Book Algarve holidays to spend time hopping between sleepy fishing villages and seaside party towns on Portugal's sunny south coast.
Aqua-blue coves speckle the Algarve's surf-splashed shoreline from Faro to Sagres, on the western edge of mainland Europe. Holidaymakers come for the sand at Olhão, a peaceful hideaway east of Faro, where flower-filled gardens lead the way to a bustling fruit and veg market. An hour west, the chirpy resort town of Albufeira has old Moorish castles and world-class water parks. When the sun finally sets, locals and visitors can be found chowing down on spicy chicken piri-piri at outdoor cafés, or hitting the clubs of nearby Praia da Rocha.
Best of Algarve holidays for...
- Grown-up families: Organised boat trips make it easy to discover the jagged rock formations and caves that sprawl seaward from Lagos. If you fancy a picnic, you can grab supplies at the supermarket before you leave.
- Relaxing: For a spot of tranquillity and some of Portugal's best beaches, head out to the sandy islands of the Ria Formosa national park. The islands are easy to reach and, in the summer, boats ferry people back and forth from Faro.
- Kids & teens: The ocean-themed Zoo Marine theme park is a sure-fire hit with youngsters. Entry tickets include access to the park's swimming pools, an exciting dolphin show and a fascinating aquarium. Buses run frequently to the park from Albufeira.
- Romance: Stroll hand-in-hand along Tavira's boutique-lined riverfront, dipping into cafés for refreshment. Once the sun sets, sit down for a tasty meal and a bottle of Duoro Valley wine at one of the town's outdoor fish restaurants.
- Babies & toddlers: Need to keep little ones out of the midday heat? Try a trip to the petting zoo at Krazy World - perfect for curious toddlers. Even the littlest adventurers will get on well with the gentle fairground rides here.
- Active types: Vilamoura, a resort town to the west of Faro, is world famous for its golf courses. Tee off early in the day and you'll be able to make it to the beach in time for some sunbathing!
- Nightlife: Fancy a proper night out on your Algarve holidays? Albufeira's main bar street doesn't get going until at least midnight - but once it does, you can party until dawn. Keep an eye out for happy-hour cocktails.
Related Links:
Flights to Faro
Hotels in the Algarve
Car hire in the Algarve
Algarve tours
