Best Things to do in Algarve Portugal and Places to visit in Algarve

Best Things to do in Algarve and Places to visit in Algarve – Travel guide with beaches to visit in Algarve, festivals in Algarve and what to eat in Algarve. The beauty of the region’s coastal spots is undeniable. However, there are also plenty of hidden gems in Argave’s localities beyond the coast. Some of the best places to visit in Algarve include Serra de Monchique, a beautiful mountain range, and Ria Formosa, a beautiful lagoon. Algarve’s diversity is not only seen in nature but in its culture and history as well. There are many historic villages and castle towns to explore here. Lying on the coast of Southern Portugal is a beach haven called Algarve. It is one of most visited parts of Portugal because of all the pristine stretches of sand and beautiful waters. Pair that with locals who speak English quite well, very safe surroundings and relatively cheap prices on most things to do in Algarve, and you got yourself a tourist paradise. Read here Algarve vs Madeira  In fact, the region received up to 7.1 million tourists in 2017. Wow! Make sure you read our full travel guide to visit Algarve with the best beaches in Algarve, best places to visit in Algarve, festivals in Algarve, best time to visit Algarve and how to move around Algarve. We took a trip to the area to see the magic of Algarve for ourselves. Like many before us, we were enchanted by all the places to visit in Algarve and just couldn’t get enough of all the amazing things to do in Algarve. Here’s a guide on what you can do in this coastal treasure in Portugal. Read here the most instagrammable places in Portugal, instagrammable places in Algarve and all the things to know before visiting Portugal! Read here Road trip to Algarve, Portugal sim card for tourist and the best Portugal eSim

Where to Stay in Algarve

There are a few options for your road trip around Algarve. Since camping areas for €15 per person. A dorm in a hostel can cost as low as €12 while mid-budget accommodations go for around €35-40. A very comfortable room in a beautiful resort can go for as low as €50, while luxury suites start at around €70. These prices are out season. We chose Airbnb and local pensions in our trip. You can also click here if you want to see more accommodation options through booking!

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Transportation around Algarve

If you’re traveling to Algarve, learning how to get around the region is something you should really invest your time in, especially if you want to visit the more remote beaches and villages in the area. Although fares are much cheaper here than in other European destinations, some areas are not accessed by public transportation. Your best bet would definitely be to rent a car or even a vintage van for the ultimate Algarve road trip. We totally recommend to do with a car or a van since you can travel free and reach all the beaches easier since there is almost no public transportation going there. If you go with your own vehicle you are more flexible, roads are in great conditions, there are free parking lots everywhere, supermarkets and restaurants for food or even connecting online anytime that you need. No need to worry, though. Those keen on exploring the region with public transportation can use the train or the bus to go around Algarve. Linha do Algarve trains operate from coast to coast, with Lagos in the west and Vila Real de Santo António in the east. Those headed to Albufeira in the south can use the tourist train that goes from place to place in the coastal town. You can get a tourist pass valid for 3 days (€30.10) or a week (€37.50) if you’re traveling on the bus. Many of Algarve’s major towns like Faro, Lagos, Albufeira, and Portimao are connected to each other by intercity bus networks. For example, a bus to Albufeira from Faro takes around 45 minutes and costs less than €5. Meanwhile, a trip from Faro to Lago can take as much as an hour and will cost around €6.

Places to visit in Algarve

Sagres

If you’re looking for a town that has a more laid back vibe and less commercialized spots, Sagres will be a delight to visit. It lies at Algarve’s westernmost tip and is somewhat isolated from other places in the region. Because of this, dramatic landscapes and sceneries also abound in the area. This municipality is also a surfing hotspot and often attracts tourists into a rugged yet chill vibe. We can recommend the sunrise in the lighthouse Cap San Vicente is a beautiful are with amazing cliff views.

