Your Guide to the Algarve Region of Portugal

Western Algarve (Lagos, Sagres, Aljezur)

This region has surf bum vibes, which is why I have spent a lot of time there. Whether you like the surf vibes or are chasing waves yourself, there is a great summer vibe in these cities. I love to stay in an eco-lodge with lots of community activities to get involved in the area during my stay.

Overview:

• It has lots of rugged cliffs, surf beaches (Arrifana, Amado)

• Visit Cabo de São Vicente lighthouse at sunset

• Explore Lagos old town and Ponta da Piedade sea caves

Central Algarve (Albufeira, Portimão, Carvoeiro)

This zone is popular and famous for good reason—it's stunning and has excellent resorts and nightlife. If you want a comfortable luxury trip, Albufeira and the central Algarve city are the best places to stay.

Overview:

• Most famous beaches are: Praia da Marinha, Benagil Cave, Praia da Rocha

• To see the caves and sites, it's best to book boat tours and sea kayaking

• There is lively nightlife in Albufeira and near the charming Carvoeiro boardwalk

Eastern Algarve (Tavira, Olhão, Faro, Cacela Velha)

If you are an off-the-beaten-path traveler, the east of Algarve is a dream. Towns like Tavira and Olhão are much quieter than the party towns on the coast, but they offer stunning views and reasonable bedtimes. Here, I would escape to a boutique hotel or a countryside stay.

Overview:

• Quieter, traditional charm

• Visit Formosa Natural Park for birdwatching and boat rides to barrier islands

• Explore Tavira’s Roman bridge and castle, Olhão’s market, and Cacela Velha’s panoramic view

• Café Mané: A cute spot for breakfast and lunch with some typical Portuguese pastries and breakfast food

• Al-Gharb Coffee Roasters: It wouldn’t be a complete trip without a really good coffee and breakfast on a sunny terrace. This is your place in Albufeira.

• THE TABLE: Some of the best coffee and service I have had in a café. It is all locally made and it shows. I can’t wait to come back to this café—genuinely, I think about it often.

• Portas de São Pedro: Creative Portuguese small plates; it’s a cozy spot and great for solo diners at the bar.

• Restaurante Marisqueira Sete: The place to find good seafood without being tourist-trappy in Albufeira.

• A Taska: A great tapas spot that is off the beaten path. It was also very solo-traveler-friendly.

• O Tonel: Another traditional Portuguese food spot with budget-friendly prices. What more could you want?

• Bello Piatto: I know you think, why would I eat Italian food in Portugal? I don’t know, but it's delicious at this restaurant in the countryside. I cannot recommend the food and service enough.

• Dromedário Bistro Bar: Good for snacks, cocktails, and meeting other solo travelers in the surf town of Sagres.