Portugal has earned its name as the garden of Europe. Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, the exotic plants once brought back by explorers from the four corners of the world have now become indigenous to the entire Atlantic coast. Beyond its mild climate and varied plant life, Portugal is famous for its history, its sailors and explorers, who have endowed this wonderful country with the finest historical treasures.
Portugal’s southern coast is characterised by its ocean-carved cliffs, endless stretches of golden sand and an azure-blue sea, which come together to form a landscape rich in authentic culture and tradition. Elegant marinas, picturesque fishing villages and lively seaside resorts all contribute to the region’s diverse and contrasting atmosphere. Travellers looking for new experiences will find a wide range of activities to try, from golf on renowned courses to water sports such as surfing or boat trips in wild, secluded coves. The inland areas, too, have just as much to explore – rolling green hills, traditional villages, local markets and historic sites, where you can easily immerse yourself in Portuguese culture. There are also plenty of scenic hiking trails and cycle routes through the beautiful countryside for nature lovers and outdoorsy types.
The majestic, golden cliffs of the Costa d’Oiro and Ponta da Piedade are among the most photographed in all of Portugal. As well as its cliffs, Lagos also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, great local cuisine, a variety of leisure activities, a wealth of traditional crafts and the beautiful beach of Meia Praia. Distance to airport: 85 km.
This charming fishing village is one of the most popular places in the region and is home to a number of authentic cafes and restaurants where you can try the local cuisine. It boasts picturesque streets and the longest beaches in the Algarve, so you can relax with a long walk along the coast. Distance from the airport: 75 km
This popular resort overlooks the lively promenade and the 1.5 kilometre-long sandy beach. The famous sandy beach of Praia da Rocha gives its name to the oldest seaside resort in the Algarve. The marina is also home to many restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Distance from the airport: 72 km.
The small town of Porches is perched on a hill on the Algarve's oldest east-west road. It is famous not only for its wine, but also for its clay pits and pottery studios. Distance from the airport: 52 km.
Senhora da Rocha has a beautiful promenade, a long sandy beach, shops, supermarkets, restaurants and bars. Don't miss the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean from little clifftop chapel of Senhora da Rocha. Distance from the airport: 56 km.
Armação de Pêra, with its beautiful promenade, long sandy beach, shops, restaurants, bars – and an impressive number of ice-cream parlours – guarantees an unforgettable and varied holiday. A part of the fortress built in the 17th century offers a breathtaking view of the beautiful coastline and the long golden sandy beach. Distance to the airport: 52 km.
Albufeira, also known as "the white city", is bordered by a beautiful sandy beach and set against an impressive backdrop of steep cliffs. As you wander through its labyrinth of alleys, you will come across many reminders of its past life as a fishing village and its Moorish era heritage. In the evening, Albufeira's trendy bars and nightclubs cultivate a lively nightlife. Distance from the airport: 35 km.
The charming little fishing town of Olhos de Água has a small, shallow sandy bay and is a great destination for a relaxing family holiday by the sea. Distance from the airport: 35 km.
This modern seaside resort boasts extensive hotel facilities, a marina, a promenade lined with bars, shops and restaurants and a beautiful beach. It is surrounded by pine forests and several golf courses. Distance from the airport: 25 km.
Tavira is considered one of the most charming towns in Algarve. With its beautifully decorated churches, authentic tiled houses, small streets lined with restaurants and bars and a beautiful beach, Tavira is the ideal destination for a holiday combining culture and seaside fun. Distance to the airport: 43 km.
Vila Nova de Cacela is a small, rustic village bordered by a long sandy beach. There are a variety of tourist attractions in the area, including the beautiful seaside resort of Manta Rota, the Ria Formosa nature reserve, the historic centre of Cacela Velha and the castle and fortress of Cacela. Distance from the airport: 66 km.
Excursions will allow you to discover your destination from all perspectives. Luxairtours offers a range of selected tours that will allow you to discover unmissable places, paradisiacal beaches, typical dishes... Luxairtours organises a range of quality excursions for you.
Venture into the Algarve's magnificent landscapes on board a comfortable 4x4 and let yourself be carried away by their sheer beauty!
2 different routes are available:
Central Circuit (departing from Vilamoura, Albufeira and Armação de Pêra):
On this tour, you will discover the magic, traditions and exceptional views of the Algarve countryside. You'll be accompanied by a driver who will also act as a guide and tell you more about the region. You'll then make your way to the village of Alte, which is considered to be one of the most traditional places in the Algarve with its lovely little fountain, narrow alleyways and whitewashed houses with their typical chimneys. Finally, you will visit a distillery where you can taste the famous "medronho" (fire water) brandy and honey before criss-crossing Picota's farmlands.
The Mountains Circuit (departing from Carvoeiro, Praia da Rocha, Alvor and Lagos):
After a quick briefing at your hotel, you will head to Monchique, a small village located just a few kilometres from the Algarve's highest point, Mount Fóia, at 902 metres. On the way to the mountains, your guide will tell you more about the local plants and wildlife. You will get to see the native "Sobreiro" cork trees, as the Algarve is a region best known for processing and exporting cork. There will also be a stop at a typical distillery to taste some honey and a classic drink of the region. The journey concludes with a stop at the Bravura dam.
