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Stunning coast

Explore stunning grottos and caves

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Local life

Wander through history filled towns and villages

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Lace up

Go hiking along trails in the surrounding countryside

Sunny beaches, dramatic cliffs and quaint coves

Striking rock formations extend skywards from azure waters as the sun warms the sandy coastline. The southernmost part of Portugal, Algarve is most known for these Mediterranean beaches, quaint coves, fishing villages and luxurious hotels and eateries.

The coastline is littered with stunning limestone grottos and caves best explored and viewed by boat. Among the area’s most popular beaches are Marinha Beach to Armação de Pêra.

Extending over 4997 square kilometres, the Algarve is home to the Monchique mountain range, several islands, and the Ria Formosa lagoon. This expansive nature reserve is popular with keen bird watchers due to the hundreds of species that frequent it.

Stroll along the cobbled streets of Tavira on the banks of the Gilão River, or soak up the sun on the large beach at Albufeira as you relax after a busy day discovering all the resort town has to offer. For more dramatic cliffs and inviting beaches, head west to Lagos. The bustling town has a fascinating history and no shortage of places to enjoy local cuisine.

If you are keen on an active holiday, there are a variety of water sports to keep you occupied as well as numerous walks and hikes through the countryside and villages. Or, if you find art and culture fascinating, there’s a world of hand-painted ceramics to discover. Learn more about the azulejos (tin-glazed ceramic tiles) that adorn many of the churches and palaces.

Highlights

Head out into the country to drink in the beautiful scenery, discover walking trails and admire the gorgeous birdlife of the region

Dig beneath the surface with visits to artisan workshops and spend some time in the kitchen learning to create Portuguese dishes with experienced chefs

Venture off-the-beaten path with a knowledgeable guide to discover incredible hiking trails and learn more about the unique flora here

The Algarve is your go-to for a luxury escape that's all about those jaw-dropping golden cliffs, amazing beaches and endless sunshine. Think incredible food and excellent accommodation options, all beneath the Portuguese sun.

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Dan Rhodes

Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Algarve

There are many incredible places to stay in Algarve. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Algarve adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Discover more of Portugal

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Alentejo

Alentejo is a vast region of cork plantation, wheat fields, vineyards and clusters of historic hilltop towns.

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Douro Valley

The Douro River winds its way from the north of Spain, along the Portuguese border and eastward to Porto where it meets the sea. It is most famous for its port, a sweet brandy fortified wine that must originate in this valley to be considered the genuine article.

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Lisbon

Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azelujo tiles.

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Porto

Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface and people spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name.

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When to visit

The shoulder seasons of April and May, and September and October are ideal for visiting the Algarve. These months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. While June to August provide peak summer heat and lively atmospheres, this period also brings the largest crowds. For a quieter, more authentic experience with mild weather perfect for exploring, consider the spring or autumn months.

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Blooming flowers

March–May

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Water sports

June–August

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Hiking trails

September–November

When is the Best Time to Visit Portugal?

When is the Best Time to Visit Portugal?

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Plan your trip to Algarve

Whatever you want from your adventure in Algarve, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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