Algarve — Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
Algarve Tour Highlights
- A Benagil cave boat tour is one of major bucket-list items in the region. This domed sea cave with a hole in the ceiling gets flooded with natural light during the day, creating a truly spectacular sight. You can access the caves on a catamaran cruise or on a kayak.
- Some of the best Algarve boat tours can be combined with dolphin sighting tours, making for a great family day out. Ria Formosa Natural Park, a nearly 40-mile stretch of sand dunes, marshes, canals and barrier islands, is best seen by boat tour. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, from chameleons to the world's largest gathering of seahorses, alongside flamingos, storks, and a variety of resident and migratory birds.
- Cyclists and hikers, take heed! Via Algarviana Trail is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the Algarve. Accessible for both hikers and cycling enthusiasts, this 300-kilometer trail takes you from Alcoutim to Cabo de São Vicente. Those looking for a less-strenuous activity, we recommend taking the scenic Pontal da Carrapateira and Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos.
- Algarve’s coastline stretches over 155 kilometers, meaning no Algarve tour is complete without a trip (or two) to the beach! Praia da Marinha features rugged cliffs, golden sand and perfect water—it’s one of the most photogenic beaches in the region. Easily accessible from Albufeira, Praia Dos Arrifes is a small beach with a few secluded spots for snorkeling. As a bonus there is a small restaurant offering outstanding views. The ever popular Praia da Falésia is a glorious 6 kilometers stretch of sand backed by towering cliffs, and consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the world.
- Often overlooked for the world-famous wines of the Douro River Valley, the Algarve has been producing wine since Roman times. Oenophile’s should not miss a wine tasting tour in the region. Our must-try pick is the renowned Negra Mole, a crowd-pleasing velvety red.
- Unsurprisingly, the Algarve is home to some outstanding food. Conquilhas a Algarvia or Algarve-style clams is the region’s signature dish and a must-try for seafood lovers. For those seeking a fine-dining experience, A Ver Tavira has one Michelin star and serves up the finest Portuguese ingredients with an African and Brazilian twist.
Algarve Travel Tips
- The stretch between Faro and Albufeira is the heart of the Algarve, drawing the biggest crowds. For a quieter Algarve tour head east to the charming town of Tavira taking in the Moorish architecture. Alternatively, head west and follow in the steps of Prince Henry the Navigator to the town of Sagres, surrounded by secluded coves and big waves that are a draw for surfers.
- For a unique experience, investing in an Algarve helicopter tour is a great way to fully experience the beauty of the region. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, paragliding is another popular activity for a birds eye view of the dramatic coastline.
- If you don’t want to join a large tour group and don’t particularly want to drive yourself around, a private tour departing Faro or Albufeira is a great option. Private Algarve boat tours are also perfect for a more exclusive experience.
- Faro is the regional capital and main gateway to the Algarve. Faro airport is serviced by TAP the Portuguese national carrier as well as many European and budget airlines. Algarve is also accessible from Lisbon via high speed rail with a journey time of about 3 hours.
