Medieval Splendor of Silves

Step back in time to the era of knights and caliphs on our Medieval Splendor of Silves Tour. Silves, the ancient capital of the Algarve, is a must-see for history enthusiasts – and with VIP Chauffeurs, you’ll uncover its secrets with exclusive access and insight. Your chauffeur will drive you through scenic orange groves and vineyards en route to Silves, located along the gentle Arade River. As we arrive, the red sandstone walls of Silves Castle come into view, crowning the hilltop above the town – a magnificent reminder of the Moorish kingdom that once flourished here. Begin your tour with a guided visit of Silves Castle, the best-preserved Moorish castle in Portugal. Wander the battlements as your personal guide recounts tales of the 11th-century Moorish rulers who built this stronghold. Take in the commanding views of the countryside from the ramparts – you can even see the glittering distant ocean that once carried Crusader ships up the river to siege this very fortress. Within the castle grounds, explore the archaeological exhibits (including ancient wells and granaries), and imagine the bustling court life that took place here a millennium ago.

After the castle, we continue our walk through Silves Old Town. The quaint streets are lined with lime-plastered houses and café terraces shaded by palm trees. We’ll visit the impressive Silves Cathedral, a Gothic church built on the site of a former mosque, where you can marvel at its ornate rose window and centuries-old tombs. Nearby, step into the Municipal Museum – housed in a former water cistern – if you wish to see artifacts spanning Roman, Moorish, and Portuguese eras discovered in Silves. By now, you might be ready to indulge in some local flavor. We’ve arranged a wine tasting, featuring the award-winning wines of Silves (the area’s clay soil and climate produce excellent Algarve reds and rosés). Alternatively, if wine isn’t your preference, we can take you to a lovely riverside café for a refreshing drink or an artisanal ice cream made with local oranges.

For lunch, enjoy an experience at one of Silves’ top restaurants. Here, farm-to-table meets medieval charm. After lunch, we’ll give you some free time to browse Silves’ artisan shops. Perhaps pick up a bottle of local orange wine or medronho, or a handmade clay souvenir – Silves is known for its pottery. As we depart Silves, we’ll drive via the scenic countryside, maybe stopping at a viewpoint or two for last photos of the rolling hills.