6 Best Sights in The Algarve, Portugal

The views from the Sagres Fortress, an enormous run of defensive walls high above the crashing waves, are spectacular. Its massive walls and battlements make it popular with kids. The importance of this area dates to as early as the 4th century BC, when Mediterranean seafarers found it to be the last sheltered port before the wild winds of the Atlantic. In the late 8th century, according to local religious tradition, the mortal remains of the 4th-century martyr of Zaragoza, St. Vincent, washed up here. This led to a Vincentine cult that attracted pilgrims until the destruction of the sanctuary in the mid-12th century. The fortress was rebuilt in the 17th century, and although some historians have claimed that it was the site for Prince Henry's famous navigation school, it's more likely that Henry built his school at Cabo São Vicente. But this doesn't detract from the powerful atmosphere. Certainly the Venta da Rosa ("Rose of the Winds," a sundial-like stone whose purpose is still unknown) dates to Prince Henry's period. The small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça is of the same age.

At this dreamy beach, crystal clear waters lap against the impressive rock formations. Dramatic coves and caves in orange limestone make for a striking backdrop for snorkeling and sunbathing. Although it’s located in prime tourist territory, the relatively challenging descent means it’s less visited than other beaches in the region. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee). Best for: snorkeling; sunset.

This pretty bay, 2 km (1 mile) east of Albufeira is surrounded by low-rise hotels and resorts. It's relatively small compared to other beaches, and is extremely crowded most of the year. But it comes equipped with all the summer essentials, like beach beds and water sports. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (fee); water sports. Best for: partiers.

The closest beach to town is the long, sandy Praia de Faro, which sits on the Ilha de Faro (Faro Island) 5 km (3 miles) southwest of town. The long main road is flanked by the beach on one side and cafés and restaurants on the other. Activities are limited, and in the height of summer, parking can be a struggle. In January 2025, a long-awaited new bridge was opened, improving access to the beach and reducing traffic. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee). Best for: swimming; walking.

In summer, this beach gets so crowded that it can be hard to enjoy its interesting rock formations, caves, and grottoes, not to mention the sand and sea. Yet it offers the latest in water sports and local children love jumping off the pier. Albufeira's old town encases the beach, the latter of which is known as Praia dos Pescadores because fishing boats dock here to supply the local area with their fresh catch. A vast range of eateries and bars are a short stroll away. Amenities: lifeguards; water sports. Best for: families.

The quaint village of Ferragudo, across the river from Portimão, has one of the region's finest beaches: Praia Grande, a long stretch of sand that offers plenty of space for towels—even in the summer. The 16th-century Castelo de São João (St. John's Castle), built to defend Portimão and now privately owned, sits right on the beach. It's a great spot to watch cruise ships glide by as they dock in Portimão. It's also great for families—being estuarine, the water's pretty still. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: snorkeling; sunset; windsurfing.