Algarve cities and towns you should visit
The Algarve isn’t just golden beaches and dramatic cliffs. Its cities and towns each tell a different story. From lively coastal resorts packed with nightlife to historic towns filled with castles, churches, and cobbled streets, every place has its own charm. Fishing villages still thrive alongside modern marinas, and inland you’ll find peaceful communities surrounded by orchards and hills. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, food, or just the perfect base for your holiday, exploring the towns of the Algarve will show you the region’s true character.
Municipalities in the Algarve
The Algarve is divided into 16 municipalities:
- Albufeira
- Alcoutim
- Aljezur
- Castro Marim
- Faro
- Lagoa
- Lagos
- Loulé
- Monchique
- Olhão
- Portimão
- São Brás de Alportel
- Silves
- Tavira
- Vila do Bispo
- Vila Real de Santo António
Large cities and towns in the Algarve
The Algarve doesn’t have any huge cities, but it does have several lively towns and mid-sized cities that serve as cultural, historical, and tourist hubs. These are the places where you’ll find a mix of traditional charm and modern conveniences, with plenty of restaurants, shops, nightlife, and attractions. Every town has its own character and appeal. Exploring these larger towns is a great way to experience the Algarve beyond its beaches and discover the everyday life of the region.
Albufeira
Albufeira is the Algarve’s most famous resort town, known for its golden beaches and buzzing nightlife. The old town still keeps its charm with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and lively squares. By day it’s a beach paradise, by night it transforms into one of the best party destinations in Portugal. It’s the go-to choice if you’re looking for sun, sea, and entertainment all in one place.
Aljezur
Aljezur sits on the unspoiled west coast, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Costa Vicentina park. It’s a laid-back town with whitewashed houses climbing up the hillside beneath the ruins of a Moorish castle. Surfers love Aljezur for its proximity to some of the Algarve’s best waves. It’s a peaceful base for those who want nature and authenticity over big crowds.
Faro
Faro is the capital of the Algarve and the main entry point for most visitors. Beyond its airport, Faro has a charming old town with cobbled streets, historic churches, and a cathedral overlooking the city walls. The Ria Formosa natural park lies right on its doorstep, offering boat trips to quiet islands. It’s a city where history, culture, and nature come together.
Lagos
Lagos is one of the Algarve’s most vibrant towns, mixing history with a lively tourist atmosphere. Its old town is full of cobbled lanes, churches, and a strong maritime heritage. The coastline here is breathtaking, with beaches and the famous Ponta da Piedade rock formations. Lagos is a great balance between cultural sights, nightlife, and stunning scenery.
Olhão
Olhão is the Algarve’s largest fishing port, famous for its bustling waterfront markets. The twin red-brick market halls are a highlight, filled with fresh fish, fruit, and local produce. From here, boats take visitors out to the Ria Formosa islands, some of the most beautiful in the Algarve. Olhão is authentic, lively, and deeply tied to the sea.
Portimão
Portimão is a busy coastal town that has grown from its fishing roots into a tourism hub. Its highlight is Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve’s most iconic beaches, lined with restaurants and bars. The town also has a lively marina and plenty of nightlife options. Portimão is perfect for visitors who want energy, entertainment, and beaches all in one.
Silves
Silves is steeped in history and was once the Moorish capital of the Algarve. Its red sandstone castle dominates the skyline and offers spectacular views over the town and countryside. The narrow streets are filled with traces of medieval heritage, making it one of the Algarve’s most atmospheric towns. Every summer, Silves comes alive with its famous Medieval Festival.
Tavira
Tavira is often called the most beautiful town in the Algarve, with its Roman bridge, historic churches, and riverside charm. The town has a slower pace and a rich history that spans centuries. Its location near Ilha de Tavira makes it easy to combine cultural sightseeing with time on the beach. Tavira is a top choice for those who want authenticity and beauty in equal measure.
Vilamoura
Vilamoura is one of the Algarve’s most exclusive resorts, centered around a glamorous marina filled with yachts. The town offers upscale restaurants, bars, and shopping, alongside long sandy beaches. Golf lovers are especially drawn to Vilamoura, which has some of the region’s best courses. It’s the place to go for a touch of luxury on your Algarve holiday.
Vila Real de Santo António
Vila Real de Santo António sits on the eastern edge of the Algarve, right on the border with Spain. Its wide, grid-like streets give it a unique feel compared to other Algarve towns. The central square is elegant and lively, with cafés and shops to explore. With the Guadiana River and Spanish towns just across the water, it’s a fascinating spot to experience the Algarve’s cross-border character.
