The Ultimate Guide: Where to Stay in Algarve – 6 Best Accommodation Options
It can be challenging to figure out where to stay in Algarve. Nearly every resort and apartment claims to be the best, and Google search results are often clouded with sponsored content.
Wondering where is the best place to stay? Here are our top six picks for the best accommodation options in the Algarve region.
Exploring Algarve: A Region of Beauty and Variety
Algarve is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Located in the southernmost reaches of Portugal, Algarve’s bustling city centers and idyllic seaside villages offer unforgettably delicious cuisine and some of the most picturesque places in the world, including Ria Formosa Natural Park, Costa Vicentina, Falésia Beach, and Benagil Cave. Whether you stay in a historic hotel or a luxury hotel, you’re sure to fall in love with this country.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation in Algarve
Location
One of the most important factors to remember when choosing accommodations is the region you want to stay in. An Algarve town like Lagos and Albufeira offers authenticity and bustling city life, while Tavira is a picture-perfect place for those seeking a quiet vacation. You can’t forget to consider Faro, too, as this capital offers all the excitement you could possibly want from a stay in Portugal.
Budget
Budget is another crucial factor to consider in choosing where to stay in the Algarve region. Do you want to stay in a small budget-friendly resort, or would you prefer to go to a luxury villa with all the best amenities? You should take advantage of direct bookings and travel packages to get the best possible value for your vacation budget.
Top 6 Accommodation Options in Algarve
1. Seaside Villages and Towns
Among the best accommodation options in Algarve are the city’s many charming coastal towns. Apartments, guesthouses, and even boutique hotel options are abundant in places such as Lagos and Carvoeiro.
These villages are an excellent option if you’d prefer to mingle with the locals and enjoy Portugal’s culture. While they may not offer the same luxury shopping and dining experiences as some of Algarve’s resorts and villas, you won’t regret it once you’ve had the chance to dig into an authentic seafood dish.
2. Luxury Resorts and Hotels
If you have a penchant for the best things in life, there are a few incredible luxury resort towns in Algarve that you must consider. Vilamoura is excellent, known for its many hotels with lavish rooms and upscale facilities. The Vilamoura golf courses, like those at the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, are famed among golfers.
Another excellent luxury option is Quinta do Lago. Travelers in this comfortable resort town can enjoy many world-class restaurants and exciting experiences. Whether you’re drawn to beach activities or want to go horseback riding with an incredible view, the sky is the limit in Quinta do Lago.
3. Golf Resorts
If you’re enthusiastic about golfing, the incredible golf resorts across Algarve are another option worth considering, including the Pine Cliffs Hotel. These resorts offer easy access to golf courses and facilities and often have luxury amenities like practice areas and professional caddies.
4. Rural Retreats and Countryside Villas
If you envision your dream vacation as serene and quiet, you may find that one of Algarve’s picturesque rural retreats resonates with you. These accommodations are excellent if you want to enjoy Portugal’s fantastic nature or just want a private retreat away from bustling tourist centers.
5. All-Inclusive Resorts
The most hassle-free option of all is an all-inclusive resort or beach club. If you find that organizing activities and dining puts enough stress on you that your vacation becomes unenjoyable, an all-inclusive resort is a perfect solution — and with a seasoned vacation planner leading your activities, you won’t have to worry about missing out on everything Algarve has to offer.
6. Apartment Rentals and Airbnb
Lastly, an apartment rental in Algarve is worth considering if you intend to extend your stay. These options will allow you to spend time in Algarve enjoying comfortable local accommodations with incredible proximity to all the best sights.
You can choose a lovely city apartment if you want to spend your days in Algarve walking the markets and shops. Alternatively, a beachside rental is perfect if you envision your stay in Algarve involving plenty of sunshine and an impressive Atlantic Ocean view.
Renting an apartment offers a few advantages over other types of stays — namely, you’ll have a kitchen and a comfortable living space. You’ll save a lot of money on food expenses by cooking at home with the accommodations in your apartment.
Additional Considerations for Choosing Accommodation
Proximity to Attractions and Beaches
To make the best of Algarve’s beautiful beaches, you should pick a coastal hotel, like the Dom Jose Beach Hotel in Quarteira. Alternatively, accommodations in the heart of Faro or Lagos, like Aqua Ria Boutique Hotel or Casa Mãe, respectively, will offer you all the historical attractions you could possibly want within walking distance.
Facilities and Amenities
If amenities are important to you, you should prioritize them when choosing your accommodation. A private outdoor swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and Wi-Fi availability are critical factors. You should also consider if you want a kitchen or easy access to certain activities (such as scuba-diving).
Reviews and Recommendations
Finally, take feedback from other guests into account. Are the reviews positive, negative, or mixed? Do the reviews appear to be genuine? Do they include pictures and detailed accounts of the guests’ experiences? Consider positive and negative reviews to form a well-rounded opinion on each accommodation.
What Is the Best Place To Stay in Algarve?
There isn’t just one best place to stay in Algarve. Whether you enjoy private countryside retreats or bustling city apartments, the best accommodation in Algarve is the one that will help you make your dream vacation come true.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Better To Stay in a Coastal Town or a Resort in Algarve?
Whether it’s better to stay in a coastal town or a resort depends on your preferences. You’ll have more access to luxury amenities if you stay in a resort. If you decide to stay in a coastal town, your experience will be much more local and authentic.
What Are the Most Popular Beaches in Algarve?
The most popular beaches in Algarve include Praia da Rocha, Praia de Benagil, Meia Praia, and Ponta da Piedade. You should consider what kind of beach you want to go to — do you prefer a rocky beach or a smooth sandy beach? It’s also worth noting that certain beaches, such as the Praia de Dona Ana, have famous landmarks you might not want to miss.
Are There Family-Friendly Accommodation Options in Algarve?
There are family-friendly accommodations in Algarve, including the Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort, the Pine Cliffs Hotel, and Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort.
Many all-inclusive resorts offer vacation packages with amenities and activities designed to appeal to everyone in a big family, like an outdoor swimming pool and Wi-Fi — but if you’d prefer to plan your vacation on your own, I recommend researching your accommodation in advance to find one near activities that you could enjoy as a family.
Can I Find Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Algarve?
You can find budget-friendly accommodation in Algarve. I recommend using a website that allows you to search for accommodations by price. You should also factor in the cost of food and necessities, as an accommodation without a kitchen may be more expensive overall.
Are There Accommodations Available Near Golf Courses in Algarve?
Many golf resorts in Algarve offer direct access to golf courses. As an added benefit, you may also have access to private golfing areas or amenities like professional caddies if you stay at a golf resort.
