Discover the Algarve: a coastal paradise in Portugal
Overview:
Piercing cliffs, sea caves, golden beaches, scalloped bays, and sandy islands are some of the not-so-subtle lures that draw over four million visitors to the Algarve every year. Having the Atlantic Ocean on two sides makes it a haven for surfers, particularly on the wild west coast.
Best Time to Visit
The Algarve has nice weather all year round, but the best periods are from late spring to early autumn when it is warm, and the sea is also warm and ideal to bathe.
Top Attractions:
Benagil Caves (Carvoeiro):
A beautiful natural sea cave with a hole in the ceiling that lets sunlight in and creates a mystical atmosphere.
Sé Cathedral:
This cathedral, in the very heart of the old town, was completed back in 1251 and maintains a variety of Renaissance architectural styles.
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, Faro
This is an area of 18,000 hectares with a natural park and lagoons, with islands extending along 60km of Algarve coastline—a true nature lover's paradise.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo & Capela dos Ossos - Faro
A 1719 baroque church with famous twin towers and a chapel lined with human bones.
Castelo de Silves, Silves
This medieval castle dominates the town and surrounding countryside.
Ponta da Piedade, Lagos
A dramatic headland with contorted, polychrome sandstone cliffs and stunning sea views.
Igreja de São Lourenço de Matos, Almancil
A baroque masterpiece built after a well-digging incident in which locals invoked Saint Lawrence.
Top Picks from Travel Experts:
13 Best Things to Do in the Algarve
From its incredible beaches to world-class restaurants and scenic walks, get out and explore.
8 Best Places to Visit in the Algarve
In case the list of the best places to visit includes such places as Ponta da Piedade, Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, and Cabo de São Vicente.
Top 5 Most Spectacular Hikes
Take on one of the many scenic trails in the diverse landscape of the Algarve.
10 Best Beaches
From secluded coastlines to lively party towns, there's an Algarve beach for everyone.
Best Road Trips
Take in hilltop villages and stunning coastal scenery on these top drives through the Algarve.
Plan Your Trip:
From the budget brochure offering accommodation at the YMCA One Orchard, whose roof decks come equipped with a pool, to design-led hotels such as 21 Carpenter near Clarke Quay, there's a wide range to pick from.
Budget Tips
Enjoy free activities such as visiting the Botanic Gardens or cycling along parkway connectors.
Local Insights:
Get the most from your visit with guides to the best times to go, what to do, and how to save money.
Beyond Algarve
These nearby destinations will leave you with an inside taste of Portugal: Costa Vicentina, Faro, Lagos, Tavira, Sagres, Silves, Carvoeiro, and Albufeira.
