Latest update: 11 July 2024
Silves is known as the oldest city in Portugal. I’m not sure whether that is entirely historically correct. But it’s a nice claim anyway. If you’re traveling through the Algarve, be sure to spend a few hours in Silves and its famous Moorish castle.
A short visit to Silves
A short blog about Silves because I was only there for a few hours. And I honestly think that’s enough. The village is small, and the main attraction is the castle. Silves is often included in the program of a day tour in the Algarve. So, in theory, one morning or afternoon in Silves is enough. But you’re always welcome to stay a little longer of course.
Moorish time in Silves
Silves was once the capital of the Moorish province of al-Gharb, now the Algarve. Al-Gharb means the west, referring to the west of Andalusia. Silves was then called Xelb. The Moors ruled the area for at least 500 years, until 1189. The Moorish influences are still clearly visible in the castle.
Tip! Want a souvenir from Silves? Cork is produced in abundance in the area. So you will find many, many cork products in the souvenir shops.
Book a city tour in Silves
Do you want to get the most out of your visit to Silves? Then see if you can join a city tour with a local guide. You will visit the market, the church and of course the castle. And you get some local snacks – which is always fun, wherever you go. Check out your options at Get Your Guide or GuruWalk.
Silves Castle
The castle of Silves (Castelo dos Mouros) is the town’s main attraction. It sits majestically on top of a hill. The red sandstone gives the castle a warm glow. In front of the entrance gate is a massive King Dom Sancho I statue. He conquered the castle from the Moors in 1189. You can walk all the way around the castle complex on its walls. It really is a vast complex. In the courtyard are several archaeological excavations and a beautifully landscaped garden. At the well, I read on a sign that people used to throw street dogs in here. Wtf.
Catedral de Silves
The Cathedral of Silves (Sé) is a Gothic cathedral. During my visit, a wedding took place in the cathedral, so I didn’t think it was appropriate to check it out inside wearing my casual summer clothes. On the exact spot of the cathedral used to be a mosque in Moorish times. The cathedral was built on top of the remains and can hardly be photographed in its entirety – it’s pretty big, but it also has buildings surrounding it.
Have a coffee at Café DaRosa
The unique Café DaRosa is located in a small square behind the cathedral. Walk through the old city gate, and you will find it. You probably prefer to sit on the terrace, but you should also come inside to see the interior. It is very classic, with lots of tiles, a little kitsch.
Homage to the Moorish era: Praça Al-Mutamid
The Praça Al-Mutamid is a square with sculptures, a pond, and other elements inspired by Moorish times. Take a leisurely stroll to see the art objects, read the information boards, and chill on a bench under a palm tree.
More sights in Silves
If you allow a little more time for Silves, you can visit a few other things. For example:
- The archaeological museum (Google Maps location)
- The Roman Bridge (Google Maps location)
- Listen to live music at Café Ingles (Google Maps location)
- The local market (Google Maps location)
Free parking in Silves
You can park for free in various places in Silves, on the road too. But it is often busy around the castle. You can try finding a parking spot here, here, or here.
Mocht je nog geen huurauto hebben geregeld, doe dat dan bij Sunny Cars of EasyTerra. If you still need to arrange a rental car, compare your options at DiscoverCars or Rentalcars.
Nice hotels in Silves
I was only in Silves for a few hours, but I did look up some cute accommodations for you. Take a look at:
- Casa Rústica: a luxury holiday villa a short drive from the center
- Mosaiko 5 Suites: cheerfully colored rooms with many, many details
- Casa Doce: lovely apartment in the center of Silves
More Portugal inspiration?
Useful links for your Portugal trip
- Accommodation. All-time favorites: Booking.com and Campspace. Would you rather stay in a hostel? Check Hostelworld.
- Activities. You book the best tours and activities with GetYourGuide and Viator. Try WithLocals for experiences with Portuguese locals. Book your ‘free’ walking tours with Freetour.com or GuruWalks, and try bike tours with Baja Bikes.
- Attractions and museums. Interested in a 5% discount on museums and other attractions? Use this discount code at Tiqets: KIMOPREIS22
- Car rental. If you want to compare prices, check out Discover Cars or Rental Cars.
- Flights. Compare all your options! Be sure to check out Skyscanner, and Kiwi.
- Guidebooks. I love paper guidebooks to flip through. Buy them at Amazon.
- Package deals. Rather go on a catered trip? Maybe Expedia or CheapOair has a good option.
- SIM card. Beware of unexpectedly high calling and internet costs. Buy a local SIM card when you arrive, or arrange one online via Airalo.
- Train and Bus Travel to Portugal with Busbud. And reserve buses and trains on the go with 12Go or Omio.
- Yoga retreat. Or maybe treat yourself to a yoga retreat in Portugal.
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