I had been wanting a new tattoo for a while. I had an idea in my head for about two years, but I never got around to actually doing it. It was one of those things I would think about occasionally, save inspiration for, and then push off for later. There was never a specific reason why I waited. Life just kept moving, and it never felt like the right time to make it happen.

Eventually, I decided I was done waiting. I was ready to get my tattoo!

Living in Tavira didn’t influence the meaning behind the tattoo, but it did become the place where I finally followed through with something I had been thinking about for years. This was just one of many meaningful experiences I’ve had living in Tavira.

Finding a Tattoo Artist in Tavira, Portugal

Soon after we moved to Tavira, I walked past a tattoo shop and took a photo of the name, thinking I might want it someday. Naturally, I forgot about it (thanks, ADHD) almost immediately and never passed that street again since it wasn’t part of my normal routine.


When I finally decided to move forward with the tattoo, I started researching artists all over the Algarve. As I was scrolling through my phone one day, I came across that photo of the shop and remembered the door. I looked up the artist’s Instagram, and instantly knew she was the right fit. Her lines were incredibly clean, and her work was beautiful and precise. I also saw that she had studied at the Lisbon University of Fine Arts, which made me feel even more confident in her skills.


I sent her a message with my idea, and we set up an appointment.

My Experience Getting a Tattoo in Portugal

Sofia was incredibly kind from the very first message. She sent over a sketch based on my idea, and we went back and forth for a few days, making small adjustments until it was exactly right. I loved the design and was so excited to finally get it done.

When I arrived for my appointment, she greeted me with the biggest smile. Sofia is genuinely warm and welcoming, and I felt comfortable immediately, which is important when someone is about to permanently draw on your body with a needle. We talked about her art, and she showed me pieces displayed around the shop. They were so detailed and realistic that I initially thought they were photographs, but she had created them all herself. She also had figurines throughout the studio that she had sculpted, which made the space feel even more personal and creative.

Once we finalized the design, she placed the stencil and took her time making sure the placement and size were perfect. We looked at it from different angles, and she had me move my arm in different positions so I could see how it would look naturally. She wanted to be absolutely sure I was happy with it before starting. After everything was set, she made sure I was comfortable and ready before beginning the tattoo.

From Stencil to Finished Piece

During the tattoo, Sofia regularly checked in to make sure I was comfortable and doing okay. My husband came with me and held my hand, which definitely helped. He and Sofia discovered they both liked video games, so they spent most of the time talking about that. It was actually the perfect distraction, and listening to their conversation made it much easier to ignore the little bit of pain.

She worked efficiently, and before I knew it, she was finished. I was so excited to see the final result, and it was perfect. I loved it immediately, and it came out exactly how I had imagined.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

After the tattoo was finished, Sofia carefully went over all the aftercare instructions and made sure I knew exactly how to take care of it while it healed. We took some photos, and she made sure I was completely happy with the final result before I left.

A few days later, she even messaged me to check in and see how the healing process was going. It was such a thoughtful gesture and showed how much she truly cares about her work and her clients.

About eight weeks later, I went back in for a small touch-up, which is a normal part of the process. She made everything quick and easy, and the tattoo healed beautifully. It was great to know she stood by her work and wanted it to look perfect long-term.

Why I Recommend Sofia in Tavira

If you are in the Algarve or ever travel here and want a tattoo, I HIGHLY recommend Sofia. From the very first message to the final touch-up, she was professional, kind, and incredibly talented. Her attention to detail, clean line work, and artistic background really show in her work.

Her studio felt welcoming and personal, and she took her time to make sure everything was exactly how I wanted it. I never felt rushed at any point in the process, and she genuinely cared about both the experience and the final result. I’m already thinking of what my next piece will be. Make sure to follow her on Instagram @sofiabasiliotattoos

The Meaning Behind My Tattoo

This tattoo is incredibly meaningful to me. Each symbol represents someone I have loved and lost, and it serves as a permanent reminder of the people who shaped my life.

The top symbol is the logo from my grandfather’s company, representing his legacy and the impact he had on my family.

The tree represents my other grandfather, who worked for the Forest Service. It reflects his connection to nature and the work he dedicated his life to.

The angel wings are for my stepsister, Roberta, who was the sweetest person and was taken far too soon. This part of the tattoo is especially close to my heart.

The tulip represents my grandmother, who always had beautiful tulips growing in her garden. Every time I see it, it reminds me of her and those small, peaceful moments.

Tips for Getting a Tattoo in Portugal

If you are thinking about getting a tattoo in Portugal, especially in smaller towns like Tavira, here are a few tips based on my experience:

  • Research artists and review their Instagram carefully.
  • Message the artist in advance to discuss your idea
  • Make sure you feel comfortable with the artist
  • Confirm pricing and design before your appointment
  • Follow aftercare instructions carefully
  • Different artists do different styles; find one that does the style you want.

Portugal has many incredibly talented tattoo artists, and my experience was extremely positive.

Final Thoughts on Getting a Tattoo in Portugal

Getting my tattoo in Portugal was an amazing experience. Not only do I now have a piece that means so much to me, but I also had the opportunity to work with a talented local artist here in Tavira. The entire process was professional, comfortable, and personal.

If you are living in Portugal or visiting and thinking about getting a tattoo, I would absolutely recommend it.

Follow Me

Check out my reel about my tattoo on my Instagram @vegas.to.portugal for more about my life living as an expat in Portugal and more of my adventures. 💙