Tavira is not just another seaside town; it is a living museum shaped by centuries of history. From its Bronze Age origins to Phoenician and Roman settlement, and later the Arab influence that still defines its architecture, Tavira tells a layered story. Even after the great 18th-century earthquake, the town preserved landmarks like its seven-arched bridge, standing as a testament to resilience. Unlike the busier Algarve resorts, Tavira offers calm streets, authentic Portuguese spirit, and the chance to experience history with every step.

The vision started with Marugal, the Spanish group known for boutique luxury hotels such as Cap Rocat in Mallorca. Partner Arnaud Laporte discovered Tavira and realized the city matched Marugal’s philosophy of blending local identity with upscale hospitality. Behind a 19th-century façade, the hotel preserves original details like stone staircases and ornate arches, while a new wing called “La Medina” draws inspiration from the city’s Arab past, featuring whitewashed rooms and traditional Portuguese tiles.

The property offers 36 rooms split between the historic palace and the new wing. Palace rooms overlook a charming courtyard with classic wood flooring, while Medina suites provide open terraces and even outdoor showers. Every detail is intentional: rugs woven from mountain sheep wool, minibars stocked with regional craft beer, sea salt chocolate, and the Algarve’s famous sweet potato crisps. Guests feel immersed not just in comfort, but in local tradition and culture.

Chef Fábio Domingues leads Mirsal, a restaurant with a compact but vibrant menu of authentic Portuguese dishes. Expect shrimp à Brás, oxtail croquettes, and slow-cooked lamb with couscous flavors that celebrate the region’s diversity. Seafood takes center stage, echoing Tavira’s coastal heritage. The bar complements the experience with classic cocktails and a curated list of Portuguese wines, making dining an integral part of the stay.

Eastern Algarve remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. Visitors find whitewashed villages, wildflower fields, and cafés where locals gather over espresso. Tavira itself shines with its tiled doors and distinctive rooftops, where fresh bread still hangs on doorways in the morning. The city attracts cultured travelers from France, Spain, Britain, and a growing number from the U.S. thanks to direct flights to Faro. As the first five-star hotel in Tavira, Palacio de Tavira offers both authenticity and elegance, making it the ideal gateway to discover Portugal’s quieter side.