Where To Stay In The Algarve? Find Your Perfect Get-Away
Wondering where to stay in the Algarve during your next holiday?
Once we booked our flight to the Algarve, it took us some time to finally decide on where we were going to stay. This part of Southern Portugal has so much to offer.
Based on our pre-travel research on where to stay and our experience traveling in the Algarve, we soon learned that where you stay in the Algarve all depends on WHEN you are going and WHAT you plan to do.
So let’s explore the 6 best places in the Algarve and see what they offer to make sure you pick the right one that meets your expectations of the sunny south of Portugal.
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Where to stay in the Algarve?
Where to stay in the Algarve depends on the season, travel style, and activities. Do you prefer moving around or having a base? Generally, the best places to stay in the Algarve are Lagos, Faro, and Carvoeiro. You can easily explore the highlights of this part of Portugal from these towns.
But there are a couple more towns you should consider…
Some towns are ideal to stop during a road trip while others are perfect as a base to explore the region.
We have also included the best things you can do when staying in these towns, making it easier to decide which part of the Algarve is the best place for your holiday.
1. Lagos: A Blend of History, Beaches & Nightlife
Lagos is a town full of history and known for its cobbled streets, centuries-old walls and colourful tiled buildings.
The 17th-century forts and the beautiful churches such as the Igreja de Santo António are just a few landmarks. Just as the Slave Market Museum which reminds us of Portugal’s colonial past. Not the one Portugal might be the most proud of yet still important to be aware of.
But it’s not all history—when the sun sets, there is a buzz in the little streets and at the squares of Lagos. Particularly in the summer months.
You’ll find cocktail bars, welcoming restaurants, and dancing spots that will keep you enjoying more of the town till late at night.
What makes Lago even more attractive to stay?
The beaches (Praia in Portuguese) are very easy to reach on foot from Lagos town. Beach lovers can easily spend a couple of days enjoying the list of beaches.
A boardwalk along the coast leads you to the best beaches in the Algarve such as Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. Other nearby beaches are Praia Batata, Praia Dos Estudantes and Praia do Pinhão
A bit further out – but just a 45-minute easy hike away you have the Ponta da Piedade known for its sea caves and natural arches. We hiked and even took a boat trip the next day to fully enjoy these amazing natural rock formations.
Depending on the season, other great things to do in Lagos are kayaking through the grottoes, dolphin-watching, or hiking along the coastal cliffs.
Related post: Best ways to visit Ponta da Piedade Lagos in Portugal
Pros: Perfect mix of a characterful old town and nightlife. Perfect for those who love European city trips, solo travelers, or groups of friends who want to tour during the day followed by some partying at night.
Cons: It can get pretty crowded during peak season, so if you’re looking for peace and quiet, keep on reading. There are many other places you can escape to.
Day trip from Lagos
Lagos is an excellent base from which to explore more of the Algarve. You can reach almost any destination in the western Algarve within an hour’s drive. Lagos to Faro takes just one hour via the toll road. However, taking the toll road means missing out on the amazing sights along the way.
When staying in Lagos, we suggest renting a car and exploring these 2-day trip ideas:
West Coast Beaches
- Drive along the western Atlantic coast and visit a couple of beaches such as Vale Figueiras Beach, Praia do Amado, Praia Bordeira, and Praia Cordoama.
- End the day Farol do Cabo de São Vicente (lighthouse at the most southwestern point of Europe) to watch the sunset and have dinner at Sagres.
Algar Seco (Carvoeiro) – Ferragudo – Silves
- Visit Algar Seco and do a Benagil Cave Tour by boat from Cavoeiro.
- Afterward, drive to the cute fishing village Ferragudo where you can find beautiful beaches too. From there continue to the historical city Silves.
Where To Stay in Lagos
📍Budget Indigo Guesthouse – bright and cozy guesthouse with private rooms and shared bathrooms. Spacious communal kitchen and terrace. Near the old town but also just a short walk to the beaches.
📍Mid-Range Casa da Alegria – entire house in the old town of Lagos. Within walking distance to the beaches. Perfect for families or two couples.
📍Mid-Range Quinta do Pinheiral – nice house including pool surrounded by a garden just outside Lagos. Excellent for those who want peace and are seeking a longer stay in Lagos.
📍Luxury Henri’s Apartment Pateo de Santo António – different themed luxury apartments in Lagos Old Town. Has an in-and outdoor pool, ideal for any time of year.
