Beaches, History, and Charm: Must-See Towns in Portugal’s Algarve

Beaches, History, and Charm: Must-See Towns in Portugal’s Algarve
Golden cliffs and turquoise waters showcase the Algarve’s iconic coastal beauty.|©iStock/Balate Dorin

Although mainland Portugal has its share of beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, as well as those on the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores, by far the most famous are those in the southern region of the Algarve.

This area has been a favorite among expats from Europe, North America, Australia, and elsewhere for many years. While offering a relaxed resort ambiance, it has still managed to maintain a sense of the country’s traditional essence.

Well, mostly. It’s true that in recent times the proliferation of golf courses, restaurants, and luxury hotels has changed the flavor of some larger cities. The dining scene ranges from simple local food at small cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants. In fact, in 2026, there are a total of seven boasting that honor, ranging from Lagos in the west to Tavira in the east, close to the Spanish border.

So what towns should you see when you visit the Algarve?

Bonus town #1:
Windswept cliffs and surf-friendly beaches define historic Sagres.
Windswept cliffs and surf-friendly beaches define historic Sagres.|©iStock/MEDITERRANEAN

Before we get to must-sees, I recommend a look at Sagres in the extreme southwest of the country. A coastal town with a population of about 2,000, tucked away near the impressive cliffs of Cabo de São Vicente, it is historically tied to the Age of Discovery and Prince Henry the Navigator. With its focus on visiting the military fortress in town, it’s easy to forget there are some lovely beaches here that offer suitable waves for surfing. They are not on a par with Praia do Norte in Nazaré, home to the biggest waves in Portugal (and the world). But if you’re looking for a low-key experience, it’s a good bet.

Of note is Praia de Mareta. It boasts a nice white sand stretch nestled in a cove between the fortress, a few hundred yards to the west, and the rocky cliffs to the east. This protection provides a respite from the winds and the otherwise strong surf. There’s a parking lot right next to the beach.

As for perennial favorites, traveling east, I’ve always recommended Lagos.

Lagos/Praia da Luz

Dramatic rock formations and golden coves make Lagos unforgettable.
Dramatic rock formations and golden coves make Lagos unforgettable.|©iStock/majaiva

In Lagos, the beautiful rock formations of Ponta da Piedade and inviting sands lure beach lovers, while numerous bars, cafés, and restaurants offer food and beverage choices for all. One outstanding option for classic Italian fare, international tapas, and delicious wines is Ciuccio. Reservations are highly recommended.

This part of Portugal is a destination for golfers the world over. It features almost forty championship courses. Some of them are in absolutely stunning natural settings. For instance, the Monte Rei Golf Course is a Jack Nicklaus signature location with a fantastic rating by its regulars. It is one of the many courses that are within easy reach of wherever you might be staying or living. Parking is easy in one of the many public parking facilities by the marina at the southwest end of town. Be sure to visit the replica of an Age of Discovery caravela, Boa Esperança. It is located on the promenade by the marina and will give you a sense of the dedicated spirit of the explorers.

If you fall in love with this beach town, you can find a two-bedroom apartment rental for around $2,000 a month. Then you’ll have that lovely stretch of sand to dig your toes into as often as you wish.

For purchase, you’ll find a range from $300,000 to many millions, averaging $700,000. This is quite a step up from a few years ago when $399,000 netted a two- or three-bedroom apartment. But when you see the hills surrounding Lagos, where white, terracotta-topped houses and bougainvillea-draped duplexes suggest low-key suburban life, you may find it all worth it.

Another plus is the professional healthcare. In addition to national healthcare facilities, there are private clinics and the Hospital São Gonçalo de Lagos, which has experienced medical staff offering inpatient and outpatient care, lab work, imaging, and surgical services at affordable prices.

All that said, my personal preference for a beach town in this neck of the Algarve is nearby Praia da Luz, lying just 12 minutes to the west of Lagos. It’s smaller, sweeter, and if a beach town can be termed “cozy,” this is it. Every time I visit, I wonder why I never moved there. So don’t miss this one.

