The Algarve is a popular destination among travelers in Portugal. It’s filled with stunning resorts, beautiful Atlantic beaches, and elite restaurants.
From the warm, Mediterranean climate to the historical shrines and even the food, everything in this area seems to be designed to make you feel safe and welcome.
Due to its popularity, the Algarve isn’t the cheapest place to stay in Portugal. Between the prices of some of the resorts in this area and its exclusive reputation, you might find it difficult to find the best places to stay in the Algarve on a budget.
That why we’ve created this neighborhood guide, to help you figure out the best places to stay no matter what you have to spend. We’ve also listed the best things to do in each area, so you can find somewhere that suits your interests.
Best Places to Stay in the Algarve
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for where to stay in the Algarve.
Seaview Studio | Best Airbnb in the Algarve
This stunning apartment sits in Albufeira, the best place to stay in the Algarve. It’s set in a traditional Portuguese building and has its own private kitchen, so you can save money on eating in.It’s full of large, bright spaces where you can relax and enjoy your holiday.
Casa d’Alagoa | Best Hostel in the Algarve
Located in Faro, this hostel is bright, cheerful, and has lots of local charm. Situated in a beautiful Portuguese villa, it has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and is close to local attractions. It has private as well as dorm rooms, so you can pick whatever suits you.
Belmar Spa & Beach Resort | Best Hotel in the Algarve
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, this hotel in the Algarve is a great choice. It’s located right on the beach in Lagos and has a spa and pool to enjoy. The rooms are spacious and have a kitchen and seating area, and a continental breakfast is served each morning.
Faro
Full of history, great shopping, and a culture that’s both unique and mesmerizing, Faro is the capital of the Algarve and is both tourist friendly and a busy, local city.
Tavira
Tavira is a seaside town that gets lots of tourists without losing its own character. It carries a lot of Moorish influence that can be seen in the architecture as well as the churches that are strewn throughout the city.
Albufeira
Albufeira is a lively, sunny town with lots of energy and attractions. This is what makes it one of the best choices when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Algarve for families and need lots to do.
Portimao
Portimao is one of the largest cities in the Algarve and it’s also one of the best places in the Algarve to stay in if you want to have lots of fun nights out. This city is on the beach and it has countless bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and late-night shopping areas.
The Algarve is home to small villages, natural attractions, and some of the best beaches in Portugal. There are beautiful destinations dotted along its coastline, each offering something slightly different to travelers.
Faro is the best place to stay in the Algarve. This small town is loaded with some of the best reasons to visit Portugal, from a great shopping scene to fascinating history and nature experiences. Because of this, it’s the ideal place to base yourself if you want to get to know the area.
Tavira is the best place to stay if you’re traveling on a budget. where you’ll find some budget activities and even reasonably priced Algarve accommodation options. Be prepared for gorgeous surroundings, history, and lots of outdoor activities in this area.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in the Algarve for families, Albufeira is the best choice. It’s easily accessible, and has lots of outdoor and indoor activities to keep you busy.
For the best nightlife in the Algarve, you can’t go wrong staying in Portimao. Located in the Faro region, Portimao is known for its high number of clubs, bars and restaurants.
Read on for more detailed guides on each place, and the best accommodation and activities in each.
4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Algarve
The Algarve is one of the coolest places to stay in Portugal for nature-lovers. From beautiful beaches to stunning landscapes, Algarve has something for every traveller.
There are plenty of things to do in the Algarve, depending on which area you’re staying, so do your research before heading out! We’ve added our insider tips on what to do at the end of each area, so be sure to read on!
1. Faro – Where to Stay in the Algarve on your First Visit
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Faro – Spend some time hanging out in the Old Town for great shopping, food, and an incredible atmosphere.
- BEST Place to Visit in Faro – Visit Ria Formosa natural park for amazing wildlife experiences.
Full of history, great shopping, and a culture that’s both unique and mesmerizing, Faro is the capital of the Algarve and is both traveler-friendly and a bustling local city. If you’re looking to get to know the Algarve region, staying in Faro is your best bet.
Faro is designed for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a foodie, nature-lover or night-owl, you’ll be met with plentiful opportunities to indulge in everything the area has to offer. Whatever you want while you’re on holiday, you’ll find it in Faro.
From friendly hostels to beach villas in Faro, you’ll have many places to stay to choose from.
