The Algarve is the southern coast of Portugal, a long stretch of golden cliffs, sea caves, sandy beaches and whitewashed villages. It has a mild climate and the sun shines for much of the year.
It is a classic beach destination, but it also has quiet fishing towns, hiking trails along the cliffs and inland villages. Choose your base with care, as the coast varies a great deal.
How many days: 7
A week allows beach days, a coastal walk, a boat trip and a visit to an old town. A long weekend is enough for a taste.
The coast is long, so base yourself in one area. The west is wilder and windier, while the east is calmer and flatter.
What to do in Algarve
- Take a boat trip to the sea caves
- Boats and kayaks leave from Lagos and Benagil to visit caves and grottoes. Choose calm weather and a good operator.
- Walk the clifftop trails
- The Seven Hanging Valleys trail runs along dramatic cliffs and sea stacks. Take water and watch the edges.
- Visit Lagos and Tavira
- Two historic towns, one with an old walled centre and the other with a river and a Roman bridge. Both are good for a day out.
- Spend a day on the beach
- Golden sand and clear water are the main attraction. Many beaches have steps down from the cliffs.
- Visit Sagres and Cape St Vincent
- The south-western tip of Europe, with a lighthouse and wild coastal scenery. Windy, but memorable at sunset.
- Explore the Ria Formosa
- A lagoon with islands, sandbanks and birds. Boats cross to quiet beaches from Faro and Olhão.
- Visit a village in the hills
- Silves has a red-stone castle, and Monchique has a cooler climate and good views. A nice change from the coast.
- Cycle the Ecovia
- A long cycle route follows the coast, with sections along the sea and through the countryside. Bike rental is easy to find.
- Visit a local market
- Fish, fruit and local produce are sold in market halls in Loulé and Olhão. A good place for lunch.
What to eat and drink
- Grilled sardines
- Sardines grilled over charcoal and served with salad and potatoes. A summer classic.
- Cataplana
- A seafood stew cooked and served in a copper pot. A regional speciality.
- Fresh fish and shellfish
- Look for clams, prawns and dorada at harbour restaurants. Ask for the catch of the day.
- Pastel de nata and almond sweets
- Custard tarts and almond pastries are found in every cafe. The region is famous for marzipan.
- Local wine and medronho
- Algarve wines are improving, and medronho is a strong fruit spirit. Try a small glass.
- Fresh oranges
- The region grows many citrus fruits. Juice is sold in cafes and markets.
- Carob and fig sweets
- The region's traditional sweets are made from almonds, figs and carob. They are sold in bakeries and gift shops.
Getting around
A hire car is the easiest way to get around, as public transport along the coast is limited. Roads are good.
A railway runs along much of the coast, and buses link main towns. Check timetables in advance.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps work in most resorts.
Good to know
- Summer is hot and crowded, and the sea is cold, even in August, on the west coast. Spring and autumn are good for walking.
- Beaches can have strong currents. Follow lifeguard flags.
- Golf and walking holidays are popular in the shoulder seasons.
- Tap water is safe to drink. Many people still prefer bottled water.
- The sun is strong. Bring sun protection.
- The Algarve is one of the most popular regions in Europe for golf, and many courses are open year-round.
- Some beaches can only be reached by steps or a walk, and tidal conditions can affect access. Check before you go.
- The nightlife in some resort towns is lively, but quieter villages are only a short drive away. Choose a base that suits you.