Algarve

Why go

Endless beaches, the sea’s delicious bounty and – let’s be honest – cheap beer. There’s plenty of culture on offer too, from Roman ruins at Estói, near Faro, to outdoor concerts.

When to go

The Algarve is sunny for most of the year though locals will probably think that you’re mad wearing a bikini in December. In August, at the height of summer, Atlantic breezes mean that the area is rarely oven-like. This is also when the Portuguese descend en masse (bringing much of Lisbon’s nightlife with them), so beds and sand are at a premium. Winter and spring are peak golf seasons.

Best for

Restaurants , Nightlife , Beaches , Budget

How to get there

Faro airport is the gateway to the region, although Lisbon is only a three-hour drive away from most resorts. Direct scheduled flights, budget flights and charter flights are available from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton.

Shopping

No one comes to the Algarve just to shop, but all the main towns have local and foreign chains (with the likes of Zara often cheaper than in the UK). Faro’s bustling downtown is a pleasant place to potter, but as in other towns, local shopaholics head for out-of-town malls. Local markets are fun: Loulé’s is particularly bustly. Crafts shops can be found in most resorts.

Alternative Perspectives

Among the Algarve's treasures are its orchards. These not only supply the almonds, figs, carobs and oranges (the Arabic word for which is burtaqali, from 'Portugal') that go into delicious regional sweets, but deck the hills with delicate blossoms in late winter and spring.

Must see

The rocky coves between Lagos and Albuefeira are a must for beach lovers. The castle at Silves is worth seeing but if you visit one town, let it be Tavira. Founded in ancient times and once a major port, it went into decline when its estuary silted up; this served to preserve its old-world charm.

Family activities

Hot summers have meant a rash of water parks springing up, offering rides and other attractions. These include Zoomarine, near Albufeira (with aquarium and dolphin show), Aquashow at nearby Quarteira, Slide & Splash at Lagoa, and Aqualand near Silves.

Sports activities

Golf

Local customs

Language. Portuguese pronunciation is tricky but even a few mangled words will charm locals used to dealing with tourists who don’t bother or – worse – use Spanish.

Tipping. The Portuguese are pretty mean with tips (5% is normal) but in the touristy Algarve 10% is expected. In restaurants, you are charged for all appetisers/bread placed on the table unless you make clear you don’t want them.