The Algarve in the south of Portugal enchants us time and time again with its variety of breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches, and charming villages. To ensure you are as well prepared as possible, today we present to you the most beautiful Algarve sights that you absolutely must discover on your trip. From hidden bays to lively cities – the Algarve has something for everyone!
- Algarve Sights – Overview Map
- The top natural highlights
- The most famous cities
- The most charming towns and villages
- The most beautiful beaches
- Cool tours and Excursions
- Algarve Sights – Our Conclusion
Algarve Sights – Overview Map
The Algarve awaits you with over 300 days of sunshine per year, crystal-clear water, stunningly beautiful beaches, golden cliffs, hidden bays, and picturesque villages. But it’s not just the coast that’s impressive – the hinterland also beckons with some truly cool highlights. We’ve marked our top sights and highlights of the Algarve on the map.
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The top natural highlights
1. Ponta da Piedade
The Ponta da Piedade is one of the Algarve’s absolute top attractions. This spectacular headland is characterized by its dramatic rock formations. Caves, grottos, arches, and sharp rock needles protruding from the turquoise water await you.
The path along the cliffs is very well maintained and offers many beautiful photo opportunities. This place is truly magical, especially at sunrise or sunset. From Lagos, it only takes about 10 minutes by car to the large visitor parking lot (free of charge).
A kayak tour* along the coast is highly recommended. You’ll paddle past rocks and even into caves and grottos that are only accessible from the water. The whole family (10 people) had an incredible time and everyone was very happy after this fantastic tour. More about this at the end of the article.
- Ponta da Piedade kayak tour*
- Boat trip to Ponta da Piedade*
2. Pontal da Carrapateira
Around 20 km north of Sagres is the headland Pontal da Carrapateira (called Pontal or Cabo Pontal). This stretch of coast lies within the “Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina” (Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast) and impresses with its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and impressive natural scenery.
The approximately 10 km long circular trail at Cabo Pontal (route description & map) leads you through this enchanting landscape. The headland, with its 90-meter-high cliffs, offers breathtaking views of the deep blue Atlantic and the coast. At the end, you’ll reach Praia do Amado, where you’ll find surf schools, surf rentals, and restaurants.
The hike starts and finishes in the small town of Carrapateira. The hike takes you to the beautiful Praia da Bordeira, to Cape Potal da Carrapateira, and further to Praia do Amado beach. Along the way, you’ll pass numerous viewpoints, each marked with a giant bronze letter (AK).
3. Sagres Fortress
A visit to Sagres, a historic town on the western tip of the Algarve, is a must. Known for its impressive cliffs and its connection to Portuguese maritime history, Sagres offers a rather rugged coastal landscape with wild beaches.
The town is closely associated with Henry the Navigator, who is said to have founded a maritime school here in the 15th century. The Sagres Fortress is worth a visit, with a 3 km circular path that offers truly magnificent views of the coast. Entrance is currently only €3 per person.
Popular beaches in the area are Praia do Tonel, Praia da Mareta, and Praia do Beliche. Sagres itself is home to cozy cafes, restaurants, and surf shops. We love the relaxed surfer vibe of this small town.
Food tips for Sagres:
- Alice Gelateria | art & heart
- Laundry Lounge Sagres
- Three Little Birds Sagres
- Café Picnic Sagres
- Arte Bianca Cucina Italiana
4. Cabo de Sao Vicent
The Cabo de São Vicente is the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe. The cape impresses with steep 75-meter-high cliffs and a wild, rugged landscape. It also marks the end of the Algarve coast and juts out into the Atlantic as a striking headland, providing perfect photo opportunities.
A 19th-century lighthouse stands here, which used to be open to visitors but is currently closed. In the parking lot, there are several stalls selling snacks and souvenirs, including the popular “Last Sausage before America” snack bar.
5. Sierra de Monchique
The hilly hinterland of the Algarve also has much to offer. Here, lemon and orange groves, cork oaks, eucalyptus trees, fig trees, as well as agaves and prickly pear cacti characterize the landscape. Just 30 minutes from Aljezur lies the charming mountain town of Monchique in the Sierra de Monchique.
