Algarve guide

Faro - The capital of the Algarve region is famous for its beautiful historic center with Roman and Moorish influences, including the Sé Cathedral and ancient walls. Here you will find the only international airport in the Algarve.

Lagos - For stunning beaches like Praia Dona Ana and dramatic cliffs at Ponta da Piedade, head to Lagos. In addition to its natural beauty, it also offers a rich maritime history, including forts and museums that commemorate the city's importance during the Age of Discovery.

Albufeira - A lively seaside resort known not only for its beautiful beaches, such as Praia dos Pescadores, but also for the lively nightlife of The Strip. The city combines the charm of the historic Old Town with modern tourist attractions, making it a popular destination for relaxation and entertainment.

Portimão, Sagres, Tavira - Here you can read about other beautiful resorts in the Algarve.

The Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, is famous for its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages and pleasant Mediterranean climate. Stretching along the southern coast of the Atlantic Ocean, it is a popular tourist destination for its white sandy beaches, jagged cliffs and rich history. The diverse landscape of the Algarve features mountains in the north, fertile valleys inland and a coastline where modern resorts mingle with traditional fishing villages.

The capital of the Algarve, Faro, has a well-preserved historic center. Popular tourist areas include the cities of Albufeira, Lagos and Portimão. In addition to beaches and golf courses, you will also find national parks such as Ria Formosa.

Traditional Portuguese culture is still maintained in the region – you can see it, for example, in the local architecture, local festivals and excellent cuisine.

The Algarve has a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians, Romans and Moors. The region came under Moorish rule for several centuries, which influenced architecture, culture and agricultural techniques. The Moorish rulers left traces especially in the cities of Silves and Tavira. After the reconquest in the 13th century, the Algarve became part of Portugal, but its Moorish influence can still be seen in building styles and place names.

In the Algarve, you can admire a rugged coastline with breathtaking beaches that are often lined with cliffs and caves. Among the most famous are beaches such as Praia da Marinha, Praia da Rocha and Meia Praia. Nature reserves such as the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina protect the wild nature and the wild coast of the Algarve.

Typical Algarve cuisine has a strong focus on fresh seafood, popular dishes include grilled sardines, Cataplana mussels or Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato (mussels in garlic sauce). Sweets made from almonds and figs, such as the Dom Rodrigo dessert, also come from the region.

And how to get to the Algarve? You can find the airport in the capital Faro. The next closest airport is in Seville, from where you can get to the Algarve by bus, or in Lisbon, where you can take trains to the south.

Faro guide

Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in the south of Portugal, is an important cultural and transport center of the region. Approximately 60,000 inhabitants live here. Compared to the surrounding tourist resorts, it has a more peaceful and traditional impression. The city is known for its historic center, beautiful beaches and proximity to the Ria Formosa nature reserve, which is one of the important natural jewels of the Algarve.

Faro has a long and varied history, dating back to the Roman Empire when it was called Ossonoba. Local architecture and culture were then influenced by the Moors. In 1249, Faro was recaptured by the Portuguese during the Reconquista. In 1596, Faro was burned by English soldiers led by the Earl of Essex, resulting in significant losses of cultural heritage.

Sights and attractions

Old Town (Cidade Velha) - Faro has a well-preserved old town with narrow cobbled streets surrounded by medieval walls. The city is entered through the Arco da Vila gate, from where you can walk around the beautiful historic buildings and squares.

Sé Cathedral (Catedral de Faro) - Located on the Largo da Sé square, it is a dominant feature of the old town. The cathedral combines various architectural styles including Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque.

Church of Our Lady (Igreja do Carmo) - Also known as the Church of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), it attracts attention with its unusual chapel, decorated with human bones.

Faro Harbor - The picturesque harbor is where you can take boat trips on the Ria Formosa, to the islands or to see the dolphins. The area around the harbor is full of cafes and restaurants.

Ria Formosa Natural Park - This lagoon is a protected area and a favorite place for nature lovers. The park consists of several islets, dunes and wetlands where a variety of bird species can be observed.

Beaches - While Faro itself is not directly on the beach, it is superbly situated close to several beautiful beaches, such as Praia de Faro, which is located on one of the islands in the Ria Formosa lagoon. This beach is easily accessible from the city by bus or boat.

