Sun, Sand and Seafood in Portugal: An Algarve Travel Guide

The Algarve is a sun seeker’s paradise. The region sees plenty of sun all year round and has hot summers. A large part of the shoreline is comprised of limestone cliffs dotted with caves and secluded beaches, so spending time on a boat at some point is a must. The views are amazing, and the water will make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean. While the wine scene may not be front and center like other parts of Portugal, the Algarve does have its own wine region, so you will have plenty of options to choose from to help wash down all the amazing seafood you’ll be eating.

Relax on the Algarve's beaches. With its long stretches of golden sand and hidden coves, the Algarve has a beach for everyone. Praia da Marinha is a must-see with its dramatic rock formations, while Praia de Faro offers a relaxed vibe and calm waters.

Tip: Summers are hot, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and breathable clothing. The Algarve is a haven for northern Europeans during the summer months, and it gets crowded. If you plan on spending time at the beaches, get there early to secure your spot. If you’re not a crowd person, consider visiting in late spring or early fall.

Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park. This protected lagoon is a haven for birdlife, including flamingos and spoonbills. Boat tours are a great way to see the park's diverse ecosystems and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This scenic cliffside path offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and secluded beaches. The moderate hike is a great way to experience the Algarve's natural beauty.

Discover Ponta da Piedade. Dramatic rock formations, hidden grottoes, and crystal-clear waters make Ponta da Piedade a kayaker's paradise. Explore the caves, admire the natural beauty, or go for a refreshing swim.

Be amazed by the Benagil Cave. Take a boat tour to admire the incredible Benagil Cave. It features a large opening in its roof, allowing sunlight to create a magical beach inside the cave.

Tip: If you want to explore the full Algarve region, rent a car. It’s about an hour's drive between Lagos and Tavira, and it’s a great highway for driving the region. If you stay somewhere in the central Algarve, you can easily go east or west and explore all there is to offer. Signage in Portugal is easy to follow and the cities and towns are laid out well. As with most of Europe, you may have to be patient with finding parking in city centers and make sure you’re comfortable with roundabouts!

Visit the historic town of Silves. This charming town boasts a Moorish castle, a beautiful cathedral, and narrow cobbled streets. Immerse yourself in Portuguese history and culture while exploring the town's many shops and restaurants.

Learn to surf in Sagres. The strong waves and consistent winds make Sagres a surfer's paradise. Even for beginners, there are surf schools offering lessons to get you riding the waves.

Sample fresh seafood. The Algarve is a seafood lover's dream. Don't miss the chance to try cataplana, a traditional fish and shellfish stew cooked in a copper pot, or sample freshly grilled sardines.

Go dolphin watching. Embark on a boat trip off the Algarve coast and try your luck spotting dolphins in their natural habitat. Bottlenose and common dolphins are frequently seen in the area.

Tip: As I mentioned above, make sure you spend at least some time on the water while in the Algarve. The shoreline is truly stunning, and you won’t regret soaking it in from the water. I did a combo Benagil cave and dolphin-watching tour, which was cool. But there are many options depending on where you want to spend your time in the Algarve.

Explore Faro. The capital of the Algarve, Faro, offers a charming historic center, a bustling marina, and a variety of museums. Take a walk through the old town, visit the Faro Cathedral, or explore the city's fascinating museums.

Day trips

Seville, Spain. Seville is the capital of Andalusia and a beautiful city to explore. It's a short drive from the Algarve and makes for a great day trip. Immerse yourself in Seville's rich tapestry of history, flamenco, and tapas for a day you won't forget. However, that region in Spain is also a destination in itself.

The Algarve region covers a large territory with many fantastic food options throughout, especially if you are a seafood fan. I provided a sampling of different options from the region's east, west, and central parts. If you’re not looking to explore the entire region, make sure you talk to people where you’re staying to find some good suggestions close to you.

Ocean Restaurant: This two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in Alporchinhos offers an intimate fine-dining experience with stunning ocean views. Chef Hans Neuner creates modern, artistic dishes using fresh, seasonal Algarve produce, focusing on seafood.

Willie's Restaurant: Willie’s is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Vilamoura that combines classical cuisine with Portuguese and Algarvean influences. Chef Willie is a highly respected figure in the Algarve's culinary scene, and the restaurant boasts an elegant indoor space and a lovely garden terrace for a more relaxed setting.

Henrique Leis: Henrique Leis is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Almancil. The cuisine is contemporary Portuguese, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients from the region. The extensive wine list features a selection of Portuguese and international wines. The restaurant also features an elegant modern dining room overlooking the surrounding gardens.

A Ria: This restaurant in Ferragudo boasts beautiful views of the Arade River and specializes in traditional fresh fish and grilled meats with an Algarvian flair. They also have a great selection of Algarve wines.

Café Inglês: This historic cafe with an outdoor terrace, located in Silves, is a great place to grab a bite to eat in a relaxed environment. The menu features a variety of dishes, including traditional Portuguese fare, as well as international options such as pasta, pizza, and curry. A wide selection of drinks is available, including beer, wine, cocktails, and coffee. They are also known for their eclectic mix of live music.

Casa da Igreja. Casa da Igreja is a charming seafood restaurant located in Cacela Velha. It sits in a small square facing the church and boasts a terrace with a view of the Ria Formosa lagoon. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, clams, and prawns. They also offer a variety of meat and vegetarian options.

Marisqueira Rui: Visit this seafood restaurant located in Silves. It is one of the most famous fish and seafood restaurants in the Algarve. The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years and is known for its fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese cuisine, and friendly service.

Chá Chá Chá: Check out this small, cozy restaurant in Olhão. The restaurant's menu features a variety of Portuguese tapas, as well as a selection of main courses and desserts. All of the dishes are made with fresh, local ingredients, and the menu changes seasonally to reflect produce availability. There is also an extensive wine list with a wide variety of Portuguese wines and a knowledgeable staff to help you choose the perfect pairing.

Doçaria Almeixar: This traditional bakery at Galé in Albufeira is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It offers a wide variety of delicious pastries, cakes, and cookies, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Doçaria Almeixar also serves a variety of savory options like sandwiches, quiches, and salads, with plenty of beverages to wash everything down with.

NanoBrew. NanoBrew is a highly rated craft brewery located in Fuzeta that offers a variety of unique and flavorful beers brewed on-site. It also has a restaurant serving delicious pizzas and other pub fare.

Black and White Coffee Shop. Head to the Black and White Coffee Shop in Lagos for delicious Australian-style coffee, tempting brunch options, and a laid-back atmosphere.