The Algarve is a relatively small area but there’s so much to see and do. Make your base at any of these three fantastic places and you’ll enjoy access to a host of varied, thrilling Algarve tours, all on your doorstep. We’ve chosen one lovely unspoiled destination, one luxury holiday favourite, and a party hub to keep late-night revellers happy. Let’s go.
Step one – Know your Algarve
First, to set the scene, here’s a quick run-down of what you can expect in the different areas of the Algarve.
- The most developed area is between Faro and Lagos, home to the lively package tour havens at Portimão, Albufeira, Vilamoura, and Quartiera. It’s also one of Europe’s top golf destinations and the brilliant Ecovia do Litoral cycle path hugs the stunning coast
- Inland Algarve is quiet and much less developed, a place of endless woodland and forests studded with picturesque old Moorish towns
- For an even more unspoiled experience head for the delightful coastal towns of Sagres and Tavira, whose cliffs on the coast and interesting surrounding area are rich in traditional charm. Or try the lagoon-facing beaches to the east of Tavira with their sandbar islands
- For the luxurious side of life on the Algarve, make your way to sophisticated Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo
- Central Algarve is party-ready, the most vibrant and most developed, home to Albufeira and Praia da Rocha. Find accommodation between Faro and Lagos for a full-on beach holiday experience and discover the most iconic golden cliffs while you’re at it, complete with huge sandy beaches.
Next, three particularly well-loved places to stay with a host of fun Algarve tours on tap.
Algarve tours in and around unspoiled Sagres
At the far south west of the Algarve, the town of Sagres sits in a wild and thrilling landscape with a coast to match. There are gorgeous old towns with ancient winding streets, dramatic scenery, incredible beaches and a violent history of conquering and being conquered that’ll blow your mind.
- Relatively mellow and relaxed compared to some towns in the region
- Chilled out after dusk
- Surrounded by astonishing natural beauty
- Popular for outdoor sports and adventures
- 4 wow-factor beaches close to the town, including Praia da Mareta and Praia da Martinhal
Sagres highlights:
- A rich nautical past
- Vast cliffs
- Fascinating fortresses
- Lush sunsets, perfect for romantics
Tours from and to, in and around Sagres include:
- Rent a Mountain bike and Explore Lagos and Algarve
- Discover Sagres & Lagos & Portimao – A Full Day Private Van Tour
- A Private Tour From Lisbon To Portimão, Lagos & Sagres
- Historical Algarve – A Full-Day Trip
- Sunset Sagres
- A Jeep off-road Algarve Natural Park West Coast secret spot tour
- Dolphin Watching along the Algarve Coast
Algarve tours in and around upmarket Vilamoura
Beautiful Vilamoura is a luxury coastal resort and one of the so-called three corners of the region’s Golden Triangle. This is home to one of the biggest tourist complexes in Europe, originally built around a lovely little harbour and now the country’s biggest marina. As you can imagine it’s stuffed with posh yachts to die for.
- Admire more than 1000 amazing boats in the marina
- Marvel at the opulent style of the resort
- Play your best game on six Golf Courses including the famous Old Course
- Do lawn bowling, play tennis, spend all night at a club or two, lose your shirt at the international casino, host of the famous PokerStars Solverde Poker Season
- Learn to ride a horse
- Explore ancient Roman Cerro da Vila, a place that also has signs of occupation by the Visigoths, Moors and Christians
Vilamoura highlights:
- Excellent water parks
- A world-class marine park
- Convenient for Faro and Loule
- Lovely calm waters at the sheltered beach between the lighthouses
Here are some of the best loved Algarve tours to book in and around Vilamoura:
- 2.5-Hour Benagil Cave and Dolphins Boat Tour
- Private Surf Class in Vilamoura
- Quinta da Tôr Winery Guided Tour and Wine Tasting
- Dolphin Safari and Cave Tour in Vilamoura
- Guided Sightseeing Cruise with Beach BBQ & Drinks
- Parasailing at Vilamoura
- A jeep Safari with Distillery Visit and Lunch
Tours in and around the party town of Albufeira
Once a scenic fishing village, these days Albufeira is party central thanks to the pretty rose gold sandy beaches, low cost package deals, and ultramodern marina. While the delightful old town’s cobblestone streets and Moorish influences are often hidden under signage for clubs, eateries and bars, it still has the feel of ancient place.
- A colourful marina
- Great tourist shopping
- Loads of cool places to eat and drink
- A hot destination for stags and hens
- Over 20 beaches to choose from within easy reach, many clean enough for Blue Flag status
- A thrilling New Year’s Eve party for winter visitors
- Pop-up clubs through the summer season
Albufeira highlights:
- The Museum of Sacred Art
- The Sant’Ana Church
- The lovely cove beach at Oura
- Scenic fishing boats moored at Olhos d’Água
Exciting tours in and around Albufeira include:
- A 2.5 hour trip to the Benagil Caves with Dolphin Watching
- The Albufeira Coastline and Benagil Caves Tour by Catamaran
- Albufeira Off-Road Quad Tour
- Dolphin Watching and Benagil Cave Boat Cruise or Speed Boat Tour
- Albufeira Safari Excursion in the Algarve Mountains
- A two hour Surfing Lesson
Inspiring Algarve tours for every taste
Most of these tours sell out fast. There’s obviously limited availability the later you leave it to book, so it makes sense to get it boxed off before you fly. Which region and holiday style suits you best? Pick your favourite then book your Algarve tours here.
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