Estoi - A picturesque town located about 10 km north of the city of Faro. Tourists come here to soak up the historical atmosphere, admire the beautiful gardens and, above all, two important monuments: the Palácio de Estoi - a beautiful pink Rococo palace with beautiful gardens, and the Roman ruins of Milreu. Estoi offers a peaceful and authentic Portuguese environment.

Accommodations

In Faro, you can choose from almost 600 different accommodation capacities. Apartments are the most represented, followed by villas and holiday homes, boarding houses, hotels and hostels. You can stay in the city center or near the beach. Some accommodation has a swimming pool, most have air conditioning.

You will enjoy true luxury in the 5* hotel 3HB Faro. This hotel in the city center offers its guests a rooftop sun terrace with a view of the city and an infinity pool, fitness center, steam bath or sauna. You can have refreshments in one of the two hotel restaurants or at the bar. For those traveling with children, there is a playground and a babysitting service.

For example, Ria Formosa Guest House offers luxury at an affordable price. You can find the guesthouse in a quiet part of the city, not far from the airport. The accommodation provides airport transfers. You can relax in the wellness center with sauna and jacuzzi, on the terrace or by the outdoor pool. You can park for free in the area.

The popular guesthouse Casas das Ilhas is located in the center of the city. In addition to air conditioning, all rooms have a patio. Guests can use a common room and a shared kitchen. You can relax in the garden or on the sun terrace with outdoor furniture.

For example, Casa da Madalena Backpackers Hostel offers cheap accommodation. This hostel in the city center, a short distance from the port, offers accommodation in mixed rooms. The room price already includes breakfast. Guests can use the shared kitchen or the sunny terrace. Concierge service and luggage storage are provided at the 24/7 reception.

For a complete offer of accommodation in Faro, we recommend using A-HOTEL.com or Booking.com.

Lagos guide

One of the most picturesque towns in the Algarve, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches and dramatic coastline, Lagos lies on the south-west coast, about 90 km west of Faro. It has a population of around 30,000 and many tourists come here to explore the cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Lagos has a long and distinguished history dating back to Phoenician and Roman times. In the Middle Ages, it was an important trading port that played an important role during the era of Portuguese overseas discoveries. Prince Henry the Navigator (Infante Dom Henrique) used Lagos as a base for his expeditions, and many explorers also set sail from there on their voyages to unknown lands.

Lagos is infamous for being the site of Europe's first slave market in 1444. Today, Praça do Infante is home to a museum commemorating this part of the city's history.

You can easily reach Lagos by car, train or bus from other parts of the Algarve. The region's main transport hub, Faro Airport, is about an hour's drive from the city.

Sights and attractions

Ponta da Bandeira Fortress (Forte da Ponta da Bandeira) – Built in the 17th century to defend the port, today it serves as a museum.

Church of Saint Anthony (Igreja de Santo António) - One of the most beautiful baroque churches in the Algarve from the early 18th century, known for its richly decorated interior.

Lagos City Museum - This museum showcases the city's rich history, including collections of archaeological finds and art.

Ponta da Piedade - One of the most famous natural attractions in Lagos. The area is characterized by dramatic rock formations that create picturesque coves, caves and arches. The site can be reached on foot or you can take a boat trip to see these reefs up close.

Beaches - Lagos is surrounded by beautiful beaches such as Praia Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo and the long sandy beach Meia Praia, ideal for water sports.

Accommodations

Although Lagos has only 30,000 permanent residents, you will find more than 1,350 accommodation capacities. You can choose from a wide range of hotels, guest houses, holiday homes and villas, apartments or hostels. Those arriving in high season will like that many accommodations are beachfront and some have a pool.

You can enjoy luxury with beautiful views, for example, at the 4* Lagos Avenida Hotel, which is located in the city center. Enjoy views of the harbor and sea from the rooftop saltwater pool. Hotel services include a 24/7 reception, concierge, airport transfers, massages and the like. There is also a restaurant and a snack bar.

Villa Esmeralda offers accommodation directly at Porto de Mós beach. In the beautiful tropical garden, you can enjoy not only the pool, but also amazing views of the sea. Breakfast is served on the garden terrace with breathtaking views. You can park for free at the hotel, if you don't have your own car, the reception will arrange an airport transfer for you.

Accommodation with a great location is offered by the Infante Guesthouse. It is located in the historic center of Lagos, just 250 meters from Batata Beach. Therefore, from the roof terrace you can enjoy beautiful views of both the city and the sea and beaches. Guests can use the shared kitchen, parking service or bicycle rental.

