Bringing together dream beaches and historical cities full of charm, Algarve is one of the preferred regions by tourists and Portuguese people for summer vacations!
The Algarve has a mild weather with little rain all year, but it’s during the Summer (21 June to 23 September) that life really happens, when days are longer and hotter. Even though that’s the best season to enjoy the beaches, it’s also when there are too many people and the prices are higher.
During the winter there’s not much going on. Many restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions work with reduced hours or are just closed.
Whenever you chose to go, you’ll need some boldness to get into the water – at least for Brazilian standards, it’s always cold!
Traveling from Lisbon to Algarve by car takes about 2h30 through decent roads but with many tolls (you may spend roughly 20€). It’s also possible to go by train, check this website for more information about prices and timetables.
Sounds good? So check out this list of what to do in Algarve!
Sagres Fortress
At the Southern point of the scenic Costa Vicentina is the city of Sagres, well known for its historical fortress, located at the navigation route between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nowadays, the Sagres Fortress has no military role anymore, but it’s open to tourists wanting to know its history and enjoy the unique views above the cliffs.
The monument opens daily from 09:30 AM to 20:00 PM during the Summer and from 09:30 AM to 17:30 PM during the Winter. The ticket cost €3,00 and pets are allowed. Find more information here.
You may like this as well: Lisbon Getaways – Cabo Espichel
Ponta da Piedade
Located in Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is one of the most beautiful places in Algarve! The group of rocks, cliffs, and caves shaped by nature is the region’s trademark and it attracts all kinds of visitors.
There’s a parking near the lighthouse where you can leave the car and go for a hike on the cliffs or walk down the stairs that leads to the beach. It’s also possible to visit the place through the sea, if you chose to take a boat trip or rent a kayak.
Dona Ana Beach
Also in Lagos, Dona Ana Beach is one of the most popular ones during the Summer! Before walking down the stairs to spend the day at the beach, check out the viewpoint where you can see both (equally beautiful) sides of it. The sand strip is relatively large, there’s a snack bar and pets are not allowed during the Summer.
A Boneca (Algar Seco)
Arriving at A Boneca (The Doll) is pretty much like going to a pub at a made-up planet from Star Wars, kind of surreal! That’s because the restaurant-bar is located in the middle of the Algar Seco rocks, a natural ensemble shaped by the wind and by the water from natural pools.
The highlight of the place is a small cave with two holes that look like windows with an ocean view, just amazing! On the menu, you’ll find snacks and dishes that are not so cheap but worth it because of the wow factor!
The restaurant has an indoor area but the best option is obviously to seat outside, watching the waves crashing into the rocks. It’s easy to get there and there’s a parking nearby for those going by car. You can also get there by walking through the trails coming from Carvoeiro Beach or Vale de Centeanes Beach.
Vale de Centeanes Beach
Vale de Centeanes is a good option for those seeking a quieter beach in Algarve. The cozy landscape is composed of a relatively short sand space surrounded by huge cliffs (above which there’s a trail with spectacular views).
If you want to visit the famous caves, there are some boat tours that take you to a few sights like Algar de Benagil and Marinha Beach. Find more information here.
Fancy a drink while relaxing after a day at the beach? Grab a seat at O Stop bar, be it inside or outside, you’ll be just in front of the ocean.
Benagil Cave
One of the most famous images of Algarve, Benagil Cave (Algar de Benagil) is a fantastic rock formation that is part of a group of sea caves in that area. What makes it so peculiar is the fact that it has a hole on the top, enabling the sunlight to brighten up the small beach formed inside.
It is possible to check it out from the top, by the trails along the coast, but the access to the cave itself is made only by the sea. The most comfortable (and expensive) way is taking a boat trip. It leaves from the nearby beaches and has variated routes and durations. Some other options are to rent a kayak at Benagil Beach or just go swimming, if you feel prepared to do it. The access into the cave aways depends on the tide and ocean conditions – if it’s not stable, they don’t allow visitors for safety reasons.
Marinha Beach
Marinha Beach is another Algarvian sightseen, and it has such a scenic beauty that was once considered by Michelin Guide one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!
And it’s just natural that with all this fame it’s one of the most visited beaches in Algarve. Protected by cliffs, the crystal clear water beach manages to keep its nature preserved despite the massive tourism.
Marinha Beach is also a start point to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a path with stunning landscapes at the Lagoa region, finishing at Vale de Centeanes Beach.
Faro
Faro is a cute and quiet little town that has its historical city center inside a walled area. Among the important constructions is the Faro Cathedral and the Arco da Vila, one of the entrance archways on the city walls. On the streets, a lot of cafes and restaurants with nice Portuguese food!
For those traveling to the South of Portugal by plane, Faro is the main destination, since the airport serving the Algarve is located in the city.
Silves
When we talk about Algarve what comes to mind are always paradisiacal beaches, right? But the region also has many historical cities, like Silves.
Silves was dominated by the Roman Empire and was ruled by the muslins for a long time, being the capital of Algarve at this period. Because of its history, the city hosts annually a medieval fair with activities related to this period.
The greatest attraction is the Silves Castle, built more than a thousand years ago! The Cathedral, right on the corner, is also an important landmark. The city center is small but very cozy, with some cafes, restaurants and shops.
Vilamoura Marina
Vilamoura Marina is the biggest one in Portugal, but its public goes way beyond the wealthy boat owners. The place attracts many tourists on vacation in Algarve because of its diversity of bars and restaurants along the pedestrian zone.
The area is also very known for its resorts, deluxe accommodations and golf courses.
Next to Vilamoura Marina is Quarteira, a neighborhood that also offers loads of options for accommodations as well as a large choice of restaurants in the sidewalk alongside the beaches.
Albufeira
If you wanna party in Algarve, Albufeira is the right destination! Although it has beaches with white sand and crystal water, most people are attracted by the lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and night clubs.
By walking through its streets you’ll be overwhelmed by tons of neon signs and a confusing blend of music coming from the pubs and clubs to attract bachelor and bachelorette party groups.
And speaking of pubs, they’re a phenomenon in the region! English and Irish pubs are widespread not only in Albufeira but almost everywhere in Algarve. The atmosphere is usually very characteristic but the diversity of tap beers is a bit disappointing.
Quero ir Lá is a Booking.com partner, so when you book your accommodation here, the blog get a small commission and you don’t pay anything extra for it! 🙂 Ready to find the best hotel for you?
