Things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves + best beaches

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Visiting Armação de Pêra requires not only enjoying the best beaches in the region, but also getting to know several fantastic places of the historic city of Silves, as well as the nature around Lagoa dos Salgados.

Don’t just stay on the coast, as there are many other things to do in Armação de Pêra surroundings besides relaxing on the beaches. I suggest you take the time to visit some cool theme parks in the area or go hiking somewhere inland.

Curious to know what my best tips are for things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves in the Algarve? Then read on. 😉

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Where are Armação de Pêra and Silves located, in Portugal?

Armação de Pêra is located in the south of Portugal. It is part of Silves, which in turn is one of the largest municipalities in Algarve, bordering Alentejo region and other well-known locations such as Portimão, Lagoa, Albufeira, Loulé and Monchique.

Curiosities about the city of Silves

The city of Silves is located on the banks of river Arade, which in turn has its mouth near Portimão, more precisely next to Rocha beach. In this city, traces of human presence dating back to prehistoric times were found, which demonstrates its antiquity.

Silves was first conquered from the Moors in the 12th century and was later the capital of Algarve until the 16th century, when the capital became Faro.

After the French invasions, the region focused on the cork industry. Today it is the biggest producer of oranges in Portugal, something achieved with the construction of Arade dam, which allowed for better irrigation of the fields.

Useful tips to visit Armação de Pêra and Silves

1. Rent a Car to visit Armação de Pêra and Silves

To visit Armação de Pêra, a car will be very helpful go explore what there is to know off the coast. There is public transportation available, but a car will give you much more flexibility when moving around Algarve. I leave you a link to Discover Cars, that I always use in my travels to compare prices between rental companies and make my own car reservations.

2. How to get to Armação de Pêra and Silves?

As for how to get to Armação de Pêra, it is very easy, as there is an airport not too far away, in Faro. I recommend using Skyscanner and Google Flights to do some research before buying your plane tickets, comparing prices and flight conditions.

If you are already travelling in Portugal, and want to use train connections or even buses, check Rome2Rio website, to find out your possibilities. There are buses connecting Faro to Armação de Pêra, for example. And there are also trains connecting Faro to Silves. For bus tickets in Algarve, use Rede Expressos or Vamus Algarve; for trains, use CP – Comboios de Portugal.

>>> Check possible flights with Skyscanner

3. Travel Insurance to visit Armação de Pêra and Silves

To be protected against several types of travel hazards, I also recommend that you take out travel insurance for your stay in Algarve, and I recommend to do it with World Nomads.

>>> Travel Insurance with World Nomads

4. When to visit Armação de Pêra and Silves?

The city of Silves can be visited at any time of the year, and it is always pleasant to discover its rich heritage and learn about its history. Armação de Pêra, on the other hand, I recommend visiting in the summer, as what it has to offer are mainly the beaches and what surrounds the Atlantic Ocean.

Also pay attention to the main festivals and events in the municipality, which I highlight below:

• Silves Medieval Fair, considered the main event, takes place in the first half of August. Right in the summer, so you shouldn’t miss it! 😉
• Feira do Folar, at Easter, remembering a very Portuguese tradition. Folares are special cakes of that season.
• And the Gastronomic Festival of Stew and Sea, in June (Armação de Pêra).

5. What to eat and where to eat when visiting Armação de Pêra and Silves?

I already mentioned the Stew, so why don’t you try it during your visit to Armação de Pêra? Other possibilities are the Seafood Cataplana, Clams, Octopus, or even the Grilled Sardines. For dessert, I obviously recommend something with orange as an ingredient.

The restaurants I recommend are the following:

• Recanto dos Mouros (Silves)
• Marisqueira Rui (Silves)
• O Barradas (Silves)
• Zé Leiteiro (Armação de Pêra)
• O Lobo do Mar (Armação de Pêra)

6. Accommodation tips in Armação de Pêra and Silves

Alojamento	Pontuação	Localização
Thalassa Resort	9.3	Armação de Pêra
Marsuites	9.5	Armação de Pêra
Peralux	9.1	Armação de Pêra
Amendoeira Golf Resort	8.6	Armação de Pêra
Vila Vita Parc Resort	9.5	Armação de Pêra
Amendoeira Golf Resort	8.7	Armação de Pêra
Hotel de Charme	8.8	Armação de Pêra
Mosaiko 5 Suites	9.4	Silves
Ponte Romana	8.7	Silves
Vila Sodré	8.7	Silves

Things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves

To help you plan the main things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves, I’ll start by leaving you a map of the region with the places I visited in my own itinerary. This article will be divided into 3 distinct sections: what to visit in the city of Silves, the best beaches in Armação de Pêra and surroundings, and other places to visit in the municipality.

