Holidays in the Algarve

When to visit the Algarve

Each season has its charm, but price and atmosphere differ a lot:

• July and August: peak season. Crowded beaches, hotel prices can triple, heavy traffic on the EN125. 30–35 °C. Book 3–4 months ahead.
• June and September: best for most travellers. Warm sea, beaches with space, prices 30–40% lower than August, restaurants more relaxed.
• May and October: ideal for couples avoiding crowds. 22–26 °C, sea at 19 °C — cold but bearable. Excellent hotel deals.
• November to March: low season. Some heavily touristic areas almost shut down, but Faro, Tavira and Lagos stay alive. Hotels up to 70% cheaper. Ideal for remote work by the sea or hiking the Via Algarviana.

Where to stay in the Algarve

Three main zones with distinct personalities:

Central Algarve (Albufeira, Vilamoura, Quarteira)

The most touristic and developed. Big all-inclusive resorts, water parks (Zoomarine, Slide & Splash), Vilamoura marina, casino and nightlife. Best for: families with children, first-time visitors, those who want everything at the doorstep.

Western Algarve (Lagos, Portimão, Sagres)

More natural and dramatic. The most spectacular cliffs are here: Praia do Camilo, Ponta da Piedade, Praia da Marinha. Lagos has a charming old town. Best for: couples, photographers, lovers of hidden paradisiac beaches, surfers (in Sagres).

Eastern Algarve / Sotavento (Faro, Tavira, Olhão)

The most authentic and quiet. Ria Formosa, barrier islands with huge beaches, award-winning food. Tavira is one of Portugal's most beautiful towns. Best for: experienced travellers, those who prefer the cultural and gastronomic side, mature couples, quiet retreats.

The 7 best Algarve beaches

1. Praia da Marinha (Lagoa): repeatedly voted one of the world's most beautiful. Arch-shaped cliffs, white sand, turquoise water. Arrive early in summer.
2. Praia do Camilo (Lagos): a 200-step descent, but worth it. Small, romantic.
3. Praia da Falésia (Albufeira): 6 km of golden sand with red cliffs. Perfect for walks.
4. Praia da Rocha (Portimão): large, lively, with promenade — great for families.
5. Ilha de Tavira: ferry access. Huge wild beach with seafood restaurants.
6. Praia do Barril (Tavira): reached by tourist train. Anchor cemetery, soft sand.
7. Praia do Beliche (Sagres): surf waves, dramatic landscape, end of the world.

What to do besides the beach

• Benagil caves boat tour — the iconic open-sky dome. Go early to avoid crowds. €25–€50/person.
• Jeep safari through Serra de Monchique — landscapes, traditional lunch, medronho tasting.
• Olhão Saturday morning market — fresh fish, sweets, local atmosphere.
• Ponta da Piedade to Praia Dona Ana hike — 90 minutes along the cliffs, spectacular views.
• Sagres and Cape St. Vincent — Europe's southwesternmost point, legendary sunsets.
• Silves Castle — Moorish ruins, medieval markets in summer.

Food: what to eat in the Algarve

Local cuisine blends sea, gardens and Mediterranean tradition. Must-try dishes:

• Cataplana — seafood stew served in the copper pot that gives it its name.
• Xerém com conquilhas — corn porridge with small clams.
• Grilled sardines — June to August is peak sardine season.
• Frango da Guia — piri-piri grilled chicken, a local speciality.
• Almond and fig sweets — Dom Rodrigos, Morgados de figo.

Getting there and around

By plane: Faro Airport serves direct flights from 80+ European cities.

By train: Lisbon to Faro in 3 hours — comfortable and cheap (€20-30 one way).

Car rental: recommended to explore hidden beaches. €25-50/day in summer. Use the A22 toll motorway to avoid EN125 traffic.