From golden cliffs and secret beaches to charming villages and fresh seafood spots, here’s where to go in Portugal’s Algarve for your perfect coastal adventure.
There’s something about the Algarve that sticks with you. Maybe it’s the scent of grilled sardines in a sleepy fishing village, the way the sunlight bounces off ochre cliffs, or the thrill of discovering a beach you can only reach by foot—or boat. This southern slice of Portugal is a sun-drenched patchwork of dramatic coastlines, quiet countryside, historic towns, and surf-friendly waves.
Whether you’re chasing hidden coves, clifftop hikes, laid-back towns, or culture with a side of vinho verde, the Algarve has something for every kind of traveler. In this guide, I’ve rounded up the 10 best places to visit in the Algarve, each with its own vibe and reasons to visit. From the west’s wild, wind-whipped surf spots to the calm, family-friendly beaches of the east, let’s dive into the must-sees that make this region irresistible.
1. Lagos
Best for History Lovers and Beach Hoppers
Set along the western Algarve, Lagos strikes a perfect balance between culture and coast. You’ve got cobbled old-town streets, 16th-century walls, and bustling plazas—all a short walk from stunning beaches like Praia do Camilo and Ponta da Piedade, where honey-colored cliffs meet turquoise waters.
Lagos was once a center of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, and you’ll feel the legacy in spots like the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira and Igreja de Santo António, with its dazzling gold interior. When hunger hits, I always head to Restaurante dos Artistas—a local gem tucked inside a historic building.
If you’re here in summer, plan a boat trip through sea caves, or kayak to hidden coves you can’t reach by land. Trust me—Ponta da Piedade at sunset is magic.
2. Tavira
Best for a Quiet, Authentic Escape
Eastern Algarve’s Tavira feels like a different world—slower, softer, and less touristy. It’s about 30 km from Faro and has all the charm of a traditional Portuguese town: whitewashed buildings, terracotta roofs, Roman bridges, and cobbled alleyways that wind down to the Gilão River.
One of the best things to do here? Catch a small ferry from the town to Ilha de Tavira, a long stretch of soft sand and calm water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There’s barely any development on the island, so it feels wonderfully unspoiled.
Tavira is also a great base for exploring the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected lagoon system full of birdlife. And if you’re into seafood, ask for “arroz de lingueirão”—clam rice that’s salty, brothy, and unforgettable.
3. Albufeira
Best for Nightlife and Beaches
Yes, Albufeira is popular—and for good reason. Once a humble fishing village, it’s now the Algarve’s buzzing beach resort, known for its golden sands and energetic nightlife. It sits pretty much in the center of the region, making it super accessible for day trips too.
The Old Town has more character than you’d expect—whitewashed buildings, pretty squares, and streets full of bars and shops. But walk a little further and you’ll find Praia da Falésia, one of the Algarve’s most stunning beaches, framed by tall red cliffs.
If you want to party, head to The Strip (Avenida Sá Carneiro), where the music doesn’t stop. But if you’re looking for a peaceful stay, stick to the quieter side streets of the old town and enjoy grilled piri-piri chicken with a view.
4. Benagil
Best for Iconic Sea Caves
You’ve probably seen it on Instagram—the famous Benagil Cave with its giant sunlit hole in the ceiling. But nothing compares to seeing it up close. Benagil is a tiny coastal village just east of Carvoeiro, and it’s home to one of the most photogenic sea caves in Europe.
You can’t walk there—you have to go by kayak, SUP, or boat, which adds to the thrill. Early mornings are best to avoid the crowds. After exploring the cave, swim at Praia de Benagil or walk the clifftop trail to Marinha Beach, which is just as jaw-dropping.
Tip: Book your cave tour in advance, especially in peak season. And wear reef shoes—the cave floor can be rocky.
