Algarve, Portugal Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, the Algarve is a picturesque coastal destination that boasts stunning beaches, charming villages, and rugged cliffs. With its warm Mediterranean climate and vibrant culture, the Algarve is a popular holiday spot for travelers seeking sun, sea, and relaxation. From quaint fishing towns to bustling cities, this region offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil escape or an action-packed adventure, the Algarve has something for everyone. Soak up the beauty of this charming region and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Why Algarve, Portugal?

  • Algarve is Portugal's most popular tourist destination.
  • The Algarve coastline is over 150 miles long.
  • Algarve is one of the sunniest places in Europe with over 300 days of sunshine per year.
  • Portugal's only national marine park, the Ria Formosa, is located in the Algarve.
  • The Algarve region is home to over 100 beaches.

Algarve, Portugal Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
61° F
° F
February
64° F
° F
March
70° F
° F
April
73° F
° F
May
77° F
° F
June
82° F
° F
July
91° F
° F
August
90° F
° F
September
84° F
° F
October
77° F
° F
November
68° F
° F
December
63° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
3.3 inches
February
1 inches
March
1.6 inches
April
1.5 inches
May
1.3 inches
June
0.4 inches
July
0.2 inches
August
0.3 inches
September
2.3 inches
October
2.2 inches
November
2.8 inches
December
4.6 inches

History

The Algarve region in southern Portugal has a rich and fascinating history that has shaped its culture, landscape, and people.

The earliest known inhabitants of the Algarve were the Phoenicians, who arrived around 1000 BC and established trading posts along the coast. They were followed by the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors, who all left their mark on the region. The Romans built roads, bridges, and villas, while the Moors introduced new agricultural techniques and built impressive fortifications and castles.

In the 13th century, the Algarve was conquered by the Portuguese king Afonso III, who incorporated it into the Kingdom of Portugal. This marked the beginning of a period of prosperity and growth for the region, as it became an important center for maritime trade and fishing. The city of Lagos, in particular, flourished as a major port for trade with Africa and the Americas.

In the 15th century, the Algarve played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery, as Portuguese navigators and explorers set sail from its shores to discover new lands and establish colonies. This period saw the birth of the Portuguese Empire, with the Algarve serving as a gateway to the vast riches of Africa, Asia, and the New World.

However, the region also faced its fair share of challenges and conflicts. In the 16th century, it was repeatedly attacked by pirates, and in the 17th and 18th centuries, it was devastated by earthquakes. The 19th century saw the decline of the Algarve’s economy, as many of its ports lost their importance and traditional industries such as fishing and agriculture declined.

It was not until the 1960s and 1970s that the Algarve experienced a resurgence, thanks to the growth of tourism. The region’s warm climate, picturesque beaches, and charming towns and villages attracted visitors from all over the world, leading to the development of a thriving tourism industry that continues to this day.

Today, the Algarve is a popular destination for holidaymakers, retirees, and expats, and its economy is largely reliant on tourism. However, the region has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage, with its charming whitewashed villages, Moorish-influenced architecture, and traditional festivals and cuisine still playing an important role in its identity.

Transportation on Algarve, Portugal

Getting to Algarve, Portugal and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Airlines Flying Here

Direct from UK:
TAP Portugal, Ryanair, Easyjet, Wizz Air UK and Jet2
Direct from the States:
TAP Portugal, Azores Airlines, United Airlines, Lufthansa, and Brussels Airlines

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, with modern highways and scenic coastal routes.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas,  90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of narrow streets in historic town centers and limited parking in popular areas like Lagos and Albufeira. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the Algarve’s beaches and countryside. Parking is generally available but may be limited during peak tourist seasons.

Local Transportation

The Algarve offers a variety of transport options to explore its stunning coastline, charming towns, and scenic countryside. Renting a car is the most popular way to discover the region at your own pace, allowing easy access to remote beaches, traditional villages, and scenic coastal roads. The Algarve is well-served by trains, with routes connecting major cities like Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira, making it easy to travel between towns. Public buses are also available, providing an affordable way to reach popular destinations, although they may be less frequent in rural areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are common, offering convenient travel for those who prefer direct routes.

Know Before You Go...® - Algarve, Portugal Travel Tips

Before making their way to Algarve, Portugal , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Algarve, Portugal even more relaxing.

Capital: Faro
Population: 800,000 (estimated)
Size: 1,929 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Algarve, Portugal is Portuguese, which is also the national language of the country. However, due to its strong tourism industry, English is also widely spoken and understood as a secondary language.
Currency:
  • The official currency of Portugal is the Euro (€). It is recommended to exchange your currency before arriving in Algarve, as the exchange rates at airports and tourist areas may not be as favorable. You can also withdraw Euros from ATMs, which are widely available in cities and towns.
  • Cash is widely accepted in Algarve, especially at local markets, street vendors, and small shops. However, major credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are also accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and larger stores.
  • While some establishments may accept payment in other currencies, it is not recommended as the exchange rate may not be favorable. It is best to pay in Euros to avoid any confusion or extra fees.
  • Traveler's checks are not commonly accepted in Algarve, and it may be challenging to find places that will cash them. It is recommended to use credit or debit cards or carry cash instead.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping in the Algarve is generally seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill, although some establishments may include a service charge in the bill. It is also common to round up the bill to the nearest euro as a small tip for bar staff. Tipping for other services, such as taxi rides and hotel staff, is also appreciated, but not expected.
  • In terms of taxes, Portugal has a value-added tax (VAT) system, with a standard rate of 23%. This tax is included in the price of goods and services, and visitors are not eligible for a VAT refund unless they are EU residents and spend a minimum amount on eligible items.
  • It is worth noting that tipping and taxes may vary slightly in different areas of Algarve. In more touristy areas, such as Albufeira and Lagos, tipping may be more expected, while in smaller towns and villages, it may not be as common.
Dress Code: The dress code in Algarve is generally casual, but respectful and appropriate for the warm climate and beach setting.
Topography: Algarve is a region in southern Portugal known for its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and rolling hills with picturesque villages and cities scattered throughout.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +351 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the region, including rural and coastal areas. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Algarve, Portugal Weddings and Honeymoons

In the Algarve, Portugal getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the Conservatória do Registo Civil (Civil Registry Office) in the Algarve municipality where the ceremony will take place.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into Portuguese and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (Certificado de Capacidade Matrimonial) issued by your country’s embassy in Portugal.
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Registry Office.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Portuguese by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Portuguese.

Costs: Marriage fees vary by municipality but typically range from €100 to €250. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: The Algarve offers stunning venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and cliffside locations. Popular spots include Praia da Marinha, Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, and Quinta do Lago. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.