Algarve (Faro)

Algarve tourist guide - hotels - car hire

Algarve has a picturesque location in Portugal. It looks out over the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by steep cliffs. Algarve is near many coastal villages that are easy reach, each with its own charm and attractions.

Attractions in Algarve

One of these coastal towns, the actual hub of Algarve, is Faro. You can taste both the modern and ancient side of Faro during your visit. To explore the ancient side, stroll through the town and see the remnants of the Roman walls that surround the city. Also, visit the Renaissance inspired Nossa Senhora da Assuncão Convent and São Francisco Church. Eat at some of the great seafood restaurants and enjoy some shopping to delve back into the modern side of town.

Lagos, another close town, has a much more appealing coastal location. Meia Praia being the most popular beach here. It also boasts many historic buildings and Renaissance or Baroque churches, notably the São João Hermitage (8th-9th centuries). Other attractions include; Forte do Pau da Bandeira, the old slave market, and a charming marina.

Portimão has a cosmopolitan atmosphere, with golden sands framed by cliffs and rocks, a rich heritage of historical monuments, and the sensational beauty of the Rio de Alvor.

A hire car is a must in this region. You can drive to each coastal town at your leisure if you have a hire car. Also, you can visit and explore Silves, Tavira, Monchique and the many charming coastal resort villages by hire car. Book here for good rates on hire cars in Algarve.

Hotels in Algarve

As Algarve is a resort town and attracts many visitors, there are plenty of hotels to choose from. During the high season, it's recommended that you book a hotel in advance to avoid the crowds. You can book a hotel in Algarve here.

Dramatic views can be had at many fine Algarve hotels. Some Algarve hotels are quite luxurious and offer splendid amenities like swimming pools, fitness centres, and more. Whether you want a hotel looking out over the beautiful coastline, or something in the middle of town, you'll find it in the Algarve. Many also choose to book holiday villas online prior to their trip.

Airport and car hire in Algarve

Faro International Airport is the main gateway to Algarve. It has regular flights to many European cities and additional charter flights in the summer. The modern terminal has all the usual facilities. Trans-Atlantic and long-haul visitors usually connect via Lisbon, Madrid, or European hubs.

Taxi service and a regular bus connect you to the city that is only 8 km. away.

A quick way to get into the city is to hire a car from the Faro airport. Having a hire car here is really the best way to get around and visit all the interesting coastal villages in the area. You can reserve an Algarve hire car online here.

Parking at Faro airport is sufficient, but you may want to reserve airport parking in advance. You can get a good deal on Algarve airport parking here.