ALGARVE HOLIDAYS
Pristine beaches, azure waters and over 300 days of sunshine per year
Best in:
Apr-Oct
Weather:
Sunny
Average temp:
21°C
Language: Portuguese
Currency:
Euro
Whether you're heading on holiday to the Algarve to explore the quaint towns of Carvoeiro and Praia Do Rocha, surf the waves of Lagos or do a bit of boutique shopping in Vilamoura, this beautiful region of Portugal does it all. From a distance the Algarve is instantly recognizable with whitewashed houses and layers of terracotta roofs – it’s a paradise for photographers and artists.
The Algarve translates, not very imaginatively, to ‘the west’. Surprisingly enough, it’s found on the west of Portugal where the sun shines all year round and the Atlantic Ocean laps at your toes. There are no wet and miserable winters here, just sunshine, sandcastles and sangria.
Albufeira Exceptional beaches, vibrant bars/clubs, fantastic restaurants and top golf courses
Faro holidays Vibrant city with great nightlife, incredible golden beaches and water sports
Albufeira Exceptional beaches, vibrant bars/clubs, fantastic restaurants and top golf courses
Algarve family holidays
Everyone deserves a holiday! Find the perfect package to suit all the family.
Luxury Algarve holidays
Take your holiday to the next level. Our luxury hotel + flight packages tick all the boxes.
All inclusive Algarve hotels
Everything's covered with all-inclusive holidays. So you can sit back, relax and enjoy!
Why visit Algarve?
The best thing about the Algarve is the variety it has to offer. Whatever kind of traveller you are, there's something for you. Close to the coasts, the vibe is more laid-back and family-oriented, and most of the seaside resorts offer stays focused on recharging your batteries and relaxing on the beach. But don't be fooled, while the Algarve has some of the best beaches in the world, it is also full of cultural gems, foodie hotspots, hiking trails, golf courses and surfing spots.
Family fun
The Algarve is a fun, safe, family-friendly destination. Many hotels cater specifically to families and there are plenty of activities for kids and teenagers. Don't miss Parque Aventura in Albufeira and make time to visit one of the many water parks in the region, such as Slide & Splash, Aquashow Park Hotel and Aqualand Algarve.
Nightlife
Faro has a great choice of bars and nightclubs. RoofTop Eva, Varandas Bar and O Castelo are top spots for drinks, while anyone wanting to dance should head to Twice, First Floor or Prestige Dance Club, an LGBTQ+ friendly venue that's open 'til 4am. Albufeira also promises exciting nights out – try Sal Rosa for cocktails with a view.
Nature
Most of the best spots to visit in the Algarve are natural sites shaped by the elements. Among the most impressive is Cabo de San Vicente - Europe’s southernmost point is a nature reserve, home to many animals, including eagles and otters. Love hiking? Set off on marked trails through lush vegetation in the Serra de Monchique.
Surfing
The Algarve is one of Europe's most popular surfing spots. Sagres, on the southwest tip, is arguably the best spot for surfers of all levels. If you're a beginner, there are several surf schools in the area that'll be happy to get you started, such as Algarve Surf School and Freeride Surf School.
Food
Foodies rejoice! There is so much great food to discover in the Algarve. Be sure to try local specialties such as cataplana (clams), Frango da Guia (piri-piri chicken) and tarte de alfarroba (carob cake). For fine dining, check out these Michelin-starred restaurants: Vila Joya, Ocean and Vista.
Golf
The Algarve is renowned for its world-class golf courses and resorts. Professionals travel thousands of miles to tee off here. You don't have to be a pro to take part though. You'll find golf courses welcoming all abilities dotted around the Algarve but particularly near Vilamoura, Lagos and Albufeira.
Family fun
The Algarve is a fun, safe, family-friendly destination. Many hotels cater specifically to families and there are plenty of activities for kids and teenagers. Don't miss Parque Aventura in Albufeira and make time to visit one of the many water parks in the region, such as Slide & Splash, Aquashow Park Hotel and Aqualand Algarve.
Nightlife
Faro has a great choice of bars and nightclubs. RoofTop Eva, Varandas Bar and O Castelo are top spots for drinks, while anyone wanting to dance should head to Twice, First Floor or Prestige Dance Club, an LGBTQ+ friendly venue that's open 'til 4am. Albufeira also promises exciting nights out – try Sal Rosa for cocktails with a view.
Nature
Most of the best spots for a holiday in the Algarve are natural sites shaped by the elements. Among the most impressive is Cabo de San Vicente - Europe’s southernmost point is a nature reserve, home to many animals, including eagles and otters. Love hiking? Set off on marked trails through lush vegetation in the Serra de Monchique.
Surfing
The Algarve is one of Europe's most popular surfing spots. Sagres, on the southwest tip, is arguably the best spot for surfers of all levels. If you're a beginner, there are several surf schools in the area that'll be happy to get you started, such as Algarve Surf School and Freeride Surf School.
Golf
The Algarve is renowned for its world-class golf courses and resorts. Professionals travel thousands of miles to tee off here. You don't have to be a pro to take part though. You'll find golf courses welcoming all abilities dotted around the Algarve but particularly near Vilamoura, Lagos and Albufeira.
Your questions about the Algarve answered
Where is the Algarve?
The Algarve is located in the south of Portugal. The area is best known for its golden beaches, charming towns, picturesque cliffs and warm weather. It is considered to be one of the biggest and most important areas for tourism in Portugal, with millions of visitors coming to the region every year. In fact, during peak holiday season, its population triples.
Where should I stay in the Algarve?
With so many great cities, towns and villages, it can be hard to know where to stay in the Algarve. For history and culture, you can't go wrong with the region's capital city, Faro. Here you will find some incredible sights, restaurants and bars. Albufeira and Portimão are also a great choice for travellers wanting a mix of sun, sea and culture. For a quieter holiday, consider Lagos which has some stunning beaches, gorgeous views and lots of outdoor activities, from kayaking to surfing. Lagos, along with Praia da Rocha, is also great for families with kids. For glitz, glam and golf, consider staying in Vilamoura which is known for its upscale hotels, beautiful marina, high-end restaurants and golf courses.
What is there to do in the Algarve?
There's so much to do! The Algarve is one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations due to its rich historical heritage and its sun-drenched sandy beaches, which often enjoy very warm weather. From snorkelling to surfing, swimming to sunbathing, shopping to sightseeing, there are so many things to do in this popular region. An Algarve getaway is what you make it – an outdoorsy adventure, a relaxing beach holiday to recharge your batteries or something in between.
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