Excursions & day trips

Silves and Monchique Mountains Tour

from

$88.00

Free cancellation

Language: English

Mobile voucher accepted

Duration: from 4 hours to 8 hours

Entrance Fees Included

Guided Tour

Instant confirmation

Meal Included

e-Voucher

Do this because

Scenic tour of the Algarve countryside
Visit the towns of Silves and Monchique
Discover Foia and the Monchique Mountains
Walk through the Caldas de Monchique natural garden

What to expect

The Algarve is famed for its beautiful beaches, yet its countryside is also filled with little gems. On this exclusive tour, you'll head into the Monchique Mountains to visit the history-steeped towns of Silves and Monchique as well as Mt Foia. Plus, you'll taste some local treats along the way.

First up is Silves, in the heart of the orange-growing country at the foot of the highlands. You'll climb up its castle to admire the views, learn about its Moorish past and enjoy a cake and orange juice in its café. We'll then continue the excursion deep into the Monchique Mountains, where we'll stop in a restaurant for lunch.

Next is Mt Foia, the Algarve's highest point. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views over the countryside. You'll also drop into a shop for a liqueur tasting. Then, it's on to Monchique to explore its cobbled streets and traditional shops. Rounding off the day is Caldas de Monchique for a guided walk through a garden rich in the area's endemic trees as well as a mineral water tasting.

What's included

Transport
Entrance fees
Lunch
Tastings

What to remember

There's a donation to the TUI Care Foundation, a local animal welfare organisation and a children's orphanage for every excursion sold
This tour is guided in English and German
Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
Bring suitable footwear

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

Frankonline
From United States of America - October 2024

Traveled with a group of friends

55 - 64 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
4/5

The lack of detailed information before booking needs looking into. A blanket statement ” people with reduced mobility should not choose this” is unac ...
John
From United States of America - October 2024

Solo traveler

45 - 54 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

All on schedule. Excellent guidance from rep and good food. What more could you want?
Frank
From United States of America - October 2024

Solo traveler

45 - 54 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

The tour was great unfortunately the weather was not but that had nothing to do with the tour.The guide Anna was great and I really enjoyed it inspire ...
Paul
From United Kingdom - October 2024

Solo traveler

45 - 54 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
4/5

Unfortunately the weather closed in at the top of the mountain so the views were non-existant. But generally speaking it was a nice day out, even thou ...
3goaway
From United Kingdom - September 2024

Traveled with family

45 - 54 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

Didn't get to see much of Silves castle as French translation took too long before English one began. French went off to explore but English didn't ge ...
Sarah Raybould
From United States of America - September 2024

Traveled with a group of friends

35 - 44 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

Really nice trip the guide was very knowledgeable and helpful I would recommend

Excursions & day trips

West Algarve Tour with Lagos, Sagres and Cabo de São Vicent

The rugged coast of the western Algarve is crammed with dramatic cliffs sheltering sandy coves and characterful towns. On this trip you'll have ample time to explore the historic city of Lagos and see some of the Algarve's most picturesque points, including Sagres, the ‘end of the world' and Baleeira fishing village. Beatriz, one of our expert local guides, says, 'Lagos has a long history, and was once an important hub for maritime traffic in the 15th century during the Portuguese Age of Discovery. You'll get a sense of its history as you mander through the old town on patterned cobbled streets flanked by handsome buildings.' Sheltering by a river mouth, the town of Lagos has a great location by the beach and within reach of all that amazing scenery. Get your culture fix with a tour of Lagos town, plus free time to enjoy the vibrant streets and cafés. Your guided tour takes in Praça do Infante to see Henry the Navigator's statue as well as the building that served as Portugal's first slave market. Afterwards, you could choose to spend your time having lunch, shopping or exploring.Next, you'll head to Sagres to admire its 15th century fortress, where you can explore the grounds and admire its impressive architecture while learning about the region's maritime history. After this we'll visit Cabo de São Vicente, also known as the ‘end of the world' – Europe's most south-westerly point. You'll round off the day taking in even more panoramic views over the fishing harbour of Baleeira.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Faro, Olhão & Tavira Tour with Fado 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:

