Easily one of Portugal's most popular holiday destinations, the Algarve has a multitude of beautiful beaches. In fact, the area’s sandy stretches are some of the best in Europe. Plus, with over 300 days of sunshine promised every year, it’s no surprise that the Algarve has been attracting travellers in search of sun, sand and sea for many years.
That said, once there, it would be something of a waste not to take some time away from the beach to visit a few of the beautiful towns of the Algarve. Evidence of the Algarve's one-time Moorish rulers still abounds. As well as the old town walls in Lagos and several castles, the narrow streets and unusual chimneys in many of the towns and villages also hark back to the five centuries of Moorish rule.
Here are a few of our favourite places to visit, which you can discover on excursions that are included as part of our Algarve holidays.
Best Places in Algarve
1. Silves
Silves is a charming and historic town on the banks of the Arade River, surrounded by groves of orange and lemon trees. It has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect escape from the busy coastal resorts. Once the capital of the Algarve during Moorish rule, Silves is packed with history, and its castle—one of the best-preserved in Portugal—offers stunning panoramic views over the terracotta rooftops. Strolling through the town, you’ll come across Silves Cathedral, built on the site of a former mosque, as well as quaint cobbled streets lined with cafés and local shops.
2. Lagos
Lagos is a town that perfectly balances rich history with a lively, modern feel. As you wander through its old town, you’ll pass historic churches, traditional squares, and the Slave Market Museum, a reminder of Lagos’ role in Portugal’s maritime past. But Lagos isn’t just about history—it’s also known for its fantastic restaurants, lively nightlife, and stunning beaches. Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are some of the most beautiful in the Algarve, with golden cliffs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or a boat trip to explore the famous sea caves.
3. Sagres
Sagres has a wild, rugged charm that sets it apart from the rest of the Algarve. The Fortaleza de Sagres, perched on dramatic cliffs, offers stunning ocean views and a glimpse into Portugal’s seafaring past. The town has a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path feel, with great seafood restaurants and a laid-back vibe. Surfers flock to Praia do Tonel and Praia do Beliche for their impressive waves, while nature lovers come for the striking coastal scenery. Whether you’re here for history, adventure, or just the peaceful atmosphere, Sagres is a place that leaves a lasting impression.
4. Cape St. Vincent
Cape St. Vincent has long been thought of as "the end of the world," and standing on its towering cliffs, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly in front of you, it’s easy to see why. This dramatic headland played a key role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery—Prince Henry the Navigator sent many of his explorers off from this very point. The lighthouse, one of the brightest in Europe, still guides sailors to safety today. Whether you’re here for a scenic walk or just to take in the incredible views, it’s one of the most awe-inspiring places in the Algarve.
5. Faro
On any trip to the Algarve, best places to visit include Faro. It might be best known for its airport, but it’s so much more than just a travel hub. The Old Town, with its ancient city walls and cobbled streets, is full of character, and its grand Arco da Vila leads you straight into a maze of charming squares, cafés, and historic buildings. Faro Cathedral, sitting proudly in the main square, offers breathtaking views from its bell tower. Just outside the city, the Ria Formosa Natural Park is a must-visit—this stunning lagoon system is home to diverse birdlife, beautiful walking trails, and peaceful boat trips through its winding waterways.
6. Loulè
Loulè is best known for its colourful markets selling local produce and handicrafts; it’s one of the best places to visit in Algarve, especially for shopping. One of its main sights is Loulé Castle which was first built by the Romans. Later it became a Moorish fortress then, in the 13th century, they were defeated by Christians during the Reconquista by Dom Paio Peres Correia. There are other Moorish elements to be found in the town from when they ruled this part of Portugal, such as São Clemente. The oldest church in Loulè, it was built on the site of a former mosque around the 13th century and the church tower was originally the minaret.
We visit these six places on guided excursions during our Algarve holidays, allowing you to discover the region’s rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes with ease. In addition to these must-visit locations, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore more of the Algarve at your own pace. If you’re looking for additional places to visit, we recommend following towns, each offering a unique experience of the region’s charm.
7. Tavira
Nestled along the banks of the Gilão River, Tavira is often hailed as one of the Algarve's most picturesque towns. Its charming centre boasts whitewashed buildings adorned with traditional azulejos, cobblestone streets, and a serene riverside park. The medieval Tavira Castle offers panoramic views over the town's terracotta rooftops and the surrounding landscape. A short ferry ride transports visitors to the pristine Ilha de Tavira, renowned for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for beach enthusiasts. On our Discover Alentejo including Evora and the Algarve - Solo Traveller tour, we actually stay in this beauitful town.
8. Vilamoura
Vilamoura stands as a testament to the Algarve's modern luxury and sophistication. Central to its appeal is the bustling Vilamoura Marina, lined with upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife venues. Golf aficionados are drawn to its world-class courses, such as The Old Course, offering meticulously landscaped greens set against scenic backdrops. History enthusiasts can explore the Roman ruins of Cerro da Vila, providing a glimpse into the region's ancient past.
9. Albufeira
Albufeira seamlessly blends its rich history with a lively atmosphere, making it a focal point for visitors to the Algarve. The historic old town is characterised by narrow streets, traditional architecture, and a plethora of local eateries serving delectable Portuguese cuisine. In contrast, "The Strip" in the newer part of town buzzes with energetic nightlife, featuring themed bars and nightclubs. The city's golden beaches, such as Praia dos Pescadores, are perfect for sunbathing, watersports, or embarking on boat tours to explore the stunning coastal caves.
10. Portimão
Portimão, a vibrant port city, offers a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The award-winning Praia da Rocha, with its expansive golden sands and dramatic cliffs, is a major draw for beach lovers. The Museu de Portimão, housed in a former cannery, provides insights into the region's fishing heritage. For those seeking adventure, dolphin-watching excursions depart from the harbour, offering the chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Best Places to Visit in the Algarve, Portugal
There is so much more to this region than breathtaking beaches and you can uncover so much more on our Algarve tours. Check out some of the beautiful towns and villages, full of history, culture and atmosphere, that you can visit on a trip to Portugal's popular coast. Although its beaches and deserved reputation for warm weather might suggest that this is a summer destination, holidays to the Algarve can be enjoyed at any time of the year. If spending Christmas or New Year at home does not appeal to you, then a trip to the Algarve on our Seasonal Holidays could be the escape you are looking for.
As well as the opportunity for some sightseeing in the Algarve and also across the Spanish border in Seville, we will make sure you enjoy some traditional and seasonal Portuguese celebrations. If you want to learn more about other top destinations in Portugal, checkout our other blog posts on 10 reasons to visit Porto, Why you need to visit Lisbon and 10 things to do in Madeira.
