Here’s the thing about the Algarve: it’s not trying to impress you, and yet it always does. This stretch of southern Portugal is a mix of beaches, cliff trails, fishing towns, golf courses, and yes, more seafood than you can reasonably eat in one trip. If you’re hunting for things to do in Algarve, you’re in the right place. Whether you want to sunbathe, surf, sip wine, or watch your kids exhaust themselves at a water park, there’s plenty on offer. And the best part? It’s easy.
Explore the Algarve’s Best Beaches
You could spend your entire trip just beach-hopping and honestly, no one would blame you. Start with Praia da Marinha. It’s the one that shows up on all the postcards and Instagram reels. It’s dramatic, photogenic, and actually lives up to the hype. The water’s clear, the cliffs are towering, and the steps down to the sand are a workout in disguise.
Then there’s Praia da Falésia near Vilamoura. It’s long and wide, and backed by red cliffs that turn golden at sunset. Ideal for long walks or lying still while contemplating the meaning of your third pastel de nata of the day.
Praia do Peneco also deserves a mention. It’s right in the heart of Albufeira and comes with its own elevator. If the idea of trudging up a cliff in 30°C heat isn’t appealing, this one’s for you.
There are dozens more: Praia de Cacela Velha if you’re chasing peace and quiet, or Praia do Amado for surfers and people who like watching surfers. Basically, if you like beaches, the Algarve’s got you covered.
Top Outdoor and Adventure Activities in Algarve, Portugal
There’s more to the Algarve than lying on a towel. Although, to be clear, lying on a towel is still a perfectly valid life choice.
But if you want to move a bit, the Algarve’s outdoorsy side is pretty convincing. Kayaking into sea caves (Benagil being the most famous), hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, cycling around the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the list goes on. There’s something satisfying about feeling like you earned your beach beer or cocktail.
And then there’s golf. It’s kind of a big deal here. Courses like Monte Rei and Quinta do Lago pull in the serious players, but even casual golfers will find something enjoyable (and not too punishing). Even if your swing’s a bit tragic, the views usually make up for it.
If you’re more of a water sports person, take your pick: surfing, paddleboarding, sailing, even coasteering for those who like flinging themselves off rocks. It’s all here, and someone will rent you the gear with minimal paperwork.
Must-Visit Towns and Villages in the Algarve
You’ve got your beach base. Now go inland. Or at least wander into a few towns that aren’t just sand and sangria.
Lagos is lively, historical, and big enough to keep you busy for a couple of days. The marina’s full of boats you can’t afford and bars you absolutely can. The old town is compact, cobbled, and made for aimless wandering.
Tavira is more laid-back—a slow, slightly faded beauty with churches, a Roman bridge, and one of the prettiest riverfronts in the region. It feels like someone pressed pause there in a good way.
Silves is where you go if you want castles and orange groves. It’s more hilltop than beach, and the red-stone fortress is worth the climb. You’ll get possibly the best fresh orange juice or lemonade of your life.
Carvoeiro and Ferragudo all bring something different. The point is, don’t just stay put. The Algarve’s small enough to explore easily but big enough to surprise you.
Albufeira is the Algarve turned up to ten. It’s loud, brash, and packed with nightlife, but there’s charm behind the buzz—especially in the old town and the hidden coves just outside the centre. Great if you want to mix lazy beach days with a big night out.
Faro is often overlooked, but that’s a mistake. It’s got a working-city feel, a charming old town surrounded by ancient walls, and access to the Ria Formosa lagoon—one of Portugal’s most underrated natural spots. Stick around a while, and it grows on you.
Cultural and Historical Sites to Discover
Yes, the Algarve has culture. It’s not all bars and beach towels.
Start with the Igreja de São Lourenço in Almancil. It’s a small church, sure, but the inside is covered top to toe in blue-and-white tiles. It’s like stepping into a Delftware teacup.
Faro, often skipped by people racing to the resorts, has a proper old town, city walls, and a bone chapel (Capela dos Ossos) for those with a taste for the macabre. Bonus points for the scenic boat rides into the Ria Formosa lagoon.
Museums? Yes. There are some. The Museu Municipal Dr. José Formosinho in Lagos, for example, is worth a wander if you want a quick crash course in local history/regional history via archaeological & art exhibits (or if you just need some air-con).
Family-Friendly Attractions and Day Trips
Travelling with kids? Don’t panic. The Algarve is well set up for families.
Zoomarine near Albufeira is part water park, part aquarium, part animal show, and has enough going on to keep kids entertained while you sneak in a bit of sunbathing.
Aqualand and Slide & Splash are two solid water parks with all the usual suspects: lazy rivers, terrifying tube slides, and overpriced ice cream. If you’re here in summer, they’re a safe bet.
If you want something calmer, take a boat trip to the barrier islands near Faro or explore the inland village of Alte which is complete with waterfalls and swimming holes. It’s a nice change of pace and surprisingly photogenic.
Why the Algarve Is Worth Visiting
The Algarve works because it doesn’t try to be everything to everyone—it just is. Beaches? Loads. Activities? Pick one. Culture? It’s there if you want it. Food? Excellent. And the wine’s cheap.
Whether you’re ticking off things to do in Algarve Portugal or just following your nose to the next bakery, you’ll find the place easy to love. And if you need somewhere to stay while you’re discovering all the things to do in the Algarve, OC Villas has options. Big villas, compact flats, central spots, quiet hideaways, all with the kind of convenience that lets you get on with enjoying your holiday. No fuss, no stress, just a proper base for your next Algarve adventure.
