Markets & crafts in Algarve
If you're looking to find the authentic Algarve, Loulé's credentials couldn't be more complete – it's one of the oldest cities in the south. See the Roman-era origins and Arabic influences of this pretty city, and then hit the countryside to visit the typical villages of Querenca and Barranco do Velho. It's traditional Portugal to a T.
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Loule boasts a rich medieval history, and it has always been a hugely important commercial centre for the Algarve region. Explore its open-air market stalls and its thriving indoor farmer's market on this half-day excursion. Although Loule is the Algarve's second-biggest city, its markets are conveniently located within striking distance of one another. Wander the narrow lanes of open-air “gypsy” market, where locally produced ceramics and all manner of other items weigh down the plentiful stalls. This is the prime territory for picking up some great souvenirs at a bargain price.You might want to cool down by taking things indoors to the beautifully restored farmers' market. Savour the wonderful sights and smells of the plentiful produce, which has been transported that very morning from the surrounding countryside and the clear Atlantic Ocean. And if there's time left over, delve into the narrow side streets that surround the markets. Here, you'll stumble across Loule's little handicraft shops, stuffed with hand-worked copper pans and wicker baskets
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Popular experiences in Algarve
Algarve - Faro hop on and hop off tourist train
Enjoy Faro hop on and hop off tourist train to stroll through the city streets and discover its historical monuments.
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Algarve - Tavira hop on and hop off tourist train
Book your Tavira hop on and hop off tourist train and discover places like Tavira castle, fishermen's quarters and more.
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Albufeira - Silves and Monchique half-day tour from Albufeira
Visit Silves and its Castle, Cathedral and Archeology Museum, enjoy the panoramic views from the mountains, reach Fóia, the highest point in Algarve
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Albufeira - Lagos and Sagres half-day tour from Albufeira
Visit Lagos, reach the most southwesterly point in Continental Europe, Cabo São Vicente in Sagres, admire Europe's most powerful lighthouse and Fortaleza de Sagres
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Algarve - Western Algarve Full Day Tour
A tour of western Algarve welcomes you to a region rich in natural beauty, history and heritage. You'll explore the historic city of Lagos where St Anthony's Church and the old slave market are musts. Plus, there's a visit to the timeless fishing village of Sagres, and epic views from Cape St Vincent – what was once known as the ‘End of the World'.
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With the world's largest sand sculpture exhibition on your doorstep, a trip out here promises all kinds of sandy fun and games. The International Sand Sculpture Festival runs every year near Lagoa with mega sculptures, workshops, activities and more to enjoy and be in awe of.There's nothing quite like it – 45,000 tonnes of sand, painstakingly sculpted into incredible artistic creations. Sculptors from all over the world come to take part and show off this different take on architecture. And with your ticket, you'll get to see it all and a few things more.Once you've searched out a few sculptures, there are activities for kids, demonstrations and workshops on everything to do with sand sculpting. There's even a fish spa if you need to relax your feet, and a snack bar to replenish energy levels before your next sculpture hunt. What's more, if you go between June and mid-September, you can take it all in at night.
Albufeira - Caves and Dolphin- Watching Aboard the Dreamer
Visit the incredible caves of the Algarve on a jet powered boat and enjoy the view of the dolphins in their natural environment
Algarve - Fatima Full Day Tour
This full day tour takes you on a pilgrimage all of your own. You'll journey from Albufeira early in the morning to cross the Portuguese hinterlands towards ‘the Shrine of the World', which attracts about four million pilgrims every year – the one and only Fatima.
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Albufeira - Dolphin and cave watching cruise aboard the Insónia
Book this Dolphin and cave watching cruise aboard the Insónia and enjoy fantastic Atlantic Ocean views!
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Algarve - Algarve coastal tour with beach BBQ and cave visit
Discover the hidden gems of Algarve on a coastal tour with secluded beach and seaside barbecue. Embark on this unforgettable adventure today!
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Algarve - Guided bike tour through Ria Formosa Natural Park
Explore the beauty of Ria Formosa on a guided bike tour. Pedal through diverse ecosystems and appreciate nature in Algarve.
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Algarve - Full day 4x4 tour of the Algarve’s countryside and traditions
Rumbling through the Algarve in a 4x4, you'll head to Quinta da Fornalha, an organic farm and heritage site, where you're off to a scrummy start with a fresh produce tasting. Then, take in the views at Beliche Dam before you reach the rural village of Odeleite. There's time to grab yourself some lunch here before rounding off your day with two historic villages, Castro Marim and Cacela Velha. With it's Morrish roots, white-washed houses and intricate chimney pots, Cacela Velha is the best-preserved village along the Algarve coast.