Excursions & day trips

Lisbon Tour from the Algarve

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 defense 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:

Excursions & day trips

Seville Cultural Tour with Local Guide from the Algarve

Bursting with glorious buildings, dotted with leafy parks and drenched in Andalucian colour, Seville is a must-visit. Some of Spain's most important monuments are in the spotlight on this guided tour, including the bullring, Santa Cruz and Plaza de España. You'll also have some free time to explore. Mariasol, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘I always feel uplifted when I visit the Plaza de España because it's so colourful. It is full of painted ceramic tilework, known as azulejos. Each azulejo depicts Spain's regional culture and heritage and every province is represented.'You'll strike out early for the Andalusian capital, allowing plenty of time to explore some of its cultural and architectural highlights. Once in Seville, your walking tour begins at the Moorish Torre Del Oro. You'll see Seville's bullring, the Real Maestranza, the Triana Bridge, and the Plaza d'America. Next, you'll visit the colonnaded Plaza de España – and the surrounding Maria Luiza Park. After a rest in the park, we'll continue our walking tour, which takes us to Barrio de Santa Cruz – once known as the district of Moors and Jews. This most characterful district of Seville, right in the historic centre, is overflowing with orange trees, pretty plazas and jasmine-scented patios. And before heading back, you'll have some free time to explore on your own to grab some tapas – and maybe a souvenir or two.

free cancellation

Available in:

Activities

Seville City Visit with Shopping Time

As the heart and soul of Andalusia, Seville makes for a mesmerising daytrip. You'll explore the city's cobbled streets, secret patios and colossal cathedral on a panoramic bus tour. There'll also be free time to indulge in some shopping.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Silves and Monchique Mountains Tour

The Algarve is famed for its beautiful beaches, yet the area's countryside is also filled with historic and natural gems that are well worth discovering. You'll head into the mountains to visit Silves, Foia and Monchique, and taste some local treats along the way.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

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:

de, en, fr, pt

Excursions & day trips

Andalusia Tour from Algarve with Wine Tasting

One of Spain's most beautiful and unspoiled corners is right next door to the Algarve. Huelva boasts landscapes of protected wetlands pockmarked by history-steeped towns. You'll visit the city of Huelva, and stop off to explore El Rocío, Caravels Dock, as well as enjoy a visit to a winery. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, 'Apart from its religious significance, El Rocío is also known for its unique architectural style, characterised by whitewashed buildings with colourful trim and traditional wooden balconies. The town has a distinctly rustic and charming atmosphere, with sandy streets and a laid-back vibe'.You'll start the tour with a guided tour of Huelva city, browsing the market, then taking a spiritual turn with a visit to El Rocio – one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites – where faith and tradition paint a vivid picture of Spanish culture. Drop by a shop specialising in frilly flamenco dresses, a true emblem of Spain. Enjoy some free time here to explore the town's charming streets. Next up, is a visit to the Caravels Dock in La Rabida – you'll get to snap up pics of this waterfront exhibition with life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships before delving into the world of wines at the Bollullos winery. Immerse yourself in the flavours and aromas of the region with a tasting session, complemented by an assortment of tapas that promise to leave your taste buds tingling.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, en, fr

Excursions & day trips

Costa Vicentina Full Day Tour with Lunch

Wedged between the Atlantic and the Monchique Mountains, the Vicentine Coast has stunning landscapes, lots of flora and fauna but very few people. This is a wild world where you least expect it. Highlights include Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Carrapateira and Sagres.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, en, fr, pt

Excursions & day trips

Ayamonte Authentic Andalusia Tour

Perched on the banks of the River Guadiana that separates Portugal and Spain, Ayamonte blends the best of both countries 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, es, en, fr, nl

Silves and Monchique Mountains Tour

What people say about this experience

Excellent