Where to stay in the Algarve to make the most of this region of Portugal? Which city to choose? East or west?
Here’s our guide comparing the best places to stay in the Algarve:
- Map with cities to stay,
- The criteria for choosing each location, with our own photos,
- Our selection of the best hotels to stay in,
- …
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Overview and map of towns to stay in Algarve
- The Algarve is divided into three distinct zones: the west with its spectacular cliffs, the center with its lively seaside resorts, and the east with its long sandy beaches.
- Each town has its own character, from the liveliest to the most authentic.
- The climate is more constant in the south than on the west coast.
Map
Here’s a map to help you find the cities listed in this article.
Where to stay in the Algarve to explore the whole region?
If you’re more interested in historic towns and local culture, choose Faro(see top-rated accommodations) or Tavira(see top-rated accommodations).
If you’re most interested in cliffs and sea caves, choose a central location on the south coast, such as Lagos(see top-rated hotels) or Portimao(see top-rated accommodation).
Where to stay in the Algarve for the best beaches?
It all depends on what kind of beach you’re looking for:
- For spectacular cliff beaches, choose Lagos(see top-rated hotels).
- For long, golden sandy beaches, opt for the Albufeira region(see top-rated accommodations).
- For wilder, more natural beaches, choose Tavira(see top-rated accommodations).
- For surfing, head for Aljezur
Where to stay in the Algarve with young children?
If you’re traveling with young children, you have several options:
- Alvor with its long, safe beach and family atmosphere (see top-rated accommodations)
- Albufeira for its many activities and facilities
- Vilamoura for all-inclusive resorts
See the sections below for more information.
Where to stay in the Algarve for (romantic) couples?
After visiting all the places in the region, we find that the most romantic destinations are..:
- Lagos with its caves and intimate beaches
- Tavira for its historic charm
- Carvoeiro for its picturesque coves
- Ferragudo for its postcard atmosphere
See the sections below for more information.
Other criteria:
- For peace and quiet: choose Sagres or Tavira
- For hiking: choose Lagos or Sagres
- For luxury: choose Vilamoura
- For partying: choose Albufeira
- For water sports: choose Aljezur
Best hotels in Algarve
And if the hotel is more important than the location, check out our articles:
- Best hotels
- 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Best boutique hotels (coming soon)
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
- Best all-inclusive hotels (coming soon)
- Best hotels for families (coming soon)
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
City 1: Lagos
Why stay in Lagos?
With its historic center, famous beaches and cliffs, and quieter atmosphere, Lagos is an ideal place to discover the Algarve for the first time.
We particularly appreciated the perfect blend of spectacular natural sites (such as Ponta da Piedade) and tourist amenities, while retaining a more authentic atmosphere than other seaside resorts.
Beach types
Just a short distance from the town, you’ll find several beautiful beaches:
- Praia Dona Ana, one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches with golden cliffs
- Praia do Camilo, reached by a picturesque staircase
- Meia Praia, a long sandy beach ideal for walking
- Several isolated coves between cliffs
The beaches are all golden sand with crystal-clear waters, protected by the impressive cliffs.
See our selection of the most beautiful beaches in Lagos.
What to do in Lagos
- Explore the spectacular cliffs of Ponta da Piedade
- Kayaking around the sea caves
- Visit the historic center and its ramparts
- Dolphin watching by boat
- Enjoy the many restaurants and tapas bars
- …
See our article on the best attractions in Lagos.
Where to sleep in Lagos – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Best hotel in Porto de Mós: Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda
See photos, prices and availability.
Best hotel in Ponta da Piedade: Cascade Wellness Resort
See photos, prices and availability.
Best hotel in Meia Praia: Aparthotel Palmares Signature
See photos, prices and availability.
Best hotel in the old town: Lagos Avenida Hotel
See photos, prices and availability.
See our article on the best hotels in Lagos.
City 2: Portimao
Why stay in Portimao?
Portimao and its famous Praia da Rocha beach are ideally located in the center of the Algarve’s most beautiful cliff areas, making it an excellent base for exploration.
The town has everything you need: stores, restaurants, nightlife, casino… And its beach offers both golden sand and spectacular cliffs.
Bonus: if you like long walks, there’s easy access to the picturesque cliff-top seafront promenade.
Beach types
- Praia da Rocha is located in the city
- Praia dos Tres Castelos with its giant rock formations
- Several secret coves accessible only by boat
- Close to the famous Praia da Marinha
All beaches are well equipped with restaurants, sunbeds and umbrellas.
