Where to stay in the Algarve

The Algarve has some of the best coastline in Europe. With its dramatic cliffs, white sand and turquoise sea, you will struggle to find an area so jam packed with amazing views. On top of that you can enjoy some great attractions, delicious seafood and exciting nightlife. My husband Joao is from the Algarve, so we visit often. Tons of you ask us where to stay in the Algarve, the best spot depends on the type of holiday you’re after. In this post, I’ll guide you through some of the Algarve’s most popular towns to help you decide.

Tavira

Located in the eastern Algarve, Tavira is often described as one of the most beautiful towns in the region. This little town is a paradise for those who love history and culture. Unlike the busy tourist hotspots in the western Algarve, Tavira has managed to preserve its authenticity, making it a perfect spot for travellers looking for a quieter, more traditional Portuguese experience.

Tavira Highlights

Tavira is known for its stunning architectural heritage, with over 30 churches throughout the town. Tavira’s castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, and the Roman bridge, which connects both sides of the town, is a beautiful reminder of Tavira’s rich history.

But don’t worry, it’s not all about history—Tavira also offers easy access to some of the Algarve’s most pristine beaches away from the tourist crowds. Ilha de Tavira (Tavira island), a short ferry ride away, is a stunning island with white sand and crystal-clear waters making a perfect day trip from the town. Boats leave hourly and it takes around 20 minutes to get there. A round trip will cost around €2.

There are three different beaches on the island:

• Praia da Ilha de Tavira
• Praia do Barril (Location of the anchor cemetery pictured below)
• Praia da Terra Estreita.

Albufeira

Moving westward, Albufeira is perfect for anyone looking for a lively trip. Known for its vibrant nightlife, many stunning beaches, and bustling old town, Albufeira is a hit among tourists who want to experience a little bit of everything. The Oura strip has more of a 18-30’s vibe with many late night clubs. The Old Town has a more laid back night scene with live music and Karaoke.

Albufeira Highlights

Albufeira’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or even trying your hand at water sports.

Our favourite beaches in Albufeira:

• Praia de São Rafael (pictured below)
• Praia da Gale – head to the eastern side to find some interesting rock formations.
• Praia do Evaristo

If you are travelling with children, Albufeira has a variety of great family attractions. Our favourites being Zoomarine, Aquashow and Aqualand.

When the sun goes down, Albufeira transforms into a party paradise. The Oura Strip, lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, is the go-to place for people looking to party.

But Albufeira isn’t just for party-goers. The old town, with its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, offers a more relaxed vibe, with plenty to explore. The marina is also worth a visit, especially for families, as it offers boat trips and other activities.

Lagos

Further west, Lagos stands out as one of the Algarve’s best towns and is one of my favourites. Lagos is an exciting blend of stunning beaches, historic sites, and a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through the region. Even if you don’t stay here, I really recommend visiting for the day.

Lagos Highlights

Lagos is steeped in history, with its roots going back to the Roman times. The old town is surrounded by 16th-century walls, and landmarks such as the Church of St. Anthony and the Castelo dos Governadores.

The town is known for its dramatic coastline, featuring the famous Ponta da Piedade cliffs (pictured below). These golden cliffs are best explored by boat, kayak, or even on foot along the cliffside paths. It is easy to organise boat trips in the town. There are some great beaches here many of which are within walking distance of each other.

If you don’t plan to stay in Lagos but want to visit for the day, I have written a plan for a fantastic day trip in Lagos here.

Alvor

Not far from Lagos, Alvor offers a more laid-back experience. This little fishing village, turned tourist favourite, retains much of its original charm, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Algarve. We are slightly biased in our love for Alvor as it is where Joao and his family are from. We have a 3 bedroom villa which we rent out in a perfect location. Just a short walk to the beach, marina and strip. You can check it out here.

Alvor Highlights

Alvor is all about relaxation. The town’s beautiful beach, Praia de Alvor, is perfect for long walks along the shore or soaking up the sun. A wooden board walk runs between here and Praia dos Três Irmãos (pictured below), a beautiful beach with some beach side eateries and interesting rock formations to explore. The boardwalk makes a perfect place to cycle by the beach.

Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The town itself has a quaint, friendly atmosphere, with narrow streets lined with traditional houses, shops, and restaurants. The harbour is a lovely place to spend an evening, with plenty of seafood restaurants offering fresh catches of the day.

Wrapping Up Your Algarve Adventure

The Algarve is a region that truly has something for everyone, whether you’re drawn to the historical charm of Tavira, the lively energy of Albufeira, the rich history of Lagos, or the tranquil beauty of Alvor. Each town offers its own unique vibe, and by visiting a mix of these destinations, you can experience the full spectrum of what the Algarve has to offer.

Remember, exploring the Algarve doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy this stunning region without stretching your budget. From visiting out of season, staying in local guesthouses to dining at traditional eateries and taking advantage of the natural beauty that’s free for all to enjoy, the Algarve is a destination where memorable experiences don’t have to cost the world.

I will be adding more destinations to this blog post soon to provide a great resource for people wondering where to stay in the Algarve. If you prefer a package deal as opposed to a DIY booking, check out our cheap package deals page.