Algarve

The Algarve region, at the southern end of Portugal, is famous for its amazing coastline and beautiful beaches. Its natural wonders are the star attractions, including great surfing spots, towering cliffs, hidden bays and bird-filled lagoons.

The cities along the Algarve coastline are no less remarkable, with top destinations including Faro, Portimão and Lagos. Each has a charming old town, with plenty of historical landmarks. Each also has its own unique attractions, whether it's a busy nightlife, fantastic beach resorts or some of Europe's best golf courses.

Top destinations in Algarve

Where will you go next?

Faro
Faro, one of the most charming (and largest) coastal cities in the Algarve, is popular among daytrippers from neighboring vacation resorts such as Albufeira and Vilamoura. Compared to these more prominent towns, Faro offers a more relaxed vibe. With that...
Faro
Portimão
Portimao has some of the best beaches on the Algarve’s west coast, but you'll also find a rich vein of history beneath the sun, sea and sangria. Dominating the seafront is the impressive Santa Catarina fort, which dates back to...
Portimão
Albufeira
Albufeira is a fishing village-turned-beach resort on Portugal’s southernmost edge of the Algarve. It’s the place to be for taking in some of the best Portugal’s coastal beauty. This seaside town is home to some of the Algarve’s finest family-friendly...
Albufeira
Lagos
Lagos is an idyllic seaside town on the southwestern coast of Portugal that’s big on coastal beauty. Right on its doorstep are golden stretches of sand with rugged limestone cliffs, which meet the light and deep-blue shades of the Atlantic....
Lagos

What to see & do in Algarve

Where & what to eat in Algarve

5 Best Dining Experiences in Lagos
Great dining experiences in Lagos await you thanks to the town’s thriving food scene that takes full advantage of the Algarve’s natural resources. Often overlooked as a European foodie destination, Lagos treats its visitors to authentic Portuguese cuisine combined with...
5 Best Dining Experiences in Lagos
10 Best Local Restaurants in Faro
Faro has a great variety of local restaurants with delicious Portuguese food. Some are very humble and simple when it...
10 Best Local Restaurants in Faro
10 Great Restaurants in the Algarve
Some of these great restaurants in the Algarve have been critically acclaimed (and rightfully so). Portugal’s sunny southern coast on...
10 Great Restaurants in the Algarve

Where to shop & what to buy in Algarve

5 Best Places to Go Shopping in Lagos
Shopping in Lagos is one of the most enjoyable things you could do during your trip to the Algarve. The town’s seaside traditions have inspired local artisans for generations, and you’ll find masterful creations throughout its shops. Imaginative boutiques show...
5 Best Places to Go Shopping in Lagos
5 Lagos Souvenirs Your Family Actually Want
The right Lagos souvenirs can be a wonderful reminder of sunny beach days, scrumptious seafood dishes and the chill vibes...
5 Lagos Souvenirs Your Family Actually Want
5 Best Places to Go Shopping in Faro
Faro's shopping scene is modest yet surprisingly interesting. The relatively small city has a bustling commercial heart as well as...
5 Best Places to Go Shopping in Faro

Where to go & what to do at night in Algarve

5 Best Nightlife Experiences in Lagos
The Lagos nightlife scene is truly one for the ages as the coastal town has a distinct charm and it’s easy to immerse yourself in the relaxed pace. But look further and you’ll discover there’s more to it, with lots...
5 Best Nightlife Experiences in Lagos
10 Best Beach Clubs and Bars in the Algarve
The best beach clubs and bars in the Algarve are found in popular resort towns like Albufeira and Almancil. The...
10 Best Beach Clubs and Bars in the Algarve
10 Best Nightlife in Faro
Faro's nightlife is rich and diverse, with this picturesque Portuguese university city proving a popular spot for bars, eateries, and...
10 Best Nightlife in Faro

Useful information

10 Money Saving Tips in Lagos
Our money-saving tips in Lagos might help you in planning your travels to this part of the Algarve. Lagos is ripe for exploration, with a smorgasbord of sandy coves, ochre grottos, and historic buildings to explore. But the Algarve region is indeed arguably among the most expensive places to visit in Portugal. So, what can a budget traveler do to...
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