Algarve, Portugal

1. Here are the top 10 Algarve Activities:
2. The Algarve Climate
3. Getting to the Algarve
4. Where should in stay in the Algarve?
5. What are the “Must Do” and “Must See” things in the Algarve?
6. How is it Speaking English in the Algarve?
7. Emergency contacts in the Algarve

A Brief History of the Algarve

The history of the Algarve region in southern Portugal is long and varied, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. Here is a brief overview of the history of the Algarve:

Prehistoric times:

The Algarve was inhabited by various prehistoric peoples, including the Neolithic people who left behind megalithic monuments such as the Alcalar Megalithic Monuments.

Roman period:

The Romans occupied the Algarve in the 2nd century BC, and the region became an important center for salt production and fishing. The Romans left behind many ruins, including the Milreu Roman Ruins and the Vilamoura Roman Villa.

Visigothic and Moorish period:

The Visigoths conquered the Algarve in the 5th century AD, but they were eventually driven out by the Moors in the 8th century. The Moors ruled the region for over 500 years, and their influence can still be seen in the architecture, language, and culture of the region today.

Reconquista and Portuguese period:

The Algarve was conquered by the Portuguese during the Reconquista in the 13th century. The region became an important center for maritime trade, with many seafaring explorers hailing from the Algarve. During the 16th century, the region suffered from pirate attacks and invasions by foreign powers such as the British and Dutch.

Modern period:

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Algarve experienced significant economic growth, particularly in the tourism industry. Today, the Algarve is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, with millions of visitors coming to enjoy its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage. 

The history of the Algarve is a long and complex one, with influences from various civilizations and cultures throughout the ages. Today, the region is a vibrant and dynamic destination, blending its rich history with modern amenities and attractions.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Algarve, regardless of your interests. Here are some of the top activities to try during your visit:

Beaches: The Algarve is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and there are plenty of water sports and activities to enjoy, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Golf: The Algarve is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, with over 30 golf courses to choose from, including some of the best in Europe.

Water parks: The Algarve has several water parks, including Aqualand, Slide and Splash, and Aquashow, which offer plenty of fun and entertainment for the whole family.

Boat tours: From dolphin watching to cave exploring, there are plenty of boat tours available to take you along the beautiful coastline of the Algarve.

Hiking: The Algarve has several nature reserves and hiking trails, including the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Serra de Monchique Natural Park, which offer beautiful landscapes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Local markets: The Algarve has several markets, such as the Lagos Market and the Loulé Market, where you can find handmade crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.

Cultural experiences: The Algarve is rich in history and culture, and there are several museums and historical sites to visit, including the Castle of Silves and the Roman ruins of Milreu.

Wine tasting: The Algarve is known for its regional wine, and there are several wineries and vineyards to visit, including the Quinta dos Vales and the Adega do Cantor.

Nightlife: The Algarve has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and discos to choose from, particularly in Albufeira and Lagos.

Local cuisine: The Algarve is known for its delicious seafood, grilled meats, and regional wine, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to sample the local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as cataplana and grilled sardines

The climate in the Algarve is classified as Mediterranean, which means it is characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The region is located in the south of Portugal, and it benefits from its location on the Atlantic coast, which brings fresh sea breezes and helps to moderate the temperatures.

Winter in the Algarve

During the winter months (December to February), temperatures in the Algarve are generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F) and night-time temperatures ranging from around 8°C to 11°C (46°F to 52°F). There is some rainfall during this time, with an average of around 60mm of rain per month. However, the weather is still pleasant, and there are many sunny days.

Spring and Autumn in the Algarve

In the spring months (March to May) and autumn months (October to November), temperatures in the Algarve start to rise, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). These months are generally dry, with little rainfall, and there are many sunny days, making them a great time to visit the region.

Summer in the Algarve

During the summer months (June to September), the Algarve is hot and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) or more. There is very little rainfall during this time, and the sea temperature is warm, making it perfect for swimming and water sports.

Overall, the climate in the Algarve is very pleasant, with mild winters and hot summers, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a sunny holiday. The region benefits from its location on the Atlantic coast, which helps to moderate the temperatures and brings fresh sea breezes, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year.

Faro Airport (FAO) is the main airport serving the Algarve, and it offers direct flights to and from a variety of destinations throughout Europe and beyond. Here are some of the countries with direct flights to Faro:

United Kingdom: Faro airport is well-connected to many airports throughout the UK, including London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, among others. Several airlines offer direct flights between the UK and Faro, including Ryanair, EasyJet, Jet2, and TUI.

