Tavira, one of the Algarve’s most charming towns, now has a new jewel in its historic center: the Palácio de Tavira Hotel. This boutique luxury property brings a sophisticated accommodation option to a city celebrated for its cobblestone streets, Moorish echoes, and laid-back riverside ambiance. Perfectly positioned within walking distance of Tavira’s sights, cafés, and shops, the hotel seamlessly blends history, design, and contemporary comfort.
The story of Palácio de Tavira begins in the 19th century, when the Tavares family built an elegant residence that became a hub for aristocratic gatherings and civic life. Today, that same palácio has been meticulously restored, preserving its classical façade while transforming the interiors into refined spaces of quiet luxury. A modern extension—the Medina—tucked just behind the main building, complements the heritage setting with inspiration drawn from Tavira’s Moorish past. Its labyrinthine passages, intimate courtyards, and earthy tones recall centuries of cultural influence that shaped this town.
The hotel offers 36 guestrooms divided between the two wings. Twenty rooms occupy the original palácio, each combining historic architecture with modern design. Sixteen more can be found in the Medina, all with small outdoor spaces that bring in the scents and breezes of Tavira. Whether in the grandeur of the palácio or the intimacy of the Medina, each room shares an aesthetic of natural textures—linen, wood, stone—and a serene palette of whites and earth tones that encourage rest and renewal.
At Mirsal Restaurant, Chef Fábio Domingues leads the culinary program with a menu inspired by southern Portugal and the broader Mediterranean. Having honed his craft at Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, as well as at the celebrated Ocean Club St. Barth and Grand House Algarve, Domingues now presents a cuisine that is refined yet rooted in tradition. Expect seasonal produce, freshly caught seafood, and dishes designed for sharing—an authentic expression of Tavira’s gastronomy. Adjacent, Bar da Lua offers an inviting spot to unwind with cocktails or Portuguese wines, stretching conversations late into the night.
For wellness, Luma Spa provides a sanctuary of calm. Treatments draw on Mediterranean rituals and local ingredients, while a sauna and steam room help restore body and mind after a day exploring Tavira. Above, two rooftop plunge pools allow guests to cool off under the Algarve sun, sip cocktails at sunset, and take in sweeping views over the terracotta rooftops of the town.
Palácio de Tavira is more than a luxurious retreat for travelers—it is also envisioned as a gathering point for locals and expats. With its courtyards, restaurant, bar, and spa, the hotel offers a social heartbeat in the center of Tavira, a place where visitors and residents alike can connect over food, culture, and a shared appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Learn more at the Palácio de Tavira website.
Palácio de Tavira
Praça Dr. António Padinha, 35 and 37
Tavira
Eastern Algarve
Phone: +351 281 512 600
Email: info@palaciodetavira.com