Algarve Weekend Breaks: What To Do When Visiting For A Few Days

The Algarve is a hugely popular destination for summer holidays, with many families and couples staying here for a few weeks to make the most of the glorious Algarve weather. However, in recent years, the popularity of Algarve weekend breaks has massively increased and now more and more people are opting to spend a few days in the Algarve over a week or two. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s easy for tourists to plan a few sun-filled days away, but knowing what to fit into those few days can prove tricky as there is so much to see and do across the Algarve. 

Whether you’re visiting for a few days of relaxation, adventure or just to try somewhere new, Algarve weekend breaks are the perfect blend of beach and city holidays. With the promise of beautiful coastlines, history and cuisine, the Algarve has it all. 

Where To Stay For Algarve Weekend Breaks

The Algarve is made up of many popular tourist destinations, so choosing a location for your Algarve weekend breaks is fairly simple, depending on what you want to do during your short getaway. 

• Portimão

Portimão is a popular destination and if you want to avoid some of the bigger crowds which the Algarve attracts, then even during peak seasons you’ll find plenty of secluded spots on the beaches in Portimão. With small caves to explore along the cliffs, the Castle of Silves and even a James Bond beach location, Portimão is a wonderful place to visit for Algarve weekend breaks. 

• Albufeira

Albufeira is perhaps the number one tourist destination in the Algarve, especially if you’re looking to stick to a budget. With plenty of family activities, this is a must-visit location for family-friendly Algarve weekend breaks. There’s no shortage of activities for children to enjoy in Albufeira, including the Zoomarine Water Park, which has pirate shows, exotic animals and pools for all ages. There are also fantastic beaches in Albufeira, but a must-visit is Praia da Falesia to see the impressive orange cliffs. 

• Faro

Known as the capital of the Algarve, Faro offers plenty for Algarve weekend breaks and if this is your first visit to the Algarve, then it is probably the best location for you to explore. From attractions such as the metal fish market, which was designed by Gustav Eiffel and the Gallery of Municipal Art to nearby beaches, Faro has a great mixture of things to do, especially if you are just visiting for a few days. 

Fun Activities For Algarve Weekend Breaks

With dazzling sunshine and golden beaches, it’s tempting to want to just spend your limited time relaxing on the beach, but the Algarve has so much more to offer than just beautiful beaches. Portugal, and the Algarve, in particular, is famed for its great wines, so why not book to go on a vineyard tour during your short stay? You get to spend the day learning all about the process involved, try fresh grapes off the vine and then enjoy tastings paired with delicious and fresh Portuguese food. 

Many of the coastal villages have traditional old towns, which are always worth exploring if you have the chance when on an Algarve weekend break. With markets, beautiful old buildings, traditional restaurants and cafes and glistening marinas, there is always plenty to see and is the perfect way to spend a day in the sunshine. 

No matter how you plan to spend your Algarve weekend break, there is so much to do here on the southern coast of Portugal that you’ll want to return again and again!