Algarve Travel Guide
Plan your next trip to Algarve, Portugal with this comprehensive travel guide that covers the best things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and important tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Introduction to Algarve
- List of Places to Visit in Algarve
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Algarve
- Best Things to Do in Algarve: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Algarve
- Food and Drink Scene of Algarve
- Where to Stay in Algarve: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Algarve: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Algarve
- Best Time to Visit Algarve
- Do’s and Don’ts of Algarve
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Algarve: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Algarve
- Where to Go Next from Algarve: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Algarve
Nestled in the southernmost part of Portugal, Algarve is a picturesque region famous for its stunning coastline, cliffs, and beaches. For those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty, vibrant history, and a lively nightlife, Algarve is the perfect destination. From the lovely old towns with whitewashed houses and cobbled streets, to the modern resorts equipped with world-class facilities, Algarve has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Algarve
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Faro Old Town
- Silves Castle
- Sagres Fortress
- Lagos Old Town and City Walls
- Tavira Island
Natural Attractions of Algarve: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Benagil Sea Cave
- Praia da Marinha
- Ria Formosa Natural Park
- Cape St. Vincent
- Pego do Inferno waterfall
Hiking/Biking Routes of Algarve
- Rota Vicentina
- Guadiana Valley Natural Park
- Ecovia do Litoral
Best Things to Do in Algarve: Activities and Tours
- Dolphin Watching Tours
- Algarve Jeep Safari
- Water Sports - Surfing, Windsurfing, and Kitesurfing
- Algarve Hot Air Balloon Experience
- Algarve Wine Tasting Tour
Week-Long Itinerary for Algarve
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Faro Old Town and Saint Francis Church |
| Day 2 | Visit Silves Castle and the historic town of Silves |
| Day 3 | Go kayaking in the Ria Formosa Natural Park |
| Day 4 | Drive to Sagres and visit the Sagres Fortress |
| Day 5 | Experience Algarve’s nightlife in Lagos |
| Day 6 | Relax on the stunning beaches of Praia da Marinha |
| Day 7 | Take a hot air balloon ride over Algarve |
Food and Drink Scene of Algarve
Must-Try Dishes
- Cataplana (a seafood stew cooked in a copper dish with vegetables)
- Grilled Sardines
- Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice)
- Dom Rodrigo (traditional almond dessert)
- Carob Liqueur
Local Beverages
- Vinho Verde (young wine)
- Port Wine
- Medronho (traditional brandy)
- Aguardente de amêndoa (almond spirit)
Where to Stay in Algarve: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa
- Belmar Spa and Beach Resort
- Valverde Hotel
- The Prime Energize
- Faro Boutique Hotel
What to Buy in Algarve: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Algarvian Pottery
- Sardines in a Can
- Cork Products
- Carob Products
- Medronho
Local Culture and Customs of Algarve
Algarve has a rich culture that is deeply influenced by its coastal location, resulting in a relaxed and easy-going lifestyle. Family values are highly respected, and the locals are known for their warm hospitality.
Best Time to Visit Algarve
The best time to visit Algarve is from March to October when the temperatures are pleasant and the region experiences less rainfall.
Do’s and Don’ts of Algarve
Do:
- Respect the locals and their culture
- Try local dishes and drinks
- Wear sunscreen and a hat when outdoors
- Visit off-season for a quieter experience
Don’t:
- Leave your belongings unattended on the beach or in public places
- Wear revealing clothing in religious places
- Ignore warnings when swimming in the sea
- Over-tipping in restaurants
Safety and Health
Safety in Algarve
Algarve is a safe region, but travelers should still exercise caution and use common sense.
Health in Algarve
European Union citizens can receive free or reduced-cost medical treatment with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU citizens should have health insurance before traveling to Algarve.
Getting to Algarve: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Algarve
- Faro Airport
- Lisbon Portela Airport
- Seville Airport
Bus Stations Near Algarve
- Eva Bus Station, Faro
- Lagos Bus Station
- Albufeira Bus Station
Other Options
- Train: Several stations in Algarve are well-connected to the national rail network.
- Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option to explore Algarve.
How to Get Around in Algarve
- Public Bus: Eva Bus and FlixBus both offer bus routes within Algarve and to other cities in Portugal and neighboring countries.
- Train: The Algarve Line runs east-west from Lagos to Vila Real de Santo António.
- Taxi: Taxis are available in major towns and cities.
- Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Algarve.
Where to Go Next from Algarve: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Lisbon
- Seville, Spain
- Costa de la Luz, Spain
- the Alentejo region of Portugal
Conclusion
Algarve is a beautiful region that has much to offer to traveling enthusiasts. With its stunning coastline, rich history, cultural heritage, and welcoming locals, Algarve is a must-visit destination. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to plan your next trip to Algarve and explore all the wonders that this region has to offer.
