Top 25 towns and cities in the Algarve to visit
Algarve towns & cities guide
In the Algarve, no two towns or villages are the same. From bustling cities full of life, to sleepy villages rich in tradition and history. The harbours of the Algarve’s coastal towns are the ideal starting points for water-based adventures, while in the hilly interior you can wander through narrow streets in villages founded centuries ago by the Moors or Romans.
Discover the most beautiful villages and towns of the Algarve below. Check out the handy overview map, but if you want to know more about one of the places, read on to the relevant page of that place. This way you will discover the most beautiful villages of the Algarve including tips for accommodations, sights and activities!
Map of the Algarve with the 25 best villages & towns
Check out my handy overview map below with the most beautiful villages and towns in the Algarve. Most places can be reached by public transport with a bit of patience , but to save a lot of time (and effort), I recommend to rent a car cheaply.
Click on one of the pins to see which place it is, plus a short description of it. Further down this page you will find an introduction per village or city and a link to the more extensive page per place. There you will discover the most beautiful sights, the best activities and tips for restaurants, where to park and more per city or village!
Map of the Algarve with the most beautiful villages and towns :
The 25 most beautiful villages and towns in the Algarve
The Algarve towns and cities listed below are not in order of ‘best’ to ‘worst’, but in order of addition. As soon as I visit a new place, it is added to the bottom of the list. So the places higher up on the list are not necessarily ‘better’ or nicer than those further down the page! But one thing is for sure: if it is worth a visit, it will be on this page.
For each location you can read a short description with a link to the more extensive page I have created. There you will find tips for sights, special accommodations and restaurant tips for each location.
These are the 25 most beautiful villages and towns in the Algarve:
1. Albufeira
Discover popular Albufeira – the ultimate adventure holiday destination on Portugal’s sun-drenched southern coast. Enjoy breathtaking beaches, sample delicious local cuisine and dance the night away in trendy clubs.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday with your family or an unforgettable time with friends, Albufeira has everything you need for a successful holiday
2. Faro
Explore the beautiful coastal and capital city of Faro , located in the heart of the Algarve. Visit the charming historic centre, taste the delicious local cuisine along the waterfront and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ria Formosa lagoon.
Take a ferry to one of the (deserted) islands or discover old Portugal in one of the museums.
3. Portimão
Be enchanted by the mix of unspoilt beauty along the coast and the energy of the atmospheric boulevard in Portimão – a lively seaside resort located in the southwest of Portugal.
Here you will find an interesting mix of old world charm and modern amenities, including beautiful beaches, trendy bars, museums and an excellent selection of water sports activities.
4. Lagos
Experience the perfect mix of sun, sea and history in the charming city of Lagos . Situated on the southern coast of Portugal, this lively resort offers beautiful beaches, historical sights and a lively nightlife.
Discover local culture in the old town and taste delicious Algarve cuisine along the quay or in the maze of streets. Explore the natural beauty of Ponta da Piedade and board a speedboat in search of wild dolphins.
5. Sagres
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the picturesque village of Sagres , located at the most south-westerly point of Portugal (and Europe!). Here you will find quiet beaches, spectacular cliffs and excellent surfing conditions.
Visit the historic fortress and enjoy the enchanting sunsets at the Sagres lighthouse. It is definitely worth the drive from the airport.
6. Silves
Travel back in time to the medieval town of Silves , located in the heart of the Algarve. This historic town offers a wealth of attractions, including an impressive castle, an archaeological museum and charming streets.
Visit Silves’ Gothic Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century, and then treat yourself to a meal in one of the hidden restaurants. Nearby are vineyards where you can stop for a tour and wine tasting.
7. Loulé
Discover the authentic town of Loulé , located in the heart of the Algarve and known for its colorful market hall and historical monuments such as the old castle.
Enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many excellent restaurants and then descend into an old mine shaft to discover the Loulé Salt Mine.
8. Monchique
Head higher in the picturesque mountain village of Monchique , nestled in the hills of the Algarve. This peaceful and charming spot offers fantastic coastal views, beautiful nature walks and delicious local specialities.
The winding road up to the village is an adventure in itself and from the highest point in the Algarve you can see for miles to the coast
9. Alvor
Experience the authentic Portuguese atmosphere in the charming fishing village of Alvor , located on the southern coast of the Algarve. Here you will find a beautiful harbour, picturesque streets and excellent fish restaurants.
Visit the 16th century Igreja Matriz de Alvor and walk through the beautiful dune area that separates this town from the ocean. Go kitesurfing in the bay or walk along the boardwalk through the lagoon.
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