Prices of these accommodations can differ incredibly depending on which time of year you go. So make sure you check all price ranges when traveling in the off-season.
2. Faro: A Gateway to Culture and Nature
International flights to the Algarve arrive at Faro airport. Most people leave Faro as it is and head to other places in the Algarve, but the capital city is more than just the airport.
It’s a lively town with many restaurants and cafes that offer the Portuguese everyday life scene, such as the local market, Mercado Municipal de Faro. It’s a great place to explore local produce and fresh seafood.
What is there to see in Faro?
Additionally, The Old Town, known as Cidade Velha is a walled area filled with cobblestone streets, charming squares, and medieval architecture such as the Se Cathedral with panoramic views from its tower.
Make sure you also through The Arco da Vila at least once. This is one of the beautiful gates to the old part of Faro.
Faro is also blessed with its nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park, a natural lagoon system that attracts a large variety of birds. Boats will take you to the lagoon and secluded islands, such as Ilha Deserta and Ilha da Culatra.
The beaches near Faro are also unique as they are located on the nearby islands and are accessible by bridge or ferry. These long-stretched beaches with soft golden sand and calm waters are not as crowded as other parts of the Algarve.
Praia de Faro is the most popular. Other beach options are Quinta do Lago Beach, Praia da Barreta and Lighthouse Beach & Praia da Ilha da Culatra
Pros: Rich cultural experiences, beautiful nature reserves, and a more authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local life.
Cons: Beaches are a short journey away rather than in the town itself, which may be a drawback for those wanting immediate beach access.
Day Trips from Faro
Faro is an ideal starting point for exploring the east side of the Algarve. Many characterful towns are nearby, and some are even accessible by train, perfect for those who don’t want to rent a car.
Here are 3-day trips we highly suggest when staying in Faro for two nights or more.
Olhão – Tavira
- Head to the train station in Faro and enjoy a short 10-minute ride to the fishing town Olhão. This little town isn’t tourist-oriented but is considered an authentic Portuguese town. The red market building, the many churches, and the beautiful houses make it worth the visit. A ferry service takes you to the deserted beaches of Culatra and Armona.
- From Olhão grab the train to Tavira which is just 30 minutes away. This town is becoming more popular for its cute streets, pretty buildings and the beautiful Roman bridge.
Loule – Praia da Falésia
- Hop in the car and head to the traditional city of Loule. Highlights are the indoor market (the Saturday Gypsy market is extremely popular) and the beautiful historic center.
- After lunch head down to the coast, more specifically Praia da Falésia. This red cliff beach is spectacular and shouldn’t be missed when visiting the Algarve.
Boat Tour to Benagil Cave
- Bengali Cave Tours is one of the most popular sea caves in the Algarve. This cave is only accessible by water. Tours are leaving from Faro, passing the beautiful Algarve coastline, and taking you all the way to the caves.
Where to stay in Faro Portugal
📍Budget À da Avó The Guesthouse – Meaning ‘At Grandmother’s place’, this charming and with lots of love decorated guesthouse is a pleasure to stay at. It has 7 uniquely styled rooms in various price ranges with a private or shared bathroom. Ideally located in town.
📍Mid-Range Faro Downtown Ria Formosa Studios – Want to know what the colorful houses in Faro look like from the inside? This large and bright studio offers a nice stay. It has two large double beds and a balcony.
📍Mid-Range Vila Milreu Guest House – Located in Estoi, just 20 minutes from Faro. The ideal place if you want to escape the crowd, and enjoy a traditional feel with a beautiful garden, pool and mountain views. Perfect for the summer months.
📍Luxury Watermelon Sugar Apartment – Not only beautifully located in the old city center of Faro but also lovely designed and decorated. It’s a large accommodation (has 2 bathrooms) and ideal for 2 couples or a family of 4. There is a small public pool
Some accommodations in the Algarve require a minimum stay. If a specific accommodation isn’t available, play around with the dates to see if they request a minimum stay.
3. Carvoeiro: Small Town, Big Scenery
For those who want stunning cliffside views and a bit of village charm, Carvoeiro is one to put on your list. The town itself is cozy and offers a lot when it comes to scenic beauty.
In the summer Cavoeiro becomes alive and can get crowded. It isn’t as bad as the Albufeira area and there are luckily fewer highrise buildings. Therefore we still recommend checking this town out.
