Lagos
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One of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines is found in and around this historic city. Images of its stunning natural beauty (made of ocher cliffs and spectacular rock formations) shared on social media have turned it into a must-see destination in Portugal. You can walk to a series of gorgeous beaches and discover others on boat or kayak tours. There are beaches for everyone, including surfers, children, naturists, and couples, straight or gay. The pretty Old Town is lined with outdoor restaurants and is home to a couple of noteworthy tourist attractions -- one of Algarve’s richest churches and a small museum dedicated to the Atlantic slave trade in what was Europe’s first slave market. While you can see the sights and the main beaches in one day or two, Lagos is a great base to explore the western coast of Algarve.
Carvoeiro
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It’s quite a small town, but Carvoeiro makes an excellent base for days of beach hopping. It has its own very picturesque beach, but in the area are some of Portugal’s (and Europe’s) best, including the magnificent Praia da Marinha. It’s also the perfect gateway to Algarve’s most iconic cave, Gruta de Benagil. It’s a place that appeals to everyone, from young couples to families with children, to mature travelers.
Albufeira
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Algarve’s “party town” is where many young Europeans spend their summer days in the sun and drinking at night, but it’s much more than that. It has all kinds of splendid beaches, from secluded coves to long sandy stretches for fun in the sun. It’s the tourist capital of Algarve, with the biggest number of beaches and a variety of accommodation for all budgets. The Old Town manages to retain some of the charm of a former fishing village, with whitewashed buildings and pedestrianized streets, and nearby are water parks for the kids and as an alternative to sunbathing by the sea. For grown-ups, there are world-class golf courses and some wonderful resorts for pampering and relaxation.
Faro
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The largest city in Algarve is home to the international airport. Unfortunately, many people head straight to the beach, overlooking what the city has to offer. They end up missing a delightful walled town with curious monuments and a natural park with a series of islands with outstanding beaches. These islands remain well-kept secrets, including one that’s literally deserted. Faro is for those who like to combine culture with beach, and its location roughly at the center of the region makes it a great base to explore all of Algarve and all of the islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
