An Algarve Accommodation Guide on the best hotels and resorts for your holiday in the Algarve, Portugal
Are you traveling Portugal and planning on heading to the Algarve for your next getaway?
With its golden coastlines, vibrant nightlife and wide array of activities both on- and off-shore, there is something for everyone in this dreamy Portuguese destination.
But before you start planning out all the places you want to explore during your stay, let’s talk about accommodations!
After visiting the Algarve many times, I can’t wait to share with you the best hotels in Algarve and the best places to stay in Algarve.
To help make your holiday preparations a bit easier, I’ve rounded up some of our top picks for where to stay in Algarve — from beachfront resorts to charming countryside hideaways. Read on for more info!
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Table of Contents
Overview of the best hotels in Algarve:
- For Families: Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort *****
- Best Luxury Hotel in Algarve: Conrad Algarve *****
- Best Boutique Hotel: Vila Monte Farm House *****
- Best All-Inclusive Resort in Algarve: Adriana Beach Club Hotel Resort ****
- Best Golf Hotel in Algarve: Hotel Quinta do Lago *****
- Best for Surfing: Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel *****
- Best for Hiking: Monchique Resort – Activities Included *****
- Best for quiet beach holidays: Pousada Palacio de Estoi *****
- Best budget hotel in Algarve: Dom Pedro Lagos ***
1. Where To Stay in the Algarve for Cliff Beaches
Lagos
Lagos is the best location if you want to be close to the most emblematic and best beaches of the Algarve.
Indeed, the town is only a stone’s throw away from the scenic settings that you know from postcards or Instagram.
Locations like Praia da Marinha, Praia Dona Ana or Praia do Camilo are often listed as the best beaches in the Algarve.
No wonder, the setting composed of golden sand and massive cliffs is unique in Europe.
If you decide to stay in Lagos, one of the major tourist resorts in the Algarve, count on the buzzing nightlife and a beautiful historic center.
There are also countless activities for tourists like kayaking, sailing, or dolphin-watching tours, which are some of the best things to do in Lagos, Portugal.
Best Places to Stay in Lagos
Budget
Solar de Mos ***
Quinta dos Caracois ***
Carvi Beach Hotel ***
Dom Pedro Lagos ***
Mid-Range
Aldeia Azul Resort ****
Boavista Golf & Spa – Bela Colina Village *****
Tivoli Lagos ****
Hotel Marina Rio ****
Luxury
Casa Mãe *****
Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve *****
Palmares Beach House Hotel – Adults Only *****
Algarve Casino Hotel *****
2. Where To Stay in the Algarve if you are a Party Animal
Praia da Rocha near Portimao
Praia da Rocha, the main beach of Portimao, was one of the first beach resorts in the Algarve.
Formerly consisting of villas for the rich and belle-epoque buildings that you can still spot on the cliffs above the beach, Praia da Rocha underwent a major development towards mass tourism in the 70s.
Thus, expect many concrete buildings here!
The beach of Praia da Rocha is sandy and boasts some of the most beautiful golden cliffs of the Algarve.
At night, Praia da Rocha becomes a party hub for the young and rich.
The Tomas Cabreira avenue is full of bars, restaurants, karaoke bars, clubs, and shops. The casino hosts a show every night.
Praia da Rocha is particularly busy in summer and thus perfect for travelers who want to enjoy an international, vibrant and buzzing atmosphere.
Discover here the best activities in Portimao
Best Places to Stay in Praia da Rocha, Portimao
Budget
Hotel Santa Catarina Algarve ***
Clube Vilarosa ***
Apartamentos Turisticos Coral do Vau ***
Oceano Atlântico Apartment
Mid-Range
Hotel da Rocha ****
Hotel Oriental – Adults Only ****
Jupiter Algarve Hotel ****
Tivoli Marina Portimao ****
Luxury
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa – Relais & Chateaux *****
Algarve Casino Hotel *****
Tivoli Carvoeiro *****
Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel
Albufeira
Albufeira is probably the liveliest and most energetic of all beach resorts in the Algarve and there are many fantastic hotels in Albufeira.
There are a lot of great things to do in Albufeira, so it’s a great city to stay in when you visit the area.
The town does not only offer large beaches but is also the perfect base to organize day trips to Loulé or Faro.