Monchique is an ideal starting point for climbing the 902-meter-high Fóia peak and visiting the thermal springs of Caldas de Monchique. Even the drive through the winding mountain roads promises a special experience. There are several well-marked hiking trails that lead to or around the summit.
For cyclists, the climb to Fóia is a real challenge and a popular destination. We opted for the almost 7 km long hike “PR 3 MCQ – Trilho da Fóia” (overview). Afterwards, we treated ourselves to a delicious ice cream in the cool Alecrim snack bus and enjoyed the breathtaking view. A perfect day!
6. Carvoeiro Boardwalk & Algar Seco
Another top attraction in the Algarve for us is the Carvoeiro Boardwalk. This is a well-maintained wooden boardwalk that runs along the cliffs of the picturesque fishing village of Carvoeiro. It stretches for about 600 meters and leads from the Nossa Senhora da Encarnação Church to the impressive Algar Seco rock formation.
The path is easy to walk and offers breathtaking views of the sea, bizarrely shaped cliffs, caves, and natural rock arches that jut out into the sea. There are several viewing platforms and seating areas along the path, perfect for a break overlooking the coast. By the way, it’s particularly beautiful at sunset!
7. Benagil Cave
The Benagil Cave is probably THE attraction in the Algarve. It is located near the small fishing village of Benagil, about 20 kilometers east of Lagos. The cave is a sea grotto with a large, round opening in the ceiling through which sunlight falls into the cave, illuminating the water and rock walls in vibrant colors.
This “natural dome” gives the cave a very special atmosphere and makes it one of the most photogenic spots in the Algarve. The cave is composed of impressive limestone formations, and inside it is a small beach that is often flooded at high tide but accessible at low tide.
Several companies along the Algarve coast offer boat tours to Benagil Cave. Those seeking adventure can reach the cave by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) from Praia de Benagil. We do not recommend swimming into the cave. It’s only around 200 meters, but the current can be very strong.
- Guided kayak tour through the Benagil Caves*
- From Benagil: Boat tour to the coast with Benagil Cave*
- Portimão: Benagil Sea Caves Speedboat Adventure Tour*
- Algarve: Benagil Caves Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour*
8. The Cliffs of Praia da Falésia
A special highlight of the Algarve are the cliffs at Praia da Falésia, one of the longest and most impressive beaches in the Algarve. It stretches almost 6 kilometers between Vilamoura and Olhos de Água and is known for its up to 40 meters high cliffs, glowing in red, orange, and ochre tones.
The name “Falésia” means “cliff” and is a perfect fit for this beach. Above, hiking trails run that offer spectacular views of the sea and the beach, especially at sunset when the cliffs glow golden.
9. Ria Formosa Natural Park near Faro
The Ria Formosa Natural Park (Parque Natural da Ria Formosa) near Faro is a unique lagoon system in the Algarve that stretches over 60 kilometers along the coast. The area consists of dune islands, salt marshes, and sandbanks and is considered one of Portugal’s most important wetlands—a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Numerous hiking and cycling trails allow you to explore the diverse landscape. The islands of Ilha de Faro, Ilha da Culatra, Ilha Deserta, and Ilha da Armona also offer beautiful beaches, accessible by boat from Faro or Olhão. Be sure to pack your binoculars and your camera!
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The most famous cities
1. Lagos
Lagos is definitely one of the most exciting cities in the Algarve. While it’s bustling with tourists, that doesn’t diminish the city’s charm. The old town, with its winding streets and lively squares, is perfect for strolling and offers a variety of cool shops, hip cafés, and excellent restaurants.
The surrounding area also has a lot to offer. Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are just two of the popular beaches that await you with impressive rock formations and turquoise waters. The coastline around Lagos is ideal for boat tours, kayaking, and snorkeling trips.
