DESTINATION guide to Portugal’s ALGARVE: ALL you need to know

In hisDiario, Miguel Torga described the Algarve as an earthly paradise where one can live happily in nature, characterised by terraces of a harem for free love, houses without traditional roofs, symbolic dwarf figs, a place of lazy shadows and warmth.”

Begin your journey in Faro, where the Sé Cathedral, with its Gothic and Baroque elements, invites exploration. Its bell tower offers panoramic views of the city and nearby Ria Formosa lagoon. The nearby Arco da Vila, a neoclassical gate, leads to the old town’s cobbled streets, perfect for leisurely strolls.

The Algarve’s coastline is a highlight, with Praia da Marinha’s golden sands and dramatic cliffs ideal for swimming or photography. Families will enjoy Albufeira’s Praia dos Pescadores, with its shallow waters and nearby amenities. For a quieter retreat, Praia do Amado near Carrapateira attracts surfers and those seeking solitude.

Nature lovers can explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a maze of lagoons and islands teeming with birdlife. Guided boat tours or kayaking trips reveal flamingos and herons. The Via Algarviana, a long-distance trail, offers hiking through rolling hills and rural villages, while cyclists can ride coastal paths near Lagos.

History enthusiasts will enjoy Silves, where the red sandstone castle and Gothic cathedral showcase Moorish and medieval heritage. The Faro Municipal Museum, housed in a 16th-century convent, displays Roman artefacts and local history. Tavira’s charming bridges and riverside churches add to the region’s historical appeal.

Food lovers will savour the Algarve’s cuisine. Restaurants in Olhão, like Casa de Pasto Algarve, serve cataplana, a seafood stew, and fresh grilled sardines. Local markets offer sweet figs and marinated olives. Wineries near Lagoa provide tastings of crisp whites and robust reds, often paired with local almonds.

Families will find the Algarve welcoming, with free attractions like Faro’s Cidade Velha and budget-friendly visits to the Sand City sculpture park in Pêra. Water sports, from paddleboarding to jet-skiing, thrive in Portimão. For a cultural touch, the Museum of Portimão, set in a former cannery, explores the region’s fishing heritage.

Outdoor pursuits extend to the Ponta da Piedade, where sea caves and rock formations are accessible by kayak or boat tours. Evening walks along Vilamoura’s marina, followed by dinner at a seaside restaurant, create a warm and inviting end to the day.The Algarve in the summer of 2026 promises a mix of coastal charm, history, and culinary richness.

The Algarve, all you need to know

The Algarve, Portugal’s sun-drenched southern coast, is a premier destination known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, charming towns, and vibrant culture. Stretching over 200 km along the Atlantic, it attracts millions annually with its blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and laid-back vibe. Often dubbed “the California of Europe,” it offers something for every traveler, from families to adventure seekers.

Stunning Beaches and Coastlines:

The Algarve boasts over 100 beaches, from bustling resort shores to secluded coves. Highlights include:
Praia da Marinha (Lagoa): Famed for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and iconic rock formations, often listed among Europe’s most beautiful beaches.
Praia do Camilo (Lagos): A picturesque beach with clear waters, accessed via a scenic staircase, ideal for snorkeling and photography.
Praia da Falésia (Albufeira): A long, red-cliff-backed beach perfect for quiet walks, with pine trees adding shade.
Praia do Beliche (Sagres): A surfer’s haven on the wild west coast, offering dramatic coastal scenery and fewer crowds.
The Benagil Cave (Carvoeiro), a sea cave with a natural skylight, is a must-see, accessible by kayak or boat tours (note: 2026 restrictions limit visitor numbers for conservation).
Ponta da Piedade (Lagos): A headland with polychrome cliffs, sea arches, and grottos, best explored by kayak or boat for intimate views of its labyrinthine caves.

Outdoor Adventures:

Hiking: The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Lagoa to Carvoeiro, 6 km) offers jaw-dropping cliff-top views, while the Rota Vicentina and Via Algarviana (300 km inland) traverse mountains and villages, ideal for serious hikers.
Surfing: The west coast, particularly Sagres and Costa Vicentina, is a surfing mecca with consistent winter swells. South coast spots like Praia da Rocha cater to beginners.
Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and kitesurfing are popular in Lagos and Albufeira. Dolphin-watching tours from Sagres (e.g., Mar Ilimitado) may also spot porpoises and sea turtles.
Golf: The Algarve is a world-class golfing destination with 40+ courses, including Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, and Vila Sol. Vilamoura’s six championship courses attract enthusiasts, though green fees are steep.

