The eastern Algarve offers travellers a fascinating contrast between traditional Portuguese charm and modern coastal tourism. Tavira and Monte Gordo, situated just 20km apart, perfectly embody this duality while offering visitors easy access to experience both worlds during a single Algarve holiday.

Tavira stands as one of Portugal's most picturesque historic towns, with its distinctive seven-arch Roman bridge spanning the Gilão River, whitewashed buildings, and traditional azulejo tiles adorning centuries-old churches. This former fishing village retains an authentic Portuguese atmosphere often missed in more developed parts of the Algarve, with its unhurried pace, traditional restaurants serving fresh seafood, and streets that reveal layers of Roman, Moorish, and Renaissance influences.

In striking contrast, Monte Gordo presents the modern face of Algarve tourism - a vibrant resort town centred around one of the region's most spectacular beaches. Its wide, golden stretch of sand is complemented by high-rise accommodations, international restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Fortunately for travellers, these complementary destinations are connected by convenient, affordable transportation options that make exploring both towns straightforward and easy. This guide details how to travel between these eastern Algarve highlights, helping you combine the historic charm of Tavira with the beach paradise of Monte Gordo into one memorable Algarve experience.
Related articles: Tavira introduction – Monte Gordo Introduction

The train offers the fastest and most convenient connection between these two eastern Algarve destinations, with journey times of approximately 24-30 minutes. This regional railway service is operated by CP (Comboios de Portugal) and provides a reliable, inexpensive option for travellers.

The journey between Tavira and Monte Gordo takes 24-30 minutes and costs €2.75 for a one-way adult ticket. On weekdays (Monday to Friday), there are approximately 11-12 daily services in each direction, while weekends see a reduced schedule of around 9 trains per day.

From Monte Gordo to Tavira, the first train departs early in the morning (around 05:45) with the last service leaving in the evening (approximately 19:15). In the opposite direction, Tavira to Monte Gordo services start later, with the first train departing around 08:00 and the last train leaving around 21:00. Trains generally run every 1-2 hours throughout the day, making day trips convenient in either direction.

For the latest timetable please see the Comboios de Portugal website:
www.cp.pt/StaticFiles/timetables/vila-real-s.antonio-lagos-regional-trains.pdf
(the link opens a new tab and is a PDF so may download on certain mobile phones)

As this is a regional service, tickets cannot be pre-booked, but there's always plenty of space available. Purchase tickets from the staffed ticket office at Tavira station or directly from the conductor when boarding at Monte Gordo, as this station has no ticket office.

Tavira Station is located approximately 1km west of the town center (GPS: 37.120, -7.655 – link to google maps). The walk into town is downhill and well-signposted. The station has a ticket office, cafes nearby, and a Lidl supermarket opposite.

Monte Gordo Station is situated about 1km north of the beach and resort center (GPS: 37.190, -7.448). From central Monte Gordo, follow the main street north, cross the roundabout with the N125 road, and continue straight for about 200m.

Both stations are small but functional. Be aware that neither station is centrally located, so factor in the additional walking time when planning your journey.

Tavira train station

An alternative to the train is the direct bus service operated by Vamus between Monte Gordo and Tavira. While convenient with multiple daily departures, the bus service is surprisingly expensive compared to the train option.
Bus Schedule and Fares
The journey by bus takes approximately 33 minutes—slightly longer than the train. Buses depart from Monte Gordo and Tavira at regular intervals throughout the day, with 7 daily departures. The latest timetable can be seen on the Vamus website: https://www.vamusalgarve.pt.

Ticket prices are considerably higher than the train:
• Single ticket: €5.40 (compared to €2.75 for the train)
• 3-day tourist pass: €35.00
• 7-day tourist pass: €46.00

For occasional travellers, the train clearly offers better value, costing less than half the price of the bus for a single journey. However, if you're planning multiple journeys throughout the region over several days, the tourist passes might provide value.

Bus Stop Locations
Unlike the train stations, the bus stops are generally more centrally located in both towns. In Monte Gordo, buses depart from the main road running through town, while in Tavira, the bus arrives at Terminal Rodoviário (the main bus terminal) which is closer to the town center than the train station.

The bus service does offer more comfort, with air conditioning and comfortable seating, which might be appreciated during the hotter summer months. However, given the short journey time and significant price difference, the train remains the recommended option for most travellers making the journey between Monte Gordo and Tavira.

Tavira bus station - the large size does not reflect the few services that serve it.

For travellers seeking door-to-door convenience or those traveling in groups, rideshare services like Uber and Bolt operate between Tavira and Monte Gordo. This option is considerably more expensive than public transportation but offers flexibility and comfort.

A one-way journey between Tavira and Monte Gordo typically costs €20-25 via Uber or Bolt and takes approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. While this is significantly more expensive than train or bus options, the cost becomes more reasonable when shared among 3-4 passengers, potentially making it comparable to buying individual bus tickets.

Both Uber and Bolt are readily available in the eastern Algarve, though you may experience slightly longer wait times than in major cities. There can be very high demand for rideshare services at peak times, particularly in the late afternoon as people leave the beach or finish work.

If you plan to use Uber or Bolt, it is advisable to set up the app before you travel to Portugal and ensure you're familiar with how it works. Having a local SIM card or reliable data connection will also make booking rides easier during your stay.

The regular train service between Monte Gordo and Tavira makes a day trip to this historic town both easy and highly recommended. With trains departing roughly every 1-2 hours and a journey time of just 25 minutes, visitors can comfortably enjoy a full day exploring Tavira's charming streets and attractions.

A single day is sufficient to explore Tavira's highlights, including its Roman bridge, numerous historic churches, the castle ruins offering panoramic views, and the delightful riverside area. The town's authentic Portuguese atmosphere provides a perfect contrast to Monte Gordo's modern resort amenities. For lunch, the town offers numerous excellent seafood restaurants where you can sample traditional Algarvian cuisine at reasonable prices.

During summer months, consider taking the short boat trip from Tavira to Ilha de Tavira (Tavira Island) where you'll find kilometres of pristine beaches that offer a different experience from Monte Gordo's shores. The last boats return in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to catch the train back.

While a reverse day trip to Monte Gordo from Tavira is technically possible, Monte Gordo is better suited as an accommodation base for exploring the eastern Algarve rather than as a day trip destination. Its primary attractions are its beautiful beach and resort amenities, which typically require a longer stay to fully enjoy.

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