Algarve Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Albufeira featuring a coastal town, swimming and a sandy beach
Marinha Beach featuring rocky coastline
Dona Ana Beach which includes general coastal views, rocky coastline and kayaking or canoeing
Tres Irmaos Beach which includes rocky coastline, general coastal views and a sunset
Tres Irmaos Beach featuring general coastal views, a sunset and fishing
The Algarve, southernmost region of Portugal, offers a fascinating mix of beaches, golf courses, nature reserves, market towns, fishing villages and Roman ruins. Castles, golf, water sports, delicious cuisine and year-round sun brings masses of visitors to the Algarve every year. Stretching from the Atlantic to the western border of Spain it offers breathtaking scenery, such as breathtaking cliffs, pristine beaches, secluded coves, nature reserves, vineyards and wooded mountains – any surprise why it’s such a popular tourist region?

The western part of the Algarve is internationally renowned for its rocky landscape and isolated bays. Visit lively resorts such as Albufeira and Lagos for fun in the sun, or explore the quaint fishing villages of Burgau and Salema for a quiet getaway. Go to the south-western corner of the region and explore the historical peninsula of Sagres, or hit up Carrapateira and Odeceixe on the wild west coast, where you can enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Faro is the capital of the region a former Roman settlement, it’s full of history and culture. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and the lively nightlife in the walled Old City. For a bit of tranquillity, why not experience the natural beauty of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a protected area on the east coast of Faro and its unspoilt frontier islands, a natural habitat for local birds.

Move inland and you’ll find a pleasing mix of scenic landscapes, history and relaxation. Admire the Roman ruins of Milreu near Estoi and the Moorish architecture of Silves, stroll through the charming streets of Loulé or spend an afternoon relaxing in the thermal baths of Caldas de Monchique. Bike or walk the Via Algarviana, a 300-kilometer route through the flower-covered mountains of the Serra de Monchique and the Serra do Caldeirão.

And how can we forget the golf? The Algarve is famous for its golf the world over and has more than 35 beautiful golf courses scattered throughout the 155 kilometre long coastline of the region.

Sample the delicious cuisine of the region. The region prides itself on its fresh local ingredients, such as fish, almonds, grapes, oranges and figs. Enjoy traditional cuisine like açorda de mariscos, a seafood stew and bread that is truly to die for.

The easiest way to reach the Algarve is via a flight to Faro Airport. Once you’ve arrived, it’s easy to explore the area by car, via the extensive network of buses or even by bike. With on average 300 sunny days a year, the Algarve is a popular year-round destination for everyone from honeymooners to families, from food lovers to sports enthusiasts. There’s something for everyone.

Portugal is a great location for a bit of sun, sea and sand. If you like beach holidays in Algarve then you're sure to love our cheap beach holidays to Madeira or our Albufeira beach holidays. Book with Expedia and find out why.

Where to stay in Algarve

Falesia Beach featuring rocky coastline, general coastal views and a beach

Vilamoura

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Vilamoura. Make a stop by Falesia Beach or Vilamoura Marina while you're exploring the area.

Vilamoura
Fisherman\'s Beach which includes a coastal town and a beach

Albufeira Old Town

4.5/5(76 area reviews)

Albufeira Old Town is a destination visitors seek out for its beaches, abundant dining options and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Albufeira Old Town Square or Peneco Beach while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Albufeira Old Town
Rocha Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views

Praia da Rocha

Travellers to Praia da Rocha praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Três Castelos Beach and Algarve Casino.

Praia da Rocha
Default Image

Vale do Lobo

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Vale do Lobo. A stop by Vale do Lobo Beach or Garrao Beach might round out your trip.

Vale do Lobo
Faro Cathedral showing heritage elements

Faro City Centre

Faro City Centre is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Faro Marina and A Companhia de Teatro do Algarve while in the area.

Faro City Centre
Default Image

Quinta do Lago

Beaches, golf courses and restaurants are some highlights of Quinta do Lago. Make a stop by Quinta do Lago Golf or Quinta do Lago Beach while you're exploring.

Quinta do Lago
The Editory By The Sea Lagos Hotel

The Editory By The Sea Lagos Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Rua Raul Brandão, 2 - Bloco B, Lagos
The price is £278 per night from 31 Jul to 1 Aug
£278
31 Jul - 1 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Lagos. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool and 24-hour room service. Popular attractions Camilo Beach and Dona Ana Beach ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (111 reviews)
"Pros: Excellent location to beaches and old town on foot! Nice facility! Nice breakfast buffet in spite of coffee machines using powdered milk. Cons: pool is very cold; restaurant for dinner is fixed menu only and is pricey. Peak times have breakfast buffet lineups and reception very often has lineups ..."

Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025

The Editory By The Sea Lagos Hotel
Hotel Algarve Casino

Hotel Algarve Casino

5 out of 5
Avenida Tomas Cabreira, Praia da Rocha, Portimão, Faro
The price is £194 per night from 31 Jul to 1 Aug
£194
31 Jul - 1 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,008 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 26 Jul 2025

Hotel Algarve Casino
Tivoli Carvoeiro

Tivoli Carvoeiro

5 out of 5
Apartado 1299, Vale Do Covo, Praia do Carvoeiro, Lagoa
The price is £315 per night from 13 Aug to 14 Aug
£315
13 Aug - 14 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Lagoa. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the bar in their reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,010 reviews)
"We had an amazing time at the hotel. It was beautiful, and our room was go"

Reviewed on 27 Jul 2025

Tivoli Carvoeiro
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory

Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory

4 out of 5
Rua Sacadura Cabral 8, Lagos
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly aparthotel in Lagos. Enjoy room service, a health club and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (795 reviews)
"Beautiful pool area, amazing buffet breakfast included with good coffee! Walking distance to old town, safe area. Nice balcony facing pool, good towel service. Helpful front desk staff. Very pleasant. Highly recommend."

Reviewed on 23 Jul 2025

Aqualuz Lagos by The Editory
Belmar Spa & Beach Resort

Belmar Spa & Beach Resort

4 out of 5
Estrada do Porto De Mos, Lagos
Stay at this 4-star spa aparthotel in Lagos. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 4 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,235 reviews)
"Amazing place to stay when you are in Lagos. The location is perfect with the beach and restaurants just across the street. Having multiple pools meant there was always a place to enjoy. Rooms were modern and had everything you need to enjoy your stay. Highly recommend the Belmar Spa and Beach ..."

Reviewed on 24 Jul 2025

Belmar Spa & Beach Resort
Clube Albufeira Garden Village

Clube Albufeira Garden Village

4 out of 5
Estrada de Ferreiras-Alpouvar, Albufeira
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Albufeira. Enjoy free parking, 4 outdoor pools and 2 restaurants. Popular attractions Albufeira Old Town Square and Albufeira ...
8/10 Very Good! (208 reviews)
"Really enjoyed my visit, lovely place and lovely people!"

Reviewed on 21 May 2025

Clube Albufeira Garden Village
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Cities near Algarve