5. Sagres
Best for Surf and Wild Nature
At the southwestern tip of Portugal, Sagres feels raw and windswept, like the edge of the world. This is where the cliffs are high, the waves are wild, and the energy feels different—quieter, freer, more connected to nature.
Surfing is big here, especially at Praia do Tonel and Praia do Amado. Even if you don’t surf, it’s a great place to learn (the surf schools are super welcoming). History buffs will want to visit the Sagres Fortress, where Prince Henry the Navigator set sail into the unknown.
Don’t miss Cabo de São Vicente, the most southwesterly point in mainland Europe, where the cliffs drop into the Atlantic and sunsets are simply epic. Bring a jacket—the wind means business.
6. Faro
Best for Culture and a Local Feel
Faro often gets skipped as people rush west, but if you want culture without crowds, stick around. This regional capital has a beautifully preserved Old Town (Cidade Velha), surrounded by ancient walls and filled with quiet plazas, orange trees, and stork nests.
One must-see: the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) inside Igreja do Carmo—a chapel lined with thousands of human bones. It’s eerie, fascinating, and oddly peaceful. Then head to the marina for a glass of vinho branco and fresh clams at Faz Gostos.
Faro also opens the door to the Ria Formosa Natural Park—you can take a boat trip to island beaches like Ilha Deserta or Ilha da Culatra, both blissfully crowd-free.
7. Silves
Best for History and Inland Vibes
Once the capital of the Algarve during Moorish rule, Silves sits inland, surrounded by orange groves and rolling hills. Its crowning glory is the Silves Castle, a massive red-stone fortress that offers sweeping views of the countryside.
The town itself is peaceful, with narrow lanes, a Gothic cathedral, and plenty of cafes where you can sip coffee and watch life unfold slowly. If you’re here in August, don’t miss the Silves Medieval Fair—complete with costumes, food stalls, and falconry shows.
This is the Algarve away from the beach, and it’s well worth the detour.
8. Carvoeiro
Best for Families and Laid-Back Fun
Carvoeiro is a sweet little resort town nestled into cliffs, perfect for families or anyone after a slower pace. The beach is small but lovely, framed by white buildings and calm waters.
What makes it extra special is the Carvoeiro Boardwalk—a scenic cliff walk that starts near the fort and leads you along dramatic views to Algar Seco, a rocky area filled with natural pools and grottoes. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Kids will love the caves, and parents will love the relaxed vibe. Don’t miss dinner at O Pátio for seafood with a view.
9. Loulé
Best for Markets and Artisan Vibes
About 20 minutes from Faro, Loulé is a working Portuguese town full of local life. The highlight is the Mercado Municipal, a Moorish-style market hall where you can find everything from fresh fish and olives to hand-painted ceramics.
The Saturday morning market spills out into the streets, buzzing with locals and full of color. Walk it off with a stroll up to the castle ruins, and peek into little artisan shops along the way.
If you’re visiting around Easter, the Noite Branca (White Night) festival is a huge, all-white street party with music and dancing. Very fun, very local.
10. Monchique
Best for Mountain Escapes and Spa Time
If the coast is too hot or crowded, head into the hills. Monchique, tucked into the Serra de Monchique mountains, is green, cool, and deeply relaxing. The air smells of eucalyptus, and the views stretch all the way to the sea.
The town itself is small and charming, with stone alleys and rustic restaurants serving “porco preto” (black pork). Nearby, Caldas de Monchique is a spa village known for its natural spring waters. If you’re after peace, this is where to find it.
And if you like a view, drive or hike up to Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve (902m). On clear days, you can see the coastline laid out like a map.
So,
Whether you’re in it for the cliffs and coastlines, the fresh seafood and vinho, or the calm of inland towns, the Algarve serves it all up with sunshine and soul. Each place offers a different flavor of southern Portugal—so mix a few together for the perfect trip.
And one last tip? Rent a car. The real Algarve magic often lives between the destinations—in the roadside tascas, secret beaches, and scenic drives that connect them. Boa viagem!