Faro

As Algarve’s capital and transportation hub, Faro is an oftentimes overlooked destination in the region. For those who do have the time to stop and explore the city, you’ll be surprised to see an interesting Old Town, beautiful museums, clean parks and plazas and lovely lagoons here. The nightlife in Faro is also very exciting, so you might want to spend at least one night in this capital. It´s a great point to settle and starting to move around. You will find everything you need for your trip around Algarve in Faro.

Albufeira

Located in the Faro district is Albufeira, a lovely fishing village that has been turned into one of the biggest resort towns in Algarve. There are plenty of activities to do and beaches to enjoy in Albufeira as it is the largest resort destination in the entire region. Albufeira is a great mix of tradition and modern life. Old Town that has restaurants serving authentic Portuguese cuisine while New Town has The Strip, a haven for clubs and bars perfect for a night of partying. Of course, the main attraction is still the beaches like Praia dos Pescadores, Praia da Coelha and Praia do Castelo.

Where to stay in Albufeira?

We chose to stay in Albufeira, Central Algarve when we visited Algarve because it´s halfway between Faros and Lagos. Our choice was Olhos de Agua, a small town with two beaches really close to our apartment. Praia de Falesia and Olhos de Agua are just 10-15 minutes walking distance. The location is great for going out for dinner since there are a few restaurants that are just also waking distance away. If you want to go by car, Albufeira town is only a 5 minutes drive. Click here to know more about rent in Albufeira and check their Instagram. CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST ACCOMMODATION DEALS IN ALBUFEIRA WITH BOOKING! CLICK HERE TO BOOK WITH AGODA!

Monchique

Another municipality in Faro is Monchique, a market town in Serra de Monchique. Unlike other destinations in the Algarve region, Monchique lies above the coast and therefore has cooler temperatures and spectacular views. The white walls of the houses and cobblestones on the street make Monchique an idyllic location for those who want to see a more relaxed and quiet side of Algarve. CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST ACCOMMODATION DEALS IN MONCHIQUE WITH BOOKING!

Tavira

Those who love exploring on foot will love the vibe of Tavira, a town that lies along the Gilão River. Tavira’s architecture is an attractive mix of traditional Portuguese and Moorish influences. The town is filled with historic buildings like Torre da Tavira, beautiful plazas and cobbled streets. It is a charming place that also has gorgeous beaches in Ilha da Tavira and a fun nightlife with one of the best clubs in Algarve, Ubi. CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST ACCOMMODATION DEALS IN TAVIRA WITH BOOKING!

Lagos

Another tourist hotspot in Algarve is Lagos, a resort town with lots of restaurants, bars, cafes and (of course) beaches to offer. Some famous spots in Lagos include Ponta de Piedade, a breathtaking viewpoint with gorgeous sandstone cliffs and a lighthouse, and the Bandeira Fort, a restored 17th century structure that was originally built to protect the port. Lagos is all about fun under the sun whether it be on its beaches or in its historical sites. It´s the most touristic destination in Algarve. Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana and Faro da Ponta da Piedade are amazing places to spend the day, enjoying amazing views and taking incredible pictures.

Beaches to visit in Algarve

North West Beaches to visit in Algarve

Praia da Amoreira

Located in North West Algarve in the municipality of Aljezur is Praia Da Amoreira, a highly-recommended beach for tourists who enjoy vast beaches with thrilling waves. Praia Da Amoreira is where the Aljezur River meets the sea and is protected by the Vicentine Coast Natural Park. There’s plenty of good food sold at reasonable prices on this beach.

Praia da Arrifana

Another outstanding beach in Aljezur is Praia da Arrifana, a popular spot for surfers. Arrifana is an area in the municipality that has not been taken over by commercialism, though there are enough hotels and resorts in this village resting on cliffs above the beach. The soft sand and crystal clear water makes this a heavenly beach that’s close to perfect.

