duration
9 hours
From
$64 per person

Discover the tranquil beauty of the East Algarve, where charming towns, elegant architecture, and rich history await. Begin in Faro, the region’s capital, with a stroll through the Old Town. Wander its narrow cobbled streets and quiet squares until reaching the Arco da Vila, built during the city’s reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake. Continue east to Olhão, known for its cubist houses and home to the Algarve’s second‑largest fishing port. Explore the lively fresh markets, filled with regional products, and enjoy views over the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected haven for hundreds of bird species. End the journey in Tavira, often called the “Venice of the Algarve.” From the castle walls and gardens, admire the traditional architecture and distinctive “4 águas” rooftops. Cross the historic Roman Bridge, linking the two banks of the Gilão River and offering a truly memorable experience.

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the tranquil beauty of the East Algarve, where charming towns, elegant architecture, and rich history await. Begin in Faro, the region’s capital, with a stroll through the Old Town. Wander its narrow cobbled streets and quiet squares until reaching the Arco da Vila, built during the city’s reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake. Continue east to Olhão, known for its cubist houses and home to the Algarve’s second‑largest fishing port. Explore the lively fresh markets, filled with regional products, and enjoy views over the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected haven for hundreds of bird species. End the journey in Tavira, often called the “Venice of the Algarve.” From the castle walls and gardens, admire the traditional architecture and distinctive “4 águas” rooftops. Cross the historic Roman Bridge, linking the two banks of the Gilão River and offering a truly memorable experience.

    What's included

    Included

    • On-board WiFi
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Professional Multilingual Guided tour to Faro, Olhão, and Tavira
    • Hotel pickup & drop-off: If pick up at your hotel is not available a near location will be provided

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Food and drinks
    • Admission Fees not included as we will be just visitng on the outside

    What you'll see and do

    1. Old Town Faro

      Start the day at the capital city of Algarve - Faro. Explore the Old town of Faro entering from Arch of the Villa, one of Faro ex libris, displaying an image of Saint Thomas. The arch marks the entrance to the historical center - Vila Adentro (Inner Town). Enjoy your free time also for shopping at the shops in the downtown.

      60 minutes here

    2. Mercado de Olhao

      Follow to the Moorish town of Olhão. A key city for fishing and peculiar cubist houses placed in labyrinth. The markets will be an highlight of the day.

      60 minutes here

    3. Ponte Antiga

      Crossing a 4th Century Roman bridge with Gilão River running through it you will know Tavira the “Venice of Algarve” with 37 churches and houses with peculiar roofs named “4 águas”

      60 minutes here

    4. Tavira

      Visit the old castle of Tavira for a must panoramic view of the city and enjoy your free time to explore the city and have lunch. We will be just passing outside, you can visit on your free time if you would like to.

      60 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Faro

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Options you can book

    • Lagos pick-up

      Lagos hotels pick-up Pickup included

    • Armação de Pêra pick-up

      Armação de Pêra hotels pick-up Pickup included

    • Alvor & Portimão & Carvoeiro

      Alvor & Portimão & Carvoeiro hotels pick-up Pickup included

    • Vilamoura & Quarteira pick-up

      Vilamoura & Quarteira hotels pick-up Pickup included

    • Albufeira Pick-up

      Sightseeing tour Duration: 10 hours East side of the Algarve: Visit Faro, Olhão, and Tavira. Bus Albufeira Pick-up : Albufeira hotels pick-up Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, pt, en, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    MTS Globe Portugal

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Faro, Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and TaviraFaro, Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and TaviraFaro, Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and TaviraFaro, Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and TaviraBest of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira, photo 6Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 31 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    31 verified traveler reviews for Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    14
    4 star
    9
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    4
    1 star
    3
    Sort
    patricia_c · October 2025

    Not goob

    The guide did not wait for every one to get off the bus the guide was rubbish would not do this trip with that company again.

    Response from the operator: Dear Patricia, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re truly sorry to hear that your experience did not meet expectations. It’s very important to us that all guests feel supported and included throughout the tour, and we regret that you felt the guide did not wait for everyone to disembark properly. Your comments have been noted and will be shared with our team to ensure better coordination and attention to detail in future tours. We’re committed to improving and providing a more enjoyable experience for all our guests. Thank you again for your feedback.

    via Viator

    Marjorie_F · April 2025

    Best of the East

    The sites visited i visited in Faro were fantastic. Shopping at the market in Olhao was great. Tavira was wonderful. Hearing some of the history of these places were great. Best of all, Ana was a fabulous tour guide!

    via Viator

    Explore14682364333 · October 2024

    Visit the Algarve

    If you haven't visited the Algave you are missing out. The views are great, the weather is great, the food is great, and the people are very friendly. But Stay away from Albufiera if you don't want to be mobbed by tourists.

    via Tripadvisor

    gogsm2020 · September 2024

    Little gem on the Algarve

    Vile Real de Santo Antonio is an absolute pearl on the Algarve. Beautiful town with a wonderful ambiance. The paved close streets gives you a pleasant vibe. Great little market on the square offering fabulous local products and locally made delights. A waterfront looking over to Spain. Pleasant people and multicultural visitors

    via Tripadvisor

    Cathy_W · September 2024

    East Algarve.

    Good multilingual information provided on the bus allowed for maximum personal time exploring each location.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    9 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    11
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by MTS Globe Portugal, who run 54 experiences we rank across 9 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 55.1.

    See everything MTS Globe Portugal runs

    Why this scores 57

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)45
    Review evidence (18% weight)51
    Booking momentum (14% weight)43
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)0
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Faro.

    How much does Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira cost?

    +

    Prices start at $64 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Faro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira take?

    +

    Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Faro is not rushed.

    Is Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.9/5 across 31 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Faro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira?

    +

    Around 11 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Faro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Faro and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Faro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Faro?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Faro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Ria Formosa Natural Park and Islands Boat Cruise from Faro, Ria Formosa - Boat trip to the 3 Islands: Armona | Culatra Island | Lighthouse, From Faro: Benagil Cave, Marinha, Algar Seco & Carvoeiro Day Trip. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Faro?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Faro?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira?

    +

    Included: On-board WiFi; In-vehicle air conditioning; Professional Multilingual Guided tour to Faro, Olhão, and Tavira; and Hotel pickup & drop-off: If pick up at your hotel is not available a near location will be. Not included: Gratuities; Food and drinks; and Admission Fees not included as we will be just visitng on the outside. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 433 listed pickup locations in and around Faro. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira offered in?

    +

    It is offered in German, Portuguese, English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Faro. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira?

    +

    Across 31 reviews averaging 3.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira?

    +

    There are 5 options to choose from, including Lagos pick-up, Armação de Pêra pick-up, Alvor & Portimão & Carvoeiro, Vilamoura & Quarteira pick-up. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Best of the East: Faro, Olhão, and Tavira.

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