Next stop on my Portuguese journey was the quaint little town of Tavira, in the Algarve region, a few hours by fast train from Lisbon. This was my first small town experience in Europe and it will be a hard act to follow. With a population of around 25,000 people this beautiful little town straddles the Gilao River with the opposing sides of the town connected by an ancient Roman arched bridge.The town is home to many beautiful churches and prototypical colored buildings. Nearby there are beautiful beaches and islands. I just loved this peaceful and picturesque little place and can't wait to return.