15 Best Things To Do In Algarve, Portugal (2025 Guide)

January 30, 2025
One of the best things to do in Algarve

The Algarve stands as one of Europe’s most captivating coastal destinations, where golden cliffs meet crystal-clear waters and charming white-washed villages dot the landscape. This stunning region in southern Portugal offers everything from dramatic coastlines and hidden caves to historic towns and mountain trails.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, the Algarve delivers unforgettable moments at every turn.

1. Explore the Stunning Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave stands as one of the Algarve’s most iconic natural wonders, and for good reason. This remarkable sea cave, with its multiple ocean entrances and natural skylight, creates an otherworldly atmosphere that draws visitors from around the globe.

Starting in September 2023, the cave has new visiting restrictions in place to preserve its natural beauty and ensure visitor safety. Currently, the only way to enter the cave is through an authorized boat tour. While kayaking and swimming to the cave are no longer permitted, the boat tours offer excellent photography opportunities and a chance to appreciate the cave’s unique formation.

You can also view Benagil Cave from above by hiking to its skylight opening on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. While you won’t be able to access the beach inside the cave, the aerial perspective provides a unique vantage point of this natural wonder.

2. Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail ranks among Portugal’s most beautiful walks and offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in Europe. This 5.7km point-to-point trail takes you along dramatic clifftops, providing stunning vistas of the coastline, including views of Benagil Cave and several pristine beaches.

Starting at the gorgeous Praia da Marinha, the trail guides you through varying terrain with numerous viewpoints along the way. The hike typically takes between 2 to 3 hours to complete, though you might want to allow extra time for photography and beach visits.

Make sure to wear appropriate footwear for this trek, as the terrain can be challenging with uneven rocky ground. It’s best to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there’s limited shade along the trail.

3. Experience the Costa Vicentina

Costa Vicentina

Often called Europe’s last wild coast, Costa Vicentina offers a dramatic contrast to the more developed areas of the Algarve. This stretch of coastline features massive cliffs meeting wide beaches, with waves considerably larger than those on the southern coast.

Notable spots include Praia da Cordoama, one of the largest beaches in the area, and Bordeira’s Beach, famous for its surfing, boardwalk trail, and scenic viewpoint. The area provides excellent opportunities for hiking, surfing, and experiencing untamed coastal landscapes.

4. Discover Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Algarve. This rocky point near Lagos features an impressive collection of sea pillars, arches, and small gorgeous beaches that you can explore both by land and sea.

A network of boardwalk trails runs from Praia Dona Ana to the tip of Ponta da Piedade, with several points offering access to long staircases leading down to beaches and sea grottos. The walking trails provide spectacular viewpoints for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

For a different perspective, take a boat tour or kayaking expedition around the rock formations. These tours allow you to get up close to the enormous pillars and drift through the sea caves, offering a unique view of this natural wonder.

5. Explore Lagos Old Town

Lagos Old Town

Lagos offers a perfect blend of history and coastal charm. The old town features charming, colorful streets lined with shops and restaurants, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve. Unlike some other tourist areas, Lagos maintains its authentic character while offering modern amenities.

Key attractions include the historic castle and city walls, Museu de Lagos, and the stunning Church of Santo Antonio. The marina provides a pleasant area for walking, and the nearby fortress (Forte da Ponta da Bandeira) offers interesting historical insights. The old town’s cobblestone streets invite you to wander and discover hidden corners, local restaurants, and unique shops.

6. Take a Boat Tour Along the Coast

Algarve boat tour

One of the best ways to experience the Algarve’s stunning coastline is from the water. Boat tours offer varying experiences, from cave exploration to dolphin watching. Many tours depart from different locations along the coast, including Portimão, Albufeira, and Lagos.

These excursions often include visits to multiple sea caves, including the famous Benagil Cave. Some tours combine cave visits with dolphin watching opportunities, offering a chance to spot both bottlenose and common dolphins in their natural habitat.

7. Go Surfing on the Western Coast

Algarve surfing

The Algarve’s western coast offers excellent surfing conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers. The best surfing spots include Tonel Beach, Beliche Beach, Praia da Arrifana, and Praia do Amado, where you’ll find bigger waves and professional surf schools.

The southern coast, particularly around Albufeira’s Praia da Falésia, provides gentler conditions perfect for beginners. Many beaches offer surf lessons and board rentals, making it easy to try this popular water sport regardless of your experience level.

