Lonely PlanetJul 9
15 of the best things to do in the Algarve
Plan your adventures on the cliffs, caves and beaches of Portugal
Two Michelin stars, changing menu, luxurious rooms.
24 things in this story
- Cabo de São VicenteSightLofty headlands for watching the sunset.
- Praia de Santo AntónioSightBeach on the eastern end of the Algarve.
- Vila JoyaRestaurantTwo Michelin stars, changing menu, luxurious rooms.
- Elsewhere
- Solar do PerceveRestaurantVila do Bispo, PortugalSample tender crustaceans known as percebes here.
- Praia da MarinhaSightCarvoeiro, PortugalTiny beach surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Amado Surf CampPlaceCarrapateira, PortugalOffers surf lessons, lodging, and gear.
- Parque Natural da Ria FormosaNature reserveFaro, PortugalVast park of lagoons, islands, and inlets.
- FormosamarPlaceFaro, PortugalRuns excursions by bicycle, motorboat, and kayak.
- Olhão MarketMarketOlhão, PortugalStandout market in two historic red-brick buildings.
- Ponta da PiedadeSightLagos, PortugalHeadland with towering sandstone formations.
- Seven Hanging Valleys TrailTrailCarvoeiro, PortugalTrail above serene coves and rock formations.
- Mar IlimitadoPlaceSagres, PortugalDolphin-watching cruises with exceptional guides.
- Benagil CaveSightCarvoeiro, PortugalVast sandstone cavern accessible only by sea.
- Clear EmotionsPlaceBenagil, PortugalOffers longer kayak or SUP tours of Benagil Cave.
- Portimão MuseumMuseumPortimão, PortugalJourney into Portugal’s seafaring past.
- Igreja MatrizPlace of worshipPortimão, PortugalChurch interior decorated with azulejos.
- Reserva Natural do Sapal de Castro MarimNature reserveCastro Marim, PortugalNature reserve with salt pans.
- SalmarimPlaceCastro Marim, PortugalHarvest premium flor de sal by hand.
- Agua MãeCaféCastro Marim, PortugalSalty souvenirs.
- Ilha DesertaFerry terminalFaro, PortugalUninhabited island with a 7km sandy beach.
- EstaminéRestaurantFaro, PortugalIsland's only restaurant, serves fresh catch.
- AnimarisPlaceFaro, PortugalOperates ferries to Ilha Deserta.
- Limite ZeroPlaceAlcoutim, PortugalSeasonal zipline across the border.
- Dos SantosPlace of worshipPortimão, Portugal