The places, most named first
From the 10 guides that rank for "best places to visit in algarve"
Named by 8 of 101. LagosIt is one of the most famous and crowded places in the Algarve, but still charming, with cliffs and cobbled streets.A good base for first-time visitors, with a historic centre, markets, a marina and nightlife.
Named by 7 of 102. TaviraOne writer calls it the prettiest town in the Algarve, with a Roman bridge and whitewashed houses.Boats and a short ferry reach Tavira Island, whose beach runs for miles.
Named by 6 of 103. AlbufeiraMany visitors head here first, but some writers find it overdeveloped.Another guide uses it as a central base with good beaches and restaurants.
Named by 5 of 104. SilvesConsidered the oldest town in the Algarve, with a Moorish castle.The castle is a highlight for visitors.
Named by 4 of 105. MonchiqueA mountain village in forest, suited to hikers who want a break from the coast.The summit is the highest point in the Algarve.
Named by 4 of 106. Benagil CaveReached by boat, kayak or paddleboard, best seen on a boat tour of about two hours.About a 35 minute drive from Vilamoura.
Named by 3 of 107. Praia da MarinhaNamed the best beach by one guide.Wooden walkways along the cliffs lead to viewpoints.Named by 3 of 108. FaroThe regional capital, with a cobbled old town, cathedral and the Ria Formosa on its doorstep.A flight from London Stansted to Faro took just over two hours.
Named by 3 of 109. CarvoeiroA beach town between cliffs and coves, near the sea caves.One guide praises its beachfront charm.
Named by 3 of 1010. Ponta da PiedadeA rocky point with sea pillars and arches, explored on foot or by boat.A day-long stop near Lagos with cliff paths and viewpoints.
Named by 3 of 1011. Seven Hanging Valleys TrailOne guide's single favourite experience in the Algarve.Described as the best-known trek in the Algarve, along ochre cliffs.
Named by 3 of 1012. Sagres and Cabo de Sao VicenteCape Sagres is described as Europe's Land's End, with remains of Henry the Navigator's navigation school.Cabo de São Vicente reserve is 5 km from Sagres, with a lighthouse and fortress.
Named by 3 of 1013. VilamouraA flat, walkable resort town near golf courses and the marina.Works as a base for day trips to Benagil, Ponta da Piedade and Tavira.
Named by 3 of 1014. Ria FormosaA sheltered region of lagoons, salt marshes and barrier islands along the eastern coast.Sand bars facing the ocean are reached by small ferries.
15. AlteAn inland village of whitewashed houses known for local crafts.
16. LouleBest known for its lively market in a historic hall.
17. SalemaA simple fishing village with three beachside streets, praised by Rick Steves.
18. FerragudoA small fishing village with a castle by the beach.
19. OlhaoTwin red-domed market halls for fish and produce, busiest on Saturday mornings before nine.
20. Vila Real de Santo AntonioA town rebuilt in 1774 on a grid of streets.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name May to June and September to October as the best time to visit Algarve.
Questions people ask
- Which is the best place to stay in the Algarve?
- Guides often pick Lagos for first-timers and sightseeing, Albufeira as a central base, and the east for quiet.
- What are the prettiest towns in Portugal?
- One Algarve guide calls Tavira the prettiest town in the region.
- How many days do you need in the Algarve?
- At least 3 days, and a week or more for the full experience.
