Where to stay in the Algarve to best enjoy this region of Portugal?
There are options for everyone with resort towns, charming villages or off the beaten path locations…
Below is my guide where I compare the best places to stay in the Algarve, including:
- best areas and towns to stay in Algarve,
- map to get your oriented,
- best hotels in Algarve, and best resorts, rentals,
- alternative accommodations…
Find a gem for your dream vacation!
Where to stay in Algarve – quick answers + map
If you don’t want to read the entire article describing all the best areas to stay in Algarve, here are my simple answers.
Where to stay in Algarve – Map
To get you oriented, below is a map to help you locate all my selected areas listed below:
Lagos = best place in the Algarve for first timers
Lagos is where you find a lot of the most famous locations in the Algarve, and the town is very easy to navigate.
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Lagos here
Albufeira = best place to stay in the Algarve without a car
Albufeira is in the middle of the Algarve, with access to a vast network of train, bus and group tours.
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Albufeira here
Portimao = best place to explore the beaches under stunning cliffs
Portimao is very central to the beaches with magnificent cliffs. You will never be far from them.
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Portimao here
Tavira = most charming town near long flat sand beaches
Tavira is one of the most charming towns in the Algarve, on the East side
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Tavira here
Albufeira = where to stay for nightlife
Albufeira is the most vibrant Algarve town at night
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Albufeira here
Alvor = Where to stay with kids
Alvor is quiet with direct access to a very long beach and a central location to explore West Algarve. What more do you want?
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Alvor here
Where to stay for honeymoon or romantic vacations
The entire Algarve is full of romantic spots with cliffs, sea caves, arches and much more.
There is no one specific area that is more suited.
It depends what kind of vacation you enjoy as a couple, as per the criteria above.
Faro = where to stay for a larger city
If you prefer the vibe of a large city with lots of local, then Faro is your best choice, close to the airport
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Faro here
Olhao = where to stay on a budget
Olhao is a lot less touristic, but its streets in the old part of town also have a lot of charm.
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Olhao here
Aljezur = where to stay for surfing
If you are looking to surf, you need to go to the West coast of the Algarve, not the South.
The south-western tip of mainland Europe faces to the Atlantic Ocean. Aljezur, is central for many of the beaches.
See hotels and rental deals
or head to my detailed section about Aljezur here
Road tripping in Portugal via the Algarve
If you are road tripping Portugal, and want to see all that the Algarve has to offer.
I recommend:
- at least one night to the East to see the long sandy beach, for example staying in Tavira.
- at least 2 or 3 nights to the West, the explore the cliffs, for example staying in Portimao
Best places to stay in Algarve: hotels, resorts, rentals…
You could also choose where to stay in Algarve based on your hotel preferences.
Therefore, I am listing some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire region.
About the selection:
I have created this guide totally independently. None of the hotels has paid to be included.
The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience traveling there and my research.
My top 3 – best luxury hotels and resorts in Algarve
- In Quinta do Lago:
The Conrad Algarve has 3 restaurants, golf course, pools and more
See photos and availability - In Amarçao de Pera:
The Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa offers such a luxurious and relaxing experience facing the sea
See photos and availability - Near Falesia beach:
The Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites offers a beautiful architecture within the setting of the colorful Falesia beach
See photos and availability
My top 3 – best boutique hotels / guesthouses in Algarve
- In Lagos:
I personally stayed in a charming apartment at Uma Casa a Beira Sol.
It has a stunning garden, really enjoyable breakfast. Loved it!
See photos and availability - In Portimao
Charm and great location await you at Villa Mariazinha Charming Hotel, just 100m from the beach
See photos and availability - In Tavira:
The Colégio Charm House is very lovely with a pool and garden right in the center of Tavira
See photos and availability
My top 2 – unique accommodations in Algarve
- Houseboats on the Ria Formosa
see photos and availability - Old Palace (pink!)
Check out the Pousada Palacio de Estoi
see photos and availability
Sustainable accommodations in Algarve (ecofriendly)
The Algarve is not the Portuguese region where you find the most ecofriendly accommodations.
