Sitting comfortably in Portugal's sunny southern region, the Algarve offers more than just a sparkling coastline. From historic towns and secluded beaches, to championship golf courses and top-notch dining, a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure makes for plenty of things to experience here. Read on to discover the best activities and excursions you can do to make the most of your time in the Algarve.
Top things to do in the Algarve
Located on a hillside on the outskirts of the dramatic Monchique mountain range, Silves was once the capital of the Algarve during Moorish rule. Nowadays, it's considered to be the gateway to the highlands, retaining much of its historic grandeur — making it an intriguing place to explore. Be sure to visit Silves Castle, a well-preserved fortress offering panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside. And don't miss your chance to try the oranges — Silves produces some of the best in the world. You'll find many guided tours dropping into Silves, mostly combined with longer trips through the Monchique Mountains.
Nicknamed 'The End of the World' by the Romans, Sagres is a pretty town at the southwestern tip of Europe, and it holds an irresistible allure for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. Visit the impressive Fortress of Sagres and absorb its strategic importance during Portugal’s Age of Discovery. For thrill-chasers, hit the waves with one of the many surf schools here. Or, combine both with a day out by 4x4, stopping by both the town and its shoreline. And, be sure to head to the Cape St's Vincent lighthouse at sunset — it's a sight you'll remember forever.
3. Adventure in Ria Formosa Natural Park
Step into diverse nature at Ria Formosa – the cherry on the cake for any trip to the Algarve. This sprawling natural park is a haven for wildlife, particularly bird species. Explore the different habitats and landscapes that make up the park, from flora and fauna to salt pans and sand dunes. Many types of excursions are offered here, from boat trips to spot the resident dolphins and birdwatching expeditions to hikes, cycling tours and more. There are also several villages and cities dotted around the park, including Cacela Velha, Tavira and Olhao, as well as the old town of Faro — the region's capital.
4. Visit Benagil's caves and grottoes
Algarve’s coastline is adorned by numerous caves, but none are quite as famous as Benagil's sea cave. Situated just 30 minutes away from Faro in the fishing town of Benagil, and accessible only by sea, this natural wonder features a domed ceiling with an open sky hole, allowing sunlight to stream into the sand-filled base. Smaller boat tours from nearby beaches, as well as kayaking and speedboat options, offer easy ways to visit. And if you're left wanting more, there's Ponta da Piedade sea grottoes, which are also well worth a visit.
5. Spot dolphins off the Albufeira coast
Get up close and personal with some of nature's most playful creatures on a dolphin watching trip along the Albufeira coastline. There's plenty of boat tours available, from small-group speedboat rides, to larger boats offering barbecues, and even a pirate ship. All provide an unrivalled opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat, while also enjoying panoramic views of the Algarve's spectacular coastline. Some also combine dolphin-spotting with visits to nearby hidden caves.
6. Sip on quality Algarvian wine in Lagoa
A journey to the Algarve wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in its rich wine culture. Lagoa, one of the most renowned wine-producing areas in the Algarve, boasts a selection of vineyards ripe for exploration. Indulge in a tasting tour, where knowledgeable sommeliers will guide you through a collection of locally-produced, and sometimes even secret, wines. Savour the crisp white wines that are a hallmark of the region, or try out the bold reds that are rapidly gaining international acclaim.