Nature and Wildlife:

Ria Formosa Natural Park: A 60 km lagoon system from Faro to Cacela Velha, home to flamingos, shearwaters, and rare purple swamphens. Explore by ferry to Ilha de Tavira or guided eco-tours.
Monchique Mountains: A lush contrast to the coast, with Mount Fóia (902 m) offering panoramic views, hiking trails, and thermal springs at Caldas de Monchique.
Costa Vicentina: The western coast’s Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina is less developed, with wild beaches, rugged cliffs, and trails beloved by locals for their raw beauty

Historic Towns and Villages:

Lagos: A vibrant city blending history and nightlife, with a 16th-century walled Old Town, Forte da Bandeira, and the iconic Ponta da Piedade. Its Portuguese character shines through cobbled streets and seafood eateries.
Tavira: A laid-back gem in the east, with a Roman bridge, Moorish castle, and cobbled streets. Its beaches on Ilha de Tavira, reached by ferry through Ria Formosa, offer a serene escape.
Silves: The former Moorish capital, home to the Algarve’s best-preserved castle and a Gothic cathedral, set amid orange groves. Its medieval festival (August) is a highlight.
Faro: Often overlooked due to its airport, Faro’s Old Town (Cidade Velha) features a 13th-century cathedral, bone chapel, and maritime museum, ideal for a cultural day trip.
Ferragudo: A charming fishing village with whitewashed houses and harbor-side octopus restaurants, offering an authentic, low-key vibe

Cultural Heritage:

Fado Performances: Soulful Portuguese music can be heard in Lagos or at festivals like Loulé’s Carnival.
Markets: Loulé’s Saturday market offers crafts, fresh produce, and delicacies like pastéis de nata. Olhão’s waterfront market is renowned for seafood.
Cork and Pottery: Visit Novacortica (Loulé) for cork production tours or Porches for traditional pottery workshops.

Authentic Cuisine:

Seafood: Fresh fish, cataplana (seafood stew), conquilhas (clams), and razor clams dominate menus. Try beachside spots like Restaurante Rei das Praias (Ferragudo) or Michelin-starred Vila Joya (Albufeira).
Piri Piri Chicken: A spicy local favorite, far surpassing chain versions.
Desserts: Dom rodrigo (egg yolk and almond sweets) and fig-based treats pair well with medronho, a fruit spirit.
Restaurants: Albufeira’s Casa da Fonte serves grilled sardines in a cozy courtyard, while Jorge do Peixe (Lagos) is a local secret for seafood stew.

Wine and Enotourism:

The Algarve’s wine scene is growing, with reds, whites, and unique varieties like underwater-aged wines. Wineries like Morgado do Quintão (Lagoa) offer tastings with vineyard views. Eco-friendly Algarve Sun Boat tours combine Silves vineyard visits with solar-powered river cruises (€45 for 3.5 hours).

Vibrant Nightlife:

Albufeira: Known for “The Strip” in the New Town, packed with 600+ bars and clubs, it’s the nightlife hub for partygoers. The Old Town offers calmer, family-friendly dining.
Lagos: Offers a mix of lively bars, Irish pubs, and atmospheric restaurants, with a more authentic Portuguese vibe.
Vilamoura: Upscale with trendy marina bars and yacht-filled views, catering to a sophisticated crowd.
Portimão: Praia da Rocha has a youthful, lively scene with beachfront clubs, recently rebranding as a luxury destination.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Water Parks: Aqualand and Slide & Splash (near Albufeira) feature thrilling slides and toddler zones. AquaShow Park in Quarteira, the Algarve’s first indoor water park, is perfect for cooler months.
Zoomarine: A marine theme park near Albufeira with dolphin shows, aquariums, and educational experiences.