But here are a couple:
- Casa do Vale de Lama is inside a permaculture farm, with a salt-water pool, solar passive house…
see photos and availability - Quinta Alma offers luxury tent retreats
see photos and availability
New hotels in Algarve (2022-2023 opening)
- Vila Origens Boutique Hotel in Albufeira (2022) – see photos and availability
- Vila Maria Hotel in Albufeira (2022) – see photos and availability
- W Residences Algarve in Albufeira (2022) – see photos and availability
- La Mirada de Ronda in Ronda (November 2022) – see prices, pictures and availability
Boutique Hotel Luna Grenada Centro in Granada (October 2022) – see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Tayko Sevilla in Seville (September 2022) – see prices, pictures and availability - …
Need to rent a car in Portugal?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the narrow streets in villages
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
Area 1 – where to stay in Lagos (best for first-timers)
About Lagos
With a historical center, famous beaches and cliffs and a quieter vibe, Lagos is a great place to first discover the Algarve (and to come back if you love it!).
It has a much quieter atmosphere than the other large towns in the Algarve, but still has a large offer of accommodations.
And it is very close to Ponta da Piedade and Praia do Camilo.
No long sandy beach, but some very scenic ones, nestled in the cliffs and will golden sand.
Why stay in Lagos – Analysis
- Location
West side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Lagos = 3h drive
Faro to Lagos = 1h drive
- Beaches
Just a short walk from the town you can find Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo.
- Restaurants & shops
All you need can be found in town.
There is a vibrant city center with restaurants and some nightlife.
- Nearby attractions and activities
The famous cliffs of Ponta da Piedade
The beaches
The Lagos Zoo
Kayaking at the foot of the cliffs
Bot tours around the cliffs and sea caves
Dolphin watching tours
See boat tour and kayaking options
And much more within 1h of driving…
Lagos hotels and accommodations
- Charming boutique stay
I personally stayed in a charming apartment at Uma Casa a Beira Sol.
It has a stunning garden, really enjoyable breakfast. Loved it!
See photos and availability - Luxury – adults only
The Palmares Beach House Hotel has all you need for a relaxing stay
See pictures and availability - B&B
Villa Zawaia is a charming B&B with an elegant yet cosy vibe.
See photos and availability - By the beach
The D. Ana Beach Studio is overlooking the sea. Just 400ft to walk and you can relax on the sand.
See photos and availability - Apartment
Have a look at Henri’s Apartments with a communal rooftop swimming pool overlooking the sea!
See photos and availability - Good value
Solar de Mos is a small hotel in a quiet area, but not too far from everything.
See photos and availability
Area 2 – where to stay in Portimao (best for cliffs)
About Portimao
Portimao and is beach Praia da Rocha is one of the most practical place to stay in the Algarve.
It is in the middle of all the best cliff areas, making driving everywhere shorter.
The town has all you need: shops, restaurant, nightlife, casino…
And its beach offers golden sand and cliffs.
Plus, if you enjoy long morning or evening walks, there is easy access to the scenic seafront promenade on top of the cliffs.
The accommodation offer is very wide
Why stay in Portimao – Analysis
- Location
West side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Portimao = 2h45 drive
Faro to Portimao = 55min drive
- Beaches
Praia da Rocha is right in town.
But you can also easily walk to Praia dos Tres Castelos with its giant rock formations
- Restaurants & shops
All you might need can be found in Portimao: shops, restaurants, bar, casino, nightlife…
- Nearby attractions and activities
It is very central and you can reach most Algarve highlights in under 1h drive.
The closest are:
Benagil sea cave – book a boat / kayak tour from Portimao
The photogenic Ferragudo village
The fort of Sao Jao de Arade
Praia da Marinha, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Ocean Revival, a diving park
The archaeological site of Alcalar
Portimao hotels and accommodations
- Luxury with views
At the Bela Vista Hotel and Spa, you can enjoy fantastic views, right by the Portimao beach
See photos and availability - Quiet guesthouse
Encosta da Praia Guesthouse, quieter on the other side of the harbor
See photos and availability - Apartment
Of you are looking for a fully furnished apartment with pool and not far from the beach, check out the Paradise Luxury Apartment – Praia da Rocha
See photos and availability - Boutique hotel
Charm and great location await you at Villa Mariazinha Charming Hotel, just 100m from the beach
See photos and availability
Area 3 – where to stay in Albufeira (best for nightlife)
About Albufeira
Albufeira is the more dynamic holiday town in the Algarve.