Food tips for Lagos:
- Beats & Burritos
- Coffee & Waves
- Twin Fin
- The Studio: Coffee Roaster
- Pomò – Italian pasta
- Restaurante The Garden
2. Faro
Faro was particularly popular with us. Here you can stroll through narrow streets lined with charming cafés, restaurants, and small shops. Compared to Lagos, Faro is not quite as touristy, but there’s still plenty of life in the alleys. Among the top attractions is the Igreja do Carmo, which houses a Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) decorated with human remains.
Faro has an active cultural and arts scene and offers a diverse nightlife, certainly thanks in part to its approximately 10,000 students. The gastronomic scene is diverse, ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international influences. Faro is also the starting point for the unique Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Food tips for Faro:
- 100 Montaditos Faro
- Baixacaffé
- Grains 864
- Vanilla Faro
- Restaurante La Forchetta
- Alcachofra Cafe
- LAB Terrace – Sunset Bar
3. Tavira
Another great sight in the Algarve is the cute town of Tavira, which is located east of Faro. The old town of Tavira is a labyrinth of narrow streets, cobbled squares, and white houses with blue or green windows. Here you’ll find numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops where you can discover local products and handicrafts.
The city has numerous historic churches, including the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, built on the remains of a Moorish fortress. You can enjoy a great view over the city’s rooftops from the Castelo de Tavira. Another landmark is the Ponte Romana de Tavira, a pretty 16th-century bridge that crosses the Gilão River.
Food tips for Tavira:
- Terraz Restaurant by the river
- Borda D’Agua Gastrobar
- Wil Burger
- Flavour Café
4. Albufeira
Albufeira is undoubtedly one of the liveliest cities along the coast. The city is known primarily for its vibrant nightlife and huge hotel complexes, which may not appeal to everyone. Nevertheless, there are pretty, charming streets with traditional white houses in the old town. There you’ll find numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops.
Around Albufeira, you’ll also find numerous popular beaches, such as Praia da Falésia, Praia dos Pescadores, and Praia de São Rafael. These beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like jet skiing or parasailing. Albufeira is certainly a great choice for families with children or for partygoers.
We personally didn’t like Albufeira at all. This was due, among other things, to the many party tourists, the hotel bunkers, and the extremely touristy town center. Everywhere you see nothing but restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and tourist stalls. Everything here somehow reminded us of the Ballermann in Mallorca. Must like!
Food tips for Albufeira:
- Sugar Rabbit Cafe
- Indian Ocean Restaurant
- Iguana Café (great terrace)
- Olympique RoofTop
- Al-Gharb Coffee Roasters
5. Silves
The town of Silves is located inland, about 30 kilometers from the coast, and offers a fascinating insight into the region’s history. It was the capital of the Algarve in the Middle Ages and an important Moorish trading center. The area surrounding Silves is characterized by a picturesque landscape of hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
The town’s most famous landmark is the Silves Castle (Castelo de Silves), an impressive red sandstone fortress perched on a hill and offering magnificent views of the surrounding area. You shouldn’t miss the cathedral either, as it is the oldest church in the Algarve.
Stroll through the charming alleys and visit the many cute street cafés, browse the shops, and enjoy the authentic Portuguese atmosphere. The best time to visit is spring, when thousands of almond trees are in bloom. You can experience a breathtaking sea of white blossoms.
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The Most Charming Places & Villages
1. Ferragudo
We highly recommend a trip to the small fishing village of Ferragudo. This traditional village is located on the banks of the Arade River and is known for its pretty streets, white houses, and super relaxed atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow, colorful streets, enjoy the many colorful flower vines, and marvel at the magnificent view from the church.
The area around Ferragudo offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. You can take boat tours on the Arade River, explore the impressive coastline, or visit the nearby towns of Portimão and Lagos. There are also numerous hiking and cycling trails that lead through the beautiful landscape.
Our tips for Ferragudo:
- Zona Café on the large square
- Pizzeria Delizia
- View from the Igreja de Nossa Senhora
- Castelo de Ferragudo
- Cooling off at Praia Grande
2. Alvor
Another super charming fishing village is Alvor, which lies at the mouth of the Alvor River. The small old town has retained its traditional charm, with narrow streets and white houses. Here you’ll find numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops selling local products and handicrafts.
