Tavira, Portugal

Capital City

The population of Tavira hovers around 26,167, a figure that belies the bureaucratic headaches and occasional natural disasters that plague this Algarve town. While the Moorish influence is still visible in the whitewashed buildings, the 1755 earthquake destroyed much of the historic architecture, forcing extensive rebuilding. And though the local fishing industry has declined, tourism has stepped in to fill the void - though not without its own challenges, like the encroaching golf courses driving up property prices. For those willing to navigate the administrative hurdles and occasional stormy weather, Tavira offers a quaint taste of Portugal's southern charm.