This is a an Algarve travel guide.
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The Algarve is one of my favourite places in Europe! I try to go away to new places but I’ll always go back to the Algarve. Especially if I need to recharge! Portugal’s sunny southern coast is a dream destination famed for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and mouth-watering cuisine. From hidden coves to stunning hikes, charming towns and beautiful sunsets, there’s something here for every traveller.
Here’s your essential Algarve travel guide to exploring the best spots, including local favourites and unforgettable experiences.
Beautiful Beaches and Breathtaking Cliffs
Ponta da Piedade (Lagos)
Ponta da Piedade is an iconic Algarve landmark. It features towering golden cliffs, secret caves and turquoise waters. Follow the steps down to explore this natural marvel on foot or take a guided boat trip. Early mornings offer spectacular views and fewer crowds.
You can walk to it from the Lagos town centre and back OR you can go to the end of the boardwalk, go down to Praia do Canavial and keep going to Praia do Mós. I went that way last time I was in Lagos and it became my favourite beach! All the beaches are beautiful but a lot of them are small and Praia do Mós keeps going. You can walk and walk and find a quiet spot to rest. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk all the way to Praia da Luz via the Lagos to Luz trail!
Praia do Camilo (Lagos)
This postcard-perfect beach is reached by a scenic wooden staircase. Praia do Camilo’s crystal-clear waters and rocky surroundings provide a perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling or relaxing in the Algarve sunshine.
It’s a crowd favourite! I really loved it the first time I was there but the last time it was covered in algae and it smelled so bad we had to leave – it was still really beautiful though!
And you don’t have to go far for food…O Camilo restaurant is right there and it’s delicious! We had amazing squid, oysters and white wine sangria there.
Praia da Dona Ana (Lagos)
Just a short walk from Lagos Old Town, Praia da Dona Ana is renowned for its striking cliffs and golden sands. It’s perfect for sunbathing, exploring rock formations or just admiring the sunset from above. A great place to start your your trip or your hike to Ponta da Piedade.
Praia dos Estudantes (Lagos)
Home to the famous Roman-style stone arch, Praia dos Estudantes offers unique photo opportunities. This small beach is best visited during low tide when you can fully enjoy the arch and adjacent beaches.
Praia do Vale de Centeanes (Carvoeiro)
Less crowded yet equally beautiful, Vale de Centeanes features impressive cliffs, fine sand and calm waters. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, swimming or starting the stunning cliff-top hike known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
I have to say, I didn’t love Carvoeiro town centre. While Lagos felt very Portuguese, Carvoeiro felt like a “Brits abroad” setting. HOWEVER, nature-wise it’s really beautiful (much like all of the Algarve!) and so is the Algar Seco hike.
Praia do Amado (Aljezur)
A beloved beach among surfers, Praia do Amado offers spectacular sunset views. Even if you’re not surfing, pack a picnic and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’s a magical Algarve experience.
Read more: 6 Best Budget-Friendly Warm Spots for Digital Nomads in Winter
Algarve travel guide.
Unforgettable Experiences and Adventures
Benagil Caves
No Algarve itinerary is complete without visiting the enchanting Benagil Caves. You’ve probably seen this all over IG and TT, it’s probably the Algarve’s most famous spot.
This iconic sea cave, accessible only by boat, kayak or paddleboard, features a dramatic opening in the ceiling illuminating the interior with sunlight. Join a guided kayak tour early in the morning to avoid crowds and get breathtaking views.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
As already mentioned, this stunning coastal hike starting near Praia do Vale de Centeanes, is one of Europe’s most scenic trails. Over 5.7 km, you’ll pass incredible cliff views, hidden coves and the famous Praia da Marinha. Pack plenty of water and sunscreen and take your time soaking up the natural beauty.
Boat and Catamaran Trips
The Algarve coast is best explored from the water. Book a boat or catamaran tour departing from Lagos or Carvoeiro marinas. Tours typically include cave exploration, dolphin sightings and stunning coastal scenery. Sunset catamaran cruises offer particularly romantic views.