Best sea views at Faro Beach | Best Airbnb in Faro
Want to be just steps from the beach during your stay? This fully equipped apartment offers staggering views at a fraction of the price you’d find elsewhere. It’s suitable for up to 4 guests and has 1 bedroom, a full kitchen and washing facilities, so you’ll live comfortably throughout your stay.
Hostellicious | Best Hostel in Faro
This hostel in Faro is convenient, comforting, and welcoming. With private and dorm rooms, you can enjoy your privacy or spend all your time with new friends, and take advantage of all the common spaces in the hostel. It’s also close to the city’s transport hubs, so you won’t have any trouble getting around everything you want to see.
Hotel 3K Faro Aeroporto | Best Hotel in Faro
This 3-star hotel is in one of the best neighborhoods to stay in the Algarve if you want easy access to the region. The rooms have a balcony and private bathroom and there’s a bar on-site, as well as plenty close by that you can explore.
Things To See and Do in Faro:
- Sample some local food at Xic, Very Restaurante and Rooftop Bar, or La Forchetta
- Have a drink at Os Aristas’ bar, Epicur Boutique Wine Bar, or Piper’s Irish Pub
- Take the Land Train, which will take you past some of the best sites in the city
- Explore the old center of town, Cidade Velha. Look out for landmarks like the Arco da Vila gateway and the cathedral at Largo da Sé
- Explore Milreu and Estoi, two of the most important Roman sites just outside of Faro
- Marvel at the beautiful Renaissance collection at the Museu Municipal
- Wander inside the Igreja da Nossa Senhora do Carmo, an 18th century church in the center of town
- Visit the science center Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve
- Head over to Faro Island on hot days and relax on Praia de Faro, a white sand beach on the south of the island
- Head to Karma Surf Retreat – which offers one of the best yoga retreats in Europe.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Tavira – Where to Stay in Algarve on a Budget
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Tavira – Relax on world-class beach ‘Praia do Barril’
- BEST Place to Visit in Tavira – Take a trip to Tavira Castle for a return to the days of Moorish rule
Tavira is a seaside town that gets lots of travelers without losing its own character. It carries a lot of Moorish influence that can be seen in the architecture and churches throughout the city.
This city is also the best choice when you’re visiting Portugal on a budget because it offers cheaper accommodation, as well as lots of relatively free outdoor activities.
Tavira is also famous for its locally produced wine, so make sure to visit if you’re interested in trying some of the available options.
Sunny Apartment | Best Airbnb in Tavira
This bright apartment is suitable for up to 6 guests. It has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a veranda, sun terrace and BBQ. It has everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay throughout your time in the Algarve.
HI Tavira – Pousada de Juventude | Best Hostel in Tavira
This hostel in the Algarve is perfectly positioned so you can enjoy the city. It’s clean and secure, close to local attractions, and offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can relax, make new friends, and really enjoy your stay!
Golden Club Cabanas | Best Hotel in Tavira
Located inside of the famous Ria Formosa Nature Park, this hotel is indisputably located in the best area in the Algarve to stay in for nature experiences. The studio apartments come with a terrace or balcony, and the hotel has pools, a gym, and a spa and sporting facilities.
Things To See and Do in Tavira:
- Explore Tavira Castle, parts of which date back all the way to the 1000s
- Check out the 16th century church Igreja da Misericórdia
- Wander along the beautiful Gialo River and stop off at little eateries for a snack
- Try some local and reasonably priced wine at The Old Barrel, Arcada Cocktail & Wine Bar, or the Brewery
- Listen to some local music at Fado com História
- Have a meal at Little India, Café Del Mar, or Acqua e Sale
- Take in the views from Camera Obscura Tavira
3. Albufeira – Best Neighborhood in Algarve for Families
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Albufeira – Spot the wildlife on the coastline and visit Zoomarine for an educational day out
- BEST Place to Visit in Albufeira – Head down to the promenade for diving tours or dolphin tours off the coast
Albufeira is a lively, sunny town with lots of energy and attractions. This makes it one of the best choices when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Algarve with family, as there’s so much to explore. This town has a real atmosphere of fun and relaxation and is ideal if you want to forget that the modern world exists for a while.
