Cacela Velha

Getting There

Access

All ways to get here

Cacela Velha sits at the far end of the East Algarve, very close to the Spanish border. Accessible by car, train, plane or — the most beautiful way of all — by boat across the Ria Formosa.

Full guide: train times, bus, taxi, tides and frequently asked questions →

~15 min from central VRSA

By Car

The most practical way to get here. There is a small car park at the top of the village, from where you walk down to the ria.

Take the A22 (Via do Infante) and exit at Vila Real de Santo António
Take the N125 towards Cacela Velha
Follow the 'Cacela Velha' signs from Vila Nova de Cacela
Park in the car park at the top of the village

Tip: In high season the car park fills up early. Arrive before 10am or after 6pm.

~3h from Lisbon (Oriente) to Faro

By Train

The Alfa Pendular or Intercidades train links Lisbon and Faro. From Faro, continue on a regional train to Altura or Tavira, then a taxi or Uber to the village.

Take the Alfa Pendular or Intercidades at Lisboa Oriente towards Faro
At Faro, change to a regional train towards Altura or Tavira
Taxi or Uber from the station to Cacela Velha

Tip: Buy your ticket in advance on the CP website for lower fares.

~1h from Faro Airport

By Plane

The nearest airport is Faro, served by dozens of direct flights from all over Europe. From there, hire a car or take a taxi.

Fly to Faro Airport (FAO) — direct flights from all over Europe
Hire a car at the airport (recommended) or take a taxi
Take the A22 (Via do Infante) towards Spain
Exit at Vila Nova de Cacela, then follow the signs to Cacela Velha

Tip: Compare rental prices in advance — Faro is a popular destination and prices rise sharply in July and August.

Short crossing (seasonal service)

By Boat / Ferry

The most romantic way to arrive — by boat across the Ria Formosa. Small boats cross from Sítio da Fábrica, in Vila Nova de Cacela, to Praia da Fábrica and Cacela Velha beach.

Head to Sítio da Fábrica, by the ria, in Vila Nova de Cacela
Use the seasonal boat service and check prices and times on site
Land at Praia da Fábrica (the supervised beach) or at Cacela Velha beach. Do not wade across the ria

Tip: The boat service is seasonal: check times and prices on site. The municipality and the Maritime Authority advise against crossing on foot.

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Car rental

DiscoverCars — Faro Airport