Are you in Portugal and want to explore the Algarve? What a great idea! We loved this region. Located in the south of Portugal, it’s famous for its beaches, but also for its landscapes, caves, forts, pretty towns and outdoor activities. Something for sun and nature lovers!
Read this article and discover 15 ideas for things to do in the Algarve, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Famous Algarve beaches: Praia Da Falesia and Praia Da Marinha
Why visit?
The Algarve is home to some extraordinary beaches, some of which are world-famous. We were lucky enough to visit Praia Da Marinha, known as one of the most beautiful on Earth! The location is idyllic and perfect for long explorations of the coves, but also for enjoying the view. You’ll also love Praia Da Falesia. Its pale ochre colors make it one of our favorite beaches. Stretching 6km in length, it blossoms at the foot of high, orange-white cliffs that contrast with the bright green of the pine trees at their summit. We think it’s a wonderful show!
Practical advice
- Praia Do Falesia 20min drive from Albufeira
- Praia Da Marinha 25min drive from Portimao
- Steep beach access requiring some walking
- Bring good shoes
- Parking lots
- Nearby restaurants
- Breathtaking views
2. Wild beaches: Praia Do Camilo and Praia De Albandeira
Why visit?
During our stay, we discovered other, wilder but equally extraordinary beaches. We particularly liked Camilo beach, with its intimate atmosphere and picturesque arches. Praia De Albandeira will also appeal to fans of beautiful landscapes. It’s a small cove separated by rock formations that form 2 beaches caressed by the waves. Read our dedicated article to discover more Algarve beaches!
Practical advice
- Praia Do Camilo 8 minutes from downtown Lagos
- Praia De Albandeira 30min drive from Portimao and Albufeira
- Steep beach access requiring some walking
- Bring good shoes
- Parking lots
- Nearby restaurants
- At high tide, the expanse of sand shrinks
3. Venture to the Benagil caves
Why visit?
We were impressed by the extraordinary sea cave, Grotte de Benagil. Caressed by the waves, two cliff entrances lead to a small inner beach crowned by a dome open to the sky. You’ll be amazed! Try a boat tour or a guided kayak trip (if the sea is calm). Maybe you’ll spot some dolphins along the way. A nautical activity not to be missed! More choices of water tours in Benagil here.
Practical advice
- Allow 1h30 to 2h for the boat or kayak trip
- Depending on the tour chosen, prices range from €30 to €50.
- 30min drive from Portimao and Albufeira
- 1 bar near the Benagil beach parking lot
- Beware of the power of the sea for those who try to swim there.
4. Admire Sagres Fort and Cabo de Sao Vicente
Why visit?
Like us, venture to Portugal’s southernmost tip and visit the Fort of Sagres. This ancient fortress bears witness to the Portuguese explorations of Africa in the 15th century. Its imposing silhouette facing the sea will impress you. We also enjoyed the view of this end of the world from Cap Saint-Vincent. The pretty lighthouse and the high cliffs make up an imposing landscape.
Practical advice
- Allow 1 hour to visit each site
- Easy access on foot and by car
- Parking
- Admission to the fortress is €3
- Opening hours vary from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., depending on the season.
5. Watching the sunset at Ponta Da Piedade
Why visit?
This superb cape is well worth the detour! We were overwhelmed by the panorama of cliffs, arches and rock formations. Ideal for steep hikes, the site provides access to the seafront and views of the immense overhang from below. At sunset, the view is even more beautiful. Don’t miss this unique landscape and its colors!
Practical advice
- Allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit
- Steep, steep access
- Bring good shoes
- Parking
- Breathtaking views and beautiful walks
6. Visit the west coast and Praia De Odeceixe
Why visit?
The wilder west coast is a little different from the central Algarve. We loved it! The ocean is more powerful and the beaches can be immense. Praia De Odeceixe made a lasting impression on us! Nestled in an inner bay at the mouth of a river, it stands out from the other beaches in the region with its blue lagoon stretching inland.
Practical advice
- Easy access to Praia De Odeceixe
- Parking
- Toilets and showers near the beach
- Nearby restaurants
7. Stroll around Lagos and enjoy its nightlife
Why visit?
We found the historic city center of Lagos very appealing. The old walled town is well worth a visit! It’s a pleasant place to stroll and feel the bustle of the city. Numerous bars and restaurants make it a popular nightlife destination. Come and enjoy a cocktail or, like us, take a stroll through the charming little streets.
Practical advice
- Allow 1 hour to visit the historic city center
- Easy access by car
- Parking lots
- Many restaurants and bars
8. Enjoy the seaside resort of Portimao
Why visit?
Situated close to superb beaches, Portimao is one of the Algarve’s must-see resorts. We found every possible tourist service here. Beach, golf, resort hotels and many other surprises await you in this seaside town. You can also enjoy a wide range of water sports from Portimao. Lots of ideas here!
Practical advice
- Easy access by car
- Parking lots
- Restaurants and bars
- Resort hotels
- Beaches near downtown
9. Albufeira and its magnificent beaches
Why visit?
Built partly on cliffs, Albufeira is one of the Algarve’s main towns. We enjoyed strolling through the narrow streets with their white houses, typical of southern Portugal. Beautiful beaches dot the outskirts of the town. Praia Dos Arrifes, for example, stands out for its 3 large rock formations. From Albufeira, you can also go on an adventure by boat and try to spot dolphins or go parasailing on the water!
Practical advice
- Easy access by car
- Parking lots
- Restaurants and bars
- Beaches near downtown
10. Visit the white city of Tavira
Why visit?
