traveldk.com

The grandest monument to Islamic rule in the Algarve, Silves Castle is a stronghold of dynamic proportions, built on the site of 4th-century Roman fortifications. Views from the ramparts are superb.

An engrossing museum which superbly charts human existence in the region over the course of 8,000 years, from the Palaeolithic period to the mid-16th century. See Museums .

Dating from the 13th century, the town’s Gothic cathedral was the seat of the Algarve see until 1580, when that honour was transferred to the bishops’ palace in Faro. There are a number of curiosities to catch the eye, including petulant-looking gargoyles on the apse, and Crusader tombs.

A permanent show ground with a host of lively bars and restaurants and the Museu da Cortiça. In the summer months the venue sways to daily concerts and dance performances. Evenings are brought to an end with the spectacular “Aquavision” laser show.

Winner of the Best Industrial Museum in Europe, this extraordinary exhibition, housed in a former cork factory, chronicles the harvesting techniques and the methods used to process and manufacture cork. See Museums.

Standing rather incongruously next to a main road, the exquisite 16th-century granite cross is said to have been a gift to the city from Dom Manuel I.

The quay near the Roman bridge is where colourful sightseeing boats from Portimão stopCoastal and River Cruises. Look out for herons and flamingos. Departure times depend on the tide.

The highly decorative side doorway above ground level possibly served as the original entrance and shows the influence of the 16th-century “Manueline” style. The main chapel has a ribbed vault and Renaissance altarpiece.

Only the foundations of this pretty whitewashed bridge date back to Roman times. The rest of the structure is medieval in origin. These days it’s closed to traffic, but not long ago the bridge was the only access point across the River Arade.

A common symbol of municipal power across Portugal, the pillory standing near the castle was rebuilt from 16th-century remains. Topped by a decorative crown with four sinewy wrought-iron dragons jutting out from the stem, it is the only such example of its kind in the Algarve.