Here you can find all you need:
- a large seafront with a promenade,
- a marina,
- lots of restaurants and shops,
- a dynamic nightlife,
- lots of excursions,
- an amusement park,
- the train station,
- …
Why stay in Albufeira – Analysis
- Location
Center-west of the Algarve South coast
Lisbon to Albufeira = 2h20 drive
Faro to Lagos = 40min drive
- Beaches
Praia de Peneco, Praia de Pescadores and Praia de Albufeira are long beaches next to town.
- Restaurants & shops
All you need. Albufeira is very active with bars, restaurants, karaoke…
- Nearby attractions and activities
The magnificent and colorful Praia da Falesia is not far.
The park Zoomarine Algarve is only 15min away – book your entrance ticket
The very long Praia de Gale is also not far away.
Albufeira is a great spot to go dolphin watching – see options
You can find many water activities such as parasailing, jet ski rental…
Plus, there are many excursions starting from Albufeira: Quad tours, winery tour, jeep safari...
Albufeira hotels and accommodations
- Luxury Resort
Pine Cliffs Garden is not in the city center but offers all you could need in one place
See photos and availability - Villa with private pool
Looking to have everyone under one roof in a fantastic accommodation, check out Pedro Mar
See photos and availability - Boutique hotel with views
Vila Algarvia Boutique & Suites, will offer you a great stay in the city center
See photos and availability - Apartment
You can stay right in front of the beach at ‘Inn the Beach Apartments’
See photos and availability - Near Falesia
or you could stay near the amazing view of Falesia beach at the amazing PortoBay Falesia
See photos and availability
Area 4 – where to stay in Alvor (best for family)
About Alvor
Alvor is a little gem in my opinion.
It is as centrally located as Portimao. But it is a better option for those looking for a quieter holiday, especially with a family.
The village still has a lot of charm and its Manueline-style churches are adored by photographers.
You will find more traditional restaurants and a vast beach with golden sand.
Plus, you can easily go for a walk in the nearby Ria de Alvor reserve.
Why stay in Alvor – Analysis
- Location
West side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Alvor = 2h40 drive
Faro to Alvor = 50min drive
- Beaches
Praia do Alvor is a long and wide beach, perfect to find a spot with your kids
- Restaurants & shops
Not as much choice, but Portimao is just a 5min drive away…
- Nearby attractions and activities
The Ria de Alvor nature reserve, right next to the village.
Otherwise, it is very central and you can reach most Algarve highlights in under 1h drive.
The closest are:
Tres Castelos beach
Benagil sea cave – book a boat / kayak tour from Portimao
The photogenic Ferragudo village
The fort of Sao Jao de Arade
Praia da Marinha, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Alvor hotels and accommodations
- Luxury Resort
The Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel will make you dream with the infinity pool and the spa.
See photos and availability - Guesthouse
The Guest House Summer Cascade Alvor has a great location and a pool
See photos and availability - Boutique hotel
The Agua Hotels Alvor Jardim is modern with a nice pool and great central Alvor location.
See photos and availability - Apartments
Great location and a common pool for the Portugal rentals Vila da Praia Apartments
See photos and availability
Area 5 – where to stay in Carvoeiro (relaxing, value)
About Carvoeiro
Carvoieiro is not for those looking to easily walk a few hundred meters and relax on the beach. And it is definitively not for those looking for a vibrant nightlife.
But if you are looking for a large choice of accommodations, a central location, close to the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve (short drive) and a quiet vibe… then, it is a good choice for you.
Those staying in the heart of the village can still be only a few meters away from a beach.
This is a great place to stay with family.
Why stay in Carvoeiro – Analysis
- Location
West side of the Algarve South coast
Lisbon to Carvoieiro = 2h45 drive
Faro to Carvoieiro = 50min drive
- Beaches
Lots of small bays nestled in cliffs: Praia de Carvoeiro
- Restaurants & shops
Good selection of restaurants. But it is mostly a quieter area with accommodations.
- Nearby attractions and activities
Very close to Benagil sea cave, Praia da Marinha, Algar seco
Carvoeiro hotels and accommodations
- Luxury resort
The Tivoli Carvoeiro overlooks the cliffs and offers a wonderful breakfast.
See photos and availability - Apartments and town houses
Quinta do Algarvio Village is a great mix of apartments and townhouses around a beautiful pool. Nice modern decor.
See photos and availability - Boutique hotel
The Castelo Guest House has rooms overlooking the beach and the sea… perched on the cliffs!
See photos and availability - B&B
Carvoeiro B&B and Spa is cozy and comfortable with pool and jaccuzi.
