Discover the Algarve: Beaches, History, Gastronomy & Hidden Gems

If you’re visiting Portugal, the Algarve is a destination you simply cannot miss. Famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sunny weather, the region is so much more than a summer getaway. Here you’ll find whitewashed villages, Moorish castles, fresh seafood and culinary traditions, and natural parks waiting to be explored.

If you haven’t booked your stay in the Algarve yet, Cooltour Oporto has curated a selection of the best eco-friendly hotels and accommodations across the region. From seaside retreats to charming countryside hideaways, these options combine comfort, sustainability, and authentic Algarve charm. Check out our full guide to the best eco-sustainable accommodation in the Algarve to find your perfect stay.

Cooltour Oporto also brings you the best tours and experiences across Portugal. Whether you’re planning to extend your journey south from Porto or Lisbon, the Algarve offers unforgettable contrasts — from cultural towns and coastal hikes to wine tastings and hidden gems. This guide showcases the very best the region has to offer.

👉 Planning to explore beyond the Algarve? Discover our complete Portugal region-by-region guides for inspiration in Europe’s westernmost country.

The capital of the region, Faro is much more than an arrival airport. Its historic Cidade Velha (Old Town) is a maze of cobbled streets surrounded by medieval walls. Don’t miss:

 • Arco da Vila – the iconic gateway to the old town.

 • Cathedral of Faro (Sé de Faro) – a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture with panoramic views from its tower.

 • Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos) – a small but striking chapel decorated with the bones of over 1,000 monks.

💡 Traveler Tip: Faro is also the entry point to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a unique lagoon system perfect for birdwatching, boat tours, and exploring untouched islands like Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol.

The western Algarve, stretching from Aljezur to Sagres, feels like another world compared to the busy southern coast. Here you’ll find dramatic cliffs, endless Atlantic waves, and some of the most unspoiled beaches in Portugal — a paradise for surfers, hikers, and nature lovers.

 • Praia da Arrifana (Aljezur) – a stunning surf beach backed by high cliffs, popular with surfers of all levels.

 • Praia de Odeceixe (Aljezur) – a unique beach where the river meets the ocean, offering calm waters for families and waves for surfers.

 • Praia da Bordeira (Carrapateira) – vast and wild, with golden dunes and a river lagoon that changes with the tides.

 • Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente – the “end of the world” in ancient times, with a fortress, lighthouse, and breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic.

💡 Traveler Tip: The west coast is part of the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, one of Europe’s best-preserved coastal areas. Bring comfortable shoes if you want to explore parts of the Rota Vicentina, a long-distance hiking trail through cliffs, valleys, and fishing villages.

 Once a hub of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, Lagos is now one of the most vibrant coastal towns.

 • Ponta da Piedade – dramatic golden cliffs and sea arches, best explored on a boat or kayak.

 • Praia do Camilo & Dona Ana – postcard-perfect beaches framed by cliffs.

 • Old Town – charming alleys, historic churches, and the old slave market museum, a sobering reminder of Portugal’s past.

💡 Hidden Gem: Visit Meia Praia for a wide, quieter beach where locals go, stretching over 4 km of soft sand.

 Albufeira is known for its lively nightlife, but it also offers:

 • Praia dos Pescadores – central, family-friendly beach with cafés and restaurants.

 • Albufeira Old Town – whitewashed houses and cobbled lanes filled with traditional shops.

 • Marina of Albufeira – colorful modern marina, perfect for dolphin-watching cruises or sailing tours.

 On the eastern Algarve, Tavira is one of the most picturesque towns in Portugal.

 • Roman Bridge & Gilão River – the heart of Tavira’s old town.

 • Castle of Tavira – with views over the town’s rooftops and church towers.

 • Ilha de Tavira – accessible by ferry, a pristine sandy island with clear waters.

💡 Hidden Gem: Tavira is home to over 30 churches, each with unique tiles and altars.

At Portugal’s southwestern tip, Sagres stands out as a land of explorers and legends. The dramatic headlands and windswept cliffs create a sense of remoteness that inspired seafarers for centuries.

 • Sagres Fortress – once linked to Prince Henry the Navigator, with its iconic compass rose etched into the ground.

 • Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente) – Europe’s last frontier to the Atlantic, where towering cliffs drop into endless ocean views.

 • Beliche Beach (Praia do Beliche) – a sheltered cove below the cliffs, loved by surfers and perfect for a refreshing dip.

