Albufeira
The liveliest main resort, known for its marina, long sandy beach and vibrant nightlife, with good family facilities along the golden strip.
Destinations · Portugal
Algarve holidays for UK travellers
Golden cliffs, Atlantic beaches and short-haul sunshine on Portugal's south coast.
Introduction
Why visit the Algarve?
The Algarve is Portugal's southernmost region and a natural choice for UK travellers looking for reliable sunshine, dramatic Atlantic coastline and a relaxed pace of life. With some of Europe's most accessible beaches, world-class golf courses and a rich mix of fishing villages and purpose-built resorts, it offers something for almost every kind of holidaymaker.
From the lively marina of Albufeira to the historic hills of Tavira, the Algarve works well for families, couples and golfers alike. The coastline is dominated by golden cliffs punctuated by hidden coves, while inland you'll find traditional villages serving fresh seafood and local wines. It makes an ideal short-haul escape from the UK.
Where to stay
Best areas in the Algarve
Pick the town or resort that matches the pace of your holiday.
Lagos
A historic town with excellent beaches, dramatic cliffs and a natural grotto complex. Popular with families and active travellers alike.
Vilamoura
A golf-focused resort with a marina full of luxury yachts, high-end restaurants and wide sandy beaches to the east of the town.
Tavira
An authentic town with a beautiful old town, island beaches reached by ferry, and a more traditional Portuguese feel.
Carvoeiro
A picturesque former fishing village turned family resort, with a golden sandy beach and charming old town pedestrian area.
Faro
The regional capital with a historic old town, a lagoon-backed island beach and good transport links for exploring the whole coast.
The coast
Best beaches in the Algarve
Praia da Rocha
A broad, golden bay in the west with dramatic limestone cliffs, a long promenade and consistent family-friendly conditions.
Praia de Luz
A sheltered golden bay near Lagos, ideal for families and boat trips to the nearby grottoes.
Praia Dona Ana
A postcard-perfect beach of golden sand and turquoise water below dramatic cliffs, a short walk from Lagos town.
Praia de Faro
The main beach in Faro, set on a sheltered sandbar with a boardwalk and facilities for water sports and boat trips.
Praia do Martinhal
A wide, uncrowded Atlantic beach near Sagres, backed by dunes and popular with surfers and nature lovers.
Praia da Falésia
A long, red-golden cliffside beach running from Albufeira east towards Olhos de Água, great for walking and swimming.
When to go
Algarve weather by season
Spring
April to June brings pleasant temperatures and quieter beaches before the summer peak. Ideal for walking, golf and exploring the coast.
Summer
July to September is the peak season, with hot, sunny days reaching into the 30s Celsius. Book early for popular beaches and restaurants.
Autumn
October to November stays warm and sunny, with fewer crowds and lower prices. Excellent for golf, beach time and exploring.
Winter
December to March is mild by UK standards, but some facilities may reduce hours. Best suited to town-based activities and golf rather than beach holidays.
Holiday styles
Algarve for families, couples, golfers and all-inclusive stays
Families
Albufeira, Praia da Rocha and Carvoeiro offer calm bays, shallow water and family-friendly facilities. Many hotels provide kids' clubs and pools with waterslides.
Couples
Tavira, Vilamoura and the western cliffs around Praia Martinhal offer a more grown-up balance of beach time, fine dining and cultural sightseeing.
Golf
The Algarve is one of Europe's premier golf destinations, with over 40 courses including championship layouts at Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Penina.
For winter sun planning advice, read our Algarve short-haul sun guide.
See more
Things to do and getting around
Beyond the beaches, the Algarve offers boat trips to sea caves, historic castles, traditional markets and wine tasting in the rolling countryside. The coastal boardwalks and cliff-top walks provide stunning scenery year-round.
A hire car makes it much easier to explore the coast and inland villages at your own pace. UK visitors should note that Portugal drives on the right, so allow time to adjust and check fuel, insurance and child-seat terms with the provider.
Inspiration
Example Algarve deal
Example pricing is for inspiration only and is not a live offer or availability promise.