However, it’s the nightlife that attracts most visitors to Albufeira. The Strip, in the Montechoro area of Albufeira, is the heart of the town’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Be ready to find tipsy Northern European tourists and good ol’ stag parties!
The bars of Albufeira include Irish pubs, sports bars, karaoke clubs, and countless possibilities to dance the night away in dance clubs like the Club Vida, the Liberto’s Lounge Club and the Kadoc which is a must!
Be ready to dance all night long on its 5 dance floors and with international DJ’s.
Albufeira is well connected to the rest of the Algarve, which makes it a great base to go on a day trip or do excursions.
Best Places to Stay in Albufeira
Budget
Cerro Da Marina Hotel ***
Hotel Santa Eulalia Praia ***
Velamar Boutique Hotel ***
Hotel Baltum ***
Mid-Range
Falesia Hotel – Adults Only ****
Santa Eulalia Hotel & Spa ****
Vila Gale Collection Praia ****
Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel – Adults Only ****
Family-friendly
PortoBay Falesia ****
Areias Village Beach Suite Hotel ****
Jupiter Albufeira Hotel – Family & Fun *****
São Rafael Atlântico
Luxury
Pine Cliffs Gardens *****
Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort & Hotel Spa *****
Salgados Palace *****
Salgados Dunas Suites *****
3. Where To Stay in the Algarve for Honeymoon or Luxury Holidays
Almancil
Almancil is located in the east of the Algarve and hosts some of the most expensive and luxurious hotels in Portugal.
The most famous exclusive resorts are located in Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.
The area is located at only a 15 minutes drive from Faro Airport and is surrounded by the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Thus large woods and untouched nature characterize the area. The Ria Formosa Natural Park is also one of the best places in Europe for birdwatching.
You may not find the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve in this area, but be ready for long walks on empty and vast beaches.
You can also check out my post on the top 5-star hotels in Algarve to find the perfect one for you!
Book here the best activities in Ria Formosa
Best 5-Star Hotels in the Algarve: Almancil
Quinta do Lago:
Conrad Algarve *****
Hotel Quinta do Lago *****
Wyndham Grand Algarve *****
Pousada Palacio de Estoi *****
Vale do Lobo
The Lake Resort *****
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura *****
Ria Park Hotel & Spa *****
Dunas Douradas Beach Club *****
Vilamoura
Vilamoura is one of Portugal‘s most stylish and exclusive beach resorts. Originally built for the golfing elite, it is now a sophisticated resort in the Algarve offering first-class facilities and tranquility.
The marina, where you can spot all kinds of yachts, is the center of Vilamoura, as the area is sprinkled with classy restaurants and fine cocktail bars.
The pristine beaches of Praia da Falésia or Praia de Vilamoura are only a stone’s throw from Vilamoura.
If you are looking for a qualitative and refined holiday, Vilamoura will fulfill all your needs.
Best 5 Star Hotels in the Algarve: Vilamoura
Mid-Range
Hotel Parque das Laranjeiras ***
Mouraliz ***
Dom Pedro Marina ****
Vilamoura Garden Hotel ****
Family-Friendly
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort *****
Tivoli Marina Vilamoura *****
Vila Gale Ampalius ****
Luxury
Pestana Vila Sol Golf & Resort Hotel *****
The Lake Resort *****
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort *****
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura *****
4. Where To Stay in Algarve for Quiet Beach Holidays
Olhão
Maybe Olhao is not the prettiest town in the Algarve.
However, it preserved its authentic Portuguese charm and it is the gateway to some of the Algarve’s most beautiful islands: Farol, Armona and Culatra.
All of them are just perfect to enjoy quiet and pristine beaches. They are just a short boat ride away!
Olhao is home to the largest fishing port in the Algarve and the narrow streets give the town a particularly quaint charm.
The historic center of Olhao is still packed with numerous historical buildings.
Even though Olhao is not known as a luxury resort, you still have the Real Marina Hotel & Spa in case you want to get pampered.
The best way to enjoy the natural beauty of Olhao and its magical islands is by renting a vacation or holiday home.
Indeed, there are not so many hotels in this area and a holiday rental will be the best way to make the most of this quiet place.