Charming Towns and Authentic Culture
Lagos Old Town
Lagos Old Town brims with charm, history and Portuguese authenticity. Wander the cobblestone streets filled with colourful buildings, boutique shops, lively cafés and historic sites like the Igreja de Santo Antonio and old city walls. It’s ideal for leisurely strolls, shopping and immersing yourself in local life. And don’t forget to have at least one ice cream a day!
Ferragudo’s Old Village
Just across the river from Portimão, Ferragudo is a picturesque fishing village with narrow lanes, whitewashed houses and authentic charm. Spend an afternoon exploring, photographing the pretty streets and relaxing in quaint cafés by the riverfront.
Carvoeiro
This former fishing village now a bustling yet relaxed coastal town, offers a delightful blend of beaches, cliff walks, local restaurants and laid-back nightlife. Don’t miss exploring Algar Seco, a dramatic rock formation and boardwalk that offers outstanding coastal views.
Like I said before, I didn’t love the town centre, it felt very touristy, but the beaches and trails were some of the best!
Tavira
Tavira is a quieter, beautifully preserved historic town east of Faro. It’s famous for its traditional Portuguese architecture, Roman bridge and relaxed atmosphere. Tavira Island nearby offers one of the Algarve’s most pristine beaches.
Algarve Restaurants and Cafes
I know this was meant to be an Algarve travel guide but, as I was writing this section about food, I realised I have way more recs about Lagos and Portimão! I do think Lagos is one of the best spots in the Algarve…if not THE best.
Lagos
Casinha do Petisco
Beloved by locals and travellers alike, Casinha do Petisco is famous for its authentic seafood dishes, particularly cataplana (a traditional Portuguese seafood stew). It’s popular and small, so arrive early or expect to queue.
Tasca da Lota
This was highly recommended by a local during my first time in Lagos and it did not disappoint. It was away from the crowds, felt very local and casual. The food was absolutely delicious, super fresh seafood and crazy low prices. This cosy restaurant serves delicious traditional Portuguese dishes and fantastic local wines. Perfect for a hearty meal after a day of exploring. We went on a boat trip that started and ended nearby and had delicious lunch afterwards.
Barbosa Bar & Kitchen
Now, my first time in Lagos was during a wonderful trip with some friends who had come over from Brazil! One of the restaurants we decided to try was Barbosa and we had the most delicious meal! We ordered a bunch of starters and shared them all – the queen being the breaded goat’s cheese with walnut and honey.
It’s not really Portuguese (I think the owner is Welsh?!) but it was so good I went back on my return to Lagos.
O Camilo (Praia do Camilo)
I’ve mentioned before but I’m adding it here again. We went to O Camilo mostly because it was convenient as we were right there but, turns out it’s super popular! And I’m not surprised. The food was absolutely delicious, super fresh seafood! We had oysters, prawns, squid… great drinks and friendly service. Booking recommended.
Padaria Central
Beautiful on the outside, delicious on the inside. This traditional Portuguese bakery is super popular among the crowds and there’s a reason for it.
Cervejaria Ferradura
Speaking on Padaria Central… across the road from it you’ll find this also super traditional bar filled with friendly locals happy to introduce Portuguese spirits to tourists.
Albufeira
Vila Joya – Michelin Starred
For a special occasion, Vila Joya in Albufeira offers one of Portugal’s most celebrated dining experiences. Boasting two Michelin stars, its creative menu blends Portuguese ingredients with exceptional presentation.
Portimão
Squash
The first time I went to Portimão I was there for a work conference (shout out person who chose the location!). One of the women I met invited us to this restaurant saying it was meant to be the best for seafood. And girl, it was! I had never seen such diversity of seafood as I did that night. To top it off, I had the best Tiramisu of my life there. And I’m not even a tiramisu person!
