Hotels in Albufeira

It may be one of most historic and prettiest towns in the Algarve, but there’s plenty more to Lagos than its narrow cobbled streets, 16th century walls and ornate churches. With some of the region’s best beaches nearby and an impressive coastline to explore, holidays to Lagos Portugal have something for everyone.

Head to the long sweep of sand in Meia Praia, or visit Praia de Dona Ana and Porto de Mós for its secluded coves and caves. Holidays here are jam-packed with things to do; from boat trips along the coast and water sports on the beach to teeing off on a golf course’s rolling fairway. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets either, as it pumping nightlife has some serious appeal for all-night party lovers.

Things to do

Lagos holidays have every activity under the sun on offer. Relax on the soft golden sands of Meia Praia beach with a good book, before tucking into some great Portuguese food at one of the seafood restaurants lining the modern, yacht-filled marina. See the iconic Ponta da Piedade by boat; its dramatic sandstone cliffs, lighthouse and orchid-filled surroundings are not to be missed. Spend some time at Lagos Zoo. This is the perfect family day trip and the kids will love seeing all the animals.

Excellent beaches

Lagos can be found in the Barlavento region of the Algarve. The laid back costal resort has pristine beaches and remote bays to relax on. The most popular is Meia Praia, which is said to be one of the best in the Algarve. Walk along the soft, golden sand and recline on a sun lounger taking in the stunning views of the cliffs and coast. The beach is where you’ll find plenty of water sport opportunities including the chance to paraglide, surf and jet ski. Or take a boat trip out to sea to explore the dramatic rocky cliff face and hidden coves.

Interesting History

Lagos has an interesting history; the Romans settled in the 2nd century BC because of the links to the harbour and local fishing trading route. The Great Earthquake tragically destroyed Lisbon and resulted in a tsunami destroying Lagos and the Algarve in the 18th century, and what little was left was later rebuilt after several battles. You’ll be able to learn more about the detailed past of Lagos in the local museum or visit the towns ancient monuments like the Lançarote Gate and the restored section of the 16th century town walls that used to surround Lagos.

Vibrant nightlife

Lagos nightlife tends to be a bit quieter than other resorts in the Algarve but still has enough going on to entertain no matter what your tastes. Start your evening in a restaurant by the harbour. Dine on delicious seafood whilst watching the yachts as they sail up and down the waterway. Next move on to the main strip, Rua 25 de Abril, where you can choose to sip on a cocktail in one of the bars, enjoy the Irish pubs and dance the night away in one of the clubs.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Albufeira | Algarve | Alvor | Carvoeiro | Lisbon | Madeira | Praia da Rocha | Vilamoura

With its broad, cliff-backed swathe of sand, picturesque old sea fort and bustling town overlooking the sea, it’s easy to see why Praia da Rocha has been a popular place for holidays since the late 19th century. Climb the steps of the 16th-century Fortaleza da Santa Caterina and take in the views of the modern yacht-filled Marina de Portimão and ocean from the fort’s terrace.

Only a short stroll up the elevated main street of Avenida Tomás Cabreira is Praia da Rocha town. It’s full of luxury hotels, bars, restaurants, and even a casino, which look down over the beach from the edge of ochre-red clifftop. The port town of Portimão and the lively nightlife resort of Alvor, are both just under 15 minutes away too.

Things to do

With beaches this good, holidays Praia da Rocha could easily just consist of sunbathing, swimming in the sea and enjoying the open-air cafés lining the promenade. But there’s plenty of things to do in Praia da Rocha away from the impressive sandy shoreline too. Explore the history of the area with a trip to the 15th century fortress of Santa Catalina and Portimão’s old town. Take the kids on a family-friendly day out to Ocean Revival Underwater Park. Sail along the River Arade to Silves on a boat trip, or unwind in the nearby village of Alvor.

Excellent beaches

Praia da Rocha is renowned for its fantastic beaches that are sheltered by dramatic sandstone cliffs which are said to be some of the best in the Algarve. Follow the steps down to the long and wide stretch of golden sand, where you can soak up the glorious sunshine by reclining on sun loungers and under parasols. There are other smaller beaches in coves along the coast, which are accessible via a connecting tunnel. If you’re in need of something a little more uplifting, why not try your hand at the variety of water sports available to you; speed along the waves on a jet ski, take to windsurfing or gently bob through the water on a pedalo.

