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Algarve: A Complete Travel Guide to Southern Portugal
- Katy M
- Feb 18, 2025
- 8 min read
The Algarve, Portugal’s southern coastline, boasts dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden sea caves that can only be accessed by boat. This region offers a perfect mix of stunning landscapes, breathtaking viewpoints, and authentic local charm in the coastal towns.
Inland, you’ll find rolling green hills, vineyards, and a Mediterranean climate that ranges from warm sunny days to a refreshing sea breeze in the evenings and mornings.
We spent nine unforgettable days in the Algarve with our 2.5-year-old toddler, and we absolutely loved every moment. Here’s everything you need to know for an incredible trip to southern Portugal.
Best Time to Visit Algarve
The Algarve is a great destination year-round, but the peak tourist season is summer (June–August) when the beaches and hotels fill with visitors. Temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F) or higher, making it the best time for beach lovers.
We traveled in July and enjoyed warm sunny days and pleasant evenings with a light breeze, which was perfect for exploring and dining outdoors.
For those who prefer milder weather, spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant daytime temperatures of 20–25°C (68–77°F). However, keep in mind that ocean temperatures remain cool, and swimming might not be ideal during these seasons.
How to Get to Algarve
The most popular route is flying into Lisbon and driving 2.5 hours south to the Algarve.
Another option is flying directly into Faro, which has an international airport in the eastern Algarve.
For our trip, we flew into Faro with a short layover in Munich. It was quick and convenient, and within minutes of landing, we were already enjoying the Algarve’s sun and coastline.
Getting Around Algarve
To fully explore the Algarve, renting a car is the best and most convenient option. Having a car gives you the freedom to visit different beaches, explore hidden gems, and take scenic road trips along the coastline.
Driving in Algarve is safe and easy. The roads are well-maintained, traffic is light, and parking is generally accessible.
We booked our rental car in advance and picked it up at Faro Airport, making our trip hassle-free.
If you prefer not to drive, you can use public transportation, but it’s less flexible. If you stay in one of the major towns, you can rely on local buses and taxis, but for true exploration, a car is highly recommended.
Where to Stay in Algarve
The Algarve spans about 170 km (105 miles), and you can easily drive across it in under two hours. If you stay in a central location, you can explore the entire region without changing hotels.
However, we split our stay between two different locations to experience more variety, stay in multiple hotels, and make the trip feel longer and more diverse.
Luxury Resorts in Algarve
Vilalara Grand Hotel Algarve (Highly Recommended!)
A perfect blend of luxury and relaxation in the heart of the Algarve.
Located on a clifftop with a private beach and stunning ocean views.
Features spacious gardens, multiple swimming pools, an exclusive spa, and fine dining restaurants.
Fantastic for families—a huge kids' club (for ages 4+), an outdoor playground, and babysitting services available.
Cascade Wellness Resort (Near Lagos)
A high-end resort just 5 minutes from Lagos’ historic center.
Offers three pools, including an infinity pool with sand, a spa, a gym, and a sports complex.
A large kids’ club (ages 3+) with supervised activities, an outdoor play area, and babysitting services.
Great balance between a peaceful retreat and proximity to Lagos’ lively city center.
Must-Visit Towns in Algarve
Albufeira - The Lively Heart of the Algarve
Our first stop was Albufeira, a coastal town bursting with energy. We arrived just before sunset, and as we walked along the golden sands of Praia dos Pescadores, we could hear the hum of laughter and music from the beachfront restaurants.
The town's old quarter was a maze of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled balconies. At night, the streets transformed—locals and travelers gathered in buzzing taverns, street musicians played traditional Fado melodies, and the scent of freshly grilled seafood filled the air.
Albufeira had a little bit of everything: golden beaches, a charming old town, and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you were sipping a cold glass of vinho verde on a rooftop bar or taking an early morning dip in the Atlantic, the town had a way of making you feel alive and at home all at once.
Lagos – The Algarve’s Most Beautiful Town
Lagos stole my heart the moment we arrived. It was quieter than Albufeira, yet effortlessly charming, like a secret meant to be shared only with those who truly seek it.
We spent our mornings wandering through the old town, stopping for espresso and pastel de nata in hidden cafés where time seemed to slow down. The colorful tiles on the buildings, the ancient city walls, and the secluded squares gave the town an almost cinematic beauty.
But the true magic of Lagos? Its beaches.
We climbed down the wooden staircase leading to Praia do Camilo, where golden cliffs stood like ancient guardians, protecting the tiny cove below. The water was impossibly blue, and the waves lapped gently against the shore as if whispering a welcome. Just a short walk away, Ponta da Piedade awaited—a dramatic coastline of jagged cliffs and sea-carved arches, best explored by boat or kayak.
Lagos was wild yet peaceful, historic yet effortlessly modern, a place where history, adventure, and beauty blended into one unforgettable experience.
Portimão – Where the River Meets the Sea
Portimão had a different soul—not just a seaside escape, but a place rich in maritime history and bustling local life.
Unlike the quiet charm of Lagos, Portimão’s streets were alive with movement. The riverfront promenade stretched before us, filled with fishermen unloading their catch, locals sipping espresso, and the scent of charcoal-grilled sardines lingering in the air.
We took our time exploring Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches, where the ocean stretched endlessly, and golden cliffs framed the horizon. As the day melted into evening, the town transformed—beach bars lit up, and the nightlife scene pulsed with energy.
But my favorite moment in Portimão? Sitting by the marina at sunset, watching boats glide across the water, their sails catching the last golden rays of the day. It was a reminder that travel isn’t just about places—it’s about moments that stay with you long after you’ve left.