Lusana
I can’t remember how we found this place… I just know I had such a great night there! It was also during this conference and we got a big group together for our last night. A German friend of mine who I met on Couch Surfing about ten years ago now lives in the Algarve.
We ordered a bunch of food and wine and everything was so delicious, super friendly service, great wine…
Wine, Food and Friends
I went to this place on my first visit to Portimão and had the most delicious octopus salad bruschetta and fried goat’s cheese. It gets super busy as it’s well located, the service is friendly and the food is great. Booking required.
La Dolce Vita
Honestly, I can’t even remember what I had there BUT I’m adding this to the list because 1) my boyfriend loved it so much he still talks about his prawn pasta! 2) everyone loves Italian food so this is it. And, most importantly, 3) their ice cream was to die for! And we all need our daily ice cream when abroad… they had all kinds of flavours. The cinnamon one was insanely good! They even had pastel de nata flavour!
Oakberry
If you’re craving a refreshing snack, Oakberry is right by Praia da Rocha serving delicious açaí with all kinds of toppings!
Carvoeiro
Gelados e Companhia
Although I didn’t love Carvoeiro, I did have one of the best ice creams of my life there. It was a dark chocolate one – so dark it was black! And also vegan if that’s your vibe.
This is an Algarve travel guide.
Hotels
Portimão
Hotel Algarve Casino
I stayed at this beachfront hotel a couple of times and loved it! The last time, especially, we got a room with a balcony where we spent nights watching the moon set on the horizon over the sea. Only to wake up in the morning to the most incredible breakfast spread!
Do you choose hotels based on the breakfast? I do! I love breakfast, especially a hotel breakfast buffet! So it’s my top criteria when choosing where to stay. At Hotel Algarve Casino they even had Mimosas you could help yourself too!
They’ve got 2 pools, 3 restaurants, a casino, obviously! And their own beach area so you don’t have to worry about beach loungers and umbrella – they’re all there set for you. We had the most relaxing time!
Lagos
Dom Manuel I
We could’ve stayed closer to the beach in Lagos, but we booked our hotel last minute and most places were full already. Lucky us though as we ended up finding Dom Manuel I. First of all, it’s adults-only. No shade to kids, we love them! but we did want some silence with our sunshine.
It’s a bit further away from the centre but it meant we walked through some streets we wouldn’t have otherwise, found different places to eat and found one of my favourite beaches, Praia do Mós! On our last day our flight wasn’t until the evening so we went to the beach after checking out. Not only we could leave our bags there but they also let us shower and gave us towels so we could wash off the sand before bidding farewell.
The hotel has two buildings, we stayed in the second one and went to the first for breakfast. Now, let’s talk about that. Breakfast was insane! So many different things and no morning was the same. Every day there were loads of different kinds of pastries and tarts and at least 5 different cakes! The setting was beautiful and we ate outside every time.
Carvoeiro
Villa Welwitshia
On my girls trip with my friends we got a family room at Villa Welwitshia and it was perfect for us! There was a lot of space, two beds in the living room, two beds in the bedroom, a balcony… we arrived super early in the morning! We asked the check in lady if she had any tips on where we could go for breakfast and she told us to just help ourselves to theirs. We offered to pay extra (after all, the one included in our booking was the morning after) and she declined it. How kind was she?! We had bread, cheeses, meats, coffee, juice, cakes, fruits…
Algarve Travel Guide Tips
- Rent a car: The Algarve’s hidden gems and quieter beaches are best accessed by car. HOWEVER, you can easily get by with Uber.
- Book in advance: Popular attractions like the Benagil Caves can get busy and some restaurants get booked up quickly.
- Visit off-season: April-June and September-October offer warm weather, fewer crowds and better prices. I’ve been there in April, May, September and October and had amazing weather every time.
- Stay hydrated and protected: The Algarve sun is strong. Always carry sunscreen, hats and water, especially on hikes.
This was an Algarve travel guide.