Algarve image

Algarve on a budget

The Algarve beckons with its sun-drenched beaches, picturesque fishing towns, mouthwatering cuisine and one of our favourite coastlines in Europe (it is João’s homeland after all!) Visiting the Algarve on a budget is entirely possible!

Average weather in Algarve

Jan 16°c
Feb 17°c
Mar 19°c
Apr 20°c
May 23°c
Jun 26°c
Jul 29°c
Aug 29°c
Sep 27°c
Oct 23°c
Nov 20°c
Dec 17°c

5 reasons to visit the Algarve

The Algarve is a beautiful coastal region in the south of Portugal with tons to see and do. With lots of beaches and kid friendly attractions (like our favourite Zoomarine) it’s the perfect place for families. Visiting the Algarve on a budget is easiest during the shoulder seasons.

Beautiful beaches

Amazing seafood

Child friendly

Lots to explore

Stunning coastal walks

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The best time to visit the Algarve is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant with warm temperatures and less crowded beaches and attractions when compared to the peak summer months. The summer months (July and August) are very popular, especially for beachgoers, but it can be very hot and crowded.

If you want a peaceful trip enjoying coastal walks and lovely food, consider visiting in winter when temperatures are still pleasant. (Think jeans and a T-shirt weather). Towns like Albufeira and Lagos will be best during these out of season months as more will be open for tourists.

The Algarve is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque towns, and natural beauty. Must-see attractions include:

  • Benagil Cave: A stunning sea cave accessible by boat or kayak.
  • Ponta da Piedade: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations near Lagos.
  • Ria Formosa Natural Park: A beautiful coastal lagoon perfect for bird watching and nature walks.
  • Albufeira: A lively town known for its nightlife and beautiful old town.
  • Silves Castle: A well-preserved Moorish castle offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
  • Zoomarine: A fun day out for families with kids. Enjoy the waterpark, rides and regular shows.
  • Lagos town: Lagos is our favourite town on the Algarve. With a harbour, some gorgeous beaches and a quaint, cobbled old town, there is a lot to see and do.

The Algarve offers a variety of activities for all interests:

  • Beach Hopping: Exploring the many beautiful beaches, each with its unique charm.
  • Water Sports: Including surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
  • Hiking: Trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail offer breathtaking coastal views.
  • Golfing: The Algarve is home to some of Europe’s best golf courses.
  • Cultural Tours: Visiting historical sites, local markets, and traditional Portuguese villages.
  • Boat tour: Take a boat tour of the local caves and enjoy some swimming.
  • Whale and dolphin watching: Dolphins can be seen all year round. Whales are best seen June – September.

Getting around the Algarve is relatively easy:

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the region at your own pace. Compare prices here.
  • Public Transport: There are buses and trains connecting major towns and cities, though services can be limited in more rural areas.
  • Taxis and Ridesharing: Widely available in towns and cities, though more expensive than public transport.
  • Biking: A great option for short distances and to enjoy scenic routes.

The Algarve is known for its delicious and fresh cuisine. Must-try dishes include:

  • Cataplana de Marisco: A traditional seafood stew cooked in a copper pot.
  • Grilled Sardines: Freshly caught and grilled to perfection, often served with a salad and potatoes.
  • Piri-Piri Chicken: Spicy grilled chicken marinated with piri-piri sauce.
  • Arroz de Marisco: A rich and flavourful seafood rice dish.
  • Pastéis de Nata: While not exclusive to the Algarve, these famous Portuguese custard tarts are a delicious treat.

Check out some of our Algarve Content

Wondering where to stay in the Algarve? Hopefully this will help! I have a blog post linked in my link in bio with more information and a tool to help you find a cheap DIY trip. 

There are tons of amazing places to visit, and the town you choose will depend on the type of holiday you’re wanting. The Algarve has something for everyone!

Some other towns worth visiting:

✨Faro: The capital of the Algarve, known for its historic old town and as a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

✨Tavira: A charming and traditional town featuring cobblestone streets, Roman bridges, and a relaxed atmosphere along the Gilão River.

✨Vilamoura: A luxurious resort town with a large marina, championship golf courses, and pristine beaches, ideal for more lux travel.

✨Sagres: A remote town known for its rugged landscapes and dramatic cliffs. The west coast is windier, great for surfing

✨Silves: A historic inland town with a well-preserved medieval castle, offering a glimpse into the Algarve’s rich Moorish past.

Where is your favourite spot of the Algarve?!

#algarve #thetravelmum #familytravel #cheaptravel #portugal #algarveportugal
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Two countries - One trip 🙌🏻✈️

Lots of people visit the Algarve but never realise how close they are to this truly iconic city in Spain! Driving to Seville is really easy, you can just spend the day there or mix up your trip to do a few nights in the Algarve and then a few in Seville 😍

We love visiting outside of the summer months when crowds are low, it isn’t TOO hot and prices are much more reasonable. 

João was actually born in the Algarve so we visit often ❤️

#sevillespain #algarveportugal #roadtrips #cheaptravel #thetravelmum #familytravel #travelideas
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Can you get away for cheap in the half term?! Yes you can 🤩

DIY booking is pretty much always cheaper than package bookings for the school holiday periods. 

Booking your flights and hotels separately can save you a lot of money and gives you the flexibility to choose to be away for 5 or 6 nights instead of the typical 7 or 10 nights. It’s easier han you think to travel with just rucksacks which save you tons on checked luggage. We have lots of content on this.

Im here to make DIY booking less stressful for you ❤️🙌🏻 Ask me anything 🥰

#halftermideas #cheaptravel #familytravel #algarveportugal #thetravelmum #budgettravel
Save this for when you visit!
Looking for a cheap holiday with beautiful beaches? 🌴 Then you will absolutely love the Algarve!

Here is a locals thoughts on the best places you can visit on your next holiday!

Use @skyscanner to find the best value flights to Faro airport ✈️ ad
The Algarve has arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe.  If it’s dramatic cliffs, blue sea and year round sun weren’t enough, the Algarve has amazing seafood, great wines and lots of quaint little towns to explore. 

Use @skyscanner to find the cheapest flights to Faro, the regions airport. 

#thetravelmum #skyscanneradvocate #skyscanner #algarveportugal #algarve #europetravel #wheretovisit #algarvecoast
Day 1 of our 17 night trip to the Algarve and Porto 🇵🇹✈️

We visit the Algarve often as João is from here - the poor lad unfortunately left this sunny paradise for Nottinghamshire to be with me ✨ We are looking to move back here as soon as we can escape our mortgage.. 

Anyway, Alvor is honestly such a perfect place for a holiday. If you’re considering the Algarve look into Alvor or Portimão. I’ll do more videos on here later in the trip. The weather stays great into September and October, so it is the perfect place for a post summer escape. ☀️

#thetravelmum #cheaptravel #familytravel #portugal #algarveportugal #comewithus #comewithme #instagramtravel #travelfamily #dayinthelife
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