Algarve: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
In the enchanting city of Portimão in the Algarve, you can combine a city trip with a beach holiday: culture enthusiasts are drawn to the center, where the church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, built in Gothic style, is located. The harbor tells of the long tradition of shipbuilding and fishing.
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Algarve - The most beautiful cities
Portimão
Portimão is world-renowned for its motorsport track, where even Formula 1 races are regularly held. Besides the harbor, the former Santa Catarina fortress is considered a landmark. From the latter, visitors enjoy a panoramic view of the coast, some villas, and the lighthouses along the Atlantic. In the warm summer months between May and September, when the thermometer climbs daily above 25°C, Praia da Rocha attracts numerous beachgoers and sunbathers. The Atlantic is pleasantly cool here, and during the transitional seasons, the conditions are perfect for wind or kite surfing.
Albufeira
The old town district Cerro da Vila is considered the heart of Albufeira. Stroll through the many small alleys here, where some cafes and boutiques have been able to preserve the charm of past decades and centuries. Located a bit outside is the Alcantarilha Chapel of Bones, one of the most famous attractions in the region. With summer temperatures of more than 25°C and many hours of sunshine, the months from May to September are perfect for a beach holiday. The beaches Praia do Peneco and Praia dos Pescadores are located west of Albufeira and are within walking distance. In the transitional seasons, you can try windsurfing.
Vilamoura
Vilamoura was conceived as a tourist hotspot on the Algarve in the 1980s. It captivates with a sophisticated charm, which also applies to the large marina of the coastal town. Marvel at the small and large sailboats and snow-white yachts during a stroll along the marina. Your holiday destination on the Algarve boasts several golf courses. The casino also reflects the elegant charm of Vilamoura. But culture enthusiasts will also get their money's worth. An excursion to Cerro da Vila, an archaeological site, is exciting. Follow the traces of a settlement from the Roman Imperial period.
Lagos
The city was already inhabited in ancient times. While strolling through the historic center, you will discover a variety of centuries-old buildings. Stroll over the cobblestones of the old town and take a look at the Santo Antonio Church, the first slave market in Europe, and the Bandeira Fortress. Along the Atlantic coast, you will find some spectacular scenic highlights in addition to dreamlike sandy beaches. The fascinating limestone rock formations at Ponta da Piedade, in particular, offer numerous photo opportunities and are easily accessible. The local zoo, famous for Monkey Island and the petting zoo, is very popular.
Armação de Pêra
A total of four sandy beaches invite you to sunbathe, swim, and relax during the warm summer months. Praia de Armação de Pêra, Praia de Senhora da Rocha, Praia Grande, and Praia dos Salgados each have their charm. During the transitional seasons, the winds provide perfect conditions for kitesurfing. The Fortaleta de Armação de Pêra is the cultural landmark of the small town. The fortress was built as early as 1571 and is still largely preserved today. Also worth seeing is the Capela de Santo Antonio from the year 1720, which you can reach with a short walk.
Benagil
If you spend a beach holiday in Benagil, be sure to plan a visit to the cave. Experienced swimmers can reach it in a sporty way, as it is only 180 meters from Benagil Beach. There are also boat tours to the cave, but they do not lead into the natural wonder. From Praia da Marinha, there is a hike of about two hours to the Benagil Cave, during which you can enjoy a magnificent view of the sea. Through the holes in the rock, you can see inside, which shines golden yellow. After the hike, you can relax on the fine sandy beach.
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is a picturesque Portuguese fishing village in the midst of the stunning Algarve cliffs. In addition to its golden sandy beach, there are numerous small bathing coves with beaches like Praia de Centianes to discover along the charming rocky coast. Furthermore, several golf courses are located in the area, which also attracts many golfers to the village. Other special highlights include the breathtaking hiking trail Sete Vales Suspensos, which runs along the scenic coast with its limestone cliffs, or exciting boat trips to various caves and grottos such as the Benagil Cave. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants and bars in Carvoeiro for a cozy evening.
Faro
Stroll through the historic old town of Faro, which mostly dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Here you will find winding alleys and some impressive buildings like the 13th-century Sé Cathedral. The town hall and the baroque Carmelite Church are other landmarks of the city. On foot, you are not only quickly at the harbor and the Maritime Museum, but also at the Atlantic coast. Around Faro, numerous dream beaches invite you to sunbathe, swim, and relax. The winds here also make the region a paradise for wind and kite surfers as well as sailors.
Algarve - 4 most beautiful natural sights
Ria Formosa Natural Park
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a true paradise for nature lovers. This unique ecosystem stretches over 60 kilometers along the Algarve coast and offers a breathtaking variety of flora and fauna. Here you can observe rare bird species, hike through fragrant pine forests, and explore the picturesque salt marshes. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear water invite you to swim and sunbathe. With its scenic hiking and biking trails, the Ria Formosa Natural Park is the perfect place for outdoor activities. Discover the beauty and tranquility of this natural paradise and let its diversity enchant you.
Piety Point
The Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve is a breathtaking natural wonder that you should not miss. This spectacular rock formation, shaped by millennia of wind and waves, offers an unparalleled view of the deep blue sea and the surrounding landscape. The majestic cliffs and mysterious grottos attract visitors from all over the world and awaken interest and longing for adventure. A walk along the coast or a boat trip to the grottos will surely captivate you. Don't miss out on this unique experience - the Ponta da Piedade awaits you!
Benagil Cave
The Benagil Cave, a hidden gem in the Algarve, is a breathtaking natural wonder that you should not miss. This impressive sea grotto, shaped by the relentless force of the ocean, offers a unique experience. Enter another world as you step through the natural arch, surrounded by golden sand and turquoise water. The highlight is the natural skylight, offering a view of the azure sky. The Benagil Cave is a magical place that captures attention and ignites the desire to visit. And it urges you to plan a trip immediately. Experience the magic of nature in its purest form!
Mountains of Monchique
The Monchique Mountains in the Algarve are a breathtaking natural wonder. With its peaks rising into the mostly blue sky and lush green forests filled with a variety of flora and fauna, it is a paradise for nature lovers. The fresh mountain air, stunning views, and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place for a break from everyday life. Hike on the well-marked trails, enjoy a picnic amidst nature, or simply relax and let the beauty wash over you. The Monchique Mountains are an unforgettable experience that you should not miss.
Algarve - Climate
As is typical for a coastal city, warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters also characterize the climate in Portimão. The least rainfall occurs from May to September, while in the wet October you can expect rainfall on 19 days. As early as March, the air warms up to 16°C, and you can stroll by the sea at a pleasant 22°C until October. In August, the average temperature is 26°C. You can experience ten to twelve hours of sunshine from April to September in the Algarve. The water temperature is 23°C in the peak summer and around 17°C in winter.
The following graph shows the average weather conditions for the country. Historical weather conditions may vary by region.