For example, you can stay cheaply at Villa 46 Hostel - the hostel offers accommodation in shared and private rooms, but beware, only for adults. Guests can use the shared kitchen, outdoor pool, sunny terrace or shared lounge. The beach and the city center are less than 2 km from the hostel.

For a complete offer of accommodation in Lagos, we recommend using A-HOTEL.com or Booking.com.

Albufeira guide

Albufeira, one of the most popular resorts in the Algarve, is located between the cities of Faro and Lagos, approximately halfway up the Algarve. This picturesque seaside town, once a fishing village, today attracts tourists from all over the world thanks to its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and rich history. The city is divided into two main parts: Old Town (Old Town) and New Town (The Strip).

Old Town - The old town of Albufeira is characterized by narrow cobbled streets, white houses and an authentic Portuguese atmosphere. There are a number of traditional restaurants, shops and cafes. You can enjoy a beautiful walk here, overlooking the historic square of Largo Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco. Landmarks include the Igreja Matriz church and the remains of old Moorish architecture.

New Town (The Strip) - New Town, on the other hand, is known for its dynamic atmosphere. On Avenida Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro, known as "The Strip", is full of bars, clubs and restaurants, making this area the center of Albufeira's nightlife.

Beaches - Albufeira is famous for its beaches. The most famous is Praia dos Pescadores (Fishing Beach), which is easily accessible from the Old Town. Other popular beaches are Praia da Oura, known for its golden sands, and Praia de São Rafael, famous for its rock formations and crystal clear water.

The city offers not only beautiful beaches, but also lively evening and night entertainment. The Strip is the center of nightlife, where you can find modern clubs, bars and discos, while in the Old Town you will find traditional taverns with live music.

Lovers of water sports, such as surfing, swimming, diving or sailing along the coast, also go to Albufeira. In addition, you can visit one of the nearby water parks or go on boat trips to see dolphins.

Accommodations

Albufeira offers an abundance of different accommodation from apartments, holiday homes and villas, guesthouses, hotels and hostels. The most visited neighborhoods include Albufeira Center and Areias Sao João.

The most luxurious accommodation in Albufeira includes the 5* Vila Origens Boutique Hotel Albufeira – Adults Only. The hotel is located in the historic center of the city and at the same time a short distance from Praia dos Pescadores beach. Guests can use the garden, sun terrace, outdoor pool, concierge service, wellness including beauty salon or steam bath.

If you prefer to stay in an apartment, check out Apartamentos Carruna, located half a kilometer from Oura Beach. In the apartment you will find a balcony and a fully equipped kitchen including a microwave oven and a refrigerator. Guests can use the garden and outdoor terrace with swimming pool. A short distance from the accommodation you will find a public transport stop and various restaurants.

The pleasant Casa Amarela Guesthouse is located in the city center, about 600 meters from Praia dos Pescadores beach. You can use the year-round rooftop pool, terrace with sunbeds, shared kitchen or common room in the guesthouse. Accommodation can be provided by airport transfer or car rental upon request.

Quality cheap accommodation Musical Hostel is located in the center of Albufeira, not far from the Jardim Público de Albufeira public garden. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, a terrace with outdoor furniture or a garden. The 24/7 reception will advise you on which places to visit in the area.

For a complete offer of accommodation in Albufeira, we recommend using A-HOTEL.com or Booking.com.

Other well-known and beautiful resorts in the Algarve include, for example:

Portimão - The second largest city in the Algarve, best known for its Praia da Rocha beach. Portimão also has a strong fishing industry and offers excellent seafood dishes. Heading inland is the Algarve international circuit, where motorsport races including the Superbike World Championship and the Moto Grand Prix take place.

Sagres - Sagres lies on the western edge of the Algarve and is famous for its wild nature, surfing scene and pristine beaches. In the Middle Ages, Prince Henry the Navigator, who supported Portuguese discovery expeditions, had his seat here. A short distance from Sagres lies Cabo de São Vincente, the most southwestern point of the European mainland. In the Middle Ages, it was considered the end of the world.

Tavira - A picturesque town in the east of the Algarve that has preserved its traditional Portuguese character. Here you will find bridges, river embankments and historic churches. People who want a quieter vacation with an authentic atmosphere go here. Tavira is about 3 km from the coast.