The ‘California of Europe’ Has Rolling Vineyards, Luxury Resorts, and 100 Miles of Coastline

Portugal is pure magic across all 35,600 square miles. From its vine-filled landscapes in the Douro Valley to its cultural centers in Porto and Lisbon, there’s something for every kind of traveler here. However, there’s a part of the country that is particularly magnetic: the Algarve, sometimes called the “California of Europe.” As someone who has called both California and Portugal home, I can understand why people make the comparison, though the Algarve is a destination all its own.

Here, travelers can explore the sun-drenched southern coastline of Portugal, which offers a beautiful blend of relaxation and adventure. Dramatic limestone cliffs ensure picture-perfect views at every turn, and, even in the height of summer, sweeping beaches ensure there’s room for everyone on the sand. These landscapes—paired with fantastic cuisine, world-class golf courses, and laid-back surf culture—draw travelers to the Algarve from around the world. 

“For me, the Algarve is all about contrasts: the dramatic cliffs and secret coves along the coastline, the rolling hills dotted with almond and fig trees, and the warm welcome from people everywhere you go,” Ricardo Rodrigues, the front office manager at the Marriott Residences Salgados Resort, shared with Travel + Leisure. “I was born and raised near Albufeira, and I love how life here still follows the rhythms of the sea and the sun. There’s a unique energy, busy in the summer, peaceful in the winter, that always feels like home.”

Ready to experience it for yourself? Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip to the Algarve. 

Best Hotels & Resorts

Marriott Residences Salgados Resort

Located just steps from Salgados Beach, the Marriott Residences Salgados Resort offers travelers the ideal mix of relaxation and refinement under one roof. Here, travelers can sprawl out in spacious apartments with full kitchens so they can feel right at home, and the hotel has multiple pools and access to the region’s top golf courses. It’s a perfect choice for families and anyone seeking extra space—or those who want to test the waters on what it’s like to live in Portugal full-time.

Viceroy at Ombria Algarve

The Viceroy at Ombria Algarve is the ideal place to go to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture. Here, guests can learn how to farm for honey alongside local purveyors, take a ceramics class from a neighboring expert, or learn to bake Portuguese bread from the hotel’s chefs. The hotel also brings together sleek design and eco‑conscious luxury across its expansive suites, five restaurants, and full‑service spa. 

Vila Joya

Vila Joya is among the Algarve’s most iconic and luxurious getaways. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, the 13‑room retreat is as intimate as they come, with rooms featuring private terraces that open to lush gardens and ocean views. Its restaurant, run by Chef Dieter Koschina, is a destination in its own right, having earned two Michelin stars for its fantastic European cuisine and attentive service. 

Praia do Canal Nature Retreat

Praia do Canal Nature Retreat, tucked within the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, is a haven for nature lovers who also like a good dose of luxury. The resort’s airy suites with private terraces are ideal for winding down in solitude, while its pool and holistic spa round out the experience. Easy access to surf-ready beaches and the surrounding cliffs and forests make it ideal for those who are seeking a good bit of quality time in nature.

Vila Vita Parc

Vila Vita Parc is consistently ranked among Portugal’s top resorts, and for good reason. The sprawling estate, made up of whitewashed villas and lush gardens with direct access to secluded coves, is simply perfect. It also features 12 restaurants, including the celebrated Ocean, along with multiple pools, a spa, and curated wine experiences to sip and savor the region. 

Best Things to Do

Tour Benagil Cave.

If you’ve spent any time on social media looking into the Algarve, odds are you’ve come across photos and videos of the Benagil Cave. And rightfully so, as the domed cave with a skylight in the center is simply stunning. However, the only way to get there is by boat, and it can get very crowded—that’s why it’s key to go with an organized boat tour to ensure your safety. And don’t expect to take a dip, as swimming is restricted due to the heavy boat traffic. 

Find your new favorite beach.

With more than 100 miles of coastline, the Algarve makes beach‑hopping a breeze. Find the dramatic red cliffs of Praia da Falésia and wild surf in Arrifana, along with calm seas in the coves near Carvoeiro. 

Take a vineyard tour.

The Algarve’s rolling hillsides and hot climate make for the perfect place to make delicious wines. Here, vineyards produce crisp whites, full‑bodied reds, and refreshing rosés, and you can tour them and pop in for tastings throughout the year. Quinta Dos Capinhas offers tastings and wine safaris, while the family-run Quinta Do Canhoto offers picnics, tastings, and even painting classes.