Practical Information

Getting There: Faro Airport (FAO), 36 km from Albufeira, is the main gateway, with flights under 3 hours from UK airports and a new direct Faro–New York route starting May 2026 (United Airlines, 4x weekly).
Getting Around: Renting a car is ideal for exploring remote beaches and villages (e.g., via DiscoverCars). The A22 highway is now toll-free as of 2026, and the EN125 road suits shorter trips. Regional trains and buses connect major towns, but schedules are limited. Taxis and private transfers (e.g., Lisbon to Faro, €250–350) are options.
Weather: With 3,000+ hours of sunshine annually, the Algarve enjoys mild winters (15–20°C) and hot summers (28–40°C). Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Accommodation: Options range from budget villas to luxury resorts like Anantara Vilamoura and Tivoli Carvoeiro. Family-friendly hotels in Albufeira and all-inclusive resorts in Praia da Rocha are popular. Book early for 2026, as Albufeira expects a sell-out summer.
Safety: The Algarve is safe, with increased lifeguard staffing on beaches for 2026 to ensure tourist safety. Be cautious of strong currents and check sea conditions for boat tours.

What’s New for 2026 in the Algarve

Faro Airport Milestone: Celebrating 60 years in 2025, Faro Airport expects to welcome 10 million passengers, up from 10,034 in 1965, reflecting the region’s tourism boom.
Direct Faro–New York Flight: United Airlines launches a 4x weekly direct flight from Faro to New York/Newark startied May 2025, easing access for US visitors.
Quinta do Pinheiro (Ria Formosa): New holiday cottages in a 19th-century farm within the nature reserve, offering 2- and 3-bedroom properties with courtyard gardens or roof terraces.
Eco Yoga Surf Retreat: The Jersey-based company hosts its first Algarve yoga and surfing retreat, blending eco-conscious stays with wellness activities.
A22 Highway Toll-Free: Since January 2025, the A22 is free, making road trips across the Algarve more affordable and accessible. The entire length of the A22 (Via do Infante) in the Algarve is free, serving as an alternative to the EN125. Rental vehicles do not need to activate toll devices specifically for the A22, though they may still be needed for other, non-exempt motorways like the A2 to Lisbon

Cultural and Sporting Events

Volta Algarve Bike Race (February, Portimão to Alto do Malhão): The 51st edition features a new route, with top cyclists like Ethan Hayter and teams like Soudal Quick-Step competing across five stages. A spectator-friendly event showcasing the region’s landscapes.
National Gastronomy Day (July, Albufeira): This festival celebrates Portuguese cuisine, focusing on bivalves like razor clams and cockles, with Albufeira hosting tastings, demos, and tributes to regional dishes.
MotoGP Portuguese Grand Prix (November, Portimão): The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve hosts this iconic race, confirmed for 2026 and 2026, drawing motorsport fans to its thrilling track and scenic backdrop.
Loulé Carnival and Portimão Sardine Festival: These vibrant festivals, typically February and August) feature parades, music, and local seafood, enhancing cultural immersion.

New Activities and Attractions:

Ponta da Piedade Boardwalks (Lagos): New boardwalks provide safer access to beaches like Camilo and Dona Ana, enhancing exploration of this natural treasure.
Pedra do Valado Marine Natural Park (Albufeira–Lagoa): One of Portugal’s first protected marine parks, this coastal reef offers divers a biodiverse underwater experience, with 2026 promoting its conservation efforts.
Hovercraft Tours: Belmar Resort introduces adrenaline-pumping hovercraft experiences, navigating land, water, and air with expert instructors, ideal for thrill-seekers.
Michelin-Star Dining: The Algarve’s culinary scene grows, with 2026 highlighting Vila Joya (two Michelin stars) and Al Quimia in Albufeira, alongside new tapas spots in Lagos like Restaurante Levante.
Safety Enhancements: Social media posts note increased lifeguard staffing on beaches to ensure spring tourist safety, reflecting proactive measures.
Diverse Appeal: The region diversifies as a year-round destination, with winter hiking, surfing, and affordable accommodations (up to 50% off in low season) drawing off-peak travelers.

Tips for Visitors in 2026

Book Early: Secure flights and accommodations now, especially for Albufeira and Vilamoura, as summer 2026 is expected to sell out. Use sites like Jet2holidays for low-deposit deals.
Plan for Flexibility: Rent a car to explore remote beaches and trails, but consider basing yourself in central hubs like Lagos or Albufeira to minimize packing.
Respect Restrictions: Benagil Cave has new 2026 limits on visitor numbers and activities (e.g., no swimming inside) to protect its ecosystem. Book small boat tours for better access.
Embrace Seasons: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for hiking and cultural events. Winter is great for budget stays and surfing.
Engage Locally: Visit markets, attend fado performances, or join a winery tour to connect with Algarve’s culture. Locals are welcoming, and English is widely spoken.