💡 Traveler Tip: Sagres is more than a viewpoint — enjoy fresh seafood in town before heading to the cape for one of the most unforgettable sunsets in Portugal.

Away from the coast, Silves showcases the Algarve’s Moorish past.

 • Silves Castle – one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Portugal.

 • Gothic Cathedral – built on the site of a former mosque.

 • Arade River – once a vital trading route during the Middle Ages.

💡 Hidden Gem: Visit during the Silves Medieval Festival (August) to see jousts, markets, and medieval parades.

 • Ria Formosa Natural Park – lagoons, salt pans, and islands full of wildlife.

 • Monchique Mountains – lush hills, thermal springs in Caldas de Monchique, and the Algarve’s highest point at Foia (902m).

 • Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – one of the most stunning coastal hikes in Europe, passing Praia da Marinha and Benagil Cave.

 • Benagil Cave – iconic sea cave accessible by kayak, boat, or stand-up paddle.

💡 Hidden Gem: Visit Benagil Cave early in the morning by kayak or SUP. Not only is it less crowded, but the sunlight streaming through the cave roof creates magical reflections.

The Algarve is a paradise for food lovers, combining Atlantic seafood with Mediterranean flavors. Must-try dishes include:

 • Cataplana de Marisco – seafood stew cooked in a traditional copper pot.

 • Sardinhas Assadas – grilled sardines, especially in summer festivals.

 • Arroz de Lingueirão – razor clam rice from the Ria Formosa.

 • Dom Rodrigo & Morgado – traditional almond and egg-yolk sweets.

 • Medronho – a fiery local spirit made from the arbutus berry, typical of Monchique.

💡 Traveler Tip: In coastal towns like Lagos, Olhão and Tavira, go early to the municipal markets — fishermen bring in their catch in the morning, and you’ll see locals choosing the freshest sardines, clams, and tuna.

From Michelin-starred fine dining to family-run taverns by the sea, this region offers unforgettable culinary experiences. Here are 18 of the best restaurants in the Algarve, each worth a visit on your journey through southern Portugal.

 • Austa (Almancil, Loulé) – A stylish farm-to-table venue where Algarve cuisine meets contemporary design and elegant presentation.

 • Gusto (Almancil, Loulé) – Chef Heinz Beck’s Michelin-starred Mediterranean restaurant at the Conrad Algarve, combining luxury with world-class flavours.

 • Luar da Fóia (Monchique) – Perched on the highest point of the Algarve, this spot pairs panoramic mountain views with hearty regional dishes.

 • Vai e Volta (Olhão) – A local favourite for freshly grilled fish served in endless portions, embodying the authentic Algarve spirit.

 • Casa da Igreja (Cacela Velha) – A charming rustic eatery where the stars are freshly caught oysters, clams, and razor clams from the Ria Formosa.

 • Vila Joya (Albufeira) – A two Michelin-starred restaurant set in a cliffside villa, offering refined haute cuisine by Chef Dieter Koschina alongside spectacular ocean views.

 • Staar (Albufeira) – A contemporary fine-dining experience blending modern techniques with Algarve flavours in creative tasting menus.

 • Windmill (Albufeira) – An intimate dining spot inside a restored windmill with only 12 seats, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a uniquely romantic setting.

 • A Lota de Alvor (Alvor, Portimão) – A casual and lively harbour-side venue, celebrated for its daily fish specials and traditional Algarve recipes.

 • O Viriato (Portimão) – A classic Portuguese restaurant renowned for its seafood rice, cataplana, and warm hospitality.

 • Marigil (Vila do Bispo) – A true Portuguese gem where some slow-cooked specialties must be ordered hours in advance.

 • O Charneco (Estômbar, Lagoa) – A beloved family-run spot serving generous portions of authentic Algarve cuisine in a homely setting.

 • Ocean (Porches, Lagoa) – Helmed by Chef Hans Neuner, this two Michelin-starred restaurant at Vila Vita Parc is one of Portugal’s culinary crown jewels.

 • Dumar d’Benagil (Lagoa) – Overlooking the famous Benagil beach, this venue specialises in fresh fish and seafood paired with breathtaking ocean views.

 • Convent’Bio (Lagoa) – An organic concept restaurant in a former convent, known for sustainable, healthy, and flavourful dishes.

 • Pigs & Cows (Faro) – A chic bistro-style spot serving international cuisine with a playful, relaxed twist.

