The Algarve, coast to coast
The Algarve, in southern Portugal, is one of Europe's finest beach and golf destinations — sunshine almost all year, more than 100 beaches and a coastline that runs from golden cliffs to white-sand islands.
It divides into three coasts: the Barlavento (west, cliffs and caves), the central Algarve (famous beaches, golf and a lively scene) and the Sotavento (the Ria Formosa and warmer waters). Served by Faro airport, it brings together 14 municipalities, 37 towns and 17 standout beaches. Choose by the coast, the town, the beach or the type of accommodation.
By coast
Featured destinations
Types of holiday accommodation in the Algarve
Featured accommodation in the Algarve
Algarve beaches
The Algarve has 17 standout beaches, from the Praia da Marinha to Benagil.
The Algarve on the map
Frequently asked questions
What types of holiday accommodation are there in the Algarve?
In the Algarve there is holiday accommodation for every profile: villas with a private pool, apartments near the beach, townhouses for families, country estates for rural tourism, penthouses and studios. You can choose by type, by town or by beach, and compare prices and availability in real time. See all accommodation in the Algarve to rent by coast, municipality, town and beach, with direct booking on Homing.
Where is the Algarve?
The Algarve is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal, washed by the Atlantic Ocean. It stretches along around 150 km of coastline, from Cape St Vincent in the west to the mouth of the Guadiana on the Spanish border. It is served by Faro airport, the main point of arrival for visitors to the region.
How many municipalities, towns and beaches does the Algarve have?
The Algarve is organised into 3 coasts (Barlavento, the centre and Sotavento), 14 municipalities and dozens of towns, with 37 towns covered on this platform. It also has 17 standout beaches, from the western cliffs to the eastern sandy islands. You can browse by coast, by municipality, by town, by beach or by type of accommodation.
Which is the best area of the Algarve for a holiday?
It depends on what you're after. The central Algarve is ideal for famous beaches, golf and a lively scene, with Albufeira, Vilamoura and Carvoeiro. The Barlavento offers golden cliffs, caves and open sea, with Lagos, Sagres and Alvor. The Sotavento is calmer and warmer, with the Ria Formosa, sandy islands and Tavira.
Barlavento or Sotavento — which to choose?
The Barlavento (west) is more dramatic, with cliffs, caves and open sea, ideal for those who value the scenery. The Sotavento (east) is calmer, with the Ria Formosa, white-sand barrier islands and warmer, more sheltered waters. Families with young children tend to prefer the east for its gentle waters; those after scenery and headland beaches, the west.
Which are the best beaches in the Algarve?
Among the 17 standout beaches are the Praia da Marinha, Benagil and its sea cave, the Praia da Falésia and the Praia de Dona Ana. These beaches are renowned for their beauty, their water and their access, many with a Blue Flag. See the Algarve beaches and choose your accommodation by the beach.
Is the Algarve good for golf?
Yes. The Algarve is one of Europe's finest golf destinations, with dozens of courses and a season that runs almost all year. The greatest concentration is in the central Algarve, with flagship courses such as Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. Many resorts combine accommodation and golf, handy for those travelling to play.
When is the best time to go to the Algarve?
May, June and September are the best times: warm weather, a pleasant sea and far fewer people than at the peak. July and August are peak season, livelier but also busier and pricier. Winter stays mild and calm, with low prices, ideal for longer stays.
How do I get to the Algarve?
The most common way is to fly to Faro airport, the region's main airport, and continue by car. There are also trains, buses and transfers from Lisbon and other cities. The A22 motorway links the whole coast from west to east and makes it easy to see several towns and beaches.
How much does it cost to rent a home in the Algarve, and why book direct?
Prices vary a lot with the town, the season, the size of the home and the length of stay, and are kept up to date on Homing. Booking direct on Homing is usually cheaper than Airbnb or Hotels.com, as it avoids those platforms' commission. Open the listing for any accommodation to see the price for your dates, with secure booking and no hidden fees.
How do I book?
Choose the accommodation, open the listing and click 'View on Homing' to complete the booking on Homing, our official partner. Payment is secure and protected, confirmation is immediate and support responds in EN, PT, FR and ES. There are no extra middlemen and no hidden fees in the process.