See our article on the most beautiful beaches around Portimao.
What to do in Portimao
- Visit the Benagil sea cave (boat/kayak excursions)
- Stroll through the city center and its Zona Ribeirinha
- Enjoy the iconic Praia da Rocha and Praia dos Três Castelos
- Explore the picturesque village of Ferragudo
- Observe dolphins in their natural environment
- Santa Catarina Fortress
- Surfing
- …
See our article on the best attractions in Portimao.
Where to sleep in Portimao – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Best luxury hotel: Bela Vista Hotel & Spa – Relais & Chateaux
See photos, prices and availability.
Best 4-star hotel: Jupiter Marina Hotel – Couples & Spa
See photos, prices and availability.
Best family hotel: Vitor’s Plaza Aparthotel
See photos, prices and availability.
Best value for money: Rochavau Hotel
See photos, prices and availability.
See our article on the best hotels in Portimao.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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City 3: Albufeira
Why stay in Albufeira?
Albufeira is the Algarve’s most dynamic vacation town. This is the place to be if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with :
- a large waterfront with a promenade
- a marina
- numerous restaurants and stores
- an active nightlife
- numerous excursions
- the railway station
It’s also an excellent choice for exploring the region without a car, thanks to the many organized excursions.
Beach types
- Praia de Peneco, Praia dos Pescadores and Praia de Albufeira – long urban beaches
- The magnificent and colorful Praia da Falesia
- The very long Praia de Gale
- Several secluded coves
The beaches all offer full facilities and numerous water sports activities.
See our selection of the most beautiful beaches (coming soon).
What to do in Albufeira
- Get lost in the narrow streets of Albufeira’s old town
- Go back in time at Albufeira’s Archaeological Museum
- Enjoy Albufeira’s emblematic beaches
- Try your hand at water sports in the Algarve
- Enjoy the lively nightlife
- Dolphin watching at sea
- …
See our article on the best attractions in Lagos.
Where to sleep in Albufeira – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Best historical hotel: Boutique Hôtel Vila Origens
See photos, prices and availability.
Best beach hotel: Hotel Sol e Mar
See photos, prices and availability.
Best luxury hotel: Pine Cliff Ocean Suites
See photos, prices and availability.
Best unusual hotel: The Homeboat Company
See photos, prices and availability.
See our article on the best hotels in Lagos.
City 4: Faro
Why stay in Faro?
Many travelers only pass through Faro for its airport, but the capital of the Algarve is well worth a visit. It’s a true Portuguese city that doesn’t live on tourism alone.
Its walled historic center, cathedral, museums and proximity to the Ria Formosa natural park make it an ideal cultural destination. What’s more, its central location makes it easy to explore the east and west of the Algarve.
Beach types
- Praia de Faro – long beach accessible by bus
- Ilha Deserta – wild beach accessible by boat
- Ilha do Farol – picturesque beach with lighthouse
- Several barrier islands in the Ria Formosa
The beaches are less touristy and offer a more authentic experience.
See our selection of the most beautiful beaches around Faro.
What to do in Faro
- Explore the old town (Cidade Velha)
- Visit the cathedral and its viewpoint
- Boat trips in the Ria Formosa
- Birdwatching in the nature reserve
- Dive into history at Faro’s Municipal Museum
- Take part in a dolphin-watching excursion
- The azulejos of Faro’s Episcopal Palace
- …
See our article on the best attractions in Faro.
Where to sleep in Faro – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Best apartment hotel: Amália Boutique Suites & Studios
See photos, prices and availability.
Best boutique hotel: Roots Hôtel
See photos, prices and availability.
Best luxury hotel: 3HB Faro
See photos, prices and availability.
Best Spa hotel: Hotel Occidental Faro
See photos, prices and availability.
See our article on the best hotels in Faro.
City 5: Alvor
Why stay in Alvor?
Alvor is a little gem for families, in our opinion. It’s as centrally located as Portimao, but a better option for those looking for a quieter vacation, especially with the family.
The village has retained much of its charm, with its Manueline-style churches and traditional restaurants. What’s more, you can easily take a walk in the nearby Ria de Alvor nature reserve.
Beach types
- Praia de Alvor – long, wide beach perfect for families
- Several smaller, more intimate coves
- Easy access to the beaches of nearby Portimao
The main beach is ideal for long walks and swimming with the kids.
