Algarve

The essentials of Algarve

The Algarve is a coastal area in Portugal, and it gives travellers a shoreline to choose from when planning a stay, a sailing itinerary or a day on the water. Its character comes from the coast itself, and this page helps you compare where to base yourself, whether you want a relaxed holiday by the sea, a sailing trip or a range of experiences along the shore.

Because the region is defined by its coastline, the choice of location often matters as much as the choice of accommodation. Visitors can weigh the atmosphere of one stretch of shore against another, consider how close they want to be to the water, and decide whether they prefer to stay in town or set off from a quieter base. Browsing here lets you compare accommodation, boats and experiences side by side before you commit.

Planning around the coast also means thinking about how you want to spend your days. Some travellers come for time on the water, others for a slower pace with the sea in view, and many combine the two. Use the listings on this page to narrow down a base that suits your plans and to find experiences that make the most of this part of the Portuguese coastline.