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The Algarve
Soaring cliffs, sea caves, golden beaches, scalloped bays and sandy islands draw over four million visitors to the Algarve each year. Surrounded on two sides by the Atlantic, it's a paradise for surfers, especially along the refreshingly undeveloped west coast.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Faro
The centrepiece of the Cidade Velha, the sé was completed in 1251 but heavily damaged in the 1755 earthquake. What you see now is a variety of Renaissance…
Faro
Encompassing 18,000 hectares, this sizeable system of lagoons and islands stretches for 60km along the Algarve coastline from west of Faro to Cacela Velha…
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo & Capela dos Ossos
Faro
One of the Algarve's most dazzling churches, this twin-towered baroque masterpiece was completed in 1719 under João V. After the 1755 earthquake, its…
Lagos
Protruding 2.5km south of Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is a dramatic wedge of headland with contorted, polychrome sandstone cliffs and towers, complete with a…
Silves
This russet-coloured, Lego-like castle – originally occupied in the Visigothic period – has great views over the town and surrounding countryside. What…
Carvoeiro
One of the Algarve's – and Portugal's – most emblematic sights, this huge natural seaside cave has a hole in its ceiling through which streaming sunlit…
Silves
Just below the castle is the sé, built in 1189 on the site of an earlier mosque, then rebuilt after the 1249 Reconquista and subsequently restored several…
±Ê´Ç°ù³Ù¾±³¾Ã£´Ç
Housed in a 19th-century fish cannery, the ultramodern, award-winning Museu de ±Ê´Ç°ù³Ù¾±³¾Ã£´Ç is the city's number-one draw. The museum focuses on three areas:…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
Fill up your senses in the Algarve. Incredible beaches, world-class restaurants and scenic walks are among our top things to do in the Algarve.
Read articleThings to Know
Make the most of your visit to Portugal’s Algarve with these local tips, ideal for first-timers.
Read articleBest Road Trips
If you’re looking for the best road trips through the Algarve, don’t miss these five top drives, taking in hilltop villages and stunning coastal scenery.
Read articlePlan with a local
Articles
Latest stories from The Algarve
Filter by interest:
Destination Practicalities10 things locals want you to know before visiting the AlgarveMar 3, 2024 • 6 min read
Beaches10 of the best beaches in the Algarve: from secluded coastlines to party townsJul 12, 2023 • 6 min read
Festivals & EventsThe best time to visit the Algarve, Portugal's golden coastJul 4, 2023 • 5 min read
National Parks5 of the best nature reserves in the Algarve: beaches, wetlands and wonderful wildlifeJun 28, 2022 • 6 min read