8. Visit Charming Tavira

Tavira

Tavira presents a different side of the Algarve, away from the busy beach resorts. This lovely town charms visitors with its narrow, hilly streets, historic castle walls, beautiful gardens, and traditional bridges. The town’s architecture reflects its rich history, with influences from various cultures visible throughout.

Key experiences in Tavira include walking the castle walls, visiting the old bridge, exploring the town center, and photographing the Torre do Relogio. The town square, Praça da Republica, serves as a central gathering place surrounded by historic buildings and cafes.

9. Visit the Beaches of Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha stands out as one of the Algarve’s crown jewels. This stunning beach has earned international recognition, with the Michelin Guide naming it one of Europe’s 10 most beautiful beaches and CNN including it among the world’s top 20.

The beach features signature golden sands framed by distinctive sea pillars and arches, creating a picturesque setting that seems almost too beautiful to be real. You can access the beach easily from its dedicated parking lot, making it perfect for both quick visits and full-day beach excursions.

From the terrace overlooking the beach, you’ll get panoramic views of the coastline before descending to enjoy the crystal-clear waters below. The beach offers basic amenities and makes an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply marveling at the natural rock formations.

10. Explore Silves Castle

Silves Castle

The Castle of Silves stands as one of Portugal’s best-preserved Moorish castles. Dating back to 716 AD, when the Moors defeated the Romans, the castle has been expanded and fortified over centuries, creating an impressive historical monument.

Visitors can walk the castle walls for panoramic views over Silves, explore the remains of ancient palaces, and visit the cistern and archaeological excavations. The surrounding town of Silves offers additional charm with its fortress walls, gorgeous architecture, and excellent restaurants.

11. Visit Algar Seco Rocks

Algar Seco Rocks

Algar Seco presents one of the Algarve’s most unique geological formations. This natural wonder features a network of tunnels, grottos, caves, cliffs, and windows to the sea, creating an explorer’s paradise. Located near Carvoeiro, it’s easily accessible via boardwalk trails.

Beyond the famous double cave opening viewpoint, you can explore the grotto, walk along boardwalk trails to various viewpoints, and discover numerous cave openings perfect for unique photo opportunities.

12. Try Fresh Seafood

The Algarve’s seaside location ensures an abundance of excellent seafood. Local restaurants serve fresh catches daily, offering traditional Portuguese preparations at reasonable prices. Popular dishes include grilled sardines, cataplana de marisco (seafood stew), and conquilhas á Algarvia (clams cooked with sausage, onions, and garlic).

The fishing village of Ferragudo particularly stands out for its seafood restaurants serving catches fresh from the sea. Many coastal towns offer excellent dining options where you can enjoy local specialties while watching the sunset over the ocean.

13. Visit the Ria Formosa

Ria Formosa

Ria Formosa, one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders, consists of a lagoon system made up of several barrier islands south of Faro. This protected area offers unique ecosystems and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

You can explore Ria Formosa through various boat tours, ranging from quick one-hour trips to half-day excursions. These eco-tours allow you to visit remote beaches, observe local wildlife, and experience the natural beauty of this unique coastal formation.

14. Explore the Serra de Monchique Mountains

Serra de Monchique Mountains

When you’ve had enough of beaches, head inland to the Serra de Monchique mountain range. These rolling hills offer numerous hiking trails, including one that takes you to Fóia, the highest peak at 902 meters. The area provides a refreshing contrast to the coastal region, with cooler temperatures and lush vegetation.

The town of Monchique itself offers a calm atmosphere and stunning views, making it an excellent destination for those seeking to experience the Algarve’s inland charms.

15. Take a Day Trip to Ferragudo

Ferragudo

Ferragudo offers a glimpse of traditional Algarve life in a charming fishing village setting. Located near Portimão, this small town provides a perfect escape from the busier tourist areas. You can stroll the village streets, visit Praia da Angrinha, see Castelo de Ferragudo, and enjoy some of the region’s freshest seafood at local restaurants.

The village maintains its authentic character while offering excellent dining options and beautiful coastal views, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, the Algarve provides countless opportunities to create memorable moments. From its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs to historic towns and natural wonders, this region of Portugal offers something for every type of traveler. Remember to visit during shoulder season (May, June, September, or October) for the best combination of good weather and smaller crowds.

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