Praia de Monte Clerigo

Aljezur is home to many gorgeous beaches in Algarve, and one of them is Praia de Monte Clerigo, an idyllic paradise with thrilling cliff top walks, strong currents perfect for skimboarding, lovely dunes of sand, and a charming cafe. Despite its simplicity, Praia de Monte Clerigo is also one of the hundreds of Blue Flag beaches in Portugal.

Praia de Odeceixe Mar

Another cheap yet beautiful spot to learn how to surf in Algarve is Praia de Odeceixe Mar. Located in Aljezur, it is also located in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, just a few kilometers west of the village of Odeceixe and around 30 minutes away from Praia da Amoreira. On the southside of the beach is Praia de Adegas, a naturist beach. It also lies on the mouth of a river, Rio de Seixe.

West Beaches to visit in Algarve

Praia da Falesia

One of the many long beaches in Algarve is Praia da Falesia, with shores stretching from Olhos de Água (near Albufeira) in the east and lovely Vilamoura in the west. It is another stunning beach with a truly great vibe, with its wooden steps leading to and from various places in the area. Praia da Falesia can also be reached from the Pine Cliffs resort through a glass lift that takes you to the boardwalk. It’s one of our favorite beaches for relaxing and is not as accessible as other beaches so there’s always enough space for you to read, swim, sunbathe, surf and just chill.

Praia do Camilo

If you’re visiting Lagos, one of the best places to visit in Algarve would be Praia do Camilo. It is a paradise that can be reached by descending through the long, wooden stairs and is well worth the effort. Praia do Camilo is made of two beaches connected by an artificial tunnel. The water is exceptionally pure and is a great place for snorkeling. It is one of the smaller beaches in the region so its best to visit during low tide so you can have plenty of space to sunbathe on. We really loved Praia do Camilo because the water was so clean and crystal clear. Plus, the views were truly incredible. If you go on weekends and high season, you can expect the peach to be crowded.

Praia da Rocha

Those who love admiring breathtaking coastal views on a cliff would also enjoy doing so at Praia da Rocha, a beautiful beach in Portimao that’s busy with lots of shops, restaurants and bars. It is a vast beach that attracts many tourists all over the world with its beautiful waters and fine sand. From here, you can also visit the narrower yet quieter beaches of Praia dos Tres Castelos and Praia do Vau.

Praia dos Tres Irmaos

This is our favorite beach in Algarve and it’s located just a few kilometers from Lagos. There are several beaches here that you can access under the caves. The sunset along with the low tide was so beautiful and if you go to the far end of the beach, you will enjoy tranquility and even more space. The water is a clear blue, and if you go up the cliff, the views are really breathtaking. Travel tip: It’s best to visit this beach before or during the sunset!

Praia de Benagil

This location can be found in a small town in the municipality of Lagoa. The views from the cliffs here are, as always, amazing. Praia de Benagil is a small area and is close to Praia da Marinha. You can take tours to see the caves during the day. Prices for the tours are €15 for 30 minutes, €25 for 1 hour and 15 minutes and €300 for a private tour. Travel tip: To see the caves better, you should visit late in the afternoon and catch the low tide.

Other places to visit in Algarve

Ponta da Piedade

One of the most breathtaking places in Lagos is Ponta da Piedade, a viewpoint that offers dramatic views of the sea. From here, you can even see Sagres to the West and Carvoeiro to the east. Apart from the cliffs, there are natural tunnels, grottos and pillars here too. You can go on a boat tour to explore the formations and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade. Travel tip: If you go first thing in the morning, you will avoid the influx of tourists that are arriving all day as part of a tour package. It is so much better to visit the site when it’s empty.

Algar Seco

If you are a true nature lover and adventure seeker, you should definitely visit the limestone formations and cliffs in Algar Seco. The site is located in Carvoeiro and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Algarve. You can spend just 15 minutes to an hour or so just walking up and down the cliffs, depending on whether you stop for photos or not. We suggest that you do, because Algar Seco has a view worth preserving.