What to do in Alvor
- Explore the Ria de Alvor nature reserve
- Discover the Manueline churches
- Strolling through the historic village
- Enjoy traditional fish restaurants
- Family activities
- Coastal hiking trails
- …
Where to stay in Alvor – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Luxury resort: Longevity Health & Wellness hotel
See photos and availability
Summer Cascade Alvor guest house
See photos and availability
Boutique hotel: L’Agua Hotels Alvor Jardim
See photos and availability
See Alvor’s top-rated accommodations.
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City 6: Ferragudo
Why stay in Ferragudo?
Ferragudo is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in the Algarve. This old fishermen’s town has retained all its traditional charm, with cobbled streets leading up to the church and white houses with colorful borders.
Its location opposite Portimao offers picture-postcard views and easy access to all the region’s attractions.
Beach types
- Praia da Angrinha – small beach in town
- Praia Grande – long family beach
- Praia do Molhe – near the port
- Several secluded coves
The beaches around Ferragudo are fairly flat. But if you’re looking for the cliffs, they’re not far away!
What to do in Ferragudo
- Explore the narrow streets of the historic village
- Visit the fort of São João do Arade
- Take a boat trip to the caves
- See the fishing port in action
- Fresh fish restaurants
- Admire the sunset from the church
- …
Where to stay in Ferragudo – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Near Praia Grande: Hotel Rural Bricia du Mar
See photos and availability
In the village: Vila Castelo Parque
See photos and availability
Aparthotel: One2seven
See photos and availability
See Ferragudo’s top-rated accommodations.
Town 7: Carvoeiro
Why stay in Carvoeiro?
Carvoeiro is not for those looking for an easy walk to long beaches or a lively nightlife. But if you’re looking for charm, a central location close to the Algarve’s finest beaches and a tranquil atmosphere, this is the place to be.
The town is perched on the cliffs, offering spectacular views and easy access to the famous Benagil cave.
Beach types
- Praia de Carvoeiro – beautiful beach in the heart of the village
- Numerous small coves nestled in the cliffs
- Close to the magnificent beaches of Vale de Centeanes and Praia da Marinha
The beaches are smaller but very beautiful.
What to do in Carvoeiro
- Explore the rock formations of Algar Seco
- Explore the Carvoeiro Boardwalk
- Visit the fort of Nossa Senhora
- Traditional restaurants
- Hike along the cliffs
- Famous places nearby: Benagil and Marinha
- …
Where to sleep in Carvoeiro – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Luxury hotel: Tivoli Carvoeiro
Check photos and availability
Boutique hotel: Castelo Guest House
See photos and availability
Near Albandeira beach: Vila Alba Resort
See photos and availability
See the top-rated accommodations in Carvoeiro.
City 8: Tavira
Why stay in Tavira?
Tavira is a real gem in the eastern Algarve. If you’re looking for charm and more authentic experiences, this is the place to be.
Just strolling through the town is a pleasure, with its Moorish heritage, white buildings, cobbled streets, Roman bridge and medieval castle. What’s more, it offers easy access to the pristine beaches of the Ilha de Tavira.
Beach types
- Ilha de Tavira – long white sandy beaches accessible by boat
- Praia do Barril – picturesque beach with anchor graveyard
- Several barrier islands with wild beaches
All the beaches are unspoilt and less crowded than those in the western Algarve.
What to do in Tavira
- Explore the historic old town
- Visit the château and its gardens
- Take the ferry to Ilha de Tavira
- Watch flamingos in the salt marshes
- Discover historic churches
- …
Where to sleep in Tavira – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Luxury hotel: Pousada Convento de Tavira – In a 16th century convent
See photos and availability
Contemporary: Ozadi Tavira Hotel
See photos and availability
Authentic: Colégio Charm House
See photos and availability
See the top-rated accommodations in Tavira.
Town 9: Vilamoura
Why stay in Vilamoura?
If you’re looking for a high-end vacation in a modern, elegant setting, Vilamoura is your best bet. The town boasts one of Portugal’s largest marinas and is renowned for its golf courses, gourmet restaurants and luxury hotels.
It’s the ideal place to combine golf, beach and high-end shopping.
Beach types
- Praia de Vilamoura – large, well-equipped beach
- Praia da Falésia – a magnificent beach bordered by red cliffs
- Several secluded coves within walking distance
The beaches are all equipped with excellent facilities.
