Top Things You Have To Do In Algarve

Known for its golden beaches, breathtaking cliffs, sheltered lagoons and sandy coastline, there's no shortage of things to do in the Algarve. Often called the 'Garden of Portugal', this stunning maritime province has everything from historic sites and diving to nature trails and plenty of fun-filled attractions for all the family. No matter what time of the year you come to the Algarve, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Beautiful beaches

No holiday the Algarve in southern Portugal is complete without a trip to one (or more) of its impressive beaches. Offering some of the best sand spots in Europe, this sun-filled region combines the warmth of the Mediterranean with the watersport perfect waves of the Atlantic.

With more than 150 beaches to choose from, you can pick family-friendly shores that are ideal for paddling, or stretches filled with watersports equipment. The picturesque Praia de Marinha, spectacular Tavira Island, and Ponta da Piedade with its incredible rock formations, are all worth a visit.

Family fun

There's plenty to keep the family busy away from the sea and sand, too. Spend a fun-filled day zipping down the fast slides at Aquashow Park, or relax as you float down its lazy river. Once they're all dry, little kids will love playing in the mini waterpark and watching the animal shows.

There's something for everyone to enjoy at Zoomarine Algarve, from splashing around in the wave pool to an aquarium where kids can learn all about sea life. Or, you can soak up some unique local culture with a stroll around the Algarve's many museums or castles. See interesting archaeological finds at the Museu Municipal de Arqueologia, and glance into the past with swords and pistols, stone tools, coins on display at the Museu Municipal.

Natural beauty

If exploring the area's natural beauty tops your list of things to do in the Algarve, then there's so much to be discovered. Home to wild and beautiful landscapes, you can enjoy flower-covered hillsides filled with wildlife. Hike the Via Algarviana trail, or walk along dusty clifftop paths going from one sandy cove to another.

Things to do

Fishing harbour in Alvor

Alvor has a deep heritage with fishing entwined into its roots, so what better way to explore the local traditions than to spend an afternoon by the beautiful harbour. Watch the boats as they bring their catch in from the deep Atlantic ...

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Silves day trip from Alvor

Explore the rustic town of Silves and discover history, architecture and tradition. Only a 20-minute drive is one of the best well-preserved castles in the Algrave,

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Lagos Nightlife: Bars & Clubs

Surrounded by 16th century walls with churches, cobbled lanes, and pretty piazzas, you might be fooled into thinking that Lagos nightlife is quiet and reserved.

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Wine tasting at Monte da Casteleja

Lagos is not only popular for its beautiful scenery, but also for its locally produced wine. The best way to sample the delicious fruit is on a tour of the Monte de Casteleja.

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Historical day trips around Praia da Rocha

The fantastic location of Praia da Rocha means that exploring the Algarve couldn't be any easier. Travel by car or by bus for day trips to discover the rich Portuguese history.

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Ocean Revival Underwater Park Algarve

The Ocean Revival Underwater Park is a non-profitable project that's created a wondrous playground where sea life can be discovered and celebrated.

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Algarve International Fair

When you think of the coast of the Algarve in southern Portugal, golden beaches, scenic cliffs and luxury golf resorts usually spring to mind first.

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Fatacil Fair

Learning about the different cultures and customs around the world is one of the best things about travelling, which is why a visit to the Fatacil Fair in Portugal's Algarve should be on your holiday to-do list.

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Algarve nightlife

There's so much more to the Algarve than its year-round balmy climate, delicious seafood and sun-kissed golden beaches.

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Sardine Festival

Who would've thought that the humble sardine would have its very own festival! The Algarve's calendar is chock-full of spectacular celebrations, and the Sardine Festival in Portim ão

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Cero de Vila

A visit to the roman ruins of Cerro da Vila is one for the history buffs, as it's crammed full of facts and its museum is filled to the brim with artefacts.

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Water Sports In Albufeira Portugal

For a fantastic activity down by the beach, Praia d'Oura is the place to be for exciting water sports. Enjoy a wide range of thrilling rides from banana boats and jet skis to paragliding and wakeboarding.

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Cerro Da Vila In Vilamoura

Follow the coast to Vilamoura and explore the ancient ruins of Cerro da Vila. The ancient site has distinctive links to the rich history of the surrounding coastal towns.