In the off-season, there is still some action, unlike other small villages in the Algarve. So Carvoeiro is also great for a winter escape.
This beach town is known for charming shops, restaurants, bars, and a nice cliff beach. Besides Praia do Carvoeiro you have two more nearby beaches worth hanging out at: Praia de Vale Covo, Praia do Paraíso
Another highlight is the Carvoeiro Boardwalk which is excellent for an easy cliff-side stroll giving you amazing views of the Atlantic. The boardwalk ends at the stunning Algar Seco, a rocky coastal formation.
Algar Seco is a natural wonder filled with grottoes, caves, and striking rock formations that you can explore on foot or by boat.
Pros: Beautiful scenery, easy access to hiking trails, perfect for those who want to fully enjoy the coastal views.
Cons: It’s quieter, so if you’re looking for lots of nightlife or activities, you may want somewhere more lively.
Daytrips from Carvoeiro
It is centrally located in the Algarve so everything is just a short distance away by car. This makes Carvoeiro an ideal base but its also perfect as a stop during a road trip through the Algarve.
Besides visiting Faro and Lagos and their highlights, other day trips we highly suggest are:
Ferragudo – Silves
- Hop in the car for a short drive to the small fishing village Ferragudo. Their main attractions are the colorful houses found in narrow streets. At the marina you can arrange a water taxi to take you to the other side, or you can head to the many soft sandy beaches in and around town and stroll to the big fort Forte de São João do Arade.
- From Ferragudo, it’s a small drive north to Silves, a beautiful town with its dominant red castle. Stroll through the little streets and wander through the well-preserved castle while taking in the view of the Algarve’s countryside.
Praia da Marinha – Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
- Visit the stunning Praia da Marinha just a 15-minute drive from Carvoeiro.
- Here you can also find the starting point of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. It’s a 6km moderate hike leading you along the coastline, past the beaches Praia do Carvalho and Praia de Benagil. The trail ends at Praia do Vale. It is about a 30-minute hike from Carvoeiro, so this is an option if you don’t mind the extra miles.
You can also do this hike the other way around, ending at Praia da Marinha. Uber is present in the Algarve, so you can easily arrange a ride back.
Trail of Headlands
- Hike from Carvoeiro to Ferrgudo or vice versa. The 6km trail is along the magnificent Algarve coast and will pass many stunning beaches. This trail is less known compared to the popular Seven Hanging Valleys trail. This makes it a perfect alternative to avoid a crowd in the high season. Bring enough food and water with you as there aren’t many villages along the way.
Benagil Beach and Sea Caves
- Benagil Beach is just around the corner from Cavoeiro. You can reach it by car. But an even better way is to book a boat tour from Carvoeiro. Boat tours leave from Carvoeiro and will take you to the many sea caves, including the famous Benagil cave, which is only accessible by water. The trip is an experience to admire the Algarve coast from the water.
Where to stay in Carvoeiro Portugal
📍Budget Carvoeiro Travel – Located in the heart of Carvoeiro, next to the restaurants and shops. We recommend staying here during the low season only. The central location makes it easy to explore Carvoeiro if you are there for a day or two during a road trip. A great price-quality place to stay.
📍Mid-Range Castelo Guesthouse – Perched on the cliff facing Carvoeiro beach, this castle-looking guesthouse offers incredible views from all rooms. The luxury rooms have a modern and refreshing look. Just minutes away from the historic town.
📍Luxury Casa Tuia Resort – This designer resort offers all types of accommodations, even (upgraded) tents. The style of this luxury resort reminds us of Bali. It’s a wonderful place where the accommodation will add to your experience of visiting Carvoeiro.
4. Ferragudo: Quaint and Charming
Ferragudo is often seen as one of the Algarve’s most beautiful villages, with its narrow streets and friendly locals.
It’s the perfect alternative for those who want to skip the busyness of Carvoeiro and stay in a town that managed to stay under the tourist radar. This small authentic Portuguese town is ideal for couples traveling through the Algarve in the high season.
When we were there in February it was deserted, except for the fishermen at the marina preparing the nets for their next catch.
However, in the peak season, you will find numerous family-run restaurants with little terraces within these narrow streets. This makes it a wonderful setting to try some traditional Portuguese dishes and drinks.
