In this article, I discuss things to do in the Algarve Portugal. The Algarve, Portugal, is a paradise for travelers seeking stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. From golden beaches like Praia da Marinha to dramatic cliffs at Ponta da Piedade, the region offers some of the best scenic views in Europe. Among the top things to do in the Algarve Portugal, exploring the coastal caves, such as the famous Benagil Cave, is a must. Adventurous visitors can enjoy water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Things to Do in The Algarve Portugal
Charming towns like Lagos and Albufeira invite you to stroll through cobbled streets and savor fresh seafood. For history lovers, visiting the ancient fortress in Sagres is one of the most enriching things to do in the Algarve Portugal. Don't miss the natural beauty of Ria Formosa, a lagoon system perfect for birdwatching. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, you'll find countless things to do in the Algarve Portugal, making it a top destination. Plan your trip now to discover the best things to do in the Algarve Portugal!
1. Visit the Benagil Caves
The famous Benagil Caves, also known as Algar de Benagil, have a stunning hole in their ceiling, which creates a natural skylight that illuminates the sandy beach inside. It’s a sight to behold for anyone entering the Algarve region.
The cave itself is located close to several popular Algarve destinations, including Lagos (45 minutes away), Albufeira (30 minutes away), and Portimão (45 minutes away). There are also several ways to visit the caves, including by bus, car, public transport, or by taking a boat tour or kayaking experience.
Be aware that the caves get crowded, especially during the summer season (or high season), so if you visit, try to come in the morning or evening. Many tours offer either a sunrise or sunset experience, such as this First Inside Benagil Cave Tour.
2. Have lunch under a 2,000-year-old olive tree
Sure, the Algarve has its fair share of sun, sand, and beaches. But take a short trip inland and you’re in for a unique treat — a chance to enjoy lunch and wine under a 2,000-year-old olive tree at the Morgado do Quintão Estate.
Nestled between Silves, Monchique, and Lagoa, this family-owned estate has been growing grapes for nearly 300 years. It was founded by the Count of Silves in the 1800s. Today, it’s one of the Algarve’s premier wine estates.
The estate itself hosts a number of experiences, including a lunch or dinner under an olive tree, as well as wine tastings and vineyard tours. They sell their own wine on the property, offer spa services, and even have cottages for rent if you want to stay a while.
3. Tandem Skydiving Algarve
Ready for a different view of the Algarve? Try this tandem skydiving tour. It starts with a 20-minute flight over the beautiful coastline. Once you reach an altitude of 15,000 feet, you and your instructor will jump out of the plane.
You will experience approximately 70 seconds of freefall before landing safely on the soft sandy beaches of Portimao. This skydiving adventure is a unique way to see the Algarve from above. This incredible experience includes all the necessary equipment and a safety briefing.
4. Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Chosen as one of the best hikes in Europe by Best Destinations in Europe, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a scenic route that runs from Praia da Marinha in the east to Praia de Vale Sentines on the west coast.
It is a popular, easily accessible trail with sections of wooden walkways that take you past rocky golden beaches, steep cliffs and the unique rock formations of the Algarve coast, through typical dry Algarve vegetation.
The hike itself is around 11 km, which will take you around 6 hours to complete. A moderate fitness level is recommended to participate comfortably. The trailhead entrance is a 5-10 minute drive or taxi ride from the town of Carvoeiro.
You can easily hike the trail yourself. However, there are many tours, such as by land and by sea - 7 Hanging Valleys Trail + 2-hour cruise or this one from Olhao: Seven Hanging Valleys Guided Hiking Day Trip that can take you there
5. Go Coaster Climbing and Cliff Jumping in Lagos
Looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure in the Algarve? Consider this coasteering tour near Lagos. With a small group, you’ll travel to a beach nestled against a towering rocky cliff, ready for a day of exciting outdoor activities.
Here, you’ll climb jagged rocks, jump off cliffs, swim in the azure sea, explore hidden caves, and discover secluded beaches in just a few hours. This trip takes you to places that are usually off-limits, offering a unique perspective on the Algarve.
This tour includes convenient transfers from Lagos, all the necessary equipment, and expert guidance, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
6. Visit Castro Marim and have a mud spa experience
Travel back in time with a visit to the quaint historic town of Castro Marim in the southeast corner of the Algarve, just next to the Spanish border. The landscape is dominated by salt ponds, marshes, a 13th-century medieval castle and a 17th-century fortress.
