Algarve region is best known for its breath-taking beaches, contrasting with the raw landscape of rocky cliffs, which surround most of the southern and western coast of Portugal. No wonder why tourists crowds who are coming each year to this place, choose the beaches as the main target of their travel. Don't get me wrong, it is definitely worth visiting the most beautiful ones (you can find out more about them HERE) or simply discover your own secluded places which are situated along Portuguese coast. However, Algarve has much more to offer: rich history and culture, stirring coastal towns and fascinating nature spots among others.

I have listed seven best places to visit while in Algarve, so dig in if you are interested. How to get to them? The easiest way is by car, but it is also possible to get around by bus or train (read about it HERE). Alright folks, let's go!

Olhão – a fishing town situated east of Faro, untouched by commercialism, because visited by fewer tourists. It is worth visiting the market offering fresh fruit and veggies, as well as fish and seafood that have been caught in the early morning. For lunch, it's best to go to the cozy family restaurant Vai e Volta serving grilled fish - you pay 10 Euro at once, and fish are brought in until you've had enough. The town borders with the national park Ria Formosa, which is a great spot for bird watching and continues further east to Tavira.

Charming streets of Olhão — *Charming streets of* ***Olhão***

Tavira – the charming atmosphere of this place will captivate everyone. The white patricians' houses at the banks of the Gilão river create a wonderful climate encouraging walks through the stony streets and squares.

Lagos – bustling city visited by many tourists, of population about 20 thousand residents. The historical port was already used by the Greeks and Romans, and reached its glory in the fifteenth century. It is worth going to the streets in closed to the traffic Old Town Gil Eanes, gathering the largest number of cafes and restaurants, creating a neat urban whole with the rest of the city. Not far away there is the popular and supposedly one of the most beautiful beaches of Praia de Dona Ana.
ON THE MARGIN: we did not like this beach because it usually gets very crowded.

*Characteristic architecture of houses in Algarve*

Ponta de Piedade - this place located west of Lagos, is considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal, and even in Europe. The southern promontory is formed by sandy beaches hidden among soaring rocks, natural rock arches, caves and coves, to which can be reached by motorboat (you can also visit them on foot). Tours take place from Lagos for approx. 35 euros per person.

Silves - is a historic city with characteristic white buildings, it is hiding the remains of an old Moorish castle in its center, which are rising above the red sloping roofs of local houses. Admission to the castle costs 2.50 euros per person.

Cabo de São Vicente - Cape of St. Vincent is the westernmost part of Europe. Whipped by strong winds, it creates a harsh climate, and the high cliffs, washed up by rough waves, together make an amazing impression. On the cape there is a parking lot next to the lighthouse, and from there you can admire fairy-tale views on your own. However, be careful because most of the terrain is unprotected!

Aljezur - charming small town with a castle, full of narrow stony roads leading between white houses, located near the most beautiful beaches of the Algarve, including Praia de Monte Clérigo and Praia de Odeceixe Mar.

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TOP SEVEN SPOTS TO VISIT WHILE IN ALGARVE