Church of São Lourenço

From the outside, Igreja de São Lourenço looks just like an ordinary baroque church in Almancil. However, once you go in, you will be taken to a magnificent structure made of hand-painted blue and white Portuguese tiles. You will also see a golden altar that shines like the sun inside this church. The €2 entrance fee is definitely worth it!

Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos

If you’re into hiking and would love to see one of the best views in Algarve, head on out to Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos or “Seven Hanging Valleys.” The walk is made of huge limestone cliffs and covers Praia Vale de Centeanes and Praia da Marinha. Its trail is pretty easy to follow and offers unbelievably stunning views of the coast. This is one of the most Instagram-able places to visit in Algarve, for sure.

Cape Saint Vincent

Another point of interest in Sagres is Cape Saint Vincent, one of the best places to visit in Algarve for sunset and sunrise chasers like us. In fact, it was once believed that this is where the sun sets as it was thought to be the westernmost tip of the world. The location is rich both in legend and in history, with the Greeks calling it the Land of Serpents and the Romans dubbing it the Holy Promontory. Several naval battles have also been fought near Cape Saint Vincent.

Arco da Vila

The famous archway in Faro called Arco da Vila was established in 1812 and served as one of the medieval gateways to the city. The building is a gorgeous Italian neo-classical structure but is also hugely influenced by Moorish architecture on its walls. Entering the archway leads to Cidade Velha while climbing up the tower leads to a small exhibition and lovely views of Faro.

Things to do in Algarve

Dolphin watching

Dolphins are wonderfully intelligent creatures a real sight to behold, especially in their natural habitat. Fortunately, the Atlantic Ocean is home to many of dolphins and Algarve has some of the best spots to see them in action. Here you can find the Common dolphins,  Risso’s dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins and some porpoises and whales, too. A tour usually lasts 1 hour to 3 hours and costs around €30-45, with lower rates for children. The best dolphin watching tours in Algarve can be found at Albufeira, Lagos, Olhão and Vilamoura.

Playing Golf

Some may be surprised to know that Algarve is not just a beach destination but also a paradise for golfers. There are premier golf clubs all over the region. Some of the best golf places to visit in Algarve for golfers are Vilamoura, Almancil and Lagos. Golf is one of the best things to do in Algarve for those who want to unwind by themselves, catch up with friends, or spend time with family. The best time to golf in Algarve (especially in Vilamoura) according to most golfers are between March and May, and from the middle of September to the middle of October. However, those who want to visit on the low season can do so from November to February and from July to August. The busy months of March to May and October to November go for around  €80 for 18 holes while the low rates of €45-60 can be availed from June to September.

Eating seafood

Cooked in a grill or in a frying pan, served with rice or corn, the seafood in Algarve is definitely something you shouldn’t miss. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Algarve and there are many unique seafood dishes to try here. From simple grilled sardines or fresh clams and cockles cooked in garlic & olive oil to a symphony of lobster, clams, squid, white wine, olive oil and tomatoes called Cataplana de Marisco, you can never go wrong with seafood in Algarve. You can share with wine since there are many great wines in Portugal. Prices are affordable and you can get a meal with wine for €15-25 depending on the restaurant that you choose.

Surfing

Another highlight for a trip to Algarve is surfing the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The region’s pleasant climate and gorgeous beaches are loved by many tourists, many of whom are surfers. You can enjoy the sport all year round, though waves are bigger in winter than they are in the summer. The waves in the South West are popular for their consistency, especially those along the Vicentina Coast like Arrafina, Beliche and Castilejo.

More things to do in Algarve

Visiting water parks

Traveling to Algarve with children? Great news: There are several water parks in the region perfect for all ages that the family can enjoy! Aquashow Park is one of the most popular attractions in Quarteira where guests enjoy the water coaster, a big jacuzzi, single rider slides and many more. Slide & Splash in Lagoa is one of the largest water parks in Europe and is famous for the Disco River and the Black Hole.

