How often do you look up when walking along a street? Probably more frequently when on holiday but even then I think most of us tend to look straight ahead or across at a view. There are bonuses though if you look up when in the Algarve, as more often than not in a village or coastal town you will spot a stork on its nest, and at times that nest might not be where you expect. 
Tavira is the town which every guidebook tells you visit in the East Algarve, and they are right! It is very pretty 
with its cobbled streets, churches, decorated doorways and chimneys, many squares with benches to watch the world go by and the delightful views of the rooftops from the Castle. Not surprisingly with a description of being the most picturesque & authentic looking town in the Algarve, there are also more tourists, and you may find that prices in some restaurants more expensive. 
But if you stroll away from the main tourist areas there is always a wonderful place to eat, hidden away. And if you like us tend to avoid the tourist traps, don’t avoid Tavira. yes it is busier and more touristy, but it is also a lovely town and you can easily spend a day or two here. On our first visit we arrived by train, which was great fun and even at the station it is worth looking up. 
I suspect very few people look up in Faro or Olhão, because either they simply only visit the airport or they are heading out into the Ria Formosa to relax on the stunning beaches. If you have the time though to stop, stroll and look up then do . . . not only will you probably enjoy the sunshine on your face but you may be surprised by what you see.
The historic old town in Faro is delightful, and as you stroll through the tiny cobbled streets surrounded by high walls you do feel like you have gone back a little bit in time. 
The harbour, unfortunately is full of high powered boats rather than yachts but is still a relaxing place to sit. 
There are walks along the edge of the Ria Formosa which runs right up to the edge of the harbour and railway station.