Beaches in the Algarve
If you’re a beach lover, then the Algarve in Portugal is the perfect destination for you. Here, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking and unique beaches in the world.
The impressive cliffs that line the Algarve’s coastline create an endless array of beaches—some small and intimate, others spacious and lively. The smaller, secluded beaches, surrounded by rock formations and crystal-clear waters, offer a sense of privacy and tranquility, while the larger beaches provide wide-open spaces and plenty of activities.
Most beaches in the Algarve have free entry, and you’ll often find designated parking areas, some of which are also free of charge.
For the smaller, more remote beaches, keep in mind that there are usually no facilities—so it’s a good idea to bring beach towels, chairs, and snacks to make your visit more comfortable. Also, note that access to some of these hidden beaches may require walking down steep staircases or dirt paths, so plan accordingly.
A large, central beach with sunbeds, water sports, and family-friendly activities.
Year after year, Marinha Beach is ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and with its crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings, it’s easy to see why.
If you’re looking for a beach where you can relax, take in stunning views, and experience the natural beauty of the Algarve, Marinha Beach is the perfect spot.
The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, and just above it, you’ll find one of the most famous viewpoints in the region—where the rock formations in the sea naturally form a heart shape when viewed from above.
How to Get to the Viewpoint
Reaching the viewpoint is fairly easy:
Park at the free designated parking lot near the beach.
Instead of heading down to the beach, turn right and walk along the fence for about five minutes until you reach the iconic viewpoint.
Located just outside Lagos, Praia do Camilo is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches in the Algarve, known for its stunning natural beauty.
Surrounded by impressive cliffs and soft golden sand, this small yet breathtaking beach attracts many visitors looking to experience the serene charm of the Algarve coastline.
Getting to Praia do Camilo
Access to the beach is via a long wooden staircase that leads down from the free parking lot directly to the shore.
Since the beach is quite small, it can get crowded during peak hours.
There is only one small kiosk on the beach, selling drinks and snacks, so it's recommended to bring your own essentials if you plan to stay for a while.
Located right next to Lagos’ old town and marina, Praia da Batata is a beautiful sandy beach that offers a perfect mix of stunning scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.
Its central location makes it a convenient and easily accessible beach, perfect for a quick swim or a peaceful break while exploring the town.
Estudantes Beach (Praia dos Estudantes)
Just next to Praia da Batata, Estudantes Beach is a small but unique beach, famous for the Pinhão Fort Bridge—one of the most iconic landmarks along the Algarve coast.
This impressive 19th-century bridge stretches over the sea, connecting two cliffs near the Fort de Pinhão, which gave the bridge its name.
The bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Lagos, offering a stunning backdrop for visitors.
Access to the bridge is only possible during low tide, when you can walk along the beach to reach it.
A visit to Estudantes Beach is a must for anyone exploring Lagos, especially for those looking to experience a mix of natural beauty and historical charm.
Things to Do in the Algarve
Boat Tour to Benagil Cave
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience during your trip to the Algarve, make sure to visit Benagil Cave, one of the most famous and breathtaking attractions in the region.
Located right on the coastline, Benagil Cave was formed over thousands of years due to natural erosion. With three openings—two acting as "gates" and a large circular hole at the top—the cave allows sunlight to stream inside, creating a magical and surreal atmosphere.
How to Get to Benagil Cave
The cave is only accessible by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, as swimming is not recommended due to strong currents.
Boat tours run frequently from various towns along the coast, offering a scenic ride along the cliffs and caves.
We chose to explore the cave by paddleboard (SUP) with XploreBenagil, which made the experience even more special.
Our Experience
The tour lasted about 2.5 hours, during which we paddled along the coastline, exploring hidden caves and rock formations.
We made stops at several other sea caves, some of which can only be accessed by swimming or paddleboard.
The highlight of the trip was finally entering Benagil Cave, which was simply breathtaking—a place that truly lives up to its reputation.
Whether by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, visiting Benagil Cave is an absolute must when traveling through the Algarve!
Boat Tour to Ponta da Piedade
Just a short distance from Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the Algarve. This stunning coastline is made up of towering limestone cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and natural arches, all rising above the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
These breathtaking formations were shaped over thousands of years by natural erosion, creating the dramatic landscapes that make Ponta da Piedade one of the most iconic sights in Portugal.
Best Ways to Experience Ponta da Piedade
Boat Tour (Highly Recommended!)
The best way to fully appreciate the beauty of Ponta da Piedade is by boat.
Boat tours allow you to navigate through the caves and arches, getting up close to the stunning formations.
We took a morning tour (1.5 hours), sailing through hidden caves, towering cliffs, and breathtaking rock structures.
The experience was absolutely mesmerizing, offering some of the most incredible views in the Algarve.
Scenic Viewpoints
For those who prefer to explore on foot, there are several stunning viewpoints above the cliffs, such as Farol da Ponta da Piedade (Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse).
From here, you can admire the panoramic views of the coastline, watching the waves crash against the dramatic rock formations.
The viewpoint is easy to access by car or on foot and is perfect for photography lovers.
Whether by boat or from the cliffs above, Ponta da Piedade is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Algarve.
Dolphin Watching Tour
Although we didn’t get a chance to do this tour due to time constraints, dolphin watching is one of the most popular activities in the Algarve.
Tours can be booked through almost any travel agency in the region and run several times a day.
However, it’s recommended to take an early morning tour, as this is when the chances of spotting dolphins in the open sea are highest.
Most dolphin-watching tours also include scenic sightseeing, as the boat cruises past wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sea caves, making it a beautiful experience even beyond the wildlife encounters.
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