As you walk through the town, you’ll be greeted by whitewashed houses, fortress walls, narrow cobblestone streets and picturesque squares. Along with this stunning landscape and incredibly historic buildings, this small town is also known for one more thing: the Spa Salino Agua Ma.
5,000 years ago, salt was already being produced in the salt pans of Castro Marim. And today, these salt pans are known for the most pristine salt crystals in the world. They offer a unique mud spa experience that is truly one of a kind.
Here, individuals can float in the mineral waters of these salt flats, have their bodies massaged with salty mud, or enjoy one of the spa’s signature therapeutic and relaxing massages. You’ll also learn about the centuries-old salt production process.
7. Go surfing
The Algarve has around 200 kilometers of stunning coastline, which means there are plenty of opportunities to frolic in the water. If you’re looking for more than a relaxing day at the beach, I highly recommend surfing.
If you’re looking to surf, the west coast of the Algarve offers big surf, cool temperatures, and wild nature. Some great spots include Praia da Bordeira, and Praia do Amado. However, you can take surf lessons anywhere in the Algarve, including Faro, Albufeira, Portimão, and Lagos
8. Eat seafood in Olhão
Cataplana Algarve is a signature seafood stew from the Algarve, cooked in a distinctive clam-shaped pan, in which seafood, vegetables and spices are simmered.
Visit Olhão, a gem in the eastern Algarve known for its bustling fish market and Moorish-influenced architecture. It’s a place where tradition meets the sea, making it a haven for seafood lovers. Here, local fishermen catch their catch during the day, providing fresh ingredients for the town’s renowned seafood restaurants.
Olhão is not just about the sea, though. Stroll through the old town, and you’ll find charming cobblestone streets lined with traditional cube-shaped houses. The distinctive flat roofs and exotic staircases showcase the region’s North African influence.
For nature enthusiasts, Olhão is also the gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a maze of islands, lagoons and wetlands with wildlife, which brings me to the next activity.
9. Take a boat trip through the Ria Formosa Natural Park
Take a trip to the Ria Formosa Natural Park (Parque Natural da Ria Formosa), a stunning maze of lagoons, wetlands, and barrier islands that stretches for 60 km along the Algarve coast from the coast of Faro to the town of Olhão.
This extraordinary natural reserve is a unique oasis full of diverse wildlife, especially a haven for birdwatching, with hundreds of different species of birds all year round.
At the heart of the park, five barrier islands — Barreta, Culatra, Armona, Tavira, and Cabanas — form a vast lagoon system, with their pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages accessible only by boat. Every island has its own unique charm
10. Try Oysters in Culatra
Are you ready to have some of the best oysters of your life? I went on this tour, and although it was my first time enjoying oysters, everyone in the group agreed that it was some of their best.
Welcome to Culatra, an island in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, home to a tight-knit community of around 900 residents, all interconnected through a shared life by the sea.
As you visit the island, you’ll be introduced to local seafood workers, who provide insight into their sustainable harvesting techniques. You’ll also meet the island’s dynamic president, Silvia. She has guided the community towards a clean, plastic-free environment, with a special focus on caring for the young and elderly residents.
Their work and their stories form a shield, protecting Culatra from the effects of mass tourism and transforming it into a true sanctuary.
11. Go dolphin watching
Set off on an exciting ‘safari’ cruise from Lagos, Alvor or Portimão, which gives you the rare opportunity to see wild dolphins in the vast Atlantic.
The Algarve coastline is a hub for an abundance of marine life, with a particularly thriving population of dolphins. Species such as common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and even the occasional visiting orca are known to inhabit these waters.
This exciting journey aboard a rigid-hull inflatable raft ensures a close encounter with these playful creatures as they leap and leap through the waves. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture this unique marine spectacle that boasts a 95% success rate for dolphin sightings.
12. Take a Classic Food Tour in Lagos
Discover the rich flavors of the Algarve on this classic food tour in Lagos. Over the course of three hours, you’ll have the opportunity to visit four distinct local food stalls, sampling 10 traditional Portuguese dishes paired with local drinks. For those who are keen on a morning tour, there’s an extra stop at Lagos’ bustling Mercado Municipal Market.
This journey, expertly led by locals, takes you through charming narrow streets, immersing you in the history and culture of the region. Not only will you get to taste authentic cuisine, you’ll also discover architectural gems and hidden stories.
This guided tour is an excellent introduction for those exploring the Algarve for the first time, equipping you with valuable insights to fully enjoy your stay in this beautiful part of Portugal.