Smaller towns in the Algarve: a complete list
Beyond the larger cities, the Algarve has many charming smaller towns and villages, each with their own character. Some are traditional fishing communities, others are hillside retreats or coastal gems perfect for a quieter holiday. Below you’ll find a complete list of smaller towns worth knowing about in the Algarve:
- Alcantarilha
- Alcoutim
- Alferce
- Algoz
- Almancil
- Alte
- Altura
- Alvor
- Ameixial
- Armação de Pêra
- Azinhal
- Balurcos
- Barão de São João
- Barão de São Miguel
- Bensafrim
- Boliqueime
- Bordeira
- Budens
- Burgau
- Cacela Velha
- Cachopo
- Carrapateira
- Carvoeiro
- Castro Marim
- Estoi
- Estômbar
- Ferragudo
- Ferreiras
- Fuseta
- Giões
- Guia
- Lagoa
- Loulé
- Luz
- Marmelete
- Martinlongo
- Moncarapacho
- Monchique
- Monte Gordo
- Montenegro
- Morenos
- Paderne
- Pêra
- Porches
- Odeceixe
- Odeleite
- Odiáxere
- Olhos de Água
- Quarteira
- Quelfes
- Querença
- Rogil
- Sagres
- Salema
- Salir
- Santa Bárbara de Nexe
- Santa Luzia
- São Bartolomeu de Messines
- São Brás de Alportel
- Telheiro
- Tuns
- Vaqueiros
- Vila do Bispo
FAQ
The Algarve is made up of 16 municipalities, each with towns and villages of their own. Beyond the larger towns, there are also many smaller traditional villages scattered throughout the countryside and coast. Together they give the Algarve its unique mix of lively and quiet places to explore.
The largest towns are Faro, Portimão, Albufeira, and Lagos. These towns offer a mix of history, culture, nightlife, and beaches. They also serve as hubs for exploring the surrounding areas.
Faro is the capital of the Algarve. It is also the location of the region’s only international airport. The town combines history, culture, and access to the Ria Formosa natural park.
Albufeira is the most famous for nightlife, with its clubs, pubs, and bars. Portimão also has a lively scene, especially near Praia da Rocha. For a mix of nightlife and history, Lagos is a good choice.
Tavira and Lagos are very family-friendly, with calmer atmospheres and good beaches. Alvor is also a great option, offering long sandy stretches and relaxed dining. These towns provide activities suitable for children and adults alike.
Silves is known for its Moorish castle and medieval history. Tavira is another great choice, with its Roman bridge and many churches. Faro also offers museums, historic walls, and a cathedral.
Tavira is often considered the prettiest, with its riverside charm and historic architecture. Carvoeiro and Ferragudo also stand out with their colorful houses and coastal views. Many small villages, like Alte, also have traditional Portuguese charm.
Lagos, Albufeira, and Lagoa are all near some of the Algarve’s most famous beaches. Tavira also gives access to beautiful island beaches. Vila do Bispo is the gateway to the wild west coast beaches.
Yes, Algarve towns are generally very safe. Petty theft can occur in busy tourist areas, but violent crime is very rare. Normal travel precautions are usually enough.
Most larger towns are connected by buses and trains. However, smaller towns and villages are harder to reach without a car. For full freedom, renting a car is often the best option.
Albufeira, Portimão, and Lagos see the most visitors during July and August. These towns are full of energy, with crowded beaches and busy nightlife. If you prefer quieter places, visit smaller towns or come in spring or autumn.
Alcoutim, Monchique, and São Brás de Alportel are quieter and more traditional. They are less crowded, even in summer, and give a more authentic feel. Tavira also has a relaxed pace compared to the central resorts.
Loulé is famous for its markets, artisan shops and proximity to Mar Shopping. Faro has many shops, as well as the shopping center Forum Algarve. Albufeira and Lagos also offer plenty of stores, though they are more tourist-focused.
Olhão is famous for fresh seafood and its traditional market. Tavira and Silves also offer excellent Portuguese food in small family-run restaurants. Many towns have great local specialties worth trying.
Yes, many towns are close enough for easy day trips. For example, you can travel from Lagos to Sagres or from Faro to Tavira in under an hour. A rental car makes this especially convenient.
Monchique is perfect for mountain hikes and natural hot springs. Vila do Bispo and Aljezur are gateways to Costa Vicentina’s wild coastline. Even towns near Ria Formosa offer great walking trails.
Yes, almost every town has a local market, often once a week. Loulé and Olhão are especially famous for their markets. These are great places to buy fresh produce and local products.
Yes, many small villages offer guesthouses or boutique stays. Places like Salema, Burgau, or Cacela Velha are charming alternatives to bigger resorts. They’re quieter and often closer to nature.
1 comment
Looking forward to visiting the Algarve region of ?? Portugal, hopefully next year!!
Thank you