Germany: Several German airports offer direct flights to Faro, including Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich, among others. Airlines that offer direct flights between Germany and Faro include Ryanair, Eurowings, and TUI.

France: There are several airports in France that offer direct flights to Faro, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse, among others. Airlines that offer direct flights between France and Faro include Ryanair and EasyJet.

Netherlands: Faro airport is connected to several airports in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven, among others. Airlines that offer direct flights between the Netherlands and Faro include Ryanair and Transavia.

Ireland: Several Irish airports offer direct flights to Faro, including Dublin, Cork, and Shannon, among others. Airlines that offer direct flights between Ireland and Faro include Ryanair and Aer Lingus.

Other countries with direct flights to Faro include Belgium, Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Poland, among others. Several airlines operate flights to Faro from various destinations, including low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet, as well as traditional carriers such as TAP Portugal and British Airways.
 

The Algarve has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best areas to stay in the Algarve:

Albufeira

This is one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve, with plenty of beaches, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Albufeira offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and apartments.

Lagos

This historic town is known for its charming streets, beautiful beaches, and stunning cliffs. Lagos has a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to holiday apartments.

Vilamoura

This is a popular resort town, known for its marina, golf courses, and upscale shopping. Vilamoura offers a range of luxury hotels and resorts, as well as villas and apartments for rent.

Faro

This is the capital city of the Algarve, known for its charming old town, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife. Faro has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.

Tavira

This historic town is known for its traditional architecture, beautiful beaches, and nature reserves. Tavira offers a range of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to luxury resorts.

Portimão

This is a popular destination for beach lovers, with plenty of sandy beaches and seaside resorts. Portimão offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxury hotels.

Sagres

This is a quieter destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and surfing opportunities. Sagres offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to camping sites.
 

The Algarve has plenty of must-see attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things you must do and see in the Algarve:

Visit the Benagil Cave: The Benagil Cave is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Algarve. You can take a boat tour to see the cave up close or hike along the cliffs for a stunning view.

Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park: This protected area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including migratory birds and rare plant species. Take a boat tour or kayak through the lagoons for a close-up look.

Visit the historic town of Lagos: This charming town is known for its cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches. Don't miss the Lagos Castle, the Church of Saint Anthony, and the Ponta da Piedade cliffs.

Enjoy the beaches: The Algarve is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Praia da Rocha, Praia do Vau, and Praia do Camilo. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or surf, there is a beach for everyone.

Take a dolphin watching tour: The waters around the Algarve are home to several species of dolphins, and you can take a boat tour to see them up close in their natural habitat.

Visit the Algarve International Circuit: Motorsports enthusiasts will love the Algarve International Circuit, which hosts several racing events throughout the year.

Sample the local cuisine: The Algarve is known for its delicious seafood, grilled meats, and regional wine, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to sample the local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as cataplana and grilled sardines.

Play golf: The Algarve is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, with over 30 golf courses to choose from, including some of the best in Europe.

Overall, the Algarve has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests, with a diverse range of attractions and activities to choose from.

English is widely spoken in the Algarve, particularly in tourist areas, so visitors who speak English should have no problem communicating with locals. In fact, many people in the Algarve, particularly those who work in the tourism industry, speak English fluently.

English is also commonly taught in schools in Portugal, so many younger people in the Algarve will have a good grasp of the language. Signs and menus in tourist areas are often in both Portuguese and English, making it easy for visitors to navigate and understand.

Overall, visitors to the Algarve should have no trouble speaking English with locals, particularly in tourist areas. That being said, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese, as it can show respect for the local culture and help you to connect with locals on a deeper level.
 

If you are traveling to the Algarve, it's important to have a list of emergency contact numbers in case of an emergency. Here are some of the most important numbers to know:

Emergency Services: Dial 112 for emergency services, including police, fire, and medical emergencies. This number is available 24/7.

Tourist Support Line: Dial 808 78 12 12 for the Tourist Support Line, which provides assistance and information to tourists in several languages, including English. This number is available 24/7.

Hospitals: There are several hospitals in the Algarve, including the Hospital de Faro and the Hospital de Portimão. In case of a medical emergency, dial 112 or go directly to the nearest hospital.

Consulates: If you need assistance from your country's consulate or embassy, you can find a list of consulates in Portugal on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In case of an emergency, consulates can also be reached through the 24/7 emergency number of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is +351 217 929 714.

Police: If you need to contact the police for non-emergency situations, you can dial 289 822 022 for the Algarve Regional Police Headquarters. For emergencies, dial 112.

It's a good idea to keep these numbers handy, either on your phone or in a physical notebook, in case of an emergency. Remember to always prioritize your safety and seek help immediately if you need it.