See photos and availability - Value
Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza has an unbeatable location
See photos and availability
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…
Area 6 – where to stay in Tavira (best for charm)
About Tavira
Tavira is a little gem on the East side of the Algarve.
If you are looking with charm and more authentic experiences, this is the place to go.
Simply walking in town is a pleasure: Moorish heritage, white buildings, cobbled streets, roman bridge, medieval castle…
It is very picturesque!
Why stay in Tavira – Analysis
- Location
East side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Tavira = 3h drive
Faro to Tavira = 30min drive
- Beaches
The town is not right on the coast.
But it is close to Ilha de Tavira and its famous white sand pristine beaches.
- Restaurants & shops
Take the short boat ferry to reach the undeveloped beaches in lha de Tavira.
- Nearby attractions and activities
Bird watching at Ria Formosa
Visit the Castle in town
Walk around the sand pans
Look at the wild flamingos in the low waterways
Take a boat tour from the nearby Cabanas de Tavira – see options
Tavira hotels and accommodations
- High-end hotel
Pousada Convento de Tavira, located around a 16th century convent offers a quiet courtyard in the heart of the city.
See photos and availability - Boutique hotel
The Colégio Charm House is very lovely with pool and garden right in the center of Tavira
See photos and availability - Guesthouse
I personally stayed in Tavira for one night at the Taah Billa Guesthouse. Well located, spacious, very simple decor, clean, good price, nice welcome. It was fun!
See photos and availability - Farmhouse
You can also stay a little further away from the city center, for example at the Abacatus Farmhouse
See photos and availability
Area 7 – where to stay in Manta Rota (best for flat beach)
About Manta Rota
OK. This destination is not often listed as one of the best places to stay in Algarve.
But I want to think about all kind of travelers.
And some of you might just be looking for a very laid-back location with only a short flat walk to spend hours on a sandy beach.Not everyone is looking for restaurants, charming old towns and lots of place to go.
So if you just want to relax and spend tome on the beach without much efforts, Manta Rota is for you.
Why stay in Manta Rota – Analysis
- Location
East side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Manta Rota = 3h10 drive
Faro to Manta Rota = 45min drive
- Beaches
Very very long sandy beach of Praia da Manta Rota
- Restaurants & shops
Few restaurants.
Flat town, easy to walk around
- Nearby attractions and activities
Tavira is not far, and the pristine beaches of Ihla de Tavira.
Ria Formosa and its birds are also only a short drive away.
And you are very close to the border with Spain!
Manta Rota hotels and accommodations
Lots of rentals in Manta Rota. Not many hotels.
- Family apartments
Check out the Akisol Manta Rota Relax apartments to house your large family
See photos and availability - Townhouse
Or choose a town house with its own private pool such as Mira Praia Villa
See photos and availability - Luxury hotel
The Octant Praia Verde is in nearby Praia Verde, with a stunning pool surrounded by trees
See photos and availability
Area 8 – where to stay in Vilamoura (best for resorts)
About Vilamoura
If you are looking for a stylish upscale holiday, with elegant resorts, yachts and classy restaurant, then Vilamoura is your best choice.
It has one of the largest marina in Portugal, tennis courts, golf courses, high-end restaurants…
Here you best choice of accommodations are the large luxury resorts.
Why stay in Vilamoura – Analysis
- Location
Center West of the Algarve South Coast
Lisbon to Vilamoura = 2h30 drive
Faro to Vilamoura = 30min drive
- Beaches
Praia de Vilamoura and the magnificent Praia da Falésia are both really close to town
- Restaurants & shops
Lots of restaurants and high end shops
- Nearby attractions and activities
The golf courses
The marina and boat activities
Vilamoura hotels and accommodations
- Luxury Resort
The Tivoli Marina Vilamoura with sea views
See photos and availability - Luxury Resort
The Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort overlooks the gold course. It is a tranquil retreat.
See photos and availability - Apartments
If you don’t want to eat out all the time, choose some luxurious apartments such as at Residences at Victoria by Tivoli (near the golf courses not in the center)
See photos and availability - Apartment rental in town
You can also find private apartments for rent in the town of Vilamoura, such as Apartamento Victoria
See photos and availability - Boutique hotel
Hotel Parque das Laranjeiras has a beautiful pool in a garden, and quirky design.
