Destination
Algarve, Portugal
Sandstone cliffs, sea caves, year-round golf and well-priced seafood along 150 km of Atlantic beaches.
Trips to Algarve from every city
No live trip to Algarve right now. Ask for one and we price it for your city.
When to go
| Month | Season |
|---|---|
| January | avoid |
| February | avoid |
| March | fine |
| April | fine |
| May | best |
| June | best |
| July | best |
| August | best |
| September | best |
| October | best |
| November | fine |
| December | avoid |
- July, August: Peak season: British and Portuguese holidaymakers fill the resorts
- March, April, October, November: Prime golf and hiking weather with warm days and empty trails
December, January, February: Cool, wet weather and many beach bars and resorts closed
Where to stay in Algarve
- Lagos: Golden cliffs, grottoes and a lively old town in the west.
- Albufeira: The biggest resort hub with family beaches and nightlife.
- Carvoeiro / Benagil: Cliff-top villages near the famous sea caves.
- Vilamoura / Quinta do Lago: Golf resorts, marina and upscale villas.
- Tavira: Quieter eastern town with sandbar beaches and a Moorish castle.
What to do in Algarve
- Kayak or boat into the Benagil cave
- Walk the Seven Hanging Valleys trail
- Swim at Praia da Marinha
- Golf at Quinta do Lago or Vale do Lobo
- Eat cataplana seafood stew in Lagos
- Watch the sunset at Cabo de São Vicente
Good to know
| Airports | Faro (FAO) |
|---|---|
| Passport for US citizens | yes |
| Price level | mid-range |
| Time zone | Europe/Lisbon |
| Kind of trip | beach, family, nature, road-trip, wellness |
Questions about Algarve
When is the best time to visit Algarve?
May, June, July, August, September and October. December, January, February: Cool, wet weather and many beach bars and resorts closed
Do US citizens need a passport for Algarve?
Yes. Algarve is in Portugal; bring a valid passport.
How expensive is Algarve on the ground?
Algarve is mid-range by US standards: plan about $90 per person per day for food, getting around and tickets.