 • Outro Lado (Faro) – A modern vegetarian and vegan favourite, praised for its innovative plant-based creations.

 • Estúdio Vegetariano (Lagos) – A creative vegetarian restaurant offering colourful, flavour-packed plates with a modern twist.

💡 Traveller’s Tip: The Algarve is a top gastronomic destination, especially in summer months. Many of these restaurants require booking well in advance, particularly Michelin-starred venues and seaside seafood houses.

 • Cacela Velha – a tiny village with white houses and stunning sea views.

 • Alte – an authentic inland village with natural springs and traditional houses.

 • Estoi Palace – a romantic pink palace with gardens, now a boutique hotel.

 • Olhão Market – the best place to experience local seafood culture.

Q: Is the Algarve only about beaches?
A: Not at all. Beyond its stunning coastline, the Algarve offers historic towns like Silves, charming mountain villages in Monchique, rich gastronomy, and a growing wine culture.

Q: What’s the best time to visit the Algarve?
A: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) bring warm weather, fewer crowds, and great conditions for hiking or exploring. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, ideal for beach lovers. Winter is also a good option for cultural trips, with mild temperatures around 15–18°C (59–64°F) and only a few rainy days.

Q: How do I get to the Algarve?
A: The Algarve is about 3 hours from Lisbon by car or train, and around 5 hours from Porto. The fastest option is a flight to Faro, the region’s capital.

Q: Do I need a car to explore the Algarve?
A: A car gives you the most freedom, especially for hidden gems and scenic routes. However, guided tours cover many highlights, and buses connect main towns — with Vamus as the primary operator.

Q: How long should I spend in the Algarve?
A: It depends on your trip style. For a Portugal road trip, plan at least 4–5 days to explore the Algarve properly. If your focus is relaxing by the sea, you could easily spend a week or more enjoying its many beaches.

Q: What are the best beaches in the Algarve?
A: The Algarve boasts beaches for every taste. In the northwest, Praia de Odeceixe — one of the “7 Wonders of Portugal” — is a highlight. From Aljezur to Sagres, beaches like Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Beliche are wilder and less crowded. The southern Algarve offers calmer waters, with gems like Praia Dona Ana (Lagos), Praia da Marinha and Praia de Albandeira (Lagoa), Praia dos Três Irmãos (Portimão), Praia do Farol (Ilha da Culatra, Faro), Praia da Fuseta (Olhão), and Praia da Cacela Velha (Vila Real de Santo António).

Q: What are the best places to visit in the Algarve?
A: If you arrive in Faro, start with nearby highlights such as Ilha de Faro, Ria Formosa, and the city of Olhão. For dramatic, less crowded beaches, head west from Aljezur to Sagres. Cities like Portimão, Lagos, and Albufeira are perfect for beaches and nightlife. For a quieter escape, explore the eastern Algarve — Tavira and Cacela Velha remain true hidden gems.

Q: In which towns can I find the best Algarve tours?
A: The main Algarve towns such as Lagos, Faro, Portimão, Albufeira, and Olhão all offer excellent tours and activities. From boat trips to Benagil Cave and the Ria Formosa to food tours, cultural walks, and coastal hikes, each town is a great starting point. 👉 See our handpicked selection of Algarve tours to find the experience that suits you best.

The Algarve is Portugal’s sun-soaked jewel, where golden cliffs meet the Atlantic and traditions blend with modern comfort. From Lagos’ dramatic coastline to Tavira’s timeless streets, from the hidden valleys of Monchique to the bustling markets of Faro and Olhão, every traveler will discover their own version of paradise here.

➡️ At Cooltour Oporto, we connect you with Portugal’s best destinations — from Douro Valley wine adventures to Lisbon and the Alentejo — and of course, the Algarve. Let us help you design a journey that’s authentic, stress-free, and truly unforgettable.

One of the most delicious ways to experience the Algarve is through its gastronomy. Joining a food tour is the perfect way to taste local flavors, meet passionate producers, and gain insider knowledge about the region’s traditions. You’ll find options ranging from traditional food tours to immersive market tastings.

The Algarve is also a paradise from the water. Whether you prefer a private sailing trip or an intimate small-group boat tour, exploring sea caves, hidden beaches, and the Ria Formosa Natural Park by boat is an experience not to be missed.

👉 Ready to experience it for yourself? Explore our Algarve tours and activities and start planning your unforgettable journey today.