A 2026 visit to the Algarve promises an unforgettable blend of sun-soaked beaches, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can lounge on Praia da Marinha, kayak through Benagil Cave, hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, or savor cataplana at a cliffside restaurant. Historic towns like Lagos and Tavira offer authentic Portuguese charm, while vibrant Albufeira caters to nightlife lovers. New for 2026, direct US flights, toll-free highways, eco-friendly retreats, and high-profile events like the MotoGP and National Gastronomy Day elevate the region’s allure. With 300 days of sunshine and a commitment to sustainability, the Algarve remains a coastal paradise for all travelers, whether seeking relaxation or exploration.

Off-the-Beaten-Track Locations and Attractions in the Algarve

The Algarve, Portugal’s sun-soaked southern coast, is renowned for its iconic beaches and bustling towns like Albufeira and Lagos, but beyond the well-trodden paths lie lesser-known, off-the-beaten-track locations and attractions. These hidden gems offer travelers a chance to discover the region’s unspoiled landscapes, authentic villages, and unique cultural heritage away from the crowds.

Cacela Velha: A tiny hilltop village near Tavira, overlooking the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with whitewashed houses, a 13th-century church, and a small fortress. Its secluded beach, Praia da Fábrica, is accessible by a short boat ride across the lagoon. Cacela Velha feels frozen in time, with panoramic views of the lagoon and minimal tourism. Its beach, often deserted, offers tranquility compared to Tavira’s busier shores. The village’s oyster beds are a local secret for fresh seafood. Wander the cobbled streets, visit the Igreja Matriz church, enjoy oysters at Casa da Igreja, or take a boat to Praia da Fábrica for swimming and birdwatching (flamingos and spoonbills are common). A 15-minute drive from Tavira or 45 minutes from Faro. A car is ideal; boat crossings to the beach are informal and weather-dependent.
Quinta da Ria and Cabanas de Tavira: Cabanas de Tavira, a former fishing village east of Tavira, is a quiet alternative to busier resorts. Nearby, Quinta da Ria is a protected area within Ria Formosa, featuring salt marshes, pine forests, and trails to hidden beaches like Praia do Laco. Cabanas retains its authentic charm, with low-key seafood restaurants and a boardwalk along the lagoon. Quinta da Ria’s trails offer solitude and rare wildlife, including chameleons and purple swamphens, far from tourist hubs. Stroll Cabanas’ waterfront, dine on grilled fish at Noélia & Jerónimo, or hike Quinta da Ria’s trails to Praia do Laco, a pristine beach. Kayak rentals in Cabanas allow lagoon exploration. A 10-minute drive from Tavira. A car or bike is recommended; kayaks can be rented locally.
Fonte Benémola (Loulé): A lush, inland nature reserve near Querença, this hidden valley along the Benémola stream features waterfalls, willow-lined banks, and diverse flora and fauna, including otters and kingfishers. Unlike the Algarve’s coastal attractions, Fonte Benémola offers a cool, green escape with well-marked trails (4.5 km loop) and no crowds. It’s a rare glimpse of the region’s inland biodiversity. Hike the PR1 LLE trail, picnic by the stream, or spot wildlife (spring is best for wildflowers). Pair with a visit to Querença’s village square for chouriço and medronho tastings. A 20-minute drive from Loulé or 40 minutes from Albufeira. A car is essential; parking is limited, so arrive early.
Estoi and the Palácio de Estoi: Estoi, a small village 10 km north of Faro, is home to the Palácio de Estoi, an 18th-century rococo palace with ornate gardens, azulejo tiles, and fountains. Nearby, the Roman ruins of Milreu showcase a 1st-century villa with mosaics. Estoi’s quiet streets and the palace’s faded grandeur offer a cultural escape from Faro’s busier Old Town. Milreu’s ruins, tucked among orange groves, are among the Algarve’s least-visited archaeological sites. Tour the palace (now a pousada, open to non-guests), explore Milreu’s mosaics and baths, or visit Estoi’s church for its blue-and-white tiles. Enjoy coffee at a local café in the village square. A 15-minute drive from Faro. A car is recommended; Milreu is a short walk from the village.
Alvor Boardwalk and Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve: Alvor, a fishing village near Portimão, features a 3.5 km wooden boardwalk through the Ria de Alvor, a marshland reserve with salt pans, dunes, and migratory birds like egrets and storks. Less crowded than Lagos, Alvor’s boardwalk offers peaceful walks with views of oyster beds and distant hills. The village’s narrow streets and harbor-side restaurants retain an authentic feel. Walk the boardwalk at sunrise for birdwatching, dine on cataplana at Restinga (a beachfront gem), or explore Praia do Alvor, a quieter alternative to Praia da Rocha. Kayaking in the lagoon is available. A 10-minute drive from Portimão or 50 minutes from Faro. A car or bike is ideal; the boardwalk starts near Alvor’s harbor.
Odeceixe and Praia de Odeceixe: On the Algarve’s northwest border with Alentejo, Odeceixe is a charming village in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park. Its beach, Praia de Odeceixe, lies at the mouth of the Seixe River, with cliffs, a lagoon, and surf-friendly waves. Far from the central Algarve’s bustle, Odeceixe feels like a secret, with a bohemian vibe and unspoiled scenery. The beach’s river and ocean combo is unique, offering calm swimming or surfing. Surf or paddleboard at Praia de Odeceixe (lessons available), hike the 8 km Fishermen’s Trail to Praia de Adegas, or enjoy fresh fish at Taberna do Gabão in Odeceixe village. A 30-minute drive from Lagos or 1.5 hours from Faro. A car is necessary; park near the beach or village.
Alta Mora (Castro Marim): A remote village in the eastern hills near Castro Marim, Alta Mora is known for its cork oak groves, traditional basket-weaving, and the annual Festival Medievol (August). The nearby Sapal de Castro Marim Nature Reserve offers trails through salt marshes. Alta Mora’s isolation preserves its rural traditions, with artisans crafting cork and palm baskets. The reserve’s wetlands, home to flamingos and black-winged stilts, are a birdwatcher’s haven, far from coastal crowds. Visit during the medieval festival for music and crafts, buy handmade baskets from locals, or hike the reserve’s trails (guided tours available). Pair with a visit to Castro Marim’s castle. A 20-minute drive from Castro Marim or 1 hour from Faro. A car is essential; contact local guides for reserve tours.
Paderne and the Castle Ruins: Paderne, a rural village north of Albufeira, is home to the 12th-century Paderne Castle, a Moorish ruin on a hill overlooking the Quarteira River. The nearby Fonte de Paderne, a natural spring, is a tranquil picnic spot. The castle’s crumbling walls and remote setting evoke history without the tourist bustle of Silves. Paderne’s traditional market and whitewashed houses add authentic charm. Explore the castle ruins (free entry, limited signage), walk the 4 km PR1 trail to Fonte de Paderne, or visit the village’s church. The annual Paderne Medieval Fair (January 2026) recreates Moorish life. A 15-minute drive from Albufeira. A car is recommended; the castle is a short walk from the village.

