How to get to Cacela Velha: Complete Guide to Visiting This Pearl of the Algarve

If you are planning to visit the Algarve and want to discover one of the best kept secrets of the region, Cacela Velha It is a mandatory stop. This small historic village, overlooking the Ria Formosa, enchants those who visit it with its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and a breathtaking view of the sea. In this guide, we explain how to get to Cacela Velha, whether by car, train or public transport.

Where is Cacela Velha?

Cacela Velha is located in the municipality of Vila Real de Santo António, between Tavira and Manta Rota, in the Eastern Algarve, within the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It is only to:

12 km from Tavira
6 km from Manta Rota
50 km from Faro
170 km from Seville (Spain)

How to get to Cacela Velha by car

The simplest and most flexible way to get to Cacela Velha is by car. The village does not have much traffic and there is free parking at the entrance.

From Lisbon:

Follow the A2 towards the south.
Take the A22 (Via do Infante) in the direction of Faro / Spain.
Exit at the exit 17 (Height / Vila Nova de Cacela).
Follow the signs to Cacela Velha (about 5 minutes by car).

From Faro:

Follow the A22 or by EN125 towards Vila Real de Santo António.
Exit at Vila Nova de Cacela and head south towards the coast.

⁇ Tip: Use Google Maps or GPS and set as destination “Cacela Velha” – access is direct and well-signposted.

How to get to Cacela Velha by train

The nearest train station is a Cacela station, served by Algarve Line.

From Faro or Lagos:

Take a regional train to Vila Real de Santo António.
Get out at the Cacela station.
From the station to Cacela Velha are about 2.5 km on foot or by taxi.

Walk recommended for those who like to explore, but pay attention to the heat in the summer!

How to get to Cacela Velha by bus

There are no bus stops even in Cacela Velha. You can take a bus to Vila Nova de Cacela (operated by EVA Transportes) and then take a taxi or walk.

Option:

Bus to Vila Nova de Cacela
30-minute walk or taxi (about 5 minutes)

The best way to get to Cacela Velha

If you are looking for comfort and flexibility, the car remains the best option to visit Cacela Velha. If you are travelling by public transport, the train to Cacela Station is the most practical option.

Tips for visiting Cacela Velha

Go Early or late afternoon to avoid heat and major tourist flows.
Lightweight comfortable footwear to explore the cobbled streets.
Don't miss a panoramic view Next to the church and the old fort.
Take the opportunity to take a boat trip or cross to the beach of Cacela.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to get to Cacela Velha, you are ready to discover one of the most charming villages in the Algarve. Whichever mode of transport you choose, the trip will be worth it. Prepare your camera and let yourself be dazzled by the authenticity, the landscape and the silence that you feel in this magical place.