By Vicky · Published Sep. 11th, 2025
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This self-guided walking tour of Silves leads you around this cute, historic town, with the cathedral and castle a highlight.
Page Contents:
Location
This walking tour of Silves starts from the large, free car park by the river. It’s about 45 minutes drive from Faro. Alternatively, you can take a train to Silves Train Station, then a short bus ride to the town centre.
Silves Walking Tour Map
Tips
- There’s quite a bit of uphill from the lower part of town to the castle, so be prepared and wear sensible shoes.
- Check out other town walks and hikes in Portugal.
Popular Algarve Tours
Top Sights in Silves
On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll see the top sights in Silves. It takes a few hours to walk around the town.
- Historic Streets
- City Gate
- Silves Cathedral
- Silves Castle
- Archaeological Museum
- River Viewpoint
Silves Walking Tour Route
Directions: From the car park, head right along the river. Turn left juts past the Lidl, then the frist right.
1. Historic Streets
Silves hosts a charming network of cobbled streets. These are lined by boutique shops and authentic little cafes and restaurants. Spend a while wandering around.
Directions: After wandering around the streest, head upwards and you’ll come to the next stop.
2. Old City Gate
The Old City Gate, Portas da Cidade de Silves, is the only gate left standing in the former defensive city walls. It’s located on a lovely square, a great place to rest a while before climbing the remainder of the hill.
Directions: Head up the street behind the gate and you’ll get to the cathedral square.
3. Silves Cathedral
Silves Cathedral (open weekdays 10am-1pm and 2-5pm, closed on weekends) is a small catheral, more impressive from the inside than the outside. It’s €2 to enter, and you have to cover shoulders and knees.
Directions: Walk to the top of the cathedral square, then turn right to enter the castle.
4. Silves Castle
Key Information: Open every day, 9 am–7:30 pm. Tickets cost €2.80, or €3.90 including the Archaeology Museum.
Silves Castle, or Castelo de Silves, is the highlight of any walking tour of town. It’s also literally at the highest point and there are great views from the castle walls. It’s quite impressive, made out of red sandstone blocks, and the inner courtyard is peaceful. You can spend about one hour here.
Directions: Leave the castle and take the steps almost immediately to the left. Turn right at the bottom, then down to the left at the cathedral. Follow the lane as it bends right.
5. Archaeological Museum
Key Information: Open Tue-Sun, 10am–6 pm. Tickets cost €2.10, or €3.90 including the Castle.
The Archaeological Museum in Silves is an interesting little museum with artefacts from several eras. There’s an old well inside, plus part of the historic city walls. It’s definitely worth seeing in combination with the castle above.
Directions: Continue to return to the city gate, then turn left down the hill to the river.
6. River Viewpoint
The River Arade flows through Silves and it’s pleasant to take a stroll along the banks. You can also see the old Roman Bridge (recently restored).
Directions: This is the end of the Silves self-guided walking tour. The car park is a little further along the river, or head back to the charming streets for a drink and bite to eat.
Best Places to Stay in Silves
Silves is a unique place to stay on a holiday to the Algarve. It’s a lovely, historic town with plenty of restaurants to choose from. Lying between the hills and the coastline, it’s perfect for those who value peace and quiet.
Apartment: Casa à Porta do Torreão* is located in the centre of town with free off-street parking and a good kitchen. It has everything you need for a great stay!
Hotel: Hotel Colina Dos Mouros* is on the other side of the river from the main part of town. This means there are great views of the castle, but it’s only a short walk to town. The hotel has spacious rooms and a swimming pool.
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