Just outside town you have the Castelo de São João do Arade, an old castle that overlooks the river, and. a bit further south you have the Praia Grande beach. It doesn’t get too busy here in the summer so perfect for a relaxed day in the sun
Another great thing to do is hop on a boat and cross the river to Portimão, where you can find another fortress and the popular Praia da Rocha.
Pros: Authentic, peaceful, charming. Ideal for travelers who love quaint settings and relaxed vibes.
Cons: Limited nightlife and fewer activities compared to larger towns. Best for those looking to unwind.
Day trips from Ferragudo
Similar to Carvoeiro, Ferragudo is ideally located to explore the western and eastern parts of the Algarve. You can easily visit Lagos and Faro within a one-hour drive. And even the west coast of the Algarve is not that far away.
Of course, a visit to Carvoeiro and its highlights is a must. The suggested Carvoeiro day trips can be done from Ferragudo as well.
Where to stay in Ferragudo Portugal
📍Budget Alma da Vida Ferragudo – What a gem! This accommodation is set in a historical building (those that make Ferragudo so special!) and its decoration is extremely tasteful. It is set in a quiet little street, yet minutes on foot to the bars and restaurants. They have 1 double bed, so suitable for couples or single travelers only.
📍Mid-Range Casinha de Ferragudo – This studio is within walking distance of the town’s highlights. It is a practical place as it has a kitchenette and washing machine. The terrace is an ideal spot to relax after a day exploring the Algarve. Perfect stay during a road trip or for two nights.
📍Luxury Vila Castelo Parque – This luxury hotel complex has different modern-styled apartments for 4 to 6 people. The outdoor swimming pool is heated during national holidays in the off-season, plus they have a gym and a wellness area. Their reception and pool area are very welcoming.
Visiting the Algarve in the high season? Try to find accommodation that provides private (free) parking. Finding a spot can be difficult in popular towns during the summer holiday.
5. Sagres: For Adventurous Souls
Nature and adventure are the main things that draw people to Sagres. It is located on the southern tip of Portugal and is pretty remote. The landscape is barren and rough, just like the sea.
Surfers flock to Sagres for its incredible waves, and there are plenty of surf schools for beginners looking to learn. Beaches like Praia do Tonel and Praia do Beliche are surfer favorites, while the calmer Mareta Beach is good for swimming and sunbathing.
Why is Sagres a good place to stay in the Algarve?
Like many popular surfing towns, Sagres is very laid back. There are many surf shops, cafes and lots of outdoor activities such as hiking along the coastal trails or taking a boat tour.
It can get busy in the summer, but if you wish to experience a surf vibe in the other months then this little town is a great option to stay the night.
During the winter months, there is still a lot going on since this is the best time for surfing. So unlike other smaller villages, you won’t find the Sagres deserted and all the restaurants closed.
The most popular sight near Sagres is the Cape St. Vincent, Europe’s southwesternmost point, which offers never-ending views of the of the Atlantic Ocean. Sunset is a popular and the best time to go. The lighthouse is one of the most powerful in Europe.
Sagres is also known for its Fortaleza de Sagres, an ancient fortress that played a key role in Portugal’s maritime history.
Pros: Great for surfing, hiking, and outdoor activities. Stunning natural scenery.
Cons: It can be quite windy, and the vibe is more about nature than luxury or nightlife. If you prefer pampering, Sagres might not be the ideal choice.
Day Trips from Sagres
Sagres is just a 35-minute drive from Lagos, making it an ideal day trip (or pitstop on a Portugal road trip) from Sagres. Check the Lagos highlights we mentioned earlier for a day visit to this historic town.
West Atlantic Coast Beaches
The main road that takes you straight into Sagres is also the road that runs along the dramatic west coast of the Algarve. So it’s easy to head out, take a left turn on the dirt road, and explore the many cliff beaches along the Atlantic Ocean such as:
- Praia do Castelejo
- Praia do Amado
- Praia da Cordoama
- Plaża Murração
- Praia do Amado
- Praia da Bordeira
- west coast beaches
Where to Stay in Sagres Portugal
📍Budget Cercas Velhas – This is one of those places where you know a lot of love has been put into it. 5 independent rooms with private bathrooms and kitchenettes are set in a former family house focused on agriculture. There are colorful and tastefully decorated studios and rooms to choose from.
