Algarve

Anchoring the south of Portugal, the Algarve is famous for its cliff-backed beaches, mouthwatering seafood, and picturesque villages. Additionally, it boasts a remarkably easy-going atmosphere that welcomes every type of traveler.

The Algarve hits all the right notes when it comes to seaside getaways. Inviting beaches and great weather are just the beginning of this region’s many charms. This southern portion of Portugal also has castles, historic cobblestone centers, and cliff-top villages that overlook wild stretches of coastline. Whether you’re traveling solo, embarking on a romantic getaway, or seeking a family-friendly place with plenty of activities, the Algarve indeed has you covered.

The golden, cliff-backed beaches of the Algarve rank among the loveliest stretches of sand in Europe. Given the region’s obvious natural beauty—alongside great surfing, kayaking, and other aquatic activities—it’s no surprise that southern Portugal attracts many visitors.

As if the symphony of daffodil-hued cliffs and emerald waters in the Algarve couldn’t get any better, the southernmost corner of Portugal also reigns as one of Europe’s great surfing playgrounds. The Algarve features breaks for all levels, with coastlines facing south and west that offer unique conditions at different times of the year.

Seabirds wing past as you stand on a lofty promontory watching Atlantic breakers pound the cliffs up and down the shoreline. The trails of the Algarve can take you to dozens of such vantage points overlooking the ceaseless drama of the seaside. Along the way, you can spot wildlife, explore ruins from the distant past, or simply relax on a hidden beach accessible only on foot.

You don’t have to look very hard to find outstanding photo opportunities in the Algarve. From golden beaches to clifftop lighthouses and historic, cobblestone-lined centers, this region forms the backdrop to some of Portugal’s most dramatic scenery. Knowing the lay of the land can help enrich your photographic journey.

It’s hard to imagine a better place for a road trip than the Algarve, with its year-round sunshine, cliff-backed coastline, and hill-covered interior dotted with peaceful market towns and riverside castles.

The golden beaches of the Algarve attract admirers from around the world. This is especially true in the height of summer when the beaches can feel overcrowded. However, despite the Algarve’s popularity, there are still many great deals to be found in this sun-kissed corner of Portugal.

The Algarve is justly famed for its beaches and reliably good weather (300 sunny days per year!). While visitors can’t be faulted for wanting to bask on captivating shorelines, there’s much more to Portugal’s southernmost region than just sun and sand.

I’ve always loved travel in Portugal, whether it was the tumbledown charm and boozy visits to the wineries of Porto, drinks at viewpoints and guzzlingpasteis de natain Lisbon, or striding out in awe over the bubbling volcanic landscape of the Azores. However, I’d never had much fascination with the Algarve: I assumed the region would be all crowded beaches, modern buildings, and overdeveloped resorts. Consequently, when I finally visited the region, its natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and fabulous array of outdoor activities took me completely by surprise.