Explore historic Tavira.

Tavira is a town filled with whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes, and Roman bridges that traverse the Gilão River, making it a fantastic spot for those looking to take a stroll, and it’s especially magical during the off-season in fall and winter. Travelers can also take a short boat ride to Tavira Island, where long stretches of sand and plenty of privacy await.

Take a surf lesson in Lagos.

Lagos is known as the Algarve’s top surfing hub. It’s a fantastic spot for beginners who want to learn how to paddle out with the best of the best, though even experienced surfers can benefit from a lesson or two here as well. Local surf schools like Lagos Surf Safari have everything you need, from boards to wetsuits, and of course, expert guidance. 

Best Restaurants

Austa

Looking for a bite of modern Portuguese cuisine? Look no further than Austa. The restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients with a menu that blends coastal flavors and new-school techniques, all served in its stylish dining room. Don’t skip its wine pairings, which are all sourced from small, local growers. 

ATO

Located in Faro, ATO delivers more fresh flavors with Algarve flair. The restaurant sources local fish, produce, and wines to round out its menu. Guests can expect plates of roasted pumpkin, homemade sourdough bread, and platters of flaky monkfish.

Cha Cha Cha

Indulge in the bohemian spirit of the region with a meal at Cha Cha Cha. The low-key spot serves globally inspired small plates, including seafood, vibrant veggies, and anything and everything that’s in season in its colorful, casual space.

Al Sud

Al Sud, located in the Palmares Ocean Living & Golf resort, is the place to go for a refined meal. The restaurant, which earned a Michelin star, offers tasting menus filled with seasonal ingredients and seafood, including tuna, octopus, and lobster dishes. 

Towns to Visit

Albufeira

Albufeira is the Algarve’s classic resort hub where travelers can unwind on the golden beaches like Falésia and find a lively marina filled with shops, restaurants, and plenty of nightlife.

Lagos

Lagos offers the dramatic coastline that photographers and nature lovers adore, along with historic old-town architecture and plenty of water-filled fun with boat excursions and swimming spots. 

Santa Luzia

Local Barbara Grassey says it’s key to not overlook Santa Luzia, which she says is “a quirky mix of fishing village and odd pockets of sophistication. It is known as Portugal’s Octopus Capital,” meaning you can find octopus on almost every menu and see the fishing boats and traps line the shore. 

Loulé

Looking to shop for great souvenirs? Make your way to this inland market town filled with Moorish architectural influence, a bustling Friday market, and plenty of shops selling local jewelry and ceramics. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Algarve is in May or late September through early October, when the weather is still at its peak but the summer crowds have died down. It’s then that you’ll find plenty of space on the region’s beaches and more seating options in the area’s restaurants.

“My favorite months are May and late September, early October. The weather is warm, but the beaches and restaurants are much quieter,” Rodrigues shared. “You get to experience the Algarve like a local, especially in the evenings, when there’s music in the village squares and time to chat with neighbors.” 

However, Rodrigues also noted that the sea is perfect for swimming from June to October, and “autumn brings the best sunsets,” so really, you can’t go wrong whenever you choose to visit. Just know that in the winter, some restaurants and hotels close for the season, so be wary of booking between November to early April. 

How to Get There

By Plane

The easiest way to get to the Algarve from the U.S. is to fly to the Faro Airport (FAO). United offers a direct flight from Newark. There are also plenty of connecting flights available via hubs around Europe. 

By Car

If you’re flying into Lisbon first, you can rent a car from various rental agencies and hop on the A2 to drive all the way south.

By Train

You can also take trains to various destinations in the Algarve from Portugal’s major cities.

How to Get Around

Regional Trains

There are train lines running between Faro, Tavira, Lagos, and Portimão, with fares for just a few dollars one way. Check the schedule as it can change seasonally.

Rideshare Apps

Bolt and Uber are both available around the Algarve’s larger towns, with fares for just a few dollars, depending on the distance.

Rental Cars

A rental car is the best way to get around if you’re looking to explore the far corners of the region. This way, you can see all the little towns, drive into the hills, and seek out a private beach experience. Several car rental companies can be found at the Faro Airport.