Book here your holiday rental in Olhao
Best Places to Stay in Olhão
Budget
Hotel Cidade de Olhão ***
Vacation & House Rentals
Mid-Range
Quinta dos Poetas Nature Hotel & Apartments ****
Pure Formosa Concept Hotel
Holiday Appartments and AirBnB
Apartment Dalia
Quinta La Paz
Gorgeous Views in Marina Village Apartment
Townhome Olhao
The Beach House
Luxury
Real Marina Hotel & Spa *****
Pousada Palacio de Estoi *****
Alvor
You may be surprised that a village like Alvor, located between Portimao and Lagos, is well suited for quiet beach holidays in the Algarve.
Well, yes! Alvor is mostly unspoiled, despite its centric location on the Portuguese coast.
The village maintained its original, historic charm and is much calmer than its neighboring resorts.
The historic city center holds Manueline-style churches and a castle.
Perfect for the history buffs among you!
The small-sized, traditional restaurants will do the rest to convince you that Alvor is the best place to spend relaxing beach holidays in the Algarve.
Some of the top beaches near Alvor are Tres Irmaoes (with several caves) and the vast Alvor beach, which will lure you with its golden sands.
Alvor is also very close to the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve which is perfect for long walks.
Alvor is also perfect for families with kids!
Best Places to Stay in Alvor
Budget
AlvorMar Apartamentos Turisticos ***
Clube Alvorférias ***
Dunas do Alvor
Apartamentos Santa Teresinha
Mid-Range
Pestana D. João II Beach & Golf Resort ****
Pestana Alvor South Beach Premium Suite Hotel ****
Pestana Alvor Park Hotel Apartamento ****
Aguahotels Alvor Jardim ****
Luxury
Pestana Alvor Praia Premium Beach & Golf Resort *****
Palmares Beach House Hotel – Adults Only *****
Pestana Blue Alvor All Inclusive Beach & Golf Resort *****
Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel *****
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro has a stunning setting on a golden cliff and is the perfect place to enjoy more relaxed holidays but being still close to the beach.
The Portuguese cultural heritage and lifestyle are well preserved in Carvoeiro.
Thus, it is perfect for the culturally aware travelers among you. The relaxed atmosphere of the town will be perfect for unwinding.
If you prefer staying in an Airbnb, have a look here at my favorite Airbnbs in Algarve.
Best Places to Stay in Carvoeiro
Budget
Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza ***
Carvoeiro Hotel ****
Placid Village
Mid-Range
Hotel Mirachoro Praia ****
Hotel Baia Cristal Beach & Spa Resort ****
Hello Villas ****
Rocha Brava Village Resort ****
Luxury
Suites Alba Resort & Spa *****
Tivoli Carvoeiro *****
Vilalara Thalassa Resort *****
5. Where To Stay in Algarve for Hiking Holidays
Monchique
You are wondering what to do in the Algarve hikers? Yes, the Algarve is a hiking destination! With warm temperatures and a large variety of landscapes, Algarve keeps attracting trekkers and hikers all year round.
Some of the best hiking in Algarve can be found in Monchique. Nestled among pine and eucalyptus forest in the Serra de Monchique (mountains close to Alentejo), Monchique is the ideal base to explore the mountains and the coastline alike.
The town is also home to the highest point of the Algarve (902 metres): Mount Foia. Even though the town boasts several historic buildings, Monchique is mostly famous for its market day.
Taking place on the second Monday of the month, you’ll find local crafts and the famously smoked sausages of Monchique.
All in all, Monchique is the perfect mountain holiday destination.
If you love hiking, you may also consider a day trip from the Algarve to Alentejo.
Best Places to Stay in Monchique
Budget + country house
Quinta da Idalina
Hotel Termal – Monchique
Quinta do Tempo Turismo Rural
Mid-Range
Estalagem Abrigo da Montanha ****
Villa Termal Monchique – Hotel D.Carlos Regis ****
Villa Termal Monchique – Hotel Central ****
Luxury
Monchique Resort – Activities Included *****
Sagres
Sagres is heaven for those who want to enjoy the Algarve’s raw beauty. Being the most westerly point of the Algarve, the surroundings of Sagres are dominated by spectacular cliffs and rather quiet beaches.
The town is mostly unspoiled by tourism and is particularly popular among surfers and campervan tourists.
The most emblematic sight of Sagres is the navigation school and fortress built by Henry the Navigator.
Most visitors ignore that Sagres might be one of the best places to enjoy hiking holidays in the Algarve.
Indeed, several trails depart from Sagres and take you to the most scenic points along the coastline.