📍Mid-Range Sea Salt Sagres Apartment – this is a good option to stay if you are traveling with children. It’s a spacious modern apartment providing amenities for everybody. Located in a quiet street, yet near the beaches and restaurants. If you feel like cooking, the kitchen is very well-equipped.
📍Luxury Villa Botelha – Bright white villa set in a garden with a private pool. Its interior is fresh and gives a spacious feel. There is a double and 3 single beds. Families will enjoy their stay here.
6.Tavira: The Hidden Gem for Peace Seekers
Tavira isn’t the first place that comes to mind when visiting the Algarve, but it’s definitely a place to consider if you prefer a quieter stay compared to Faro. Tavira is one of the best-preserved towns in the Algarve, filled with traditional architecture, charming bridges and more then 20 historic churches.
However, be aware that this picture-postcard town can get crowded with day visitors during the high season.
Why choose Tavira?
The town has a authentic Portugues atmosphere, there is the famous roman bridge over the Gilão River, beautiful churches, and traditional houses with their unique “Tavira-style” rooftops.
Food lovers will love Tavira’s traditional Portuguese restaurants, where you taste local delicacies like grilled octopus and freshly caught seafood. At the Mercado da Ribeira you will find a large selection of fresh produce and regional products.
The Ria Formosa Nature Park is easily accessible with the many boat tours where you will also find the unspoiled beaches like the Praia do Barril with its iconic “anchor graveyard.”
Another great spot for nature lovers is the Pego do Inferno (Waterfall). It’s just a 12-minute drive from Tavira. There is a great hike to the waterfall where you can jump in for a refreshing swim. Except for the summer months, when the whole region is extremely dry and there is no water.
Pros: Peaceful, cultural, less touristy. Great for couples, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a slice of authentic Algarve.
Cons: Less nightlife and fewer tourist activities. If you like things to be lively, you might want a different base.
Day trips from Tavira
The surroundings of Tavira are beautiful, so if you have the time we highly recommend spending a couple of days here to explore the eastern Algarve. Additionally, it is also close to the Spanish border, making it ideal for a day trip to Spain.
Sevilla Spain
If you don’t mind hitting the road for a 2-hour one-way drive, then you can easily do a day visit to Sevilla from Tavira. It is a long ride, but you won’t regret it!
We experienced Sevilla as one of the most amazing cities in Spain. Make sure you are allowed to take your rental car across the border.
Olhão-Faro
- This is a perfect day trip by train if you don’t want the hassle of finding a parking spot. Trains run between Tavira, Olhão, and Faro. This makes it easy to visit them.
- Check the Faro highlights we mentioned earlier. As for Olhão, it’s mainly a fishing village but known for its little cobbled street. Here you can still feel the traditional Portuguese coastal life. Ferries are leaving for the beaches from both Faro and Olhão. Not only will you see more stunning beaches but it’s a great way to get a glimpse of the Parque Natural da Ria Farmosa.
Loule – Red Cliff beaches
- We already suggested this day trip from Faro but it can be easily done from Tavira as well. It’s a perfect day trip to experience a different type of beach.
Where to stay in Tavira Portugal
📍Budget Fazendinha Guesthouse – A tranquil place to get away from it all. The guesthouse is set within a large garden including a nice pool. The house and its rooms are colorfully decorated with Portuguese touches. Great place for nature lovers and to meet other travelers too (if you wish). You will need your transportation as it is located 20 minutes north of Tavira.
📍Mid-Range OZADI Tavira Hotel – A large modern-styled hotel; ideal for those who want to combine day touring with some days of relaxation (pool, yoga, spa, fitness center available). There are two on-site restaurants. Perfect for a long stay plus their breakfast is very good. A shuttle bus will take you straight to Tavira town.
📍Mid-Range Authentic Tavira Hotel – A hippie chic fully renovated place for those who love details and personal touches. They have various types of modern-styled hotel rooms, a pool, and a great view from their terrace of the white houses of Tavira. Private parking is available.
📍 Luxury Vila Gale Albacora – This is quite a unique accommodation as it was once a former tuna fishing village near the Natural Park of Ria Formosa. The old fishermen’s houses, workshops, and warehouses have been converted into 161 rooms, the school is now a kid’s club and the former chapel still exists. A shuttle bus takes you into town, while a shuttle boat makes it easy to visit the beaches. A good choice for families with kids and those who want to be close to nature.
