cermignano

Which do you prefer for a fortnight holiday About to book bit cannot make up my mind

EMR

Tavira.
Olhao is not really a resort , it was the canning and fish processing centre of the eastern Algarve.
It does not have the historical feel of Tavira, with its river front, churches , castle etc
Both will require a local ferry to reach the beaches on the islands .

cermignano

thank you EMR. This has helped to make up my mind

Tonyj

Another vote for Tavira. Two very different towns but Tavira certainly has more of a holiday feel about it. More restaurants, prettier and good entertainment on summer nights in the local square. Certainly more of a holiday feel.

Olhao has one five-star hotel which is excellent but remains quite industrial. Nice place to visit though and the marina is nice.

robbie20

Tavira. No question, In my opinion a far better option.

cermignano

Thank you all, Tavira it is

ouriquejan

Don't make the mistake a friend of our did and thought that Cabanas de Tavira is the same. It's not, a good bus ride away and very touristy.

But the train is cheap and roughly on time and you can visit Faro, Vila Real, Cabanas, Olhao.

BillBullock

It's a matter of personal opinion of course but don't forget to visit Olhão. It has a wonderful market every week day and an even better one on Saturdays with a lot of atmosphere. It has a water front with views out to the islands and as many good restaurants as Tavira. Coffee is generally cheaper at Olhão cafes and we are spoiled for supermarkets.

Shanorme

Make sure you visit some of the restaurants in Santa Luzia (not very far from Tavira) - some really good food. The walk to Barril beach is also pretty spectacular. If you get a chance, Cacela Velha is not too far a drive and there is an excellent little Tapas restaurant there. There are some lovely walks as well from Cacela Velha.

cermignano

Thank you all so much. i will take in allthese ideas. can't wait. Never been to Portugal before.
OH wanted to see Lisbon and Algarve but less touristy Algarve

ouriquejan

And how could I forget Fuzeta?

Two train stations, make sure you get off at Fuzeta A, rather than Fuzeta/Moncarapacho, as it's a longer walk.

Some good restaurants and cafes there too and a lovely beach. You can get the ferry across to the island for a couple of euros return.

cermignano

Thank you all. Cant wait

Shanorme

You will have a fabulous time!

Mike

Olhão has changed over the last few years, particularly after the Real Marina Hotel and apartments were built.
There has been significant investment from the private sector in the old town with properties being renovated for holiday lets.
The Av 5 October, the road that faces the Ria Formosa, is full of restaurants and bars that have also upped their game in response to the change.
The industrial tag that Olhao was associated with is disappearing. Next will be the revamping of the gardens and marina.
I live here and love it.
I worked in Tavira for many years and love that too.
Both cities offer something different and unique from the central and western Algarve.
The train connects both cities and are clean and on time, it a little dated. So you can enjoy both.
Enjoy your stay whichever you choose.

Shanorme

I love Olhão too. The municipal market is excellent and there are some brilliant restaurants there. Definitely worth spending some time there.