Some of the most famous hiking trails departing in or close to Sagres (Vila do Bispo) are Telheiro Beach Trail and the Castelejo Trail along the Vicentine Coast Natural Park.
Best Places To Stay in Sagres
Budget
Mareta Beach – Boutique Bed & Breakfast
Hotel Mira Sagres ***
Aparthotel Navigator ***
Casa Azul Sagres – Rooms & Apartments
Mid-Range
Memmo Baleeira – Design Hotels ****
Sagres Time Apartamentos ****
Pousada de Sagres ****
Luxury
Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel *****
Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel *****
6. Where To Stay in Algarve for City Life
Faro
Faro is one of the Algarve’s largest cities and probably the only one that is not 100% dedicated to tourism. Fine dining options, several museums, and lively city vibes will await the visitor in Faro.
Thanks to its airport, Faro became the gateway to the Algarve.
However, Faro might be a great place to spend your holiday due to its cultural offer and closeness to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Besides the valuable historical sites of Faro, you’ll thus enjoy the unagitated, Portuguese daily grind at its finest.
Old fortification walls encircle the historic city center and its quaint streets are perfect for shopping. During the day, the atmosphere is rather unagitated.
However, Faro has a surprisingly lively nightlife thanks to its numerous students.
Best Places to Stay in Faro
Budget
Hotel ibis Faro Algarve **
Hotel Sol Algarve By Kavia **
Best Western Hotel Dom Bernardo ***
Mid-Range
Eva Senses Hotel ****
Faro Boutique Hotel ***
Hotel Monaco ****
Luxury
Hotel Faro & Beach Club ****
Wyndham Grand Algarve *****
Real Marina Hotel & Spa *****
If you’re looking for an Airbnb in Faro, have a look at my favorite Airbnbs in Algarve here.
Tavira
For those who are seeking authentic experiences in the Algarve and Moorish heritage, Tavira will be for you!
There are so many amazing things to do in Tavira, that you can easily spend a few days exploring this beautiful riverside location.
The cityscape of the town is dominated by its massive Roman bridge, a medieval castle, former mosques, and cobbled streets.
Located at the Gilão river, Tavira is perfect for those who are interested in culture and a more tranquil holiday.
You’ll particularly enjoy the picturesque plazas with the lovely restaurants that serve the freshest fish. Tavira also has an interesting nightlife with locals celebrating together with tourists until the sun rises.
Tavira is close to Ilha de Tavira which is known for the most pristine Algarve beaches in Portugal.
With only a short ferry ride, you’ll find yourself surrounded by almost untouched beaches.
Tavira is also very close to the Ria Formosa Natural Park where cycling and trekking trails are awaiting you.
Best Places to Stay in Tavira
Budget
Quinta do Morgado – Apartamentos Turisticos Monte Da Eira ***
Pedras Da Rainha ***
Hotel Don Rodrigues *
Mid-Range
Hotel Rural Quinta do Marco – Nature & Dining ****
Vila Gale Tavira ****
AP Maria Nova Lounge – Adults Friendly
Quinta do Caracol ***
Luxury
Pousada Convento de Tavira ****
Ozadi Tavira Hotel ****
Vila Gale Albacora ****
7. Where To Stay in Algarve for Surfing
Sagres
Sagres is probably the best place for surfers to enjoy the beauty of the Algarve. Located at the most southwestern point of Portugal, it lures surfers with consistent waves on the south and west coast.
Even though Portugal is becoming increasingly popular for surfers, Sagres, which has quite a lot of parties to offer as well, remains one of the hotspots.
That’s mainly due to the fact that Sagres offers beaches and waves for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers.
Some of the best beaches in Sagres for surfing are: Praia do Zavial, Praia do Tonel, Praia da Mareta and Beliche.
Best Places To Stay in Sagres
Budget
Mareta Beach – Boutique Bed & Breakfast
Hotel Mira Sagres ***
Aparthotel Navigator ***
Casa Azul Sagres – Rooms & Apartments
Mid-Range
Memmo Baleeira – Design Hotels ****
Sagres Time Apartamentos ****
Pousada de Sagres ****
AirBnB in Sagres
Sagres Design House
Perfect oasis in Sagres
Villa Medronho
Seaview Apartment
Modern house with charm
Luxury
Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel *****
Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel *****
Aljezur
Even though Aljezur might not have the fame of Sagres, the small town close to the western Atlantic coast is just another Mekka for surfers in the Algarve. The village itself consists of whitewashed houses and narrow streets.