Not far from the village are many beautiful beaches, including Praia de Alvor, which stretches for several kilometers and slopes gently into the clear waters of the Atlantic. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. We also recommend a detour to the unique beach Praia dos Três Irmãos.
Our tips for Alvor:
- Ice cream at Gelato Lovers
- Stroll along the Passadiços de Alvor
- Eat fish at the Casa da Maré restaurant
- Cult n’ Art Café
- Stroll along Praia de Alvor
- Explore Alvor’s boardwalk
3. Monchique
We also recommend a detour to the Serra de Monchique. A very good starting point is the charming mountain village of Monchique. This lies at an altitude of approximately 458 meters and offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, which extend all the way to the Algarve coast. The area is characterized by lush forests, cork oaks, and fragrant herbs, inviting you to hike and explore.
The village itself has a traditional charm with narrow, cobbled streets and white houses decorated with colorful flowers. Here you can let yourself go and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. Near Monchique are the Caldas de Monchique, a thermal spa known for its healing hot springs.
Our tips for Monchique:
- Eat at the Velochique Café
- View from the Miradouro de Monchique
- Café Vintage Tapas & Wine
- Grumpy Mamas Monchique
- Hiking around the Foia Peak
4. Burgau
Burgau is our favorite fishing village on the coast and is only about 10 km from Lagos. We particularly like the narrow streets and cozy, traditional atmosphere. Burgau is often described as one of the last “authentic” fishing villages in the Algarve. And rightly so!
The village lies in a sheltered bay, surrounded by rolling hills and cliffs. The whitewashed houses stretch in terraces down to Praia de Burgau, the main beach. The beach is relatively small, but with fine sand and clear, calm waters – ideal for families. There are some cozy beach bars and restaurants along the beach.
Our tips for Burgau:
- Café do Burgau
- Restaurant & Café Love Burgau
- Restaurant Miam Burgau
- Casa Fernandes 2 (Souvenirs)
5. Loulé
In the interior of the Algarve lies another charming town known for its lively markets and authentic atmosphere: Loulé. We really liked the picturesque old town with its cobbled streets, pretty squares, and colorful houses. The most important sights include the medieval Castelo de Loulé and the historic Igreja de São Clemente from the 13th century.
The highlight of Loulé, however, is the Mercado Municipal, a Moorish-style market hall worth seeing. Here you’ll find fresh regional produce, spices, fish, handmade artwork, and much more. The market is popular with locals and tourists alike and forms the vibrant heart of the old town.
Every Saturday morning, starting at 7 a.m., the weekly and farmers’ market takes place around the market hall. The historic old town then transforms into a bustling market with numerous outdoor stalls. The market is very well attended, and many tourists flock to Loulé on Saturdays. Parking spaces can quickly become scarce.
Our tips for Loulé:
- Bean17coffeeandmore
- Pancake Factory
- Pastelaria L’atelier gourmet
- Restaurante Bica Velha
- Cafezique
The most beautiful beaches
1. Praia da Marinha
The Praia da Marinha is probably one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve and is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. The approximately 500-meter-long beach is located near Carvoeiro and is surrounded by striking limestone cliffs. Spectacular rock formations and crystal-clear water await you here.
Access is via a steep staircase leading down the slope. But beware: In the summer months it often gets extremely crowded here. A coastal path above the beach offers breathtaking views and is part of the popular hiking trailof the “Seven Hanging Valleys”, which we highly recommend.
2. Praia da Bordeira
A visit to Praia da Bordeira is also a must on any Algarve tour. We already had the pleasure of exploring this beautiful place in 2015, 2018, and 2025. The approximately 3 km wide beach impresses with its untouched, wildly romantic landscape and its quiet location away from the hustle and bustle.
Wooden walkways lead to various viewpoints and facilitate the descent to the beach. The sea is often rough and more suitable for brave surfers than for swimming, as the currents are strong and the waves are high. Also explore the circular trail at Cabo Pontal (W6 hiking trail) for spectacular views.