Exploring caves

The lovely coastal area of Algarve is not only home to numerous lovely beaches but is also a place to explore different caves. Various areas have one-of-a-kind formations like those of Benagil Cave in Lagoa, the Elefante in Lagos, and the arches in Praia da Marinha. These picturesque locations can be access on boat tours, kayaks or paddle boards.

Paddling and Kayaking

There are guide tours which last 2-3 hours and it costs €30-45 to visit caves with a tour guide. There’s also the possibility of renting out the equipment to yourself for the day or a few hours in many of the beaches in Algarve.

Food to Try in Algarve

Feijoada

Literally “beans” in Portuguese, feijoada is a stew made from beef, pork and beans that’s usually served with rice and different sausages. This dish is actually considered the national dish of Brazil, with origins fromthe Minho Province in Northern Portugal. It’s definitely a must-try in Algarve!

Leitao

One of the delicious delicacies in Portugal is leitao, the country’s version of a suckling pig (like lechon in the Philippines!). The young pig is roasted in a wood oven and is basted with a mix of garlic, pepper, bay leaf, kosher salt and pig fat. This process makes the pig’s meat tender and moist and its skin, extra crispy. Rachel is trying lechon in all the countries in Europe so far ha!

Sardines

A trip to Algarve will not be complete without eating sardines, a much loved fish in the region and even the entire country. Grilled sardines (sardinas assadas) is best eaten during summer and is abundant in festivals like Festa da Sardinha near Cascais and Saint Anthony’s Day in Lisbon.

Pasteis de Nata

A must-try pastry in Portugal are pasteis de nata, or egg custard tarts. These delicious treats are available in most cafes and restaurants in Algarve where you can get some fresh from the oven. Pasteis de nata can be eaten any time of the day but is best enjoyed at lunch time or in the afternoon.

Queijo

Queijo means “cheese” in Portuguese and the country has plenty of delicious varieties that travelers will enjoy. Queijo Serra da Estrela is one of the most famous dairy products in the country and is made in one of the mountains of Continental Portugal. Other kinds of cheese include Queijo do Pico, Queijo de Nisa and Azeitao.

Wine

Though the heat in Algarve does not make room for wine to age delicately, there are plenty of red wines  like Syrah, Alicante Bouschet and Aragonês (Tempranillo) that still offer great flavors in the region. Algarve’s climate produces wine that’s comparable to smoky sweet, dusty and juicy wines of Australia.

Festivals in Algarve

Carnival of Loulé

One of the biggest celebrations in the region is Carnival of Loulé, an annual celebration where participants get to wear masks all along the city’s streets. It is a 3-day party filled with parades, floats and all sorts of activities. There are satirical performances of the biggest events of the past year and a Gala Ball that follows a theme that its participants must follow. This festival has been celebrated for oven 100 years and is usually held in February.

Medieval Paderne

During the last 4 days of the year, residents and tourists in Albufeira enjoy the best of what the municipality has to offer, from arts and crafts to food. The goal of Medieval Paderne is to recreate the medieval markets that used to thrive along the alleys of Albufeira. Another highlight of the festival is the procession where the delivery of the Letter of Donation of the Castle of Paderne, a historical moment in Algarve’s history, is reenacted.

Ria Formosa Festival

A celebration of abundance and life that tourists from all over the world will enjoy is Ria Formosa Festival in Faro, Algarve. This gastronomical event is one of the biggest in all of Portugal and celebrates the richness of the seafood in Ria Formosa and all other regions’ specialties. The event is held at the end of July until the beginning of August, lasts for 10 days and opens from 7 PM to 1 AM. To get the most amazing room deals, you can book a place in Algarve before you travels with Booking and Agoda! We hope you enjoyed our Algarve travel guide! If there’s any destination in the region we missed, do let us know in the comments. We’d also love to hear about which places you’d want us to visit next! Tell us all about your trips, too. Can’t wait to hear from you! Happy Travels!