Tips for Exploring

Transportation: Rent a car to reach these remote spots, as public buses are infrequent outside major towns. The A22 highway, toll-free in 2026, simplifies travel. Bikes are great for coastal trails like Odeceixe.
Preparation: Pack hiking shoes, sunscreen, and water, as facilities are scarce. Check trail conditions on www.rotavicentina.com or www.visitalgarve.pt. For boat or kayak trips, confirm weather with operators.
Guides and Locals: Book guided tours for Ria Formosa or Sapal de Castro Marim (e.g., through Algarve Sun Boat or local eco-tour companies) for wildlife insights. Locals in villages like Cacela Velha or Paderne are friendly and may share tips.
Sustainability: Respect fragile ecosystems like Ria de Alvor or Fonte Benémola by sticking to paths and avoiding litter. Support artisans in Alta Mora or Estoi by purchasing crafts.
Timing: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather (20–25°C) and vibrant landscapes, ideal for hiking and festivals. Summer is busy but these spots remain quiet; winter suits budget travelers.
Connectivity: Remote areas like Alta Mora or Odeceixe may have spotty cell service. Download offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) and inform someone of your plans.

These off-the-beaten-track spots showcase the Algarve’s diversity, from the lagoon-lined serenity of Cacela Velha to the wild cliffs of Odeceixe and the inland oasis of Fonte Benémola. They offer a quieter, more authentic experience than the region’s tourist hubs, revealing its Moorish heritage, rural traditions, and pristine nature. Whether exploring Paderne’s castle ruins, birdwatching in Ria de Alvor, or savoring oysters in Cabanas, travelers will find a side of the Algarve that feels untouched by time, perfect for those seeking solitude and discovery.