Why do people like the Algarve?

Most people traveling to the Algarve have only one thing in mind: those glorious beaches that they've seen online. The impressive seascapes of towering cliffs, hidden coves, and secluded beaches seem like paradise, and indeed they are! However, the Algarve is much more than just its beaches.



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The Algarve region, at the southern end of Portugal, is famous for its amazing coastline and beautiful beaches. Its natural wonders are the star attractions, including great surfing spots, towering cliffs, hidden bays and bird-filled lagoons.

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Pleasant Climate All Year Round. Another benefit that draws many American expats to Portugal is its stunning beaches and pleasant climate, with the climate in the Algarve being directly comparable to that of Southern California.

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A full week on the Algarve gives you plenty of time to split between activities and relaxing on the beach. If you're looking for a more relaxing beach holiday, 7 days on the Algarve is a good choice. If the Algarve is a part of a broader Portugal itinerary, we'd recommend between 3 and 5 days.

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Golden sands, sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters and a friendly, welcoming vibe. These are images evoked by both California and the Algarve. Yet, the parallels between these two regions extend far beyond mere aesthetics. Delving deeper, one finds an array of shared cultural, culinary, and natural attributes.

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The majority of expats in Algarve are in Tavira, Vilamoura, Lagos, Faro, Albufeira, Alvor and Ferragudo. These towns also happen to attract a large amount of tourists each year, so they can get quite busy during high season. If you're more into quiet towns, then rural areas of the Algarve are perfect.

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Because Algarve, unlike Andalucia, is not in the Mediterranean sea: it's in the Atlantic Ocean. Furthermore, sea currents are really complex, so just because Atlantic Ocean may feel “warm” somewhere else, doesn't mean around Algarve it will be the same.

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In the Algarve, the sea is typically warmer compared to the rest of Portugal, but even there, strong winds and currents bring cold water from deeper parts of the Ocean to the surface, resulting in cooler temperatures.

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The most popular Algarve region food specialties include: Conquilhas à Algarvia (a delicious and unique dish made with small squid), Bacalhau à Algarvia (salted codfish that hits just right), Arroz de Lingueirão (flavorful rice with clams), and Lulinhas Fritas à Algarvia (perfectly fried squid).

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April to May and September to October are the times to enjoy outdoor adventures. The spring months from April to May and the autumn months from mid-September to October are the best times to visit if you're interested in hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and other land-based activities.

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The Algarve is a popular destination for expats and tourists alike, so it can be more costly than other areas in Portugal, especially compared to the north of the country. Overall, however, you will find that prices are more reasonable than in other regions of western Europe.

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Ponta da Piedade in Lagos is THE must see emblematic site of the Algarve. The landscape is incredible and well worth the trip. The view is stunning from the top of the cliffs: you can see the caves and underwater cavities dug by the swell and into which transparent water rushes.

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Portugal's Algarve is home to more than 100,000 resident foreign retirees. Algarve is a safe region, with very little crime and a laid-back lifestyle for expatriates. This destination caters to families and retirees. Due to the wide variety of cultural, nature-based, sporting, gastronomic, and other activities.

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