Holidays to Algarve

Situated right at the southernmost tip of Portugal, those who head to the beautiful Algarve region can count on a favourable climate and a wealth of sights to see and activities to take part in. Whether you're the type who simply likes to while away time at the beach or somebody who prefers to take in stunning historical and natural treats for the eyes, it's not hard to see why as many as 7.1 million tourists are booking Algarve holidays each year.

The Algarve is home to year-long sunshine, making it the perfect holiday destination to visit not only in summer, but winter too. Temperatures in the Algarve have been known to shoot well above the 40°C mark, but it's more common to be able to enjoy basking in the high twenties or low thirties.

Although many tourists recognise Portugal for its thriving capital city of Lisbon, the Algarve is actually coined as the most important Portuguese tourist region as it's a sizeable and diverse region of nearly 2,000 square miles, with the chief city Faro usually the first place visitors see as they step out of the airport.

Things To Do

The Algarve boasts some of the finest beaches in Europe; offering holidaymakers the chance to sink their feet into warm and fine white sands, or admire astounding rocky coves and intriguing rock formations dotted around the beachfront from a comfortable sun lounger.

There’s plenty to see and do on Algarve holidays, from scenic boat trips sailing along the sweeping waters of the Atlantic, to active and competitive golfing adventures at some of Europe’s most luxurious and well-equipped golf courses. Also, don’t leave the Algarve without a trip to Silves, where you can see a spectacular sandstone castle boasting more than two thousand years of history.

Food And Drink

Famed for its local dining scene, it offers prestigious restaurants by the beach serving up deliciously fresh seafood, caught that same day. Why not kick off your meal with a starter of couvert, which is a simple but delicious platter of bread, cheese olives and pâté? Popular main courses include the likes of clams, or conquilhas as they are known here. The Portuguese love to spice things up, so don't be surprised to find a dash of piri piri in here, making the fine local wines and beers all the more welcome.

The Algarve is a place of sand and celebration, and some of its bars like to combine the two. In destinations like Alvor, outdoor DJ sets often take place, allowing revellers to party on the beach.

So, dine in style, admire the magical scenery and bake in the heat at one of many idyllic beaches located here by comparing deals with icelolly.com. Whatever you require from your holiday, the Algarve is sure to provide.

Good to know

3-course meal

€18 - €25

Flight time

3 hrs

(from London)

Currency

Euro

Language

Portuguese

Time difference

GMT +0

Cost of a beer

€2.50

Top Destinations in Algarve

Albufeira

Albufeira is a town of two sides; the quaint old town and whitewashed buildings combined with the modern club district allow you to get the best of both worlds!

Alvor

The quaint fishing village of Alvor seduces visitors with its sweeping beaches and spectacular coastal scenery. One visit and you'll soon understand why people return year after year!

Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro is an area of immense natural beauty. Peppered with unusual rock formations, visitors are particularly attracted to this distinctive location because of the majestic cliffs that circle around its beaches.

Faro

Visitors often bypass Faro on their way to other resorts in the Algarve, but if you stick around you'll see that this vibrant city has more to offer than meets the eye!

Lagos

Lagos has it all - good bars, good beaches, and plenty of history to please all visitors. Enjoy the authentic Portuguese culture while you soak up the sun!

Monte Gordo

Monte Gordo is a tranquil and unspoiled option for the holidaymaker keen to enjoy warm weather, luxurious beaches and charming streets.