Map | Things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves

Visit the city of Silves

In the city of Silves you will find a vast heritage that dates back to the Arab occupation. It was undoubtedly a surprise in Algarve, a place very different from the rest of the region.

Note that to find out the opening hours and prices of the various monuments or museums that I will mention, you should consult the website of the Municipality of Silves.

1. Castle of Silves

The largest and most notable Arab heritage in this city is the Castle of Silves, over 1000 years old. It stands out from all the other castles in Portugal for its reddish color, caused by the red sandstone (Grés de Silves), with which it was coated. I highlight the exhibition on the Iberian lynx that is found inside its gigantic cistern.

As you can see in the photographs below, the castle is still in a very good state of conservation, perhaps due to the successive interventions it has been subjected to over the years. It is possible to take a quick walk along the wall, admiring the surrounding landscape of the city.

2. Statue of King Sancho I, outside Silves Castle

Next to the castle’s main entrance, there is the statue of King Sancho I: it’s impossible not to see it! It was during his reign that this city was first conquered from the Moors, hence this homage. It is the king who welcomes you to the castle. 😉

3. Silves Cathedral and Misericórdia Church

Also next to the Castle is the Cathedral of Silves, which unfortunately I did not see inside. It is the main church in the city, having been built shortly after the conquest from the Moors by King Sancho I, supposedly in the place of an old mosque. Today it is a national monument.

With regard to the Misericordia Church, which is in front of Silves Cathedral, the Manueline portico on the lateral façade stands out.

4. Municipal Museum of Archeology

Going down towards the river, you end up finding Rua das Portas de Loulé, where the Municipal Museum of Archeology of Silves is located. This museum was built around the 12th-13th century Almohad Cistern, after its discovery in archaeological excavations during the 1980s.

The Cistern is undoubtedly the museum’s main attraction, but don’t miss the other archaeological exhibits that date back to different periods of occupation of this territory from the Paleolithic to the 17th century. The largest number of pieces obviously date from the Arab occupation, that is, from the period between the 8th and 13th centuries.

5. Walls and Gates of the City of Silves

There are several fragments of walls and towers scattered around the city, some well preserved. The highlight goes to the City Gates. This was the main entrance to Silves in Arab times, giving access to Rua da Sé (formerly Rua Direita), and later to the Mosque and fortress.

6. Pillory of Silves and Town Square

In front of the City Gates is Town Square, where Silves Town Hall and Pillory are located. This is another beautiful part of the city.

7. Silves Islamic Heritage Interpretation Center

Also in Town Square is Silves Tourist Office, and the Islamic Heritage Interpretation Centre. The Center is divided into 3 areas, namely the Arab influence in architecture; in the capture and supply of water for irrigation of the fields; and finally in poetry. Here you will learn more about Al-Mutamid and Ibn Ammâr, for example.

8. Municipal Market of Silves

On the banks of river Arade are the next 3 tourist attractions in Silves. The Municipal Market is a relatively recent construction, from the Salazar period, and has an entrance portico in the form of a medieval tower. The market is open from Monday to Saturday, always in the morning.

9. Old Bridge of Silves

With regard to the Old Bridge of Silves, also known as the Roman Bridge, there are differing opinions as to its origin: whether in Roman times, during Islamic rule or at the end of the Middle Ages. The current bridge is said to date back to the 15th century.

10. Al-Mutamid Square

A few meters from the bridge you will find Al-Mutamid square, whose name is linked to poetry, namely to Al-Mutamid, writer of the poem Evocation of Silves. Again, a square that demonstrates the connection of this town to the Arabs in the past. It is undoubtedly a vibrant place, with huge statues, next to the Municipal Library of Silves.

Evocation of Silves
by King Mu‘tamid of Seville (reigned 1068–1091)

Here, Abū Bakr, greet my homes in Silves
and ask them if, as I think, they still remember me.

Greet the Palacio de las Barandas
on behalf of a young page
who feels perpetual nostalgia for the citadel.

Warriors like lions and white gazelles live there,
and in such beautiful woods and in such beautiful dens!

How many a night I spent amusing myself in their shade
with women of opulent hips and tall stature:
White and swarthy, they had on my soul
the effect of gleaming swords and dark lances!

How many a night I spent deliciously beside a river-bend
with a maiden whose bracelet emulated the curve of the current!

Time passed pouring for me the wine of her gaze,
and, at other times, the wine from her glass,
and some others, the wine of her mouth.

The strings of her lute wounded by the plectrum
made me tremble
as if hearing the melody of swords
in the tendons of an enemy’s neck.

Removing her golden cloak
she revealed her figure,
a blossoming bough of willow
as its bud opens to display its flower.