It is still unspoiled by tourism and thanks to its location in a fertile valley, it produces loads of fruits and vegetables. A majestic castle towering on top of the village and offers breathtaking views (for free).
The best beaches for surfing in Aljezur are only a short drive away and offer surf fun for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers alike.
The most popular beaches are Praia da Arrifana, Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Castelejo. – Read more about things to do in the Algarve, Portugal
Best Places To Stay in Aljezur
Budget
Hotel Vale Da Telha **
Hotel Alcatruz **
Mid-Range
8. Where To Stay in the Algarve for Golf
Vilamoura
The Algarve is known all over Europe for its golf courts. Vilamoura is not only one of the most sophisticated resorts in the Algarve but also boasts some of the best golf courts in Portugal.
Even though the marina is the heart and soul of the Vilamoura area, the five golf courses are the place to be.
The golf courses are making efforts in their environmental commitment and provide the golfer a realistic contact with the nature of the Algarve.
Many lakes are populated with aquatic birds. The varied design of the courts makes Vilamoura enjoyable for beginners, intermediate and advanced golfers.
For those who are just starting, you can also just take a lesson in one of the numerous courts.
Besides being one of the best locations for a golfing holiday, the Vilamoura resort area also boasts some of the finest restaurants in the area and several beautiful beaches.
Best Places to Stay in Vilamoura
Mid-Range
Hotel Parque das Laranjeiras ***
Mouraliz ***
Dom Pedro Marina ****
Vilamoura Garden Hotel ****
Family-Friendly
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort *****
Tivoli Marina Vilamoura *****
Vila Gale Ampalius ****
Luxury
Pestana Vila Sol Golf & Resort Hotel *****
The Lake Resort *****
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort *****
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura *****
Quinta do Lago
Quinta do Lago is, next to Vilamoura, the best place to spend a golfing holiday in the Algarve.
Located next to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Quinta do Lago does not only offer trekking and cycling trails but also award-winning golf courses.
The three golf courses count among the best in Europe. Being elected as “Europe’s Best Golf Destination”, Quinta do Lago attracts beginners, intermediate and advanced golfers from all over the world.
There are several academies in the resort that allow you to take lessons and improve your golfing skills.
The area of Quinta do Lago is sophisticated and tranquil thanks to the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park. It is thus perfect for golfers and nature lovers alike.
Best Places to Stay in Quinta do Lago
Mid-Range
Vilar Do Golf by Diamond Resorts ****
Quinta do Lago Country Club ****
Luxury
Conrad Algarve *****
Wyndham Grand Algarve *****
Hotel Quinta do Lago *****
Pousada Palacio de Estoi *****
9. Where to stay in the Algarve for All-Inclusive Holidays
Sometimes, all you need or want to do is to disconnect! If you are looking to completely unwind and forget about the stress back home, I can only recommend the Algarve for your next stress-free vacation.
The best way to completely relax is probably by not having to think about anything!
If you don’t want to scroll Tripadvisor for the best restaurants, nor worry about your hotel’s excessive prices, then you should definitely opt for an all-inclusive resort in Algarve.
All-inclusive hotels in the Algarve are spread-out throughout the entire area. Thus you can find an all-inclusive resort in the western and eastern parts of Southern Portugal.
Here, is a selection of the very best:
Best All-Inclusive Hotels in the Algarve
- Pestana Blue Alvor All Inclusive Beach & Golf Resort *****
- Yellow Alvor Garden – All Inclusive ****
- Adriana Beach Club Hotel Resort ****
- Muthu Clube Praia da Oura ****
- Be Live Family Palmeiras Village ****
10. Where to stay in the Algarve for Boutique Hotels
Where are the boutique hotel lovers out there? I am a big fan of them as boutique hotels provide top-notch service and with op top extremely personalized notes.
Thus, if you decide to stay in a boutique hotel in the Algarve, be ready to explore new interior designs and Portuguese hospitality at its finest.
However, if you prefer a calm and personalized experience, staying in a boutique hotel in the Algarve, will be the best option for your holiday in Southern Portugal.
Boutique hotels can be found throughout the Algarve, but most of them are near Tavira and Lagos.
