Tavira, located in the eastern Algarve, appears in several foreign publications as one of the most authentic destinations in the south of Portugal, a peaceful alternative to Albufeira or Lagos, where the heat arrives earlier and the local experience remains preserved.

British newspaper The Guardian recently published an article describing Tavira as “a lesson in seduction at dusk”, highlighting the view of the Roman bridge, the calm pace of the historic centre and the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

For the authors of the piece, visiting Tavira outside the high season is discovering a different Algarve — closer to nature, history and local culture.

During the months of March, April and May, the city offers mild temperatures, good access and cuisine that maintains traditional flavours.

You can explore the municipal market at your leisure, try octopus in Santa Luzia, or take electric boat rides through the canals and salt flats, spotting flamingos and other migratory birds.

In the low season, there is still time to see the city from a different perspective.

The British highlight the experience with local guides like Maria Luísa Francisco, who is part of the Genuine Algarve project, and who uses oral stories to bring to life monuments such as the medieval castle, the churches built on old mosques or the Phoenician remains.

When it comes to gastronomy, foreign visitors are unanimous: the fresh fish, octopus, cataplanas and the use of local flor do sal make Tavira a paradise for those who value simple but tasty meals.

Experiences like the one offered by Inêz Mesquita, from Taste Algarve, combine visits to the market with traditional Algarve cooking classes.

A few kilometres from the centre, the beaches of Ilha de Tavira, Terra Estreita or Praia do Barril offer extensive sands, little frequented outside the high season.

In the village of Cacela Velha, considered one of the best preserved in the Algarve, the view over the Ria Formosa reinforces the idea that there is, in fact, a different Algarve, and increasingly sought after by those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.