Portugal is a country bustling with culture being one of the oldest nation-states in the world. The Algarve is one of the most beautiful places in the Iberian Peninsula. It is no surprise that it remains to be one of the most sought-after tourist destinations ever.

Let’s check out the different places you can explore when visiting Portugal and the Algarve, and why the region is highly-rated as a top tourist destination.

Portugal

There are a lot of tour packages available for many people to check out the incredible history and sights of Portugal. Companies like Haven On Earth can help you find your next holiday vacation rental. This variety of options has made the country even more accessible to a lot of people.

The Coastline

A lot of people who visit the Algarve go there because of the sunny beaches and the number of places where you can just get lost in the sand. However, the Algarve coastline is not just a collection of beaches; there are other beautiful features, too.

From mountainous regions, historic towns and, of course, sunny resorts, there are a lot of things to see and do.

Faro Old Town

This historic place holds a lot of history in its heart. There are still places that are reminiscent of the Romans, and the ruins take you back to a time now forgotten. It is surrounded by a stone wall that has withstood the test of time.

There are plenty of things to do, and a simple walk down the ancient streets is enough to keep people entertained. It’s easy to get lost in the unique combination of architecture and history, especially when the entire place is a symbol of the beauty of the Algarve.

Serra de Monchique

The beaches and shorelines of the Algarve are a marvel indeed, but if you want a quick change of scenery, then the Serra de Monchique is the best place to go to. It’s a mountain range that’s covered in wildflowers with trails that tourists can explore to get lost in the countryside.

There are a lot of opportunities for nature photography and a myriad of activities to do.

Loulé

Getting away from the coast, you can find yourself at Loulé, which is best known for its wonderfully busy market. This is one of the most popular markets in Portugal, and it is known for its fresh produce and other rare finds.




It has become a mainstay for people who want to sample local products. The numerous kiosks are a reminder to when the Moors used the place as a commerce hub.

Cape St. Vincent

If you’re into photography, then there is no excuse for you not to visit Cape St. Vincent and its majestic lighthouse in Sagres. The lighthouse alone has made Cape St. Vincent an essential stop on a trip around the Algarve.

The views are absolutely breathtaking, with the sights of cliffs plunging directly into the sea. There is no wonder that Cape St. Vincent has been a mainstay in many travelers’ itineraries.

Lagos

There are a lot of things to do in Lagos: you can check out dolphins, lay on the beach, and just enjoy the sights. It’s one of the most popular places in the Algarve, and it holds a lot of historical significance.

In the 15th century, Prince Henry the Navigator set sail from the town and started off the Age of Discovery. This is one of the turning points of Portugal’s rich geographical history.

The other great thing about Lagos is the amount of shopping you can do: tourists can pass by to purchase souvenirs that they want to take home. There are also a lot of good places to simply unwind.

Benagil and Zorreira Caves

The magnificent caves at Benagil and Zorreira deserve a side trip of their own when you’re visiting the Algarve. The natural structures are a true marvel to behold for any traveler and have graced the galleries of many travel photographers.

These caves are not for your normal spelunking activities, but rather a place where you can quietly enjoy nature at its finest.

Conclusion

Portugal is a beautiful country, and whether you’re in the Algarve or traveling further north to Porto, there is just so much to take in. There’s a reason why the region of Algarve is considered by many to be one of the top spots to retire in. It remains to be a country that one should visit at least once in their lives.