Bonus town #2:
Carvoeiro’s seaside charm blends golden beaches with dramatic caves.
Carvoeiro’s seaside charm blends golden beaches with dramatic caves.|©iStock/Eloi_Omella

Carvoeiro is next in line, traveling east on the way to another must-see. It is a former sleepy fishing village that is now quite the destination. The Tivoli Carvoeiro Resort is a wonderful hotel with views over the Praia de Vale Covo and great amenities for a truly all-inclusive stay. The famous ocean-carved Caves of Benagil are now accessible only on scheduled tours, which they can arrange for you through the hotel.

Praia da Marinha is considered the town’s most beautiful beach, with its views of great rocky outcrops and easy access from nearby parking.

Albufeira

Albufeira’s cobbled streets and lively squares buzz with energy.
Albufeira’s cobbled streets and lively squares buzz with energy.|©Keith Pimental

About an hour’s drive east of Lagos lies Albufeira, probably the best-known city in the Algarve, with around 15 miles of beaches in the municipality. I include it because it’s famous and popular, a busy town set in cobbled streets, winding alleys, and Moorish-influenced architecture. Over 100 bars, cafés, and restaurants are open for business in the old town alone. The main square, Jardim Público, is filled with great boutiques offering arts and crafts, fine jewelry, pottery, woolen goods, and more.

Rentals here are less expensive than in Lagos, so if you don’t mind the crowds, especially in summertime, and you’re looking for lots of fun in a party town, you’ve found your niche.

Bonus town #3
Faro’s old town and ferry to Ilha Deserta offer relaxed coastal charm.
Faro’s old town and ferry to Ilha Deserta offer relaxed coastal charm.|©iStock/majaiva

Faro is where one of Portugal’s three main airports is located, the others being in Lisbon and, in the north, Porto. My suggestion is not to be in such a hurry to go off to the more resort-oriented towns. Stay here a while. Faro has a quaint and picturesque old town with city walls and medieval gates. There are outdoor cafés featuring local musicians and the wonderful fresh catch of the day. It is also home to one of the warmest ocean beaches in Portugal, as reported by nothing less than the Portuguese Navy. To access this great stretch of beach lover’s paradise, you must take the ferry from Cais das Portas do Mar. There is a leisurely ferry service of about 40 minutes or a speedboat option that only takes about 15 minutes. The cost is about $12 each way.

The Praia da Ilha Deserta is worth it for its serenity and seclusion. Bring everything you’ll need for the day, as there are no amenities. I did say secluded.

Tavira

Whitewashed Tavira charms with river views and easy access to island beaches.
Whitewashed Tavira charms with river views and easy access to island beaches.|©Keith Pimental

Continuing east, Tavira is one of the prettiest little cities I know in Portugal. The town straddles the Gilão River and features whitewashed buildings, Roman ruins, and jacaranda and oleander blossoms everywhere. Touches like latticework doors with knockers in the shape of hands (a tradition passed on by the Moors) add to the charm.

Hop on the ferry to Ilha Tavira, one of the finest beaches in the Algarve. There you’ll find not only cafés but a number of good restaurants. Vendors sell handicrafts at tables on the way to the wooden boardwalk, which leads to a stretch of pristine sand. The esplanade around the river offers a great variety of restaurants for a sunset drink or a leisurely evening dinner. Or just enjoy walking around this beautiful area of town after a day of golf or the beach.

The real estate market here can be challenging. But if you’re willing and able to spend a bit, you might have luck in an urbanização, a designated community consisting of apartment complexes. For example, a two-bedroom, sea-view villa in excellent condition, located in the Mato Santo Espírito Urbanização five minutes from Tavira town center, sells for $219,000. Monthly rental: $1,850. Real estate ranges from simple studios along the coast to villas with sweeping panoramic views in the surrounding hillside towns. It’s easy to drive around, with both excellent highways and municipal roads.

Whether you visit the towns mentioned here or discover your own special retreats, your experience in this region of Portugal is guaranteed to provide memories you will never forget.

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