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Boat Trips From Albufeira Portugal

If you prefer to stay above the water but still want to explore the magnificent coast, set sail on one of the variety of boat excursions available. Enjoy sailing across the stunning waters, travelling from bay to bay.

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Praia Da Coelha Portugal

For a peaceful day relaxing on soft sands and paddling in crystal clear seas, look no further than Praia Coelha. A tranquil cove a short drive west of Albufeira

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Praia Gale Portugal

For a fun-filled day at the beach, make sure you pay a visit to Praia Gale. Just a short drive or bus ride west of Albufeira, it's a long, family-friendly beach with plenty to see and do.

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Luso Aventura Albufeira Portugal

Luso Aventura Albufeira is an adventurous, family-fun activity and a great alternative to the beach. Put on your safety equipment and follow the carefully designed courses up in the trees,

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Albufeira Old Town Portugal

Venture to the opposite end of the strip to find the original Albufeira, commonly know as the Old Town. The quaint setting oozes tradition, which can be seen through the narrow, cobbled streets and decoratively painted buildings.
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Ria De Alvor Portugal Reserve

If you are in need of some peace and quiet away from the bustling beach, take a stroll through Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. Witness the spectacular ecosystems and numerous plants, animals and insects.

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Carvoeiro Golf Portugal

Any avid golfer will enjoy a break away in the stunning resort of Carvoeiro, as some of the Algarve's favoured golf courses are nearby.

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Boat Trip To Algar Seco Portugal

Along the coast of the white-washed resorts are hidden rock formations nestled into sea cliffs.

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Silves Portugal

There's a lot to do in the town of Silves, which is just a 20 minute drive away. From taking a refreshing break out of the sunshine in one of the cafés.

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Lagoa Flea Market

For a day trip away from the coast, head inland to the charming town of Lagoa, just over a 10 minute drive away.

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Lagos Zoo Portugal

For an activity the whole family can enjoy, visit the parque zoologico de lagos. The zoo is home to over 120 species of animals and 200 types of plant from 5 continents

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Meia Praia Beach Portugal

For a spot of relaxation visit one of the Algarve's best beaches. Meia Praia is less than a 20 minute walk from the centre of Lagos to the beginning of the long length of soft

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Church of St Anthony in Lagos

For an activity away from the beach, visit the stunning Church of St. Anthony. Sit outside and have a cold drink in a local café to enjoy the views of the white stone bell tower.

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Aquashow Park Portugal

Look forward to a great day out for the whole family with a visit to Aquashow Park. Just a few kilometres outside Quarteira, the park's in between Faro and Albufeira and takes around 25 minutes to get to by car

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Cataplana Festival Portugal

From religious processions to riotous parties, you're never far from a festival in Portugal. The Cataplana festival, held in towns across the coast of the Algarve, is one for every foodie's diary.

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International Sand Sculpture Festival

Hailed as the largest sand sculpture festival in the world, FIESA draws talented sculptors from all over the world to Pêra, in Portugal's Algarve.

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Ponta Da Piedade Portugal

If you're going on holiday to the Algarve, and especially Lagos, a trip to see Ponta da Piedade is an absolute must. The spectacular stretch of coastline is a stunning collection of caves, grottoes

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Portugal Day

Whether it's the riotous carnival in Loulé, gourmet food at Monchique's Traditional Sausage and Ham Fair, or the impressive sand sculptures at the FIESA festival,

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Praia De Marinha Portugal

To enjoy some spectacular scenery and the Algarve's warm sunshine, make sure you spend a day on Praia de Marinha. Around 20 kilometres from Albufeira, the beach is a stunning place to relax and unwind.

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Tavira Island Portugal

For a relaxing day in a stunning part of the Algarve, make sure you visit Tavira Island when you go on holiday to this picturesque Portuguese region. It's hard to beat the island's soft pale sands and turquoise sea

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Vilamoura Marina Portugal

No matter what time you visit, Vilamoura marina is one of The Algarve's greatest hotspots. It's the hive of activity in Vilamoura and from day to night, there's always something going on here.

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Quarteira Portugal

The quaint town of Quarteira often gets overshadowed by the bigger resort of Vilamoura, but whilst you're on holiday

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