Located further east in the Algarve, Tavira is, in our opinion, a pretty town crossed by a river that flows into the sea. We loved the pretty bridges that straddle it and the typical Portuguese architecture. White walls, overhanging roofs and colorful motifs on house facades. Its castle is also worth a visit! The city is also close to some magnificent beaches. The ideal place to spend your vacations in the sun!
Practical advice
- Easy access by car
- Parking lots
- Restaurants and bars
- Guided train and tuk tuk tours
- Beaches near downtown
11. Stroll through the village of Ferrugado
Why visit?
We were charmed by this very pretty seaside village opposite Portimao! Its ochre castle and stone fortress imbue the place with history. Stroll the narrow streets of the center and immerse yourself in the Algarve! It’s also close to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches, such as Praia Dos Tres Castelos.
Practical advice
- 30min drive from Portimao
- Allow 1 hour to visit the village
- Easy access by car
- Parking lots
- Restaurants
12. Admire the Alfanzina lighthouse and its cliffs
Why visit?
This landmark for sailors is located on a beautiful cape. We enjoyed the view of the surrounding area and the ocean! The cliffs are magnificent. Their warm colors contrast with the deep blue of the sea. We were also impressed by the huge holes sinking into the bowels of the coast. You can also spot a small beach of golden sand and a sea cave lapped by the waves below.
Practical advice
- 15min from Carvoeiro
- Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour for your visit
- Parking nearby
- Bring good shoes
- Magnificent panorama
13. Visit Faro’s historic center and the Ria Formosa Natural Park
Why visit?
The capital of the Algarve, Faro is slightly inland. The region’s international airport is located here. The town is located next to the immense Vale Do Lobo beach, where we loved strolling! The intense orange of the cliffs blends beautifully with the blond of the sand and the blue of the water. The Ria Formosa Natural Park also adjoins the city. Here you can discover extraordinary nature and a rich fauna.
Practical advice
- 1 hour’s drive from Portimao
- Home to an international airport
- Boat tours departing from the city
- Near Vale de Lobo
14. Test nautical activities and boat tours
Why test?
In the Algarve, you can enjoy a wide range of seaside activities! We loved our boat tour, a real adventure on the water discovering the caves along the coast. If you too would like to explore the region on the ocean, here are a few ideas for water-based activities:
- Take a boat tour in search of the Benagil caves!
- Embark on a guided kayak trip (if the sea is calm).
- Try to catch a glimpse of dolphins on this sea outing!
- More choices of water tours here.
Practical advice
- Bring sportswear and appropriate footwear
- Tours from several cities: Portimao, Albufeira, Faro
- Book your activities in advance!
15. Moving inland
Why visit?
The Algarve is not just about the sea, it’s also about the land! With its rolling green hills and vast forests, the hinterland is just as beautiful. We visited the small hilltop town of Monchique and the village of Silves with its castle. You can also discover rivers and lakes. Lakes Odeleite and Odiaxere are a must-see with their stunning colors and orange islands!
Practical advice
- Plan 1 day visit
- Prefer to travel by car
- Take good shoes if you want to explore villages and forests
Things to do in the Algarve: other ideas
Other places to visit in the Algarve
There are many other exciting sites to discover in the Algarve:
- The Sal Gema salt mine in Loulé
- Algar Seco seaside rock formation
- Castro Marim Fort
- The cliffs of Torre de Aspa
- The Roman ruins of Cerro Vila
Other beaches in the Algarve
The Algarve is home to numerous beaches, many of which are well worth a visit. Apart from those mentioned earlier in the article, we also really enjoyed Praia Dona Ana, Praia Dos Arrifes and Praia Dos Castelos. See all our favorite beaches in our dedicated article here.
Things to do in the Algarve with children
As well as beach days and sand castles, there’s plenty to do with children in the Algarve:
- Take a boat ride like we did, and keep the whole family entertained!
- Why not try your hand at quad biking?
- Discover Tavira on the little train.
- Zip-line over the Spanish border. Find out more here.
Things to do in the Algarve when it rains
Fortunately, it doesn’t rain very often in the Algarve, but if it does, don’t be alarmed. There are things to do:
- Visit forts and castles such as Castro Marim or the Fortress of Sagres.
- Visit the museums of Portimao, Faro and Tavira.
- Venture into Centro Siencia in Lagos.
- Make the most of your hotel!
Useful tips for visiting the Algarve
Where is the Algarve?
- In southern Portugal
- The main cities are Lagos, Portimao, Albufeira and Faro.
- Lisbon to Albufeira: 2h30 drive
- Porto to Albufeira: 5 hours’ drive
- Evora to Albufeira: 2h15 drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get to the Algarve?
The Algarve is a popular and easily accessible destination:
- By plane – you can land at Faro International Airport – Compare flight prices on Skyscanner.
- By car from Lisbon, Porto or Spain via the A22 freeway.
- By train from Lisbon to Albufeira or Faro via Alfa Pendular.
- By express bus from Lisbon to Albufeira or Faro and other towns.
Parking in the Algarve
During the high season, parking lots in towns and on beaches fill up fast. We saw it! Plan to arrive early for your visits or outings to make sure you have enough room.
Getting around the Algarve
Here are the options for getting around the Algarve:
- In our opinion, the best option is by car. Would you like to rent a vehicle? Book it now!
- By bus, but you’ll be more limited in terms of timetables and destinations.
- Via organized tours to the best beaches and also inland – see the many options.
Where to eat in the Algarve
Read our article on the subject (coming soon)!
Visiting the Algarve in winter
Why not visit the Algarve in winter? The region remains sunny and temperatures mild thanks to its pleasant climate. You can even take advantage of the beaches and go for a swim (with a wetsuit for the more chilly). The water rarely falls below 13° Celsius. What’s more, you’ll find services and hotels at lower prices than in summer! Book your accommodation now.
