With its year-round warm weather, alluring sandy beaches, and whitewashed fishing villages, the Algarve is an idyllic place for a holiday, whether this is a romantic getaway, a trip with friends, or a family holiday. There are many fantastic places to visit within the region, so this post will take a look at a few of the most beautiful places to visit.
Praia da Marinha & Dramatic Cliff Backed Beaches
Praia da Marinha was named by CNN as one of Europe’s most stunning beaches, so this is certainly somewhere you will want to visit. With its iconic orange limestone cliffs and crystal waters, this is the perfect place for a rewarding hike or simply chilling on the beach. The beach can be accessed by car, and there is a set of stairs that can be used to reach the beach – just be sure to take care as it can be steep!
Tavira & Its Island Retreat
If you are seeking somewhere a bit quieter, Tavira is a great choice with low-season appeal. The tranquil Tavira Island has 11km of sandy beaches and birdwatching spots, making it a great place for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. The riverside town also has a traditional charm with cobbled streets and old churches.
Sagres & the Historic Southwestern Coast
Sagres is known as a surfing destination but also features breathtaking natural scenery, cultural heritage, and an iconic 15th-century fortress, making it a great place to visit during your stay in the Algarve. At the western tip of the Algarve and Europe as a whole, there is a rugged charm to Sagres with its dramatic cliffs, turbulent seas, and barren landscapes.
Albufeira, Carvoeiro, & Family-Friendly Resorts
The Algarve has a number of charming coastal towns to explore, including Carvoeiro and Albufeira, both of which offer a balance of lively amenities and calmer spots. Albufeira has a strict new code on tourist behaviour to keep it family-friendly, which makes it a smart choice as a base for a family vacation. Many couples and families opt for villas in Portugal around Carvoeiro or Albufeira, offering privacy and space, perfect when you want calm days by the pool. You can also easily access quiet coves like Praia do Castelo for relaxed family days.
This post should give you a few ideas for the best places to visit during your holiday in the Algarve. This is a beautiful region in Portugal with a huge amount to see and do, so you will want to make the most out of your time here.