13. Visit Praia da Coelha
Discover Praia da Coelha (Rabbit Beach), a small but spectacular beach located on the southern coast of the Algarve - 5 km west of Albufeira. Surrounded by attractive cliffs and lush vegetation, this secluded cove is a paradise for those seeking a peaceful beach retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the usual tourist crowds.
With its golden sands and crystal clear waters, Praia da Coelha offers stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and beachcombing. The nearby trail along the cliffs offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a spectacular destination for nature lovers and tranquility seekers alike.
14. Spend the day at Praia Da Marinha
Located near the town of Lagoa (near Benagil), Praia da Marinha is known for its spectacular caramel-colored cliffs carved into intricate shapes by erosion against a backdrop of the clear turquoise waters of the Atlantic.
The beach itself, a stretch of golden sand nestled between these awe-inspiring cliffs, offers a peaceful retreat for sunbathing, while the crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling. Perhaps Praia da Marinha’s most defining feature is the double “M”-shaped natural arch in the face of the cliff.
Whether you’re navigating the cliff-top walking trail, swimming in the azure waters, or relaxing on the sandy shores, Praia da Marinha is an unforgettable part of the Algarve’s natural beauty.
15. Take in the beauty of Ponta da Piedade
Welcome to Ponta da Piedade, a natural landmark located in Lagos that is a staple of Algarve Portugal travel. Famous for its impressive sandstone cliffs punctuated by hidden grottoes and sparkling turquoise waters, Ponta da Piedade is a haven for nature lovers.
Various boat tours are available, offering up-close encounters with this geological wonder, while hiking trails provide breathtaking panoramic views from the clifftops. This is a must-see destination in the Algarve for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
16. Go scuba diving
The Algarve is one of the best places to scuba dive in Portugal. The Atlantic Ocean along the coast is considered to be the cleanest in all of Europe. It has one of the largest artificial reefs in Europe - perfect for scuba diving.
The Algarve has many reef dive sites as well as shipwreck sites. You can also dive from all the major cities, including Lagos, Faro, Sagres, Portimão and Albufeira.
One of the best places to scuba dive is Ocean Revival Park. An artificial reef was created by deliberately sinking four Portuguese Navy warships in the same spot. It is known as one of the top diving sites in Europe. Be aware that you need an advanced open-water license to be able to dive.
17. Go on a Jeep Safari with Distillery Visit and Lunch
Set off on an adventurous Jeep Safari that takes you straight into the heart of the Algarve’s hidden landscapes, particularly the enchanting Serra de Monchique.
Your route takes you through untouched locales, traveling along rural roads that pass through the Algarve’s unspoilt scenery. Small, whitewashed villages dot your path.
A highlight of your adventure will be a visit to a local distillery, where you can sample Medronho, a potent local brew, and see traditional honey-making practices. End your trip with a great lunch served at a classic local restaurant.
18. Take a photo at Algar Seco
Have you heard of Algar Seco? Located just a 15-minute walk from Carveoiro, it’s home to quite the Instagrammable spot.
Algar Seco in Carveoiro is like a natural playground created by the sea. Millions of years of erosion have turned the cliffs into caves, rock pools and windows that look directly out to sea. One famous spot, “A Boneca” or “The Doll”, is a small cave in a rock that looks like a doll. From inside this cave you can see the sea.
19. Walk the Carvoeiro Boardwalk
The Carvoeiro Boardwalk is a wooden path that follows the coastline, offering stunning views of the sea and cliffsides. The boardwalk starts in the town of Carvoeiro and ends in Algarve Seco.
A gentle stroll here will immerse you in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.. Don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless. From sunrise to sunset, the boardwalk is the perfect place to enjoy the Algarve’s landscape.
20. Visit the End of the World: Cabo de São Vicente
Step into the edge of the world at Cabo de São Vicente, located on the extreme southwestern tip of Portugal. This historic landmark is steeped in tales of seafaring adventure and ancient maritime legends, and served as sacred ground to the Romans, who called it Promontorium Sacrum.
As the westernmost point of the Algarve, Cabo de São Vicente offers stunning views of the vast Atlantic Ocean. On site, you’ll find a picturesque lighthouse, one of the most powerful in Europe, guiding ships navigating the treacherous coastal waters. Nearby, Fortaleza de Sagres stands guard over the coastline, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
21. Explore Vila Real de Santo António
Say hello to Vila Real de Santo António, a charming town located on the border of Portugal and Spain. Its quaint charm lies in its tree-lined squares, a marina dotted with bobbing boats, and timeless 18th-century architecture.
