Destinations / Portugal / The Algarve
In recent years, the Algarve region of Portugal has become one of the most popular destinations for Irish holidaymakers. Stunning golden beaches, dramatic coastline, world-class golf courses, great surfing schools and amazing food have seen the Algarve become more and more popular each year.
Whether you’re looking for cheap self-catering apartments, all-inclusive resorts or 5-star luxury hotels, we've got holidays to the Algarve from Ireland to suit all budgets.
Book your holiday to The Algarve today on our website or call our team of holiday experts. All sun holidays include return flights and hand picked accommodation. Remember, if you book a holiday 10 weeks in advance with Aer Lingus flights, you can secure the price for only €1 per person with our award-winning deposits.
Top Reasons to Visit the Algarve
- The Resorts in the Algarve
- Attractions in the Algarve
- Attractions for Kids
- Regional Food
The Resorts in the Algarve
Albufeira: Moorish-style seaside town with cobbled streets, beside Fisherman's beach.
Alvor: Charming fishing village with a long sandy beach and turquoise lagoon.
Praia do Vau: Famous for its beach, this sleepy seaside town is ideal for families and couples.
Carvoeiro: Nestled between dramatic bluffs, with secluded, rocky coves.
Vilamoura: A stylish marina and fantastic sports amenities for golf, water sports and sailing.
Olhao: The largest fishing port on the Algarvian coast, with a pretty promenade along the waterfront.
Praia da Rocha: Perched dramatically atop a cliff face, the beach below is a haven for water sports.
Lagos: A bustling historic town popular with Lisbon folk, with a busy marina and healthy nightlife.
Monte Gordo: Close to the Spanish border, with a great promenade and sandy beach with calm waters.
Quarteira: A long sandy beach, flat promenade and excellent local golf courses.
Attractions in the Algarve
Olhao Fish Market: Visit the local fish market in Olhao, a historical sea port town - with over 80 stalls.
Castle of Silves: The best-preserved castle in the Algarve sits atop a hillside with sweeping views.
Mount Foia: At 2,959 feet (902 meters) above sea level, you can hike or drive 8 milesto reach the summit.
Ponta da Piedade: A half-day trip from Lagos, the Ponta de Piedade is one of the most photographed spots.
Portimao: Here you'll find the most famous Algarve beach, Praia da Rocha, and a large marina where boat trips depart regularly.
Attractions for Kids
Lagos Zoo: Located just outside the town of Lagos, this is a lovely open park for roaming, with an animal petting area.
Waterparks: There are 4 water parks located on the west side of the Algarve - Splash & Slide Lagoa, Aqualand, Aquashow and Atlantic Park.
Zoomarine: A large marine activity park with aquatic animals, daily dolphin and seal shows and a 4D cinema.
Dolphin Watching: Dolphin and whale watching tours depart daily from the marinas in Vilamoura and Albufeira.
Quinta do Lago Watersports Centre: The centre has water-skiing, parasailing and banana boats, as well as a shade area, sun loungers and lifeguards.
Regional Food
- Bread & Seafood Soup (Acorda de Mariscos)
- Octopus Rice (Arroz de Polvo)
- Bean Stew (Feijoada Trasmontana)
- Clams in olive oil, garlic & cilantro (Ameijoas a Bulhao Pato)
- Garlic pork & stewed potatoes (Rojoes a Moda do Minho)
Airport: Faro Airport (FAO)
SHARED SHUTTLE
You can get a shared shuttle from Faro Airport to your accommodation. This a coach transfer with multiple stops en route to your accommodation. It's the cheapest but slowest option.
SPEEDY SHUTTLE
You also can get a speedy shuttle from Faro Airport to your accommodation. This also a coach transfer but with a maximum of 4-5 stops en route to your accommodation. It costs slightly more than the shared shuttle, but is faster.
PRIVATE TRANSFER
The fastest and most direct option, though slightly more expensive, is a private transfer. This is a private vehicle just for you and the people travelling with you. There are no stops and no waiting at the airport.
Average temperature
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
| high | 16 | 18 | 21 | 23 | 25 | 28 | 33 | 32 | 29 | 25 | 20 | 17 |
| low | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 9 |