Algarve holidays from the UK: resorts, seasons and tips

The Algarve is Portugal's southern coast: golden beaches below sandstone cliffs, small fishing towns and plenty of golf courses. It is a short flight from the UK and works well for families, couples and anyone looking for winter sun that is closer than the Canaries.

Getting there

Flights land at Faro (FAO), which has direct routes from most large UK airports. The flight takes around two and three quarter hours. Faro is close to the central resorts; Lagos in the west is about an hour away by road.

Portugal uses the same time zone as the UK, so there is no time difference.

When to go

• May, June, September and October are warm and usually sunny, with fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak.
• July and August are hot and busy, particularly in the UK school holidays.
• Winter is mild and quiet, popular with golfers and walkers, though not reliably warm enough for the beach.

The sea here is the Atlantic, so it is cooler than the Mediterranean, even in summer.

Where to stay

• Albufeira: the busiest resort, with a lively old town, beaches and the nightlife strip.
• Vilamoura: a marina, golf courses and newer hotels; smart and well organised.
• Lagos: a historic town with beautiful coves nearby, such as those around Ponta da Piedade.
• Carvoeiro: a smaller resort on the cliffs, close to the famous sea caves.
• Tavira: in the quieter east, a traditional town near the islands and beaches of the Ria Formosa lagoon.
• Praia da Rocha: a long wide beach next to Portimão, with plenty of hotels and restaurants.

Things to do

• Boat trips to the sea caves near Benagil and along the coast. Rules for visiting the Benagil cave have become stricter, so book a licensed boat tour and check what is currently allowed.
• Ria Formosa: boat trips to the islands from Faro, Olhão and Tavira.
• Coastal walks, such as the Seven Hanging Valleys trail near Carvoeiro.
• Golf: the Algarve is one of Europe's best-known golf destinations.
• Day trips to Sagres and Cape St Vincent, the south-western tip of Europe.

Money and practical tips

• The currency is the euro.
• Several Algarve towns charge a small tourist tax per night, usually paid at the hotel.
• If you hire a car, the main A22 motorway uses electronic tolls only. Ask the hire company for a toll device so you do not get fines later.
• UK travellers need a passport that meets the EU rules for validity. Check the latest entry requirements on GOV.UK before you travel.

Getting a good deal

Prices rise sharply in the summer school holidays and at Easter. Late spring and early autumn usually give the best balance of weather and price, and winter can be very good value for a longer stay. Compare the total price including luggage, transfers or car hire, and see the current flight deals to the Algarve and our guide on how to spot a real holiday deal.