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Algarve - Algarve 4x4 tour of Tavira with Ria Formosa boat ride
You'll hop in a 4x4 to see a real mix of the Algarve's landscapes, including the historic village charm of Cacela Velha, the bustling market of Tavira and the scenic dam and reservoir of Barragem do Beliche. In the fishing village of Fuseta there's time to grab yourself some lunch, before boarding a boat trip through the bird-watching haven of the Ria Formosa, where you'll learn about local oyster farming. Wrap up your day at Praia da Barra Velha, one of the Algarve's most idyllic beaches.
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Algarve - Half-day 4x4 nature and culture tour in Guadiana
Buckle up for a 4x4 adventure exploring some of Guadiana's inland beauty. You'll begin at a rural estate to learn about sustainable farming and to sample organic produce. Then, soak in scenic views at Beliche Dam before diving into the world of cork, Portugal's national symbol – you'll see how it's harvested and learn about its cultural importance. As you speed across rolling green hills and valleys, your guide will share stories of the land. The tour ends in Odeleite Village for a look at what rural life is like.
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Algarve - Vilamoura Marina parasailing
Experience the thrill of parasailing over Vilamoura Marina on Portugal's stunning Algarve coast, and soar high above the azure waters for breathtaking panoramic views.
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Algarve - Boat tour dolphin quest in Vilamoura
Set sail from Vilamoura on this exciting dolphin-watching adventure along the Algarve coast, and cruise through crystal-clear waters.
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Algarve - Catamaran trip discovering Benagil Cave from Vilamoura Marina
Embark on a catamaran journey from Vilamoura Marina, explore the Benagil Cave and other coastal highlights. Enjoy a welcome drink while onboard.
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Algarve - Sunset sailing in the Algarve with drinks and tapas ticket only
Set sail along the Algarve's coast on this evening cruise aboard the Gageiro. This traditional sailing ship, dating back to 1947, is one of the last of its kind, so you're sailing on a piece of Portuguese history.Cast off from Portimao, heading west along the coast before dropping anchor in Joao d'Arens for a swim. It's a calm and secluded beach with beautifully clear water, but guarantee you'll be busy looking up at the dramatic pink-hued cliffs that line the bay. It's a chilled out setting to tuck into some tasty tapas and sip local wines as you relax on deck here.Then, it's time for the real adventure. Your crew will raise the sails and switch off the engine, letting the boat be propelled by pure wind power. It's a real thrill to feel how fast Mother Nature can be and gives a timeless feel to the end of your journey. Just so you know, this experience doesn't include transport to or from the port.
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Algarve - Gageiro sailing with drinks and tapas– ticket only
What could be more serene than a morning sailing trip from Marina de Portimao? You'll cruise along the picturesque Algarve coast towards the stunning rock formations of Praia do Vau.Relax and enjoy the scenic views with cold drinks and tasty tapas onboard, while experiencing the thrill of sailing along one of Europe's most impressive coastlines. Make sure you dive in for a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the ocean, then stretch out on deck to dry off as you look up at the red and golden cliffs that surround the coast here. The iconic stand-alone rock formation of Praia do Vau looks like a great, lonely giant at the end of the beach. It's a real treat to see and perfect for snapping insta-worthy photos of.
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Algarve - Sites & Bites: Tiborna tasting and Faro Old Town tour
Tuck into the tastes of the Algarve on this half-day foodie tour in Faro. With hotel pick-up included from Albufeira and Armacoao de Pera, it's an ideal way to explore the region's history-soaked capital, laidback lifestyle and, of course, local flavours.The tour kicks off at Arco da Vila, a neoclassical gateway leading into Faro's compact old town. From there, your guide will show you through narrow cobbled lanes lined with tiled facades and wrought-iron balconies. Stops include the Town Hall, the Baroque Faro Cathedral and the Municipal Museum. The latter's a former convent that holds a solid collection of religious art and archaeological finds. Make sure to look out for traditional azulejos along the way. These hand-painted ceramic tiles tell stories in cobalt and white and can be found tucked away in unexpected corners. Things shift from oldy worldy to hands-on at Faro Story Spot, where you can expect sensory exhibits, multimedia displays and even a chance to taste a traditional Tiborna. This simple yet sublime snack involves rustic bread drizzled with olive oil and topped with seasonal ingredients. It's served with a glass of local wine, juice, or water – you can take your pick.After some free in the old town, head over to Tertulia Algarvia, a small restaurant and cultural centre known for keeping regional food traditions alive. Here, you'll finish off your tour with the Algarvian Trilogy, a mini dessert trio featuring fig, almond, and carob – three ingredients that define the local pantry – paired with a smooth shot of Algarvian liqueur.
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