Choose Your Base
Alright, listen up solo travellers! Before hitting the road in the Algarve, you gotta pick your home base. Three awesome options – Albufeira, Lagos, and Faro – each offer a different vibe, but all give you easy access to the Algarve’s best bits. So, where you park your suitcase depends on how you wanna spend your downtime.
Party Central: Albufeira
Think lively streets, pulsing nightlife, and stunning beaches – that’s Albufeira in a nutshell. It’s perfect for younger travellers who crave a non-stop good time. Days are jam-packed with beach fun, and nights are even crazier! Albufeira is basically the Algarve’s Las Vegas, with bars, clubs, and live music pumping until dawn.
Adventure Seeker: Lagos
Calling all adrenaline junkies! Lagos is where it’s at. This historic town oozes charm with cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and gorgeous beaches. But Lagos also boasts hidden coves and dramatic cliffs along its wild coastline. Perfect for exploring by boat tour or conquering epic hikes. So, if you crave adventure with a side of history, Lagos is your jam.
Chill Vibes: Faro (My Pick!)
Faro, the Algarve’s cultural heart, is where I chose to unwind. It’s perfect for travellers who want to relax and soak up nature’s beauty. Think historic landmarks, cool cultural attractions, and all the modern comforts you need. Explore Faro’s Old Town, complete with medieval walls, cobbled streets, and stunning cathedrals. Being my base, it was super easy to escape to the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park – a paradise for bird watching, kayaking, and finding hidden treasures on the beach.
Algarve’s Coastal Gems
The Algarve is basically a beach bum’s paradise. Imagine golden sand meeting crystal-clear turquoise water, with dramatic cliffs adding a touch of wow-factor. Skyscrapers? Not so much. Think charming towns instead.
The coastline here is insane. From tiny, hidden coves to sprawling beaches, each one has its own unique charm and begs you to just sprawl out and soak it all in. It’s like a competition for the most postcard-worthy view!
My Algarve Highlights: Nature’s Masterpieces
I spent most of my trip exploring this incredible coastline. Think hidden coves nestled between rolling hills and crazy rock formations that look like something out of a fantasy movie. There’s no shortage of natural beauty to blow your mind.
Two of my absolute faves were Praia da Marinha and the Benagil Cave. Seriously, these places are like stepping into a postcard. Trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you!
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is famed for its breathtaking natural beauty and iconic limestone cliffs adorned with lush greenery. This beach is probably my top-rated gem in Algarve as I swam in its crystal-clear waters and relaxed on the golden sand it offered. Here, you can also explore the many hidden sea caves and grottoes that dot the coastline.
Benagil Cave (Algar de Benagil)
The Benagil Cave is truly the most Instagrammable spot in all of Portugal. The awe-inspiring beauty of the Benagil Cave is known as the “eye” as it dons a stunning sea cave with a natural skylight. Most people would embark on a boat excursion to get here, but I joined a swimming group that is intended for strong swimmers only. The currents are strong, and if you aren’t an experienced swimmer, I wouldn’t recommend this option. It is definitely a photographer’s paradise, as you can capture the sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening, casting ethereal reflections onto the cave walls.
Some noteworthy spots include Praia da Falésia: a beach that brags miles of pristine sands backed by towering red cliffs, creating a striking contrast against the azure waters where you can take leisurely strolls along the cliff-top pathways. There’s also Ponta da Piedade which is renowned for its dramatic rock formations, sea arches, and towering pillars sculpted by the forces of nature. Lastly, Praia do Camilo, a hidden gem tucked away at the bottom of a steep staircase, offering a secluded and tranquil escape.
Delve into Water Activities
Travellers in the Algarve have a plethora of opportunities to immerse themselves in the region’s many aquatic adventures.
The most popular excursion of all would probably be surfing. Algarve’s Atlantic coast its popular for its excellent surfing conditions, catering to surfers of all skill levels. Destinations like Sagres, Lagos, and Praia da Rocha are popular among surfers for their consistent waves and stunning scenery.
You can also opt to take to the calm waters of the Algarve’s bays, lagoons and estuaries on a stand-up paddleboarding tour (SUP). This way, you can explore hidden beaches, slip into sea caves, and marvel at the unique coastal views. If you’re not too confident with your balance, go on a kayak tour instead.
One of the more memorable activities I’ve done is sailing on a boat and go dolphin-watching, as well as doing one of the many sunset cruises and sea cave excursions.
Of course, there are more adrenaline-fueled activities such as jet-skiing and parasailing. Experience the thrill of speed with a glider race along the coast of the Algarve, or fly high above the coastline and enjoy a birds-eye view of the Algarve coastline and cliffs on a parasailing trip.
Sample Local Cuisine
Whether you’re seeking a fine dining experience, a laid-back fresh seafood by the sea, or traditional Portuguese flavors in a charming setting, Algarve’s best restaurants offer something for every palate and occasion.
Here are some of my top recommendations:
Vila Joya
Vila Joya has two Michelin stars and offers a culinary journey through innovative Portuguese-European fusion cuisine. You can enjoy dishes in a fine-dining setting overlooking the sea.
