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Algarve

Holidays to the Algarve come with a heaping dose of the sandy stuff and a nightlife scene that rivals some of the world’s biggest hitters. But you don’t have to be a beach bum or a ravey Dave to find something to love about Algarve holidays. There are loads of quiet villages that offer an authentic taste of Portugal and family-friendly spots that will keep the whole clan happy. <br /><br />The water’s a bit chilly, as the Algarve sits on the notoriously nippy Atlantic Ocean, but it’s nothing that wiggling into a wetsuit won’t solve. The exposed coastline will feel like heaven if you’re big on windy watersports like surfing and windsurfing and the calm bays are perfect for cooling off on hot days. <br /><br />Holidays in the Algarve can be shaped to suit your perfect break. Do you love to sample the local bars and dance your way ‘til morning with friendly strangers? Or maybe you live to see the smiles on the kids’ faces and seek out ways for them to make amazing memories? You'll find your ideal holiday right here.

<p>Sand, sun, and sizzling nightlife spots await in Albufeira. Strut your stuff down the strip and get lost in the sea of neon lights, bumping beats, and the thrill of a night to remember. Or pick a beachside bar where you can sip at sunset (and beyond).</p>
<h4>Who is it for?</h4>
<h5>Beach Bums</h5>
<p>When it comes to beaches, Algarve resorts typically play in the big leagues. But Albufeira takes thing to a whole new level. While most resorts would be thrilled to have one or two Blue Flags under their belt, Albufeira’s gone and got itself a whopping 25 of them. The biggest of the bunch is Fisherman’s Beach, which is accessible from the cliffs via an escalator! Besides sunbathing and swimming, there are heaps of watersports you can do, not to mention loads of beachside dining options.</p>
<h5>Party Animals</h5>
<p>Albufeira’s a party-til-dawn kinda place. The infamous Strip’s lined with tonnes of bars and clubs, and the tempo really picks up once the sun goes down. During the summer months it heaves with tourists, many of whom are there on a stag or hen do. If you prefer something a tad more low key, point your feet in the direction of the old town. You’ll find plenty of places for a few bevies around the main square, and chances are you’ll also encounter the odd street performer or two.</p>
<h5>Families</h5>
<p>There’s no denying Albufeira has a wild side, but it’s also an incredibly family friendly destination. While there’s absolutely heaps of bucket-and-spade territory, beaches like Praia dos Aveiros and Praia da Oura also have their fair share of caves and rock pools which little ones will love exploring. Plus, most beaches have a range of watersports on tap. Over at Parque Aventura, you can journey through the trees on a rope course or, if you want to introduce the kids to a more traditional side of Portugal, take a stroll around the old town.</p>

Albufeira

<p>If you’re planning on ticking off as many golf courses as possible or want to go heavy on the golden sandy stuff, base yourself in Vilamoura. There are kilometres of beaches to explore that’ll make everyone back home green with envy. And if you want to see how the other half live, hit up the casino or yacht-spot at the marina.</p>
<h4>Who is it for?</h4>
<h5>Beach Lovers</h5>
<p>Vilamoura’s been hitting a home run with sunseekers for yonks. Blessed with a duo of sandy beaches, it got plenty of space for you to lay your towel – plus you’ll find sun loungers dotted about on both stretch of sand. Praia de Vilamoura’s pretty well sheltered from the strong currents of the Atlantic Ocean, so it’s a great spot for a dip, while Praia da Falesia’s the longest beach in the Algarve. Unfolding along the coast for more than six kilometres, it almost reaches Albufeira. But the best thing about it? The striking red cliffs that line up behind the sand – you’ll want your camera ready for those.</p>
<h5>Daytrippers</h5>
<p>Vilamoura’s fantastic location means it’s easy to switch things up on holiday here. Once you’ve had your fill of lounging on the beach, jump in the car and enjoy a change of scene. Faro – the capital of the Algarve region – is just 30 minutes away. A great little city, it’s got an old town packed with cobbled streets, an impressive cathedral, various museums and tonnes of shops. An even shorter trundle will take you to the dinky town of Loule. It’s worth visiting for the lively market and the 13th-century castle.</p>
<h5>Sports Enthusiasts</h5>
<p>Vilamoura puts a big tick in various sporting boxes. Golf’s the main activity on offer, with six courses to be found in and around the resort. But if golf’s not your thing, don’t fret. There’s also a lawn bowls club, a shooting club, an equestrian centre and a frankly ridiculous number of tennis courts. Then there are all the watersports. Parasailing, jet skiing, Flyboarding – if you can think of it, you can probably do it in Vilamoura!</p>

