Curator’s statement
You must visit Portugal’s Algarve for its breathtaking blend of golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden sea caves that feel straight out of a postcard. The region’s charming coastal towns offer incredible fresh seafood, vibrant markets, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Its year-round sunshine and perfect beaches make it ideal for both adventure—like kayaking and surfing—and peaceful unwinding. With welcoming locals and stunning natural beauty everywhere you turn, the Algarve is a destination that stays with you long after you leave.
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Where to stay in the Algarve, Portugal
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Things to do in the Algarve, Portugal
Bengali Cave
Take a boat tour to the Benagil Cave, the Algarve’s most iconic sea cave with a natural skylight.
Cruise along the Ponta da Piedade cliffs in Lagos, known for dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear water.
Relax on Praia da Marinha, often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Spend a day at Praia da Falésia, famous for its long stretch of soft sand and striking red cliffs.
Explore the small town of Tavira, with its whitewashed houses, Roman bridge, and peaceful riverside charm.
Visit the town of Alte, known for its traditional Algarve character, spring-fed pools, and quiet cobblestone streets.
Kayak through hidden grottoes and sea arches along the coastline for an unforgettable adventure.
Try surfing at Arrifana Beach, one of the region’s best spots for beginners and pros alike.
Hike part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, offering spectacular cliffside views and access to stunning coves.
Stand at Cabo de São Vicente (“the end of the world”), the dramatic southwestern tip of Europe with jaw-dropping ocean vistas and powerful winds.
Places to eat & drink in the Algarve, Portugal
Super Bock is a popular Portuguese Beer and a must try
Vila Joya (Albufeira): A two-Michelin-star restaurant with extraordinary tasting menus and stunning ocean views.
Ocean Restaurant (Porches, Vila Vita Parc): Fine dining at its best, known for creative seafood dishes and a beautiful clifftop setting.
A Ver Tavira (Tavira): Great views. A hilltop restaurant offering modern Portuguese cuisine with panoramic views over Tavira.
Bon Bon (Carvoeiro): A Michelin-starred spot with an intimate atmosphere and seasonal tasting menus.
O Barradas (Lagoa / Silves): Authentic cuisine. A charming, rustic restaurant serving traditional Algarve dishes and grilled local meats.
Marisqueira Rui (Silves): Authentic seafood. One of the best places for fresh seafood, famous for shellfish, seafood rice, and cataplana.
Prime Sushi (Albufeira): Sushi. A well-loved sushi restaurant with fresh rolls, sashimi, and a modern vibe.
Luca’s Rooftop (Lagos): Great views and bar. A rooftop bar and restaurant with ocean views—perfect for cocktails at sunset.
Cosmopolitan Rooftop Bar (Faro): A stylish rooftop bar overlooking Faro marina, ideal for drinks before or after dinner.
The Authentic Restaurant (Quinta do Lago): Authentic cuisine. Elegant dining featuring classic Portuguese flavors with a refined twist
Need to know
Algarve town guide (short and useful):
Lagos:
A lively coastal town with beautiful old streets, great restaurants, buzzing nightlife, and quick access to iconic cliffs and coves like Ponta da Piedade. Ideal for younger travelers, couples, and anyone who wants a mix of beaches and energy.
Albufeira: The Algarve’s entertainment hub with tons of restaurants, bars, beach clubs, and broad sandy beaches. Great for groups, families, and people who want convenience and activity.
Tavira: Peaceful and charming with a traditional Portuguese feel—whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes, and a calm riverfront. Perfect if you prefer culture, quiet streets, and slow-paced days.
Carvoeiro (My personal favorite): Small, scenic, and ideal for views—think cliff walks, boat tours, and cozy cafes. Great for couples or relaxed family trips.
Sagres: Wild, dramatic landscapes and surf beaches. Known for Cabo de São Vicente, the “end of the world” viewpoint. Perfect for surfers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting peace and rugged scenery.
Short beach guide
Praia da Marinha: One of Europe’s most beautiful beaches—golden cliffs, turquoise water, and perfect photo spots.
Praia da Falésia: Long, soft-sand beach backed by red cliffs. Great for long walks, families, and swimming.
Camilo Beach (Lagos): Famous wooden stairs leading to a tiny, dramatic cove—perfect for photos and snorkeling.
Benagil Beach: The launch point for boat and kayak trips into the famous Benagil Cave.
Meia Praia (Lagos). A huge, wide beach with calm waves—excellent for families and water sports.
Travel tips for the Algarve:
Flying into Faro Airport (FAO): Most visitors land at Faro Airport, which is centrally located. 15–20 minutes to Faro city, about 40 minutes to Albufeira, one hour to Lagos. Lines for taxis and transfers can get long in summer—pre-booking helps a lot.
Car rental: Renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore multiple beaches or towns.
Book early in summer—prices rise quickly. Check if your rental requires a Via Verde transponder for toll roads (many highways use electronic tolls only). Roads are generally excellent and easy to drive. Parking can be tricky in old towns—look for public lots outside historic centers.
Getting around without a car: Trains connect major towns (Faro → Albufeira → Lagos → Portimão). Buses fill in the gaps but are less frequent. Ride-hailing apps are available but limited in smaller towns.
Best time to visit: May–June & September–October: Warm, sunny, less crowded. July–August: Beach-perfect but very busy. Winter: Mild, quiet, great for hiking.
Travel Advisor
Whitney Bonin
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Algarve page.