Staying in Albufeira also means you’ll have access to hundreds of bars and places to eat out – ideal if you want a break from cooking! It’s full of things to do for all ages, and is well-worth a visit even if you don’t stay here.
Superior Apartment | Best Airbnb in Albufeira
This apartment is located in one of the best areas to stay in Albufeira if you want spectacular ocean views. It’s fully renovated, private, and offers access to the facility pool, as well as parking. The apartment is open, bright and suitable for up to 4 guests.
Peneco Albufeira Guesthouse | Best Hostel in Albufeira
With lots of outdoor areas where you can enjoy the warm weather, this is one of the coolest hostels in Albufeira. It’s right in the historical heart of the city and surrounded by shops and restaurants, as well as just a minute’s walk from the beach. There are private and family rooms available so you can have all the privacy you want during your stay.
Alfagar Aparthotel | Best Hotel in Albufeira
Overlooking the ocean, this hotel in the Algarve has enviable views and a relaxed, luxurious vibe. There’s a restaurant on-site that serves delicious meals and a bar where you can relax with a drink after a long day at the beach. If you don’t like to swim in the ocean, there are three pools on-site you can use instead!
Things To See and Do in Albufeira:
- Head down to The Strip for a collection of great bars, like Devlin’s Irish Bar, Wild & Co, or Cooper’s Bar and Kitchen
- Try some of the local beers like Sagres and Algarve Rock
- Relax on some of the popular local beaches like Beach Falésia Açoteias or try some water sports while you’re there!
- Wander through the cobblestone streets and atmosphere of the Old Town
- Eat some local delicacies at The Market Restaurant, The Sizzling Stone, or O’Farnel
- Take a fishing tour out from the marina
- Go bird watching from Salgados Lagoon
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- COOLEST Thing to Do in Portimao – Bathe in the warm waters overlooked by limestone cliffs at Praia da Rocha
- BEST Place to Visit in Portimao – Head to the Expo-Trade Center for sporting events and exhibitions
Portimao is one of the largest cities in the Algarve, and it’s also one of the best place to stay in if you want to have lots of fun nights out. This city on the beach has countless bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and late-night shopping areas. If you’re looking to be entertained at night, you’ll have your pick of things to do and see.
Portimao has an interesting history, and its architecture is a mix of the 19th and 20th centuries. It’s cheerful, colorful, and arty, and there’s always something going on in this city!
Aloha Hostel | Best Hostel in Portimao
This bright and charming hotel is a great choice no matter how long you stay in Portimao. It’s in the historical center of the city close to the riverfront, and offers private and dorm rooms. There’s a fully equipped kitchen, shared living spaces, and a terrace where you can enjoy the warm summer nights.
Jupiter Algarve Hotel | Best Hotel in Portimao
Bright, light, and spacious – this hotel has everything, from an indoor pool to entertainment facilities at night. There’s a spa on-site for some extra pampering and the rooms are large and modern. Some of them even have a balcony, so you can enjoy the sea views.
5 Minutes Walk to the Beach | Best Airbnb in Portimao
This apartment offers quick beach access for a good price. It’s five minutes away from Praia da Rocha on foot, and is surrounded by cafes and shops. What else could you want?
5 Minutes Walk to the Beach is one of our favourites in Algarve but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things To See and Do in Portimao:
- Have a meal at Casa da Tocha, Masala House, or Loki Restaurant
- Have a drink at Mourisco Cocktail Bar, The Manhattan Café or the Church Bar
- Take in the mystery of the burial site at the Megalithic Monuments of Alcalar
- Explore the history of the fishing town that Portimao once was, at The Museu de Portimao
- Wander along the beach promenade and enjoy the ocean views
- Pick up some fresh food and get to know the locals at the Mercado Municipal
- Take in the fortress at Fortaleza de Santa Catarina
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in the Algarve
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of the Algarve and where to stay.
What To Pack For The Algarve
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for the Algarve
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Final Thoughts on the Where to Stay in the Algarve
With its interesting history, vibrant markets and buzzing nightlife, the Algarve a great destination that will make any trip special no matter where you stay.
If you’re still unsure, you can’t go wrong with Faro. From stylish Airbnbs and luxury hotels to some of Portugal’s coolest eco-resorts, it’s suitable for any traveler looking to discover the area.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options for where to stay in the Algarve!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Portugal.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Portugal.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
