Algarve Travel Guide: Discover Portugal’s Sun-Soaked Paradise

Welcome to the Algarve, where turquoise waters meet golden cliffs, and time slows down to match the rhythm of the sea. Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, the Algarve is a spectacular destination renowned for its stunning coastline, historic towns, fresh seafood, and year-round sunshine.
 

As a tour guide, I can assure you: the Algarve is not just a beach destination. It’s a place where Moorish castles, secluded coves, and vibrant festivals await your discovery. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect Algarve adventure.

📍 Where Is the Algarve?

The Algarve lies in southern Portugal, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south, and the Alentejo region to the north. Its main gateway is Faro, a city with its own airport offering international connections.

✈️ Faro Airport (FAO): Serves most major European cities

🚗 Best explored by car – ideal for discovering beaches and towns

🚆 Trains and buses connect major Algarve towns like Lagos, Portimão, and Tavira

🌟 Top Things to Do in the Algarve

1. Relax on the Algarve’s Best Beaches

The Algarve is home to some of Europe’s most spectacular beaches, each with its own personality.

Must-visit beaches:

🏖️ Praia da Marinha – Iconic cliffs and turquoise waters; great for photos

🏝️ Praia do Camilo (Lagos) – Stunning staircase access, golden sands

🪨 Benagil Beach – Access point to the famous Benagil Cave

🌅 Praia da Falésia – Long stretch of red and white cliffs, ideal for sunset walks

🧺 Praia do Amado – Surfer’s paradise on the west coast

2. Explore the Benagil Sea Cave

One of the Algarve’s top natural wonders, the Benagil Cave is a magical sea grotto with a sunlit dome and secret beach inside.

🚤 Accessible only by boat, kayak, or paddleboard

📷 Best visited early in the morning for fewer crowds

🚫 Swimming in open waters is not recommended without a guide

3. Wander the Historic Streets of Lagos

Lagos is a beautiful coastal town full of charm, history, and nightlife.

🏛️ Explore the old town and its 16th-century walls

⛪ Visit Igreja de Santo António, richly decorated with gold leaf

🚤 Take a boat tour along the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade

4. Visit the Eastern Gem: Tavira

Tavira offers a different, quieter side of the Algarve.

🏰 Moorish castle ruins and cobbled streets

🏞️ Access to Ilha de Tavira – an island beach paradise

🌉 Roman bridges and scenic river views

5. Discover the Whitewashed Village of Albufeira

Albufeira is a lively town known for its beaches and nightlife.

☀️ Beautiful beaches: Praia dos Pescadores and Praia da Oura

🍻 The “Strip” – bars and clubs for partygoers

🧘 Also has quiet coves and family-friendly resorts in nearby areas

6. Experience the Wild West Coast

The western Algarve (Costa Vicentina) is rugged, remote, and wild.

🏄 Surf spots at Arrifana, Carrapateira, and Zambujeira do Mar

🥾 Coastal hiking on the Rota Vicentina trail

🦅 Fewer tourists and more untouched nature

🏰 Culture & History in the Algarve

The Algarve isn’t just about sun and surf. Its culture runs deep.

Historical Sites:

🕌 Silves Castle – A well-preserved Moorish fortress

⛪ Faro Old Town (Cidade Velha) – Cobbled alleys and a cathedral within ancient walls

⏳ Loulé Market – Traditional market hall and bustling Saturday stalls

💀 Chapel of Bones in Alcantarilha – A hauntingly beautiful site

🍽️ What to Eat in the Algarve

The Algarve's cuisine is inspired by the sea, seasoned with herbs, and often grilled over charcoal.

Must-Try Dishes:

🐙 Polvo à Lagareiro – Octopus baked in garlic and olive oil

🐟 Sardinhas assadas – Grilled sardines, especially during summer festivals

🍲 Cataplana de marisco – Shellfish stew served in a copper pot

🥧 Dom Rodrigo – Sweet almond and egg dessert wrapped in foil

🐚 Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato – Clams in garlic, coriander, and white wine sauce

🍷 Pair your meal with a local Vinho Verde or Algarve rosé.

🏨 Where to Stay in the Algarve

Whether you're a luxury traveler, a backpacker, or a family with kids, there’s something for everyone.

Luxury:

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa (Porches) – Cliffside suites and world-class spa

Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort – Elegant golf and wellness escape

Bela Vista Hotel & Spa (Portimão) – 19th-century mansion on the beach

Mid-range:

Casa Mãe (Lagos) – Design hotel with local touches

Hotel Eva (Faro) – Great for exploring the city and nearby islands

AP Cabanas Beach & Nature (Tavira) – Stylish, adults-only resort

Budget:

HI Lagos Hostel – Cozy and central

Casa d'Alagoa (Faro) – Friendly atmosphere, great for solo travelers

Algarve Surf Hostel (Sagres) – Ideal for surfers and beach lovers

🚗 Getting Around the Algarve

While there are public buses and trains, renting a car is the best way to explore the region freely.

🚘 Roads are well-maintained and signage is in English and Portuguese

🅿️ Parking is easy outside the cities; look for blue and white zones

🚲 In towns like Lagos or Tavira, renting a bike is a fun option

📅 Best Time to Visit the Algarve

🎉 Algarve Events & Festivals

Festa da Ria Formosa (Faro) – Seafood celebration (August)

Silves Medieval Fair – Step back in time (August)

Carnival in Loulé – Colorful parades and costumes (February)

Albufeira Summer Music Festival – Beachside parties and DJs

Sardine Festival in Portimão – Sardines, music, and fun (August)

🛍️ What to Buy in the Algarve

🧵 Hand-painted ceramics and azulejos

👜 Cork products – Eco-friendly bags, hats, wallets

🧂 Flor de sal – Sea salt harvested from local salt pans

🍯 Carob syrup and almond sweets

🎨 Local handicrafts and embroidered linens

📸 Hidden Gems in the Algarve

🏞️ Ria Formosa Natural Park – Wetlands, flamingos, and boat tours

🏝️ Ilha Deserta – Uninhabited island perfect for a quiet escape

🐴 Monchique Mountains – Cooler temperatures and scenic views

💧 Alte Village – A traditional inland village with freshwater springs

🏞️ Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – Breathtaking coastal hike

🧭 Algarve Travel Tips

🕶️ Bring sun protection – even in spring

💧 Tap water is safe to drink

🧍 Many towns are walkable, but prepare for cobblestone streets

🧳 Booking accommodations early (especially in July–August) is essential

🚫 Avoid swimming in rough west coast waters without lifeguards

❤️ Why You’ll Fall in Love with the Algarve

The Algarve is a place where golden hour stretches endlessly across red cliffs, where each beach is more beautiful than the last, and where the food is always fresh and full of flavor. Whether you seek adventure, peace, or cultural depth, the Algarve welcomes you with open arms and the warmth of the Portuguese sun.