3. Praia de Odeceixe
One of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, in our opinion, is Praia de Odeceixe, which is located on the border between Aljezur and Odeceixe. The cliffs and green hills form a stunning contrast to the azure Atlantic Ocean. The beach is located at the mouth of the Odeceixe River, which merges with the sea at high tide, creating a natural pool – ideal for swimming and splashing around.
Whether sunbathing, surfing, or water sports like surfing and bodyboarding – the beach has something for everyone. Above the beach are two restaurants that serve cool drinks and delicious snacks. We also recommend a stroll through the small village of Odeceixe, which lies further inland.
4. Praia de Cestalejo
The Praia de Caetalejo on the untouched west coast of the Algarve near Vila do Bispo is a real insider tip. Away from mass tourism, this wild beach particularly attracts nature lovers and surfers who appreciate the impressive scenery and tranquility. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and jagged rocks, the fine sandy beach invites long walks.
The sea here is often stormy and less suitable for swimming due to strong currents. A must-see is the nearby Cordoama viewpoint, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic. If you’re strolling through Vila do Bispo before your beach visit, we recommend the O Cultural restaurant, Pisco, Izzy’s Market, or the Ribeira do Poço restaurant.
5. Praia de Monte Clérigo
We also consider the Praia de Monte Clérigo to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rolling sand dunes, the green hills provide an impressive backdrop. The colorful houses at the southern end of the beach are particularly charming and make for beautiful photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
The beach is popular with surfers as it offers good conditions for beginners and advanced surfers. Swimming is possible depending on the weather, but the sea on the west coast is often wilder and the waves higher. At low tide, you can walk along the rocks at the southern end and discover small sea creatures such as crabs, fish, and even starfish.
Cool Tours & Excursions
1. Waterpark Slide & Splash
We went to the Slide & Splash water park in Lagoa with the whole family and it offers a variety of really cool water slides. Highlights include spectacular water slides like the Kamikaze, the Black Hole, and the Tornado, which provide plenty of thrills.
For younger visitors, there are dedicated children’s areas with gentler slides and pools. The park also offers restaurants and picnic areas, so you can spend a whole day at Slide & Splash. We had a fantastic day and everyone had an incredible time! To the tickets*.
2. Kayak Tour Ponta da Piedade
As briefly mentioned above, we also went on a fantastic kayak tour* along the coast around Lagos. The tour lasted just under 2.5 hours and took us past the impressive rock formations of Ponta da Piedade. We were even able to explore some caves and grottos that can only be reached by water.
After the tour, you can paddle back the same way or take a boat. We took a break at a beach along the way, and the kids were able to snorkel and play with a ball. It was a fantastic experience for everyone, and we can recommend it 100%. Book your tour here*.
3. Wine Tour in the Hinterland
Did you know that the Algarve also has some beautiful wineries? Not only are citrus fruits like oranges, limes, and lemons grown in the Algarve, but also wine. Both inland and on the coast, there is a mix of red, white, and rosé wines. Inland, you’ll often find bolder red wines, while the coast tends to produce lighter wines, such as whites.
Some well-known wineries include: Quinta dos Capinhas, Quinta dos Santos, Falésia Wine, Quinta do Canhoto, Quinta dos Vales, Adega do Cantor, and Monte de Salicos. The best time to visit is from late August to October, during the grape harvest. During this time, you can observe the winemaking process and participate in special wine tastings.
Tours including wine tastings:
- From Albufeira: Half-day tour of the wineries and Silves*
- Quinta dos Vales – Guided winery tour and wine tasting*
- Lunch and wine tasting at the Morgado do Quintão winery*
Algarve Sights – Our Conclusion
As you can see, the The Algarve offers a wide variety of attractions. The coastal landscape, with its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and golden beaches, is simply breathtaking. Away from the coast, we found the quiet hinterland, with its traditional villages, wineries, and hiking trails, to be a wonderful change of pace. The Algarve offers not only beaches, but also culture, history, and pure nature!