This Algarve travel guide is designed to help you plan the perfect first trip to Portugal’s stunning southern coast. With ochre cliffs, turquoise waters, golden beaches, and charming whitewashed towns, the Algarve is one of Europe’s most captivating coastal destinations.
In this guide, you’ll uncover the best towns in the Algarve, top-rated beaches, local food tips, and essential travel advice to make your visit smooth and memorable. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, cultural immersion, or outdoor adventure, the Algarve delivers.
Why visit the Algarve
The Algarve is a region of contrasts. You’ll find rugged coastlines, golden beaches, sleepy inland villages, and lively seaside towns — all within short driving distances. From east to west, the atmosphere shifts: Tavira is serene and cultural, while Lagos is youthful and buzzing.
Beyond the beaches, the Algarve surprises visitors with its Moorish history, fresh seafood markets, walking trails, and warm hospitality. Moreover, it continues to attract digital nomads, surfers, and slow travelers seeking nature, simplicity, and sun.
Having a rental car made all the difference during our trip. It gave us the freedom to explore the coastline at our own pace, discover tiny viewpoints, and stop for spontaneous swims or seafood lunches by the sea.
What to see and do in the Algarve – Best towns, views & culture
Lagos – History meets coastal beauty
Lagos blends culture, nature, and fun like no other Algarve town. You can wander the cobbled streets, explore sea caves, and end your day with a cocktail overlooking the ocean.
- Highlights: Ponta da Piedade, Slave Market Museum, Forte da Ponta da Bandeira
- Getting there: Train or drive from Faro
- Travel tip: Take a kayak tour at sunrise to beat the crowds and see the cliffs from a new perspective.
- Where to stay in Lagos:
We recommend Casa Lagos, a stylish boutique hotel with a focus on sustainability. For a more central and convenient option, the Tivoli Lagos Algarve Resort offers comfort with easy access to the historic center and marina.
Tavira – Elegant and understated
Tavira charms with its whitewashed houses, Roman bridge, and peaceful pace.
- Highlights: Castle of Tavira, camera obscura, Ilha de Tavira beach
- Getting there: Train or rental car from Faro
- Why go: Ideal for travelers seeking culture and calm without the crowds.
- Where to stay in Tavira:
Try the Pousada Convento de Tavira, a peaceful stay inside a former convent. For a cozy alternative, Tavira House offers comfort with a homey atmosphere.
Silves – Step back in time
The former Moorish capital of the Algarve, Silves offers a scenic inland escape with a rich heritage.
- Highlights: Red-stone castle, Gothic cathedral, archaeological museum
- Best access: Drive from Portimão or Lagos
- Travel tip: Visit in August during the Medieval Festival to see the town come alive with music, costumes, and performances.
- Where to stay in Silves:
Stay at Hotel Colina dos Mouros for great castle views and convenience. For a countryside escape, Quinta do Rio Country Inn offers rustic charm and tranquility.
Carvoeiro – Cliffs and coastal trails
Carvoeiro is perfect for those who enjoy sea views and scenic boardwalks.
- Don’t miss: Algar Seco rock formations, boat trip to Benagil Cave
- Best for: Families, couples, or anyone seeking charm without chaos
- Where to stay in Carvoeiro:
Vale d’Oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa offers comfort and elegance. Families and groups might enjoy Rocha Brava Village Resort, with its spacious apartments and peaceful gardens.
Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente – Dramatic landscapes
At the southwestern tip of Europe, this wind-battered corner truly feels like the edge of the world.
- What to do: Surf Praia do Tonel, visit the fortress, and watch sunset at the Cape
- Travel tip: Pack layers — even in summer, Sagres can be surprisingly cool
- Where to stay in Sagres:
Memmo Baleeira Hotel features stylish modern rooms, sea views, and a relaxing spa. For a more laid-back stay, Pontalaia Apartamentos Turísticos offers cozy, well-equipped units near the beach.
Looking for more coastal adventures? Explore our Madeira road trip guide.
Best Beaches in the Algarve – Iconic spots to swim, surf & relax
Praia da Marinha
This iconic beach is famous for its golden cliffs, sea arches, and crystal-clear water.
- Ideal for: Snorkeling, swimming, drone photography
- Getting there: Short walk from the clifftop car park
Praia do Amado
Wild and remote, Amado is the west coast’s surf paradise.
- Good to know: Strong currents, but plenty of surf schools available
Praia da Falésia
A long sandy beach backed by red cliffs stretching for over 6 km.
- Where: Between Vilamoura and Albufeira
- Perfect for: Long walks, families, and unforgettable sunset views
Praia de Odeceixe
A river meets the sea at this peaceful and photogenic beach.
- Why visit: Calm water, perfect for paddleboarding and family picnics
To explore hidden beaches across the region, consider using the Visit Algarve official website as a resource.
Suggested 5-Day itinerary for the Algarve
Day 1: Faro to Tavira
Begin your journey in Faro’s historic center. Then catch the train or drive to Tavira. Explore the castle, enjoy a seafood dinner, and relax by the river.
Day 2: Benagil Cave & Praia da Marinha
Book an early boat tour to visit the famous cave. Afterwards, spend the afternoon sunbathing or hiking the scenic cliffs at Praia da Marinha.
Day 3: Lagos Exploration
Stroll through Lagos’ old town, relax at Meia Praia, and enjoy a sunset boat tour to Ponta da Piedade.
Day 4: Sagres & the West Coast
Drive west to Amado Beach for surf vibes and cliffside walks. Later, visit Cabo de São Vicente for panoramic views and a dramatic sunset.
Day 5: Silves & Monchique
Head inland to visit Silves castle, then drive up to Monchique for mountain views and cooler air.
This itinerary offers a perfect mix of coastal adventure, culture, and nature.
Travel tips for the Algarve
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Portuguese, but English is widely spoken
- Tipping: Optional — 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants
- Plugs: Type F (European standard)
- Local apps: Bolt for taxis, CP for trains, Zomato for food reviews
- Safety: Very safe region, but lock valuables when at the beach
Importance of travel insurance
Travel with peace of mind. Whether it’s lost luggage, medical emergencies, or flight cancellations, a solid travel insurance makes all the difference. We personally use and recommend Heymondo — affordable, reliable, and with 24/7 English support.
Why the Algarve should be on your travel radar
From sun-drenched cliffs and dramatic sea caves to cobbled alleys steeped in history, the Algarve continues to surprise and inspire. This sun-kissed region of southern Portugal offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality that few places in Europe can match.
Whether you’re kayaking through sea arches in Lagos, wandering the serene streets of Tavira, stepping back in time in Silves, enjoying coastal boardwalks in Carvoeiro, or standing on the wind-swept cliffs of Sagres — every corner of the Algarve invites discovery. Each town has its own rhythm, its own stories, and its own version of charm.
We hope this travel guide helps you choose where to go and what to do in the Algarve. Whether you’re into surfing, sightseeing, hiking, or simply relaxing with a view, there’s truly something here for everyone.
Have you been to the Algarve? Share your favorite town, trail, or beach in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other with the best hidden gems and unforgettable moments. And don’t forget — save this guide or share it with a friend who’s planning a trip. The Algarve is waiting.
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