The Algarve is one of Portugal's most popular tourist destinations and it is easy to see why.
Situated in the south of the country along the Atlantic coast, shortly before the waters become the Mediterranean, the Algarve enjoys a warm and sunny climate and has plenty of delightful beaches to entice sun-seeking tourists.
The towns in this region are very pleasant, with lots for visitors to see and do and the culture is relaxed and friendly. Getting here is easy, with flights from most major British airports arriving at Faro International Airport (FAO). The town of Faro is the central tourist hub of this region and it has plenty of accommodation options and attractions within its walls, as well as having good travel connections to the rest of the region.
In the Algarve car hire is really the best way to get around as public transport cannot be relied upon if you hope to see the best of everything that is on offer.
Of course, the biggest attraction in the Algarve for many visitors is the coastline. Although largely rocky, it is interspersed with many vast sandy beaches which are often well equipped with sun beds as well as bars and eateries. Some of the beaches are directly linked to the major seaside resort towns and are therefore characterised by a busy and bustling atmosphere. Others are quieter and more isolated, making them perfect if you wish to simply lie in the sun and enjoy the relative peace.
The busy towns include Alvor, Albufeira and Carvoeiro among many others and they are easy to get to by road. Also on the coast are major urban areas such as Vilamoura, which is renowned for its exclusive yacht harbour and is worth exploring at night when its bars and restaurants all come to life. The Algarve coast is also popular with wildlife lovers as there are many great boat trips that allow travellers to see dolphins in the warm, clear waters.
Many visitors are drawn to the Algarve by the many golf courses. There are resorts and whole communities built around the links and golf fans will not be disappointed with the courses and culture on offer in the Algarve. If it's not the beach or golfing that makes a holiday for you, the Algarve still has more than enough to guarantee a wholly enjoyable trip. Away from the coast, the region has many charming inland towns, complete with winding streets, sun-baked squares and busy markets, not to mention the abundance of good places to stop and have a cool drink or a bite to eat. These include Monchique, Loule and Silves, all of which are well worth a visit, with car hire in Algarve making it easy to travel to them.
Having arrived at Faro International Airport, arranged your car hire and decided on what attractions you are going to visit, it is also important to sort out the best possible accommodation for your holiday. As with many popular summer holiday destinations, there are a number of resorts that offer a great variety of hotels and apartments. There is enough choice to suit all budgets and all preferences. Elsewhere, for those who would rather have a little more privacy and peace, there are countless villas dotted around the rural areas of the Algarve, many of which are close to a decent-sized town.
The Algarve has plenty to offer holidaymakers, including great transport links, an abundant range of accommodation options and plenty to see and do for all the family.
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