We would also choose different types of accommodation in the warmer months. For instance, accommodation with a terrace and garden located further away from the crowd would be more of a priority for us.
How long should you stay in the Algarve?
Unfortunately, we were in the Algarve just for 4 full days. After spending time there we would have loved to stay at least 7 days. This would have enabled us to do a proper road trip and stay in different areas of this region.
But that said, the Algarve is also an ideal destination for a couple of days since distances aren’t extremely far. We highly recommend staying in just one or two places if you plan to visit for 3 or 4 days.
Accommodation in the city center is the best place to stay on a road trip. You will experience the place you are staying more before heading out to other nearby highlights.
Are you staying longer than a week? Then there are unique accommodations outside town where you can leave the crowd behind.
Related post: The Algarve 3 Days Itinerary – Your Perfect Roadtrip
Best Time To Visit Algarve
The best time to visit the Algarve depends on what you want to do. Are you an avid hiker? Then you should visit the Algarve outside the summer months. We were there in February and enjoyed the comfortable temperatures when exploring one of the many coastal trails. We couldn’t imagine doing this under sizzling summer sun.
Pros: Accommodation is cheaper, temperature is great for an active holiday
Cons: Most accommodation close for the winter. Lagos, Faro and Carvoeiro are often the only options. Restaurants in smaller villages are mostly closed too. So to avoid eating cheese omelets and Spaghetti Pomodoro for lunch every day of your holiday, it’s better to stick to the bigger towns.
But if you also love beaches, May until September is the best time for you to visit the Algarve. Spring and autumn are perfect for hiking and swimming, while the summer guarantees warm sunny beach days.
Pros: More water activities (dolphin-watching) and beach time
Cons: Accommodation prices go up, in the summer months it is crazy busy everywhere
Most accommodations are built to withstand the heat during the summer. This means that it can get pretty chilly indoors during the colder months. Often there is no proper heating available, so bring warm clothes and grab all the blankets you can get.
Where to stay in Algarve without a car?
We think the best way to experience the Algarve is by going on a road trip. Spend 1 or 2 nights in different towns to see more of this beautiful Algarve region.
But what if you don’t want to rent a car?
Then we highly suggest staying in Lagos and Faro only. There are various public transportation options between these two cities, such as the train and bus.
We could easily spend a couple of days in Lagos or Faro alone. Both are beautiful historic towns and their surrounding beaches are stunning. Additionally, you can hop on a train or arrange an Uber to take you to nearby villages.
Slow travel is very fulfilling and something you should consider. In the case of the Algarve, stick to the west or east part and focus on that region only. For instance, there is enough to experience and see for a whole week when staying in Faro or Tavira. Leave Lagos and beyond for another trip.
FAQ Where To Stay In The Algarve
What is the best town in Algarve for families?
Faro is a great option for families. The calm sandy beaches are safe for the little ones, while there are enough child-friendly activities in and around town.
Where can I stay in the Algarve to avoid tourists?
So far Tavira is a hidden gem that isn’t flooded by tourism and is a wonderful town to enjoy an authentic Portuguese atmosphere and visit nature parks and beaches. However, it is becoming more popular so I won’t be surprised if it gets busy soon too. In that case, find accommodation just outside town so you can escape the crowd at the end of the day.
What’s the best beach in Algarve?
The Algarve isn’t only blessed with the most stunning beaches, but they are diverse as well. While the east is known for its long-stretched beaches, the cliff beaches towards the west are mostly in the spotlight. While we were amazed by the red-colored cliff of Praia da Fresia, the number one beach of the Algarve is Praia da Marinha. It is located between Lagos and Carvoeiro and was once listed as the most beautiful beach in Europe.
Is the Algarve expensive?
Algarve can be considered expensive depending on when you go and where you stay. In the low season prices go down considerably. As for places? Sagres and parts of Lagos are considered pricey, while smaller towns such as Tavira and smaller inland towns are much cheaper.
Conclusion: Where to stay in the Algarve
As you can tell the Algarve is a wonderful destination for those looking for an active and/or beach holiday. Each of the 6 towns we listed offers both, while some are more ideal for those who love history and the narrow cobbled streets.
As mentioned earlier, the best location eventually depends on what you want to do and if you want to move to various areas during your visit to the Algarve.
But we hope we have given you an idea of what each village has to offer so you can arrange your accommodation knowing it will suit your trip to the Algarve.