Algarve Portugal: a year round guide
21.07.2023 - 08:12
/ roughguides.com
/ Ria Formosa
The Algarve Portugal has 300 days of sunshine each year. And it attracts millions of visitors. But sticking to beaches and golf means missing out. With 200km of coastline there's lots to discover. Five centuries of Moorish left a rich legacy. And secrets can still be found in the Algarve.
Don't skip Faro and head straight for Algarve resorts. Spend a few hours in the city at least. Get lost in Faro old town. Discover narrow lanes and churches. Explore the ruined city walls. And make time for its pretty harbour.
Restaurants like Tertúlia Algarvia serve up Algarve specialties such as Cataplana. And try the rooftop bar at Hotel Faro for sunsets over Ria Formosa.
Don't miss out on Faro old town in central Algarve © Digital signal/Shutterstock
Visit the town of Olhão for its extraordinary creativity. Much of centre has been transformed with street art celebrating the town's heritage.
In the suburbs, abandoned buildings and churches showcase Portuguese artists. And if want to buy art, many town shops sell the work of local artisans.
Find traditional towns hidden all over Algarve Portugal © Richard James Taylor/VisitAlgarve
The Ria Formosa Natural Park stretches 60 km from Ancão beach almost to the Spanish border.
Explore Ria Formosa by boat. Ferry services run from Faro and Olhão. Want a more personal experience? Take a catamaran cruise from Olhão for a day of island hopping.
Explore natural Algarve beauty at Ria Formosa Natural Park © VisitAlgarve
Some 395 bird species have been recorded in the Algarve.
Want to spot birds with local experts? Book an eco-friendly bird watching tour of Ria Formosa.
Flamingos enjoy Algarve weather in Ria Formosa © Taniaaraujo/Shutterstock
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Algarve cuisine is an aromatic melting pot. Influences range from Arab to Mediterranean. And the local larder is packed with fresh tuna, olives, oysters and more.
It's a foodie playground. The seafood's fresh as can be. And head inland to discover vineyards, olive groves and carob trees.
Centuries ago, eastern Algarve supplied salt to the Roman Empire. Today it still cultivates some of the world's finest. And Sal Marim is found in Michelin starred restaurants all over Europe.
Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Portugal or Portugal Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Portugal expert.
Traditional Conquilha with freshest Algarve seafood © VisitAlgarve
Expect architectural grandeur even in small Algarve towns. Vila Real de Santo Antonio sits on the Guadiana river. It's close to the Spanish border. And in 1755 was