Weekend trips from Lisbon: the Algarve

The Algarve, Portugal's southern coastal region, is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive cliff rocks, and delicious food. From Lisbon, you can reach the Algarve within 3 hours by train or by car. In this blog, we will tell you about the nicest and most beautiful places that are worth visiting in this region.

Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade is a breathtaking area with impressive rock formations. It is called the most beautiful spot in the Algarve! The high rocks, rough sea, and (hidden) beaches are definitely worth a visit. Here you can do various activities such as a boat or kayak tour, but a hike on top of the rocks is also highly recommended. You can take great photos and enjoy the beauty of this area. 

Praia de Benagil 

Praia de Benagil is called one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe for a reason! Here you will find the famous rock with the 'hole in the roof' which is very photogenic. 

It is a lovely beach where you can swim and sunbathe, but also do all kinds of activities. It is highly recommended to take a boat tour where the skipper tells you everything about the impressive rock formations. Would you rather do something more active? Then a kayak tour is a must.

Silves

Silves is a place you really have to visit if you like culture and nature. Silves is a mountain range in the western Algarve and here you will find beautiful landscapes and fields full of orange trees. Here you will also find Castelo dos Mouros, a huge castle made of red sandstone. On top of the castle, you have views over the whole city! In the historical centre, you will find small streets with beautiful mansions and colourful little houses. For wine lovers: the area around Silves is full of vineyards. This makes it an excellent location for wine tasting!

Cabo de Sao Vicente 

Sao Vicente is a cape with high cliffs on the Atlantic Ocean. You have beautiful views here, especially at sunset! If you are lucky, you can spot dolphins, sharks, and sometimes even orcas here. This cape is the most south-westerly point of Europe, which is why you can eat your last bratwurst here, before reaching America. Long ago, this point was even considered the end of the world.

Fish market in Olhão 

For true fish lovers, a trip to Olhão is not to be missed. Here you will find the Algarve's largest and most famous fish market. There is also a separate market for fruit and vegetables. In addition, on Saturdays, you have a market with local products, Portuguese delicacies (pastel de nata!), fruit and vegetables, nuts and, of course, every kind of fish you can imagine. 

In short, the Algarve is an incredibly versatile location. Whether you like nature, partying, the beach, or sporting activities: there is something to do and explore for everyone! Are you as enthusiastic about Portugal as we are? Then take a look at our vacancies!