See photos and availability
Area 9 – where to stay in Monchique (best for mountains)
About Monchique
Most of the best destinations to stay in the Algarve are close to the sea. The region is famous for its beaches.
But is also has a small mountain range, where you can enjoy hiking and cooler temperatures.
Monchique is considered the most charming villages in the area and it is famous for its market (second Friday of the month)
Why stay in Monchique – Analysis
- Location
North of Portimao
Lisbon to Lagos = 2h45 drive
Faro to Lagos = 1h10 drive
- Beaches
You are in the mountains away from the beaches.
The closest will be in Portimao, 30min drive away.
- Restaurants & shops
Fewer options than in the large seaside town, but you can find restaurants.
- Nearby attractions and activities
Monchique is a great place for hiking.
Plus, some of the famous sights in the Algarve are not that far away: Benagil is 45min away, Ponta da Piedade is 45min away.
Monchique hotels and accommodations
- Luxury resort
Enjoy a retreat in the mountains at Monchique Resort. It is away from the town center but offers a rejuvenating environment.
See photos and availability - B&B
Casa dos Batalim is located right in the center
See photos and availability - Thermal spa hotel
Vila Termal is nestled in greenery for a relaxing stay
See photos and availability
Area 10 – where to stay in Aljezur (best for surfing)
About Aljezur
With whitewashed houses and narrow streets, the small town of Aljezur is a perfect location to explore all the Atlantic beaches of the Algarve.
It is another Mecca for surfers, and has been able to keep its local vibe so far.
Why stay in Aljezur – Analysis
- Location
West side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Lagos = 3h drive
Faro to Lagos = 1h15 drive
- Beaches
Many beaches in the area, great for surfing: Praia da Arrifana, Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Castelejo
- Restaurants & shops
Smaller town not geared towards tourism.
More authentic cuisine, fewer shops
- Nearby attractions and activities
All the surfing beaches will keep you busy, but you can also visit the cliffs of Sagres and the beaches of Lagos in under 45 minutes.
Aljezur hotels and accommodations
- Lots of rentals in the old town
For example Hillside 2 Aljezur old town
See photos and availability - Guesthouse
The Guesthouse Aljezur center offers simple, practical and nice accommodations
See photos and availability - Or a resort a few miles from town
Praia do Canal Nature Resort to complete your stay with a pool, a fitness room and relaxing grounds
See photos and availability
And keep track of your own trip!
Areas 11 to 15 – other best areas (for city, budget, golf…)
Area 11 – Faro (best for city)
- Location
Middle of the Algarve coast
Lisbon to Faro = 2h40 drive - Why stay there
Great location to stay close to the airport and to visit both the West and the East side of the Algarve.
It is a large city not dedicated only to tourism.
The historic center and its charming streets are surrounded with old fortification walls. - Beaches
It is close to the Rio Formosa Natural Park (go birdwatching), so direct beach options are limited.
But you can head to Praia do Faro
The area also offers dolphin watching tours – see details and availability - Accommodations
The 5-star hotel 3HB Faro with a pool overlooking the city – see photos and availability
The Casa Apollo Guesthouse for something more boutique – see photos and availability
Cardeal Suites & apartments if you want to be able to cook – see photos and availability
Area 12 – Olhao (best for budget)
- Location
Middle of the Algarve South coast, east of Faro
Lisbon to Lagos = 2h50 drive
Faro to Lagos = 15min drive - Why stay there
Olhao is not a touristic town. Here you can stay among locals and experience more of life in the Algarve.
It is home to a vibrant fishing community and the old town has a lot of charm with historical buildings. It is not “pretty” or polished like the other towns.
And because of that, you can find cheaper accommodations here. - Beaches
No beach in town.
You must take your car and head, for example, to Praia de Faro.
But it is also a great place to take boats to islands and the Rio Formosa reserve. - Accommodations
You can still find accommodations with style, such as Pure Formosa Hotel Concept – see photos and availability
In the city center, check out Hotel Cidade de Olhao – see photos and availability
And for a colorful stay, consider the BJB Alojamentos guesthouse – see photos and availability
Area 13 – Quarteira (best for golf)
- Location
Middle of the Algarve South coast
Lisbon to Lagos = 2h30 drive
Faro to Lagos = 30min drive - Why stay there
Quarteira is not a scenic location like others.