Vilamoura

<p>This southern seaside fishing village is pretty and quaint, with cobbled streets and quaint restaurants. The bars in the area play modern genres of music and the district is renowned for its lively musical offering.</p>
<h4>Who is it for?</h4>
<h5>Foodies</h5>
<p>Try some of the succulent shellfish served in the restaurants that are sprinkled along Alvor's lagoon.</p>
<h5>Beach Lovers</h5>
<p>Overlooked by dramatic cliffs, the beaches on Alvor's coastline serve up long, sandy stretches and secluded, unspoilt coves.</p>
<h5>Thrill Seekers</h5>
<p>The estuary that runs towards the town offers lots of water sports and places to canoe, while off road mountain biking and horse riding are on offer on land.</p>

Alvor

<p>There's loads to do in this lively resort town. Sleep off a busy night at one of the many bars and clubs on the mattress-like sands or get ready for the next one by checking out the beach club. It's also within easy reach of other areas like Portimao, so you’ll have endless entertainment options.</p>
<h4>Who is it for?</h4>
<h5>Beach Lovers</h5>
<p>The immaculate golden beaches are bursting with people in the high season, however a succession of smaller coves are perfect for small children to practice swimming.</p>
<h5>Night Owls</h5>
<p>The cosmopolitan restaurants along the promenade offer up late night dining with lots of bars and discos that open until the early hours.</p>
<h5>Culture Vultures</h5>
<p>The Medieval Fortress of Santa Catarina was once a lookout for pirates and is now a viewpoint across the Atlantic and a glimpse at Praia da Rocha's historical past.</p>

Praia da Rocha

<p>Stroll down into the steep valley that houses Carvoeiro and you’ll discover the perfect setting for lazy days in the sun. This former fishing village has taken a serious chill pill and has suitcases of charm and culture for you to unpack. If you’re seeking a laid-back base, Carvoeiro could be your perfect match.</p>
<h4>Who is it for?</h4>
<h5>Couples</h5>
<p>This small, friendly resort town has everything you need but without the scores of crowds that head to Portugal in and out of the main seasons.</p>
<h5>Beach Lovers</h5>
<p>All of the beaches on this part of the coast have sunbeds and umbrellas and the main beach is well catered for with a choice of bars, cafes, and restaurants nearby.</p>
<h5>Culture Vultures</h5>
<p>The compact town centre is surrounded by white cliff face residencies, a dramatic lighthouse and the remains for a 17th Century fort.</p>

Carvoeiro

Looking for a mix of city break and beach getaway? Portimao offers a little bit of both. Clamber down the red cliffs to veg out on the beaches or wander through the city streets to discover history and modern Portuguese culture.

Portimao

Towering hotels dot Quarteira’s skyline and there’s loads for families to get stuck into here. This former fishing village is also known for its lip-smacking seafood, so make sure you chow down on the freshest ocean treats during your stay.

Quarteira

It might share a name with Nigeria’s largest city, but this place couldn’t be more different than its African namesake. Lagos is bursting with small-town charm and the word ‘rush’ isn’t in its vocab. Spend a restful week bouncing between the sands and the laid-back eateries or strolling along the dramatic clifftops.

Lagos

Families with little ones and travellers seeking a chilled paradise will love Olhos de Agua. Its teeny beaches are perfect for secluded nap sessions and its quiet nights will give you chance to sneak in some zzzzs before the tots wake up.

Olhos de Agua

The most commonly spoken language is Portuguese.

Languages

The currency used in the Algarve is the euro.

Currency & Cost

Local Time

Paraiso De Albufeira Apartments

Muthu Clube Praia da Oura

Brisa Sol Hotel

Paladim & Alagoamar

Crowne Plaza Vilamoura - Algarve

Bring the brood along for a holiday that’s jam-packed with fun, sun, and just a cheeky bit of rum. There’s loads to keep the little ones busy all day long and, once they’re snuggled up with the ‘rents watching over, plenty of after-hours entertainment too.

If your ideal break involves sunning, sleeping, and feasting to your heart’s content, go for an All Inclusive Algarve holiday.

Get away for a last minute trip to the Algarve, a gorgeous destination for anyone seeking a sunny getaway.

Looking for sunny skies, balmy days and warm nights? Book your break in the summer months, between June and August, to see the Algarve at its toasty best. If you’re happy to chuck on another layer for your coastal strolls, April to early June will let you see the sights without the crowds.

You’ll need the humble Euro to grab your souvenirs and snacks in the Algarve. It's mega easy to exchange both at home and once you touch down (as long as you’re travelling with a popular currency like GB Pounds or US Dollars).

If you’re planning on sticking to the tourist trails, you’ll find plenty of people that speak English. But the main language in this region (and the rest of Portugal) is Portuguese. Head into the quieter villages and towns and you’ll struggle to find people that speak your lingo, so have Google translate at the ready. A cheeky ‘bom dia’ (literally ‘good day’, but used as a friendly greeting) and ‘obrigado’ (for the blokes) or ‘obrigada’ (for the ladies) to thank the locals will get you far!

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