Things To Do In The Algarve: The Complete Guide 2022

The Algarve is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. It has everything you need for the perfect vacation — sun, sea, sand, and an endless list of activities and attractions. Here’s our complete guide to things to do in the beautiful Algarve.  

 

Best Things To Do In Vilamoura & The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is at the heart of the Algarve. It’s one of most popular places to stay, thanks to its fabulous restaurants,  beautiful marina, and stunning selection of luxury villas.   As a result, there’s no shortage of things to do within the Golden Triangle of Vilamoura, Almancil, and Quinta Do Lago. Here are 5 of our favourites:

1. Aquashow Park

The biggest theme park in Portugal is based in Almancil, right in the centre of the Golden Triangle — so Aquashow Park is a must-visit spot for any thrillseeker. As of April 2022, tickets are free for under 6s, €18.40 for children and seniors, or €25.60 for adults.

2. Go-karting

Almancil is also home to Karting Algarve, a slick karting track that’s great fun for kids and adults alike. If you don’t fancy karting, head to the trampolines or paintball field instead.

3. Jet Boat Ride

Jet boats leave the Vilamoura marina on a daily basis. These high-speed boats are a thrilling way to experience the Mediterranean in a whole new way. You can book online or at a stand along the marina..

4. Horse Riding

Head to the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and explore this beautiful region on horseback. Pine Trees Riding School is a great place to start — find it between Vale Do Lobo  and Almancil.

5. Dolphin watching

The warm waters off the Algarve are a haven for dolphins, so there are plenty of boats ready to take you out for a spot of dolphin watching. Book online or wander along the coast and find an excursion.

Top 5 Beaches To Visit In The Algarve

1. Praia da Marinha, Lagoa

Marinha beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The azure sea meets a staggering cliffside, with golden beaches and magnificent coves at the base.

2. Benagil Caves, Benagil

The Benagil Caves are a magical place to visit. Take a boat ride from Vilamoura and stand beneath the natural skylight of these iconic caves.

3. Praia da Falésia, Vilamoura

Praia da Falésia stretches from Vilamoura all the way up to Pine Cliffs village. Overlooked by its iconic red cliffs, it’s a glorious place to sunbathe, sip a cocktail, or take a boat ride down the coast.

4. Praia de Albandeira, Lagoa

Praia de Albandeira is only a short distance from Marinha beach, but it’s much quieter and just as beautiful. It’s ideal if you want to explore a beach that’s a little off the beaten track.

5. Praia da Bordeira, Bordeira

Bordeira beach is on the western coast of the Algarve, so it’s generally much quieter than south coast beaches. With warm water and breathtaking views, it’s well worth the trip out from the Golden Triangle.

Top 5 Towns To Visit In The Algarve

1. Faro

Whether you’re looking for culture, shopping, history, or more beaches, Faro has something for everyone. Visit the capital of the Algarve for a taste of a more cosmopolitan Portuguese lifestyle.

2. Albufeira

Albufeira is the place to party. Visit the Strip for great restaurants and raucous nightlife. If you’re not looking for a wild night out, it also has a stunning old town and more fabulous beaches.

3. Vilamoura

There’s a reason Vilamoura is such a popular place to stay within the Algarve. With golf courses,   family friendly activities, and a buzzing marina, it’s a great destination for friends, families, and couples alike.

4. Monique

Monchique is a little way inland, but it’s well worth a visit if you’re looking for relaxation. It’s home to a beautiful natural spa, complete with thermal springs, so it’s the perfect retreat after a long flight.

5. Lagos

Lagos has a little bit of everything — gorgeous beaches, expansive vineyards, and fun nightlife. If you want an action-packed getaway, it’s the ideal Algarvian town to visit..

Top Adventure Activities In The Algarve

1. Theme parks

The Algarve is home to tons of brilliant theme parks. From water parks to zoos, check out the best theme parks in the Algarve. 

2. Surfing and bodyboarding

The Atlantic is the perfect place for surfing. Experienced surfers can check out the notorious west coast waves in Sagres, while first-timers stick to the calmer waters around Vilamoura and Albufeira

3. Parque Aventura

Clamber up into the treetops with a visit to Parque Aventura. Swing and zipline your way through the forest and see the Algarve from a dizzying new perspective.

4. Snorkelling

There’s plenty of marine life to check out just below the glittering surface of the Atlantic. Take a snorkelling lesson with one of many certified instructors along the coast.

5. Parasailing

Take to the skies with a thrilling parasailing adventure. This isn’t the cheapest experience in the Algarve, but it’s certainly unforgettable. Find parasailing operators online or on the beach.

Top 5 Family Friendly Activities In The Algarve

The Algarve is the ideal destination for the whole family. Here are 5 of our favourite family friendly activities in the Golden Triangle:

Krazy World

Aquashow Park

Dolphin watching

Parque Aventura

Go Karting

Find out more about these family friendly Algarve activities  .— plus 5 more — including locations and pricing.

Best Algarve Theme Parks

Theme parks are a great day out for families, couples, friends, and even golf groups — and there’s no shortage in the Algarve. Check out our favourite Algarve theme parks here.  .

Top 5 Day Trips From The Golden Triangle

There’s so much to do in the Golden Triangle that you don’t need to leave — but if you fancy exploring the wider Algarve (and beyond), there are many day trips you can take. Some of the best day trip destinations include:

Faro

Seville

Monchique

Grotte de Benagil

Zoomarine

See all 10 fantastic Algarve day trips here.  

How To Get Around In The Algarve

When you’re looking for things to do in the Algarve, it’s important to know how you’re getting from A to Z. There are 4 main ways to get around the region:

1. Hire a car

For families and groups, the easiest way to get around is to hire a car. You can pick up a car at Faro Airport, or in other locations around the region. One week’s 5-seater car hire costs around £300-£400.

2. Public transport

There are plenty of intercity bus routes throughout the Algarve, so it’s easy to hop on and off at various destinations. A 7-day tourist bus pass costs €38.55.

3. Ride a bike

If you’re not planning to venture too far from the Golden Triangle, hiring a bike is a great way to travel. There are plenty of bike hire stands and stations dotted around the Algarve. Rent a bike from the Bike Shed in Quinta Do Lago for €42 per day.

Book a luxury villa in the Algarve Golden Triangle

Now you’ve planned a fun-packed adventure, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay. Check out these resorts and villas.