What to do in Vilamoura
- Play golf on world-class courses
- Stroll around the marina and admire the yachts
- Shopping in luxury boutiques
- Enjoy the casino
- Water sports
- Dining in gourmet restaurants
- Admire the magnificent Falesia beach nearby
- …
Where to stay in Vilamoura – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Waterfront: Tivoli Marina Vilamoura
See photos and availability
Golf resort: Victoria Golf Resort
See photos and availability
Luxury resort: Domes Lake Algarve
See photos and availability
See the top-rated accommodations in Vilamoura.
City 10: Sagres
Why stay in Sagres?
Located at the south-western tip of Portugal, Sagres offers a completely different experience from the rest of the Algarve. This small town has not yet been invaded by mass tourism and retains a wild and authentic atmosphere.
Nature lovers, surfers and hikers will particularly appreciate the spectacular cliffs and unspoilt beaches.
Beach types
- Praia da Mareta – large sheltered beach
- Praia do Martinhal – a surfer’s paradise
- Praia do Tonel – famous surf spot
- Numerous wild coves
The beaches are more natural and perfect for surfing.
What to do in Sagres
- Visit the fortress of Sagres
- Watch the sunset at Cap Saint-Vincent
- Surfing or taking lessons
- Hiking along the cliffs
- Watching migratory birds
- Discover local fish restaurants
- …
Where to sleep in Sagres – Hotels
Among our favorites:
Sea view: Memmo Baleeira
See photos and availability
Luxury beachfront: Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel
See photos and availability
And lots of apartment options.
See the top-rated accommodations in Sagres.
Other destinations in Algarve
City 11: Aljezur
With its whitewashed houses and narrow streets, the small town of Aljezur is the perfect destination for exploring the wild beaches of the west coast. It’s a surfer’s paradise with its Atlantic beaches and constant waves.
The town has retained its authenticity and offers a more local experience than the seaside resorts of the south.
But it’s on the west coast, further from all the Algarve’s attractions.
See the top-rated accommodations in Aljezur.
City 12: Monchique
Perched in the mountains of the Serra de Monchique, this charming spa town offers a striking contrast to the beaches of the Algarve. Monchique will seduce you with its natural hot springs, eucalyptus and chestnut forests, and spectacular panoramic views over the entire region. It’s the ideal refuge for those seeking summer coolness and the authenticity of unspoilt rural Portugal.
The town retains its traditional character, with red-tiled houses and shady squares. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails, particularly to the highest point of Fóia.
However, Monchique is still a long way from the coast and beaches, requiring a 30-minute drive to reach the shore.
See the top-rated accommodations in Monchique.
City 13: Olhao
An authentic fishing port with whitewashed cube-shaped houses, Olhão is nicknamed the Algarve’s “little Casablanca” for its North African-influenced architecture. The town vibrates to the rhythm of its lively fish markets and colorful marina, where traditional fishing boats still dock. It’s the ideal starting point for exploring the paradise islands of Ria Formosa, with their sandy beaches accessible by ferry.
But the city lacks beaches that are directly accessible on foot, requiring a boat crossing to reach the most beautiful stretches of sand.
See Olhão’s top-rated accommodations.
City 14: Manta Rota
This peaceful seaside resort in the eastern Algarve boasts a long, golden sandy beach bordered by natural dunes and pine forests. Manta Rota offers a relaxed, family atmosphere, ideal for those seeking tranquillity. Its calm Atlantic waters and unspoilt coastline make it the perfect destination for families with children.
See the top-rated accommodations in Manta Rota.
City 15: Quarteira
A former fishing village transformed into a modern seaside resort, Quarteira boasts a long sandy beach lined with a lively promenade and numerous restaurants. LC is an ideal destination for those wishing to enjoy both seaside and golfing pleasures.
Nevertheless, Quarteira suffers from dense urbanization, which can detract from the Algarve’s authentic charm.
See the top-rated accommodations in Quarteira.
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best area for a first visit?
- Lagos for its perfect blend of history and beautiful beaches
- Albufeira if you’re looking for a complete seaside resort
- Portimao for its central location and infrastructure
How long will it take to visit the Algarve?
- Minimum 3 days to see the essentials
- A week to enjoy the main attractions
- Two weeks to explore in depth
Do I need to rent a car?
- Yes, if you want to explore the whole region
- Not if you’re staying in a main town like Albufeira
- Indispensable if you’re staying in a small town
When to visit the Algarve
- High season: July-August (very hot and busy)
- Best period: May-June and September-October
- Low season: November-April (quieter but risk of rain)
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
How many days?
Itineraries (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha
Dolphin watching (coming soon)
What to do in Lagos
What to do in Portimao
What to do in Albufeira
What to do in Faro
