If you’re traveling through the Algarve and only have time for one inland town, make it Silves in Portugal. This beautiful, history-rich gem offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a shopper, a foodie, or a parent trying to entertain energetic kids. Silves isn’t just a pretty place to pass through. It’s a town with soul.
A Castle with a story to tell
The town’s most striking feature is hard to miss: Castelo de Silves, one of the best-preserved castles in southern Portugal. Built with deep red sandstone and perched on a hilltop overlooking the town, the castle is a powerful symbol of Silves’ Moorish past. Back in the 11th century, Silves was the capital of the Algarve, known as Xelb under Islamic rule. It was a center of science, poetry, and politics, thriving long before Lisbon took the spotlight.
Walking along the castle’s towering walls, you can almost hear the echoes of history. The views from the top are stunning, rolling hills, citrus groves, and terracotta rooftops stretching toward the sea. Inside the castle grounds, you’ll find remnants of a large underground cistern, built to sustain the town during sieges, and a tranquil courtyard garden perfect for a quiet pause.
Just outside the castle is the Silves Cathedral, originally built as a mosque and converted into a church after the Christian reconquest in the 13th century. The blend of architectural styles here, Gothic, Baroque, and Moorish, tells the story of Silves’ layered, complex past.
Silves in Portugal: Boutique shopping with Algarve soul
Silves is not a town of tacky tourist shops. It’s a place where you can find authentic, locally made goods that reflect the region’s deep artisanal roots. I found a beautiful pair of handmade earrings that instantly became my new favorite, and a small bottle of Algarve-inspired perfume that smells like sunshine and citrus trees, a scent that instantly transports me back to this magical town.
There are shops offering cork products, hand-painted ceramics, linen, soaps, and locally produced olive oil. The best part? You’ll often meet the makers themselves. Everyone we met was proud to share the story behind what they make, which makes shopping here feel personal and meaningful.
Flavors you’ll dream about later
When you’re ready for a bite, you’ll have no shortage of options. Chicken piri piri is a must — grilled chicken seasoned with spicy piri piri sauce that’s both fiery and full of flavor. Silves is also known for traditional Portuguese dishes like cataplana (seafood stew served in a copper pan), local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh grilled fish.
Grab lunch at one of the open-air terraces in the town center or find a quiet corner with views of the hills. Many restaurants serve food made with ingredients grown nearby, and some offer Algarve wines, many of them from local vineyards you can visit after lunch.
Family-friendly fun by the river
If you’re traveling with kids, Silves in Portugal delivers. Down by the Arade River — once a bustling trade route used to export cork, dried fruits, and almonds, there’s a wide open park and playground area perfect for letting kids run free. Our girls especially loved the small zipline that zips them just high enough to feel thrilling but safe.
Right next to the park are the giant SILVES letters, and if you’re like us, you won’t leave without a few photos of the kids climbing all over them. It’s one of those silly, joyful travel moments you’ll remember forever.
There’s also plenty of space to stroll along the riverbank or grab an ice cream while you take in the views. You might even spot turtles or birds if you pause long enough by the water.
Why everyone loves Silves
One of the things that struck me most about Silves in Portugal is how many Algarve locals say it’s their favorite town, or that they have family roots there. It has the feel of a place that people are deeply proud of. You can feel it in the way the castle is cared for, the pride of the local shopkeepers, and the peaceful energy of the town.
It’s not flashy. It’s not trying to be trendy. It just is what it is… and what it is, is wonderful.
What to do in Silves (in one perfect day)
☑️ Tour the castle and soak in the history
☑️ Visit the cathedral and wander the old town streets
☑️ Do a little shopping for handmade treasures
☑️ Savor chicken piri piri and local wine
☑️ Let the kids run wild at the riverside park
☑️ Snap a family photo with the SILVES letters
☑️ End the day with a sweet treat and a riverside stroll
Whether you’re staying nearby or road-tripping across the Algarve, Silves is worth the stop. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you came to Portugal in the first place, for beauty, culture, warm people, and little surprises that turn into lifelong memories.
Don’t miss it. Silves in Portugal is waiting.
Lovely visit but be aware it’s a long 20 minute walk from the train station into Silves as no taxis or buses available, it’s quite dangerous at times too. No mention of this anywhere on any sites relating to Silves. If we had vulnerable family or friends with us there’s no way they could have done that walk.
Oh that is good to know Cherry! We’ve always rented a car in the Algarve (which I would recommend if visiting to Silves… if you can) so I haven’t made that walk from the Train station. I do know that people drive a bit crazy here, so walking in certain areas can be a challenge! Appreciate the feedback 🙂
Uber is the better option.
Shame you only did the Centre of town, so much more to see . away from the tourist path. Including our charity shop that supports the Bombeiros (firefighters) of the Algarve and Baixo Alentejo .
This is one post and I am sure I will do many more on the beautiful Silves. Please don’t disrespect others on this site. I’d love to highlight these places.