Lagos (West Algarve) — History, Beaches & Balance

Best for: families, couples, culture + beaches, car-free stays.
Why stay: Historic center, Ponta da Piedade caves, beaches like Camilo/Dona Ana/Meia Praia, great tours (kayak, boat, dolphins).
Stay zones: Old Town (walkable), Meia Praia (long sandy beach), Porto de Mós (family-friendly).
Consider: Small summer hills/steps in town; book parking if you’re driving.

Albufeira — Nightlife Hub & Central Base

Best for: bachelor/hen groups, mixed-age families wanting action, budget variety.
Why stay: Old Town squares + The Strip nightlife, beaches (Pescadores, Oura, Falésia east side), boat trips to caves.
Stay zones: Old Town (walkable), Oura/Areias (party), Santa Eulália (calmer).
Consider: Noise near the Strip; choose streets back from main bars for sleep.

Portimão & Praia da Rocha — Big Beach Energy

Best for: nightlife-light, long promenades, easy beach access.
Why stay: Iconic Praia da Rocha, marina boardwalk, Arade River cruises, quick hop to Alvor and Ferragudo.
Stay zones: Beachfront (boardwalk), Rio Arade side for quieter stays.
Consider: Summer busy; book sea-view early.

Vilamoura & Quarteira — Marina Lifestyle & Golf Central

Best for: golfers, families, couples who love amenities and easy walking.
Why stay: Glam marina, Falésia sands, five championship courses (Old Course, Victoria, etc.), boat charters, spas, padel/tennis.
Stay zones: Marina ring (dining, nightlife), Falésia side (beachy), Quarteira (budget, flat seafront).
Consider: Higher prices peak season; shoulder seasons are ideal for golf.

Tavira & Ria Formosa (East Algarve) — Calm, Culture & Islands

Best for: families with small kids, couples, slow travel, nature.
Why stay: Ferries to Ilha de Tavira/Barril, charming old town, salt pans, birdwatching, Santa Luzia (octopus).
Stay zones: Historic center (walkable), Cabanas (lagoon-front boardwalk), Fuseta (authentic, calm waters).
Consider: Island beaches require ferry/water taxi (fun for kids).

Costa Vicentina (West Coast: Sagres, Aljezur, Carrapateira) — Surf & Wild Nature

Best for: surfers, hikers, photographers, road-trippers.
Why stay: Amado, Bordeira, Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, Tonel, Beliche—world-class surf; Rota Vicentina trails; dark skies.
Stay zones: Sagres (compact, surf culture), Aljezur (castle town + beaches), Carrapateira (dunes/views).
Consider: Atlantic can be windier/cooler; bring layers.

Carvoeiro & Ferragudo — Cliffs, Coves & Pretty Villages

Best for: couples and families wanting scenic coves without heavy nightlife.
Why stay: Boardwalks, boat trips to Benagil area, cute squares, Ferragudo’s riverside restaurants.
Consider: Hilly streets; parking can be tight in August.

Alvor — Family-Friendly Boardwalks

Best for: families, gentle beaches, nature walks.
Why stay: Huge sands, estuary boardwalks, low-rise resort vibe, close to Penina golf.
Consider: Quieter nights than Portimão; perfect if you want early sleep.

Faro & Olhão — City Vibes & Market Towns

Best for: foodies, culture lovers, Ria Formosa island-hopping.
Why stay: Faro old town (walls, museums), Olhão markets and ferries to Armona/Farol/Culatra.
Consider: Mainland beaches require short boat hop—worth it for calm lagoons.

Quinta do Lago & Vale do Lobo (Golden Triangle) — Luxury & Golf

Best for: upscale villas, spa breaks, golf groups, privacy.
Why stay: Pine trails, boardwalks, nature reserves, top dining, immaculate facilities.
Consider: Car handy; premium pricing.

Monte Gordo & Vila Real de Santo António (Far East) — Wide Sands & Value

Best for: budget, long stays, wide and calm beaches, Spain day trips.
Why stay: Flat promenades, family-friendly water, cross-border excursions to Ayamonte.
Consider: Less dramatic cliffs; great for easy beach days.