Location: Estrada da Galé, 8200-416 Albufeira, Portugal
Caniço Restaurant & Terrace
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, you can enjoy delectable seafood dishes at Caniço. Nothing beats good food and a great view. Be aware that the restaurant is only open during spring, summer, and early autumn season. Ensure to book beforehand to check if it’s open!
Location: Aldeamento Prainha Club, 8500-072 Alvor, Portugal
Noélia & Jerónimo
This family-run restaurant in Cabanas de Tavira is beloved for its fresh seafood dishes, traditional Portuguese recipes, and warm hospitality, and will certainly create a memorable dining and authentic Portuguese experience for you. I recommend the Grilled Prawn from Monte Gordo served with Lime Rice!
Location: Av. Ria Formosa 2, 8800-591 Cabanas, Portugal
Henrique Leis
Lastly, another Michelin-starred restaurant, is owned and ran by its namesake Chef Henrique Leis. It occupies an elegant chalet that stands out for its meticulous interior and attractive terrace, where the Brazilian-born chef creates contemporary cuisine with its roots in classic dishes.
Location: Restaurant Henrique Leis, 8100-267 Loulé, Portugal
Join A Pub Crawl
As you are travelling solo, you’ll want to make some friends. One of the best ways to do this is by doing a pub crawl! It’s a great way to meet fellow solo travellers or just make friends in general. You can either do this on your own or join a pub crawl that normally starts from a hostel somewhere.
Here is my suggested itinerary for a memorable pub crawl in the Algarve:
Start in Albufeira:
Kick off your pub crawl in Albufeira, the centre of Algarve nightlife. Head to The Strip, which is a busy street lined with bars and clubs. Here you can enjoy affordable drinks and live music at popular venues like Matt’s Bar, Wild & Co, and Le Club.
Explore Villamoura Marina:
Next, head to Villamoura Marina, where you’ll find bars and cafés overlooking the harbour. I enjoyed cocktails with gorgeous views at Purobeach Vilamoura! Make sure to pop in at The Irish Pub and Bliss Vilamoura to get that buzz going.
Visit Lagos Old Town:
Venture into Lagos Old Town, a charming area filled with historic streets and vibrant bars. I recommend sampling a craft beer at The Three Monkeys Pub, then sip cocktails at The Roof Bar, and finally dance the night away at The Star Bar.
Experience Faro’s nightlife:
Lastly, conclude your pub crawl in Faro, the capital of the Algarve. The busy streets of the old town and charming bars like O Castello and A Cappella is the perfect way to cap your evening. I may or may not have done a drunken karaoke night at one of the pubs there!
Hike The Trails
With its diverse terrain and breathtaking scenery, trekking in the Algarve gives a worthwhile outdoor enjoyment for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.
The Algarve offers loads of hiking trails appropriate for all levels and expertise. Be sure to choose trails that match your skill level and interests, whether or not you opt for coastal paths with panoramic views or inland routes through lush countryside.
Before starting, check trail situations, weather forecasts, and any advisories or closures. Some trails can be impassable at some stage in certain seasons, and some may even require you to present access to enter.
Weather conditions in the Algarve can change swiftly, mainly in coastal regions. Be prepared for surprising rain showers or strong winds by bringing appropriate clothing and rain-resistant tools. I also advise to wear clothing layers.
Here are some of my suggested hiking trails:
- Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Trilho dos Sete Vales Suspensos)
- Rota Vicentina
- Monchique Circuit in the Serra de Monchique mountain range
- Via Algarviana
Safety Tips
The Algarve is generally safe. However, like all touristy places, caution needs to be exercised.
Stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas, markets, and public transportation hubs, where pickpockets may operate. Keep your belongings secure, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and consider using a money belt or anti-theft bag.
Booze is really cheap and affordable in the Algarve, not to mention the whole of Portugal. Take it easy and drink responsibly, especially in the evenings. Make sure you have a designated driver or use alternative means of transportation such as local taxis or an Uber.
The Algarve enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities, and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
When swimming in the ocean, be mindful of strong currents, rough waves, and sudden drop-offs. Only swim in designated swimming areas monitored by lifeguards, and heed warning flags indicating dangerous sea conditions.
Relax And Enjoy The Algarve
With its idyllic beaches, peaceful countryside, and laid-back atmosphere, the Algarve is the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Whether you want to relax on the beach, indulge in spa treatments, or explore the cultural heritage of the region, the Algarve invites you to slow down, unwind and embrace the art of relaxation.
Here, it is all-embracing of enjoyment, what with its many activities and excursions guaranteed to fill your day with fun and memorable experiences.
I, for one, cannot wait to be back.
Rachel is an intrepid world traveller, lifestyle connoisseuse, and Girls Who Travel’s resident beauty advisor. She is a lover of the ocean, flowers, movies, journalism, and has a penchant for medium-sized tattoos. When she is not busy with life, she writes stories of her globetrots as well as tips & tricks on how to make the best out of travelling.