I prepared for you a selection of the best boutique hotels in the Algarve to spend unforgettable holidays in the south of Portugal. Some of them figure among the best hotels in the Algarve!
Best Boutique hotels in the Algarve
- São Paulo Boutique Hotel – SPBH
- Farmhouse of the Palms
- Grand House – Relais & Chateaux *****
- Ozadi Tavira Hotel ****
- Vila Monte Farm House *****
- Conversas de Alpendre
11. Where to stay in the Algarve for families
Algarve is a dream if you are planning a getaway with your family.
Whether you consider visiting the Algarve in winter or during the high season: there are plenty of activities and things to do in the Algarve with kids. Find here plenty of family activities in the Algarve.
Not only the beaches are a great leisure option for families, but you’ll be spoiled when it comes to theme parks, family events, and water sports.
In the last years, plenty of family resorts have opened up in the Algarve.
Most of them can be found in Lagos and Albufeira. Both towns are tourist hotspots, but guarantee loads of fun with your family.
If you’re traveling with your family, renting an Airbnb in Algarve might be a great option too!
Best resorts in the Algarve for families
- Eden Resort & Spa *****
- VidaMar Resort Hotel Algarve *****
- Epic Sana Algarve Hotel *****
- Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort *****
- Pousada de Sagres ****
12. What’s the Best Time to Visit the Algarve?
You may wonder what is the best time to visit the Algarve? Well, it’s one of the few European destinations that has good weather all year round and offers fun activities throughout the year.
I have visited Algarve in winter, summer and autumn months.
During the winter, temperatures are mild (around 10-15°C). It’s thus perfect to escape the cold European winters and to enjoy the great outdoors of the Algarve’s coast.
Winter is also the perfect time for birdwatching in Rio Formosa! The sea might be cold at that time of the year, but even then, I saw several swimmers.
During the summer months, from May to September, temperatures can get really hot (+30°C).
The good thing about Algarve is that there’s always a slightly refreshing wind blowing. Temperatures can remain quite high, also in autumn (around 20°C).
In case you want an uninterrupted party and beach time, visit Algarve from June until September. The best time for hiking holidays is from October – March when temperatures are mild and nature is blossoming.
13. What To Do in the Algarve, Portugal?
What to do in the Algarve, Portugal? Well, it’s rather what NOT to do in the Algarve! Because I can’t think of anything that you can’t do in Portugal’s golden south. Of course, there are the golden, sandy beaches and the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade that everybody knows from the postcards.
However, the Algarve offers countless activities for those who want to go beyond the sea & sun.
There is an extensive network of hiking and cycling trails, vast golf courts, ideal conditions for birdwatching, outstanding food, colorful traditions, wellness, and a luxury resort.
The dramatic cliffs, parties, and sun can be rather found in the western part of the Algarve (Lagos, Albufeira or Praia da Rocha), whereas the east of the Algarve is quieter and less excessive, thus perfect for families, outdoor lovers, or luxury travelers.
The east holds hiking trails and some of the best golf courts in Europe.
What to know before booking accommodation in the Algarve
After living in the Algarve for several weeks, I want to share with you the best places to stay in the Algarve, according to the expectations of your holidays.
After visiting the Algarve several times (by backpack or during the off-season), I frequently get asked what the best places are to stay in the Algarve.
I’d say that it largely depends on what kind of holiday person you are, what you’re planning to do during your trip to the Algarve and of course on your budget.
In order to give those queries a detailed answer, I decided to write this in-depth guide on where to stay in the Algarve. Accommodation places are categorized by location and budget.
So before you head to the Algarve, first decide whether you prefer party holidays, quieter locations, amazing hiking trails, nature, golf, all-inclusive holidays in the Algarve, city life, or remote beaches. Or just a short stay.
The opinions of this post are based upon my professional experience in the tourism sector and upon my stay in the Algarve during which I visited several hotels. In total, I traveled 3 times to the Algarve.
Altogether, I stayed for several weeks in Portugal’s beautiful south.
You can’t get enough? Have a look at my web story about where to stay in Algarve.
FAQ: Where to stay in Algarve, Portugal
Where to stay in Algarve without a car?
There are many great places to stay in Algarve without a car. Consider Albufeira, Lagos, Portimão, Tavira or Olhao.
What’s the best place to stay in Algarve in winter?