Duration: approx. 7 hours
Includes: English-speaking tour guide, lunch, pick-up and drop-off at the hotel or meeting point
Recommended: These tours are not recommended for pregnant women or children under 3.
Discover all the highlights of the Algarve's west coast in just one day! Your first stop is the town of Silves, the former capital of the region, which is steeped in history and home to numerous monuments such as a Moorish castle, a Roman bridge and a Gothic cathedral.
The tour will also take you to Lagos, where you will have some free time to see the monuments from the era of the Great Discoveries, such as the first slave market in Europe, the golden church of Saint-Antoine, the old town and the statue of King Sebastian.
To finish off, you'll head for Cabo São Vicente, nicknamed "the end of the world", which is the most south-westerly point in Europe! Once there, you'll also have some free time to visit the lighthouse and witness the impressive sea-sculpted rock formations of Ponta da Piedade (approx. 10 minutes round trip on foot).
Duration: approx. 10 hours
Included: French- or German-speaking tour guide, pick-up and drop-off at a meeting point
Not included: meals and entrance to monuments
This two-and-a-half-hour cruise departing from the port of Portimão will take you on a trip along the magnificent Algarve coastline.
You'll start at Carvoeiro and Algar Seco, where you can see the unique caves and rock formations that have been shaped by the sea and wind. The region also boasts many small beaches of incredible natural beauty, some of which are only accessible by small boat.
The tour continues on to the famous Benagil cave, where light streams in and refracts all the colours of the rainbow. A little further on, you'll reach Praia da Marinha, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
Operation date: all year (except 24th, 25th, 31st December and 1st January)
Included: English-speaking tour guide, boat trip, pick-up and drop-off at the hotel from Portimão, Praia da Rocha, Alvor and Lagos
This boat trip will take you to explore the Algarve's stunning coastal landscapes, from Albufeira marina to Carvoeiro beach. Expect pure relaxation and stunning caves and rock formations – and, on the way back, a chance to see dolphins a little further out from the coast!
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Operation date: daily from April to October
Included: English-speaking tour guide, boat cruise only
Not included: hotel pick-up and drop-off at additional cost (in some locations)
Join us for a cruise along the Algarve coast, from Albufeira Marina to Carvoeiro Beach, on a speedboat. We promise a relaxing journey filled with pure emotions. During the cruise, you'll have the opportunity to discover fantastic caves and rock formations. On the way back, the boat will venture offshore to initiate our dolphin's search.
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Operation date: daily from April to October
Included: English-speaking tour guide, Boat cruise only
Not included: hotel pick-up and drop-off at additional cost (in some locations)
This excursion will allow you to spend a day in the shoes of a local.
You will get to know Olhão, a town of fishermen, honest people, storytellers and legends. It is also known for its cubist architecture, a unique feature in southern Europe. A guide will accompany you as you explore the streets of the town's historic centre.
Saturday morning is a very lively day at the town’s market, where local producers sell fresh, regional products, and you will have time to browse the market stalls. The city, located in the heart of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, is home to the second largest fishing port in the Algarve. In addition to fishing, salt extraction and shellfish gathering are the main activities of the local population.
The Ria Formosa is a labyrinth of canals, islands, marshes and sandbanks that runs for 60 kilometres along the eastern coast of the Algarve, between Praia do Garrão and Praia da Manta Rota. This natural environment is a big part of everyday life for the people of Olhão, who enjoy the barrier islands and the fantastic white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water all year round, especially in summer.
You will explore the island of Culatra, with its beautiful beach, from a local ferry. Lunch will be fresh local fish and clams from the Ria Formosa, and is included in the price. On the return journey, you will take a ferry trip through the natural park.
Included: pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, the services of a local guide, a tour of Olhão, ferry tickets and lunch at the island of Culatra
Recommended: swimsuit, camera
Discover the charm of the eastern Algarve on this day trip, exploring three of the region’s most captivating towns: Loulé, Faro and Tavira. These picturesque towns are celebrated for their rich history, stunning landscapes, and traditional Portuguese culture.
The day begins in Loulé, a town that has preserved its cultural heritage and is famed for its market and narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings. At the lively market, housed in a magnificent 19th-century building, you will find fresh produce, local delicacies and handicrafts. As you stroll through the old town, you’ll see the castle and the charming narrow streets filled with craft shops and cafés.
Next, you will head to Faro, the regional capital, where history meets contemporary charm. The city’s blend of Roman, Moorish and Portuguese architecture offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Wander through the old town, surrounded by medieval ramparts, and admire landmarks such as the Arco da Vila and the Sé. There is also time to stroll along the marina, enjoy a coffee in a lively square, do some shopping, and take a break for lunch in the city centre.
The day concludes in Tavira, known for its tranquil atmosphere and rich historical heritage. Here, you can walk along the scenic Gilão River, cross the Roman bridge, and visit Tavira Castle, which offers magnificent views of the town and coastline.
Duration: full day
Included: guided tour, pick-up and drop-off at a meeting point
Not included: meals and entrance fees to monuments, entrance fees for optional visits
For more information and bookings, please contact your Luxairtours guide on site.
Tourist tax must be paid locally during your stay