11. Cross of Portugal

On the outskirts of the historic center is the Cross of Portugal, a national monument since 1910. It is a cross from the late 15th or early 16th century, carved in white limestone and with Manueline details. It is 3 meters high, and on one side you see Christ crucified and on the other Christ in his mother’s arms.

12. Church of the Martyrs of Silves

Also on the outskirts of the historic center is the Church of the Martyrs. It is believed that it dates back to the reign of D. Manuel I, although there is also a version that it was built after the first conquest of Silves by D. Sancho I, to bury the martyrs who died in that battle.

13. House of Islamic and Mediterranean Culture

Finally, the House of Islamic and Mediterranean Culture, based in the former municipal slaughterhouse of Silves from the early 20th century. Its aim is to promote Islamic influence on the cultural identity of the city and of the people themselves.

Best Beaches in Armação de Pêra and surroundings

When visiting Silves, you cannot forget the best beaches in Armação de Pêra and surroundings, as well as Lagoa dos Salgados. These are the sites I will write about below.

1. Armação de Pêra Beach and Fortress Square

First, admire the view of Armação de Pêra beach from Fortress Square, next to Ermida de Santo António das Areias. It is a long beach, without many cliffs. It seemed to me a very practical beach with very good support infrastructure.

The Fortress of Armação de Pêra, also called Fort of Santo António da Pêra da Galé, was very important in the 17th century, when it served to control Algarve coast, more precisely in the fight against piracy in this region of Portugal.

Also visit the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes and the old Casino of Armação de Pêra.

2. Praia Grande de Pêra and Lagoa dos Salgados

It is possible to visit Lagoa dos Salgados and go for a swim in Praia Grande de Pêra in the same visit. They are very close to each other, and there are walkways that you can take advantage of.

Lagoa dos Salgados is one of the best places in Algarve for birdwatching, and I recommend the following trail to know it well from different perspectives! 😉

3. Lagoa Beaches, on the outskirts of Armação de Pêra

Lagoa is another municipality in Algarve, on the border with Silves. However, it has fabulous beaches that I cannot fail to mention here, and that are very close to Armação de Pêra:

• Cova Redonda Beach.
• Beach of Nossa Senhora da Rocha.
• Albandeira Beach with its awesome natural arch.
• Or any other beach along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail that starts or ends at the extraordinary Marinha Beach.

4. Albufeira beaches, on the outskirts of Armação de Pêra

Albufeira also borders Silves, and has fantastic beaches not far from Armação de Pêra. How about visiting Praia da Galé, the beaches of Ponta do Castelo or Coelha Beach? There are many others that you can discover in my article dedicated to the best beaches in Albufeira.

Other locations in the Municipality of Silves

Finally, I leave you a list of places to visit that are neither in the city of Silves nor beaches in Armação de Pêra region. Some of them, like the Bone Chapel of Alcantarilha, are absolutely mandatory!

1. Bone Chapel of Alcantarilha

It’s not just in Évora or Campo Maior that there are Chapels of Bones: the one in Alcantarilha is also impressive, despite being small. It is right next to the village’s main Church, dates from the 16th century and is lined with human bones and skulls from an old cemetery in the region.

2. Theme Parks near Silves and Armação de Pêra

There are several theme parks to visit in the region, some of which belong to the municipalities of Albufeira and Lagoa, but still very close to Silves and Armação de Pêra.

• Krazy World – a zoo that allows interaction with animals, in addition to activities in the pool, mini golf, paint ball, karting or tree climbing. Ideal for children and teenagers!
• Zoomarine Algarve – is probably the best known theme park in Algarve, a sea zoo.
• Real Picadeiro – Horse Riding school
• Aqualand Algarve – a water amusement park.
• Sand City de Lagoa – the largest sand sculpture theme park in the world!

3. Arade Dam

Arade Dam was very important for the municipality of Silves, as I wrote in the curiosities section. You can go on a trail around it, or simply pass by the wall and admire the landscape.

4. Menhirs Route of São Bartolomeu de Messines (PR3)

Another possible trail in the municipality of Silves is the Menhirs route, or Archeological Circuit of Vilarinha (PR3). It is close to São Bartolomeu de Messines, and is only 8km long. When taking this route, you will come across several megalithic monuments in the region, such as the necropolis of Pedreirinha, Forneca and the menhirs of Vilarinha and Gregórios.

There is a lot of sun exposure, so try to do it in other seasons of the year, not in summer.

5. São Bartolomeu de Messines

São Bartolomeu de Messines is my last suggestion of things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves. Visit the main Church, from the 16th century, and then its museums, namely:

• The Costume and Traditions Museum, directly related to the Folkloric Ranch of São Bartolomeu de Messines, and other popular traditions of the village.
• João de Deus House Museum, where you will learn a little about the life and work of the poet.