If you wonder where to stay in Algarve in winter, you may consider Vilamoura, Faro,
Lagos or Tavira. All of them are particularly quaint in winter.
What’s the best place to stay in Algarve for nightlife?
There is a broad offer of nightlife activities in Algarve. As the best place to stay in Algarve for nightlife is usually considered Albufeira, Lagos or Portimão. It’s important to note that nightlife in the Algarve can be seasonal
What’s the best area to stay in Algarve for couples?
Some of the best places to stay in the Algarve for couples are Carvoeiro,
Quinta do Lago area, Tavira and Praia da Rocha.
Where to stay in Algarve for first-timers?
Some of the best places to stay in the Algarve for first-timers are Albufeira, Vilamoura or Faro.
What are some good Algarve beach hotels?
Some great Algarve beach hotels are Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa, Hotel Ria Park, Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Nature Resort, Pine Cliffs Resort, and Bela Vista Hotel & Spa.
What are some of the best tips for finding accommodation in Algarve?
Here a couple of tips to find the best accommodation in Algarve:
1. Plan ahead
2. Consider your budget
3. Research the area
4. Check reviews
5. Compare prices
6. Be flexible and look for deals and discounts:
Algarve Resorts Map
Hola! I am Paulina, a fervent travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, you’ll find all the tips to make the most of your holiday. Get ready to enjoy outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling or sailing. Let’s hit the road together!
OEP
Saturday 26th of June 2021
Hi Thanks for all your recommendations. We are planning to go this summer. We are a family of 4 adults. Do you recommend to stay in Vilamoura? Thanks!
Paulina
Monday 28th of June 2021
Hi dear! Yes sure! It's a great place to stay!
Best,
pat brady
Tuesday 2nd of June 2020
looking for room only , near beach . winter months. ?
Paulina
Tuesday 2nd of June 2020
hey, oh there are plenty of options! :) feel free to send me a mail or via the contact form :)
danielle cyr
Monday 24th of February 2020
Hello Paulina, Your comments are fantastic and very helpul. However, I have a few more questions for you. My daughter is travelling alone from Porto to Ibiz. She will be arriving from Lisbonne by train or bus. We are deliberating which place to say. There is Marina Rio and Lagos Avenida that are very near the Marina and Carvi hotel right on Dona Beach. Marina Riod being the cheapest and the other facing the back of the hotel and the same with the Avenida LagoRR
Paulina
Monday 24th of February 2020
Hey dear, many thanks for the reply. Both are great! During holidays, I think the main goal should be enjoy! So if you have a slight tendency for Lagos Avenida... go for it! :)
Renata
Tuesday 8th of October 2019
Hi Paulina,
I love your article, very interesting & detailed & helped me to decide to visit South of Portugal this autumn.
I am flying to & from Faro, where I am planning to stay for 2 nights & I want to do beaches/walking/swimming & relaxing holidays for the rest 5 days.
I do not drive so will have to rely on public transport.
Where do you think it would be best place for me to stay in terms of nice beaches & easy access by bus/train/taxi?
I was thinking Lagos or Alvor, but can't decide between the two. I believe Lagos would be easier to get to, but maybe it's worth it to get few connections to Alvor ( I doubt there is a direct bus from Faro to Alvor, no?).
Thank you, Renata
Paulina
Wednesday 9th of October 2019
Dear Renata, many thanks for your kind comment. Both locations are great! I would also recommend having a look at the Ria Formosa and Quinta do Lago area. The beaches are great (no cliffs though) and there are many walks awaiting you.
Matt
Saturday 28th of September 2019
Hey there - Thank you so much for such great detail your article. My wife and I are spending a couple days in Porto and plan to head down south to the Lagos / Albufeira area in mid-October (a little more than a week from now!) I was thinking of splitting the 4-5 days at two different hotels / areas. From what you say, Sagres seems right up our alley as well. Looking to do some surfing, beach time, rock formations, and hiking. Could you recommend any specific hotels or areas that would make sense to you based on that? A friend mentioned the Pine Cliffs hotel which looks beautiful – possibly looking for something just as nice, but possible more of a boutique feel (for at least one of the sections.) Thank you so very much for any help / guidance you could provide!!
Paulina
Saturday 28th of September 2019
Dear Matt many thanks for your kind comment. Based upon your feedback, I'd recommend having a look at the following options: Casa Mãe, or Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel – Adults Only. Enjoy a lot!