A visit here will take you on a journey through time, from the incomparable Pombalian buildings to the famous 19th-century obelisk that stands proudly in Marques de Pombal Square. In addition to the rich history, you can indulge in local cuisine at the seaside restaurants and cafes.
For a delightful shopping experience, explore the city’s numerous small boutiques and bustling daily markets. As a final stop, take a stroll along the Guadiana River for views of Spain.
22. Visit the Octopus Capital: Santa Luísa
Santa Luzia is called the 'Octopus Capital' due to its long tradition of octopus fishing. Local fishermen have developed unique octopus-catching techniques that have been passed down through generations. The village is famous for its abundant octopus catches and the exceptional dishes that local chefs prepare from this marine creature.
In addition to its fishing prowess, Santa Luzia, with its narrow cobbled streets and charming traditional houses, exudes an authentic Algarvean charm.
Furthermore, Santa Luzia is close to the stunning beaches of Terra Estrita and Barril, which add beach appeal to its quaint village charm.
23. Explore Roman Ruins
The Romans left behind several notable ruins in the Algarve. One notable site is the Milreu Roman Ruins (Ruínas Romanas de Milreu), near Estoi, which features the well-preserved remains of a Roman villa with intricate mosaics, baths, and a temple.
Another notable Roman site is Cerro da Vila in Vilamoura, which features the ruins of a Roman fishing village, including a bath complex and a museum. Additionally, the Roman Bridge in Silves (Ponte Romana de Silves) and the Roman Villa in Avicada (Vila Romana de Avicada) near Portimão are worth exploring to witness the Roman heritage in the region.
24. Swim at Praia da Falésia
Located near Albufeira and Vilamoura, Praia da Falésia (translated to Beach of Cliffs) is one of the longest beaches in the Algarve. The 6km long, wide beach is known for its red and orange sandy cliffs.
In 2018, Praia da Falésia was ranked as the number one beach in Portugal, the third best beach in Europe and the 12th best beach in the world by TripAdvisor. Its natural beauty and relatively calm sea conditions make it a great place to swim and enjoy water activities.
25. Visit the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina
The Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina region is a great choice for those looking for natural beauty, a rugged coastline and a more tranquil experience in the Algarve.
Located along the southwest coast of Portugal, this region is characterized by stunning cliffs, pristine beaches and a protected natural park. It offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching and enjoying the unspoilt landscape.
The charming towns of Jambujeira do Mar, Odesa and Sagres are worth exploring, and you can discover lovely beaches such as Praia da Arifana and Praia do Amado. Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina is a haven for nature lovers and those looking for a quiet coastal experience away from the tourist crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Algarve, and where is it located?
The Algarve is a stunning coastal region in southern Portugal, known for its beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, charming towns, and vibrant culture.
2. What are the best things to do in the Algarve Portugal?
Top activities include visiting Praia da Marinha, exploring Benagil Cave, hiking along the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, enjoying water sports, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Albufeira.
3. When is the best time to visit the Algarve?
The Algarve is great year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities.
4. How do I get to the Algarve?
You can fly into Faro Airport, the main gateway to the Algarve, or take a train or bus from Lisbon or other major cities in Portugal.
5. Is the Algarve family-friendly?
Yes, the Algarve offers many family-friendly attractions, including water parks, dolphin-watching tours, and calm beaches ideal for kids.
6. What is the local cuisine like?
The Algarve is famous for its fresh seafood, especially grilled sardines, cataplana, and octopus. Don’t forget to try the local desserts made with almonds and figs!
7. Do I need a car to explore the Algarve?
While public transport is available, renting a car is recommended to fully explore the Algarve's hidden gems and remote beaches.
8. Are there any hiking trails in the Algarve?
Yes, the Algarve offers stunning hiking trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, which boasts incredible coastal views.
9. Is the Algarve safe for tourists?
Yes, the Algarve is considered very safe for tourists. Just practice general travel precautions.
10. Can I visit the Algarve on a budget?
Absolutely! The Algarve offers a range of accommodations, dining, and activities to suit all budgets.
Introduction
The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is a captivating destination that blends breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque towns, the Algarve attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this coastal paradise offers something for everyone. From exploring iconic landmarks like Benagil Cave and Ponta da Piedade to enjoying delicious local cuisine and vibrant nightlife, the Algarve promises an unforgettable experience. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for travelers of all kinds.
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