History and culture

Praia da Rocha is right next door to Portimao; it’s often considered connected to the bustling city and was the Algarve’s first ever tourist destination. Praia da Rocha translates to ‘rock beach’ in English. This may be because of its favourable cliff-top location giving spectacular views of the glistening waters and the River Arade. It’s the second biggest resort in the area next to Albufeira and has fantastic beaches and a great nightlife.

Fantastic nightlife

Praia da Rocha transforms from being a place to relax under the sun by the beach, into an upbeat, colourfully lit resort where dancing and entertainment is high on the agenda. With a great number of restaurants lining the streets, eating out couldn’t be more enjoyable as delicious food is served in the feel-good vibe that this resort is famous for.

There are a lot of great bars to choose from including sports bars, Irish pubs, karaoke bars and discos. Cocktails can easily be found with fruity flavours being served in the upbeat bars across the resort, including the popular Manhattan Café found just outside the main strip. Dance the night away in one of the nightclubs or visit the bars and hotel venues that host live music. Praia da Rocha is a modern resort with lively nightlife, which makes it easy to find something to do in the evening to suit your tastes.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Albufeira | Algarve | Alvor | Carvoeiro | Lisbon | Madeira | Lagos | Vilamoura

Set between fishing village resorts and the medieval town of Loulé, there’s much more to holidays in Vilamoura than just year-round sun and soft sand. Its coves, beaches, yacht-filled marina, and excellent golf courses have helped put Vilamoura holidays on the map. The resort’s wide streets will take you past the rolling fairways of perfectly manicured golf courses and down to the seafront marina that’s dotted with luxury hotels, restaurants and bars. Nearby you’ll find the well-preserved medieval quarters of Faro, as well as plenty more beaches, some with conditions that are ideal for windsurfing. 

Things to do

Lined with hotels, cosmopolitan bars, restaurants, and shops, the busy marina is a hub of activity day and night. Enjoy some local Portuguese cuisine in one of the marina’s seafood restaurants, or people watch as you stroll along the promenade, ice cream in hand. In the evening, relax to the sounds of smooth jazz or visit the casino to try your hand at some of the tables. Away from the marina, holidays to Vilamoura include rounds of golf on some of the best courses, horse riding, and boat trips to visit Roman ruins. 

Food and drink

Vilamoura isn’t short of places to eat and drink, so you’re bound to find something that suits everyone’s tastes. The majority of restaurants and bars are found in and around the marina and the cuisine on offer is varied. As Vilamoura and Quarteira have a strong fishing community, you’ll find seafood is available on most menus at both resorts. Take a seat along the waterfront and enjoy delicious freshly caught fish. When it comes to drinking, you can take your pick from cosy pubs and wine bars, or if you’re craving a taste of back home there are also many British and Irish pubs where you can grab a pint and watch the football.

History and culture

Vilamoura also has a rich history with origins dating back as far as Roman times. Unleash your inner history buff with a trip to the Cerro da Vila and uncover facts from the Bronze Age. Imagine yourself back in the Roman era as you discover the remains of what was once a luxurious villa and admire the artefacts in the museum. If you’re looking to soak up some culture on your holiday to Vilamoura, you’ll want to head to Quarteira to check out the markets. It’ll give you a taste of traditional Portuguese delicacies and specialities as you mix with the locals and barter with the stall holders.

Golden beaches

If lazing around on golden beaches is your ideal holiday, you’ll love Vilamoura. Its main beach is very easy to find as it’s just a few steps from the marina. Here you’ll find the perfect conditions for sunbathing and many opportunities for you to try your hand at water sports. If you follow the stretch for four kilometres, you’ll end up on the beautiful sandy beach at Quarteira, where its golden sands are lined by calm waters and stony walls. This charming town has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for relaxing days on the sand.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Albufeira | Algarve | Alvor | Carvoeiro | Lagos | Lisbon | Madeira | Praia da Rocha

Often overlooked in favour of big-name Algarve resorts like Albufeira (just 15kms to the west) Armação de Pêra holidays are just as exciting. Home to one of the region’s longest beaches, when you’re not sprawled out on its golden sands, you’ve got a town of bars, restaurants and shops waiting to welcome you. 

History lovers shouldn’t miss a chance to hunt down the resort’s 16th century fort, originally built to defend the town from pirate invasions. While those hoping to get out on the water will love the many boat trips on offer here. Make sure you squeeze in a trip to the impressive Benagil sea cave, which has been internationally recognised as one of the ‘most beautiful places in the world’.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Albufeira | Algarve | Alvor | Carvoeiro | Lagos | Lisbon | Madeira | Praia da Rocha