For a beautiful viewpoint over the region, I also suggest going up to Pico Alto Swing, on the outskirts of the village.

Guided Tours in Algarve

See also the following examples of possible guided tours throughout Algarve region. Pay special attention to the ones highlighted below starting in Albufeira and Lagoa (not far from Armação de Pêra). I’m sure you’ll find even more alternatives if you do your own research on Civitatis, Viator and Get Your Guide.

Guided Tours with Get Your Guide:
1 - Tavira Tuk Tuk City Tour
2 - Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour
3 - Portimão: Benagil Caves Speed Boat Tour with Sunset Option
4 - From Lagos: Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade
5 - From Faro: 4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour
6 - Benagil Caves and Secret Spots Guided Kayaking Tour
7 - 1-Hour Carrapateira Horseback Riding Tour
8 - From Albufeira: Half-Day Algarve Jeep Safari
9 - From Lagos: Kayaking and Boat Cave Explorer Tour
10 - Loulé: TechSalt’s Rock-Salt Mine Tour
11 - Portimão: Pirate Ship Cave Cruise
12 - Albufeira: Single, Double or Triple Parasailing Tour

Guided Tours with Viator:
1 - Dolphins and Benagil Caves from Albufeira
2 - Boat trip to the caves of Benagil (from Lagos)
3 - Benagil Caves Tour from Portimao
4 - Benagil Cave tour from Faro
5 - Benagil Long Boat tour (From Carvoeiro to Praia da Marinha)
6 - Boat Tour to Benagil Caves from Armacao de Pera
7 - Kayaking in Secret Algarve Benagil Caves
8 - Benagil Area Kayak and SUP (from Albufeira)
9 - Kayak Trip in Lagos and Ponta da Piedade
10 - Parasailing from Albufeira Marina by Boat
11 - Coasteering and Cliff Jumping Near Lagos
12 - 2 hour Off-Road Buggy Adventure Tour from Albufeira
13 - Jeep Safari in the Algarve Mountains (Albufeira)
14 - Sunset Tour on a Luxury Sailing Yacht from Vilamoura
15 - Ria Formosa Natural Park and Islands Boat Cruise from Faro
16 - Boat trip to the 3 Islands of Ria Formosa (Olhão)
17 - Classic Food Tour in Lagos
18 - Wine Tasting Tour from Albufeira
19 - Tandem Skydiving in Algarve
20 - 2 Hour Surf Lesson at the Algarvian West Coast

Guided Tours with Civitatis:
1 - Tuk Tuk Tour in Tavira
2 - Benagil Caves Speed Boat Ride from Portimão
3 - Ponta da Piedade Caves Kayak Tour from Lagos
4 - Ponta da Piedade Caves Boat Trip from Lagos
5 - Albufeira Half Day Safari Tour
6 - Faro Walking Tour
7 - Parasailing in Albufeira
8 - Ria Formosa Eco Boat Trip from Faro
9 - Benagil Caves Boat Tour from Carvoeiro
10 - Deserta and Farol Islands Cruise from Faro
11 - Lagos Dolphin Watching or Dolphin Watching in Albufeira
12 - Sagres Coast Sunset Jeep Tour from Lagos

Other Itineraries and Travel Guides in Portugal

• N2 Portugal Road Trip Itinerary
• Madeira Itinerary and Travel Guide
• São Miguel Itinerary and Travel Guide (Azores)
• Terceira Itinerary and Travel Guide (Azores)
• Pico Itinerary in Azores
• Faial Itinerary in Azores
• Minho | Northern Portugal Itinerary
• Porto Itinerary and Travel Guide
• Things to do In Braga (Minho)
• Things to do in Guimarães (Minho)
• Things to do in Viana do Castelo (Minho)
• Peneda Gerês National Park Itinerary
• Douro Valley Itinerary
• Trás-os-Montes Itinerary
• Things to do in Bragança
• Montesinho Natural Park Itinerary
• Douro International Natural Park Itinerary
• Things to do in Aveiro
• Things to do in Coimbra
• Things to do in Leiria
• Things to do in Fatima
• Things to do in Nazaré
• Things to do in Peniche
• Things to do in Évora (Alentejo)
• Things to do in Beja (Alentejo)
• Algarve Road Trip Itinerary
• Things to do in Lagos (Algarve)
• Things to do in Portimão (Algarve)
• Things to do in Faro (Algarve)
• Things to do in Tavira (Algarve)

I hope you enjoy visiting Silves. 😉 If this article with Things to do in Armação de Pêra was useful for you, please send me your feedback below, in the comment section.

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