But is a popular for those you want a complete vacation package with golf, festivals, restaurants, shops… - Beaches
Quarteira has a long sandy seafront: Praia da Quarteira
Not far is the luxury resort area of Vale do Lobo, with its red cliffs. - Accommodations
If you have kids, consider the Aquashow Park hotel – see photos and availability
You can also find rentals right on the beach such as Quarteira, Algarve – Seaview – Horizonte Mar – see photos and availability
And if you want a hotel on the beach, have a look at the Dom Jose beach Hotel (Plus) – see photos and availability
Area 14 – Sagres (off the beaten path)
- Location
South-West tip of Portugal
Lisbon to Lagos = 3h15 drive
Faro to Lagos = 1h25 drive - Why stay there
Sagres is a small town that has not yet been spoilt by tourism.
It is surrounded by spectacular cliffs and a fortress.
Great for hiking - Beaches
Praia da Mareta, Praia do Martinhal - Accommodations
Some accommodations in Sagres have amazing sea views such as the Mareta View Boutique B&B – check out photos and availability
Area 15 – Ferragudo (postcard)
- Location
West side of the Algarve
Lisbon to Lagos = 3h drive
Faro to Lagos = 1h drive - Why stay there
Lots of charm and nice restaurants.
For those who want a historical vibe with a good location to explore the Algarve.
It if often photographed from across the water as it has a postcard-look. - Beaches
Easy access to Praia Grande
And also a series of small coves
The battle: Lagos or Portimao or Albufeira
This is a very frequent question: where should I stay: Lagos, Portimao or Albufeira.
They all ave pros and cons. The answer really depends on what you are looking for:
- Everything with easy access: Albufeira
- Tours and activities to avoid the car: Albufeira
- Nightlife: Albufeira
- Quieter of the 3: Lagos
- Historical vibe: Lagos
- Central location to explore the cliffs: Portimao
- With younger kids: Portimao area
- With teenagers: Albufeira
See accommodation deals in Lagos
See accommodation deals in Portimao
See accommodation deals in Albufeira
My favorites are Lagos and Portimao.
But if you want to explore around every day, Portimao is really the most practical.
Places to avoid in Algarve
If you are looking for a quiet holiday, avoid:
- Avoid all the main towns, and choose an accommodation in the countryside
- Avoid especially avoid Portimao and Albufeira
If you are looking to explore the magnificent cliffs
Avoid staying on the East side of the Algarve because you will have to drive a lot every day
If you are looking for cheaper accommodations
Avoid anything on the seafront…, go inland
FAQs
How long to stay in Algarve?
Plan at least 3 days to see the highlights of the region.
With one week, you can enjoy most of the best things the Algarve has to offer.
With 2 weeks, you can explore the region in depth.
Lagos to Tavira = 1h15 via Motorway
Which city is most beautiful town in Algarve?
If you are looking for nice buildings and historical vibe than Faro and Tavira are your best options.
If you are looking for easy access to impressive beaches and all the facilities, then Portimao.
For a mix of both, choose Lagos.
How to get around the Algarve
There is a lot to see in the region: the many incredible beaches and the villages and mountains inland.
- by car – your best option
- by public bus – but you are very limited in terms of timing and destinations
- by organized tours – if you are staying at one of the main towns, many companies organized tours to the best beaches and also inland – see the many options
Need to rent a car in Portugal?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the narrow streets in villages
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
Which part of Algarve has the best beaches?
It depends on what type of beaches you are looking for.
The West of the South coast has smaller beaches nestled agains impressive cliffs. They are very scenic.
The East of the South Coast has long sandy beaches that are very flat.
The West coast has beaches with more waves, great for surfing.
Is the Algarve worth visiting?
Absolutely, it is worth visiting the Algarve.
Yes, it is crowded. But if you wake up early, you can enjoy incredible scenery with a mix of cliffs, white buildings, sea caves, lighthouses, forts…
Want to see more of the Algarve and Portugal?
- 30 Most beautiful landscapes in Portugal – read article
- Best things to do in Portugal – read article
- The best beaches in Portugal – read article
- The best things to do in the Algarve region – read article
- Benagil cave and Algarve boat tours – read article
- The magnificent Ponta da Piedade – read article
- The famous Marinha beach – read article
- The unique Tres Irmaos beach – read article
- The magnificent orange cliffs of Praia da Falesia – read article
Planning a trip to Portugal?
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- 13 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 200+ original photos to help you choose
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Renting a car in Faro & Algarve
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