If you’re heading to the Algarve, you’re probably expecting long sandy beaches and a tonne of resorts. And while this is true for a lot of the Algarve, Silves is one of the few places which is mostly untouched by the effects of tourism – despite the fact that it is quite a popular place for tours! Located fairly inland, Silves was the capital of the Algarve during Moorish time – a fact that is still evident today with its cobbled streets, and the ruins of a Moorish castle overlooking the city. So, despite its small size, there’s quite a lot to do and explore in Silves!
Climb up the Hill to the Castle:
Silves Castle is located at the top of Silves, overlooking the town from a hill top. While the climb may sound daunting to some, it is only a 15 minute walk to the top, and there’s so much to see and take in on the way, that it really doesn’t feel that long! Although the castle is technically a ruin, it’s still quite intact (particularly the view from the outside), and once inside, you can walk all around the turrets and admire the view from the top! Make sure to walk all the way round, as the views are very varied, with fantastic views of the town from one side, while hills dominate the other! My favourite was the view of the town, as you can still see all the countryside in the distance, while admiring the orange roofs of the town. If you’re interested, there’s also a number of excavations there as you walk around, as well as the castle being a mini paradise with palm trees and greenery everywhere you turn – Silves really is worth coming to, even if just for this!
Visit Silves Cathedral:
With Silves Cathedral being almost right next to the castle, you might as well visit the two in one go! Silves Cathedral is considered the main gothic attraction of the Algarve, and it really is beautiful. During the Moorish rule, the Cathedral was originally built as a mosque, although it was torn down and rebuilt as a Cathedral later on – which really shows how it fits in with the history of Silves! As you walk up the town, you can see the Cathedral from different viewpoints, which shows you how beautiful it really is. It really fits with the feel of the town, as despite being grand, it also has a feeling of quaintness to it which I really loved. Although I didn’t go into the Cathedral (as we only had a couple of hours to explore the town), from the pictures I’ve seen, it’s really stunning!
Visit the Market:
We visited the market on our way into the centre of the town, (it’s located fairly near the river), and it was a great way of seeing all the authentic Portuguese fresh fruits, as well as there being a wonderful array of Portuguese desserts and sweets there!
Wander Through the Old Town:
Silves’ Old Town is full of charm and character, and wandering through it is a wonderful way to spend some time in Silves – although be careful of the slightly slippery cobbled streets! There’s a ton of pretty little cafes and shops as well, so use it as a way to either pick up some presents, or just people watch with a glass of fresh orange juice!
Drink a Glass of Fresh Orange Juice:
Silves is surrounded by valleys of orange tree groves, and according to our tour guide, is known as the Orange Capital of the Algarve! So why not take the opportunity to have a glass of fresh orange juice? It’s delicious!
Wander along the Banks of the Arade River:
Silves is situated along the banks of the Arade River, and a wander along these banks is just beautiful! It gives you a stunning view of the town, with the Castle and Cathedral dominating the sky line, while looking over the river gives panoramic views of the countryside! Also watch out for the Ponte Romana Bridge, which is a bridge built in Roman times, and is another must see in Silves! And while you’re there, see if you can spot the statues across the road – it was a bit of a shock when we spotted them!
What does everyone else think of Silves – will you be adding it to your bucket list?!
Heading to Lagos soon, so plan to visit here. Thank you for posting such beautiful photos.
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Ahh I absolutely loved Lagos too! You’ll love it, it’s so beautiful!
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Great account of Silves 🙂 It’s definitely a great town to explore. I went there a couple of years ago and really fell in love with the place.
The only thing I would add, is to be prepared for a walk into town if using the train to get to Silves. The station is actually a few kilometres outside of the town itself.
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It’s lovely isn’t it! Ooh I didn’t know that about the train station as I came by coach – thanks for sharing!
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Ooooo I love castles and cathedrals, they make for fantastic photography opportunities! It looks like a lovely non-touristy place to stroll around and enjoy the architecture. I have pinned this “orange capital of the Algarve” for future reference!
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They were both so beautiful, but the town was filled with history as well! I’d definitely say go here if you’re ever in the algarve!
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Looks like an interesting place to visit, great photos! thanks for sharing.
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It was really interesting!
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That fruit and veg market looks amazing!! I love a good farmers market.
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It was really fantastic in there!
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Love the Silves Castle with its stunning views, the Gothic Silves Cathedral, and the market with its fresh fruit. What an interesting place to visit. I pinned it for later use if I travel there and for others. Great Photos! Thanks for sharing 🙂
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It really is stunning, and was full of history! I highly recommend visiting if you’re ever in the algarve!
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Looks so chilled and relaxing. I bet you had a great time wandering the streets and exploring. The only sad part is when you have to leave…
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It was really lovely! Was a shame we didn’t get longer there!
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It has all the things I like to see and explore. Nice that is off the beaten path somewhat..less crowded is always a plus. Thanks for sharing.
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It was lovely that it was less crowded! Well worth a visit!
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Reblogged this on Live And Die In Afrika and commented:
Already on my bucket list when I finish traveling Africa!
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Ooh that sounds exciting!! Well worth a visit when you’re done there!
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Wow the architecture looks beautiful! Another place I need to visit added to my never ending list!!
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It really was – you should definitely try and go at some point!!
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Silves! I visited here on a day trip from the coast and was super glad I did. As you said, much smaller crowds and I think it’s a beautiful little town. Great castle, plus I love that little bridge. I came in by train and walking down, even that first view of the town made me glad I had came. Excellent photos, really takes me back. Nice!
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It’s really really beautiful isn’t it?? Well worth a visit!! I’m glad you enjoyed it too!!
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I love the architecture here! The arching doors of the cathedral are beautiful! And, the market looks great too. What a great looking town!!
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It was really fantastic! The architecture was really interesting because you could see all the moorish influences!
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This is such a charming place. I get a feeling that time has stood still as I look at the pictures of Algarve’s old Moorish capital,
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Looks like a great town to visit! I haven’t been to Portugal yet so am always making mental notes of places I want to see and this definitely fits the bill! Loads of history, great architecture and tasty food! Love all the cobbled streets!
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