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An insider Algarve travel guide
Discover the stunning beauty of the Algarve, Portugal's ultimate beach destination. Beyond its golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, the region boasts a laid-back lifestyle, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly locals. Follow me at @totheseastories as I uncover hidden gems and insider tips to help you explore the best of the Algarve. 🤍
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Ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Algarve? Look no further! I've handpicked the best experiences just for you on Viator. Whether you're into cliff jumping, horseback riding, or surfing, there's an activity that will get your heart racing! 🤩🌟
What are the best luxury hotels in the Algarve (including personal tips!)?
Looking for the best reviewed and most stylish luxury hotels in the Algarve? Then you'll love this article. I've handpicked my favourite 4- and 5-star hotels in some of the prettiest places in the Algarve. And because I always love to share more than just a hotel, I’ll also give you my personal tips on what to see and do while you’re there! When searching for the best hotels in the Algarve I personally like to use Booking.com (biggest collection) and Agoda (best deals). 1.
The best car rentals at Faro Airport (Algarve) that accept American Express
If you're planning a trip to the Algarve and prefer to pay with your American Express (Amex) card, finding the right car rental company at Faro Airport can be a bit of a challenge. I know because I've been through the same search plenty of times. While most car hire companies in Europe accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, American Express isn't always an option. Some companies don't accept Amex at all, while others only allow it for the rental payment and not f
Everything you want to know about Burgau, Algarve
If you're planning a trip to the Algarve, don't miss out on Burgau. This charming fishing village is one of my favorite beach towns towns in this region, and it's not hard to see why. Located just 10 kilometers from Lagos and an hour's drive from Faro Airport, Burgau boasts a picturesque setting, with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and a sandy beach. In this blog, I'll tell you all about why Burgau is worth a visit and what you can expect to see and do here. What's in t
The most beautiful family-friendly beaches in the Algarve (from my personal experience)
Traveling with young kids changes the way you choose beaches. I’m no longer just searching for the prettiest coastline, but for easy access, parking close by, calm water, and places to grab food or coffee without stress. After spending half my life the Algarve and the past few years with my own family, I found several beaches that perfectly fit these needs. These spots combine beauty with convenience, making them ideal for families with babies and toddlers. Miam at Praia do B
The most fun activities with kids in Carvoeiro: my personal tips!
Carvoeiro, and the Algarve in general, is an amazing holiday destination for families with children. Together with southern Spain, it has the sunniest climate in Europe, making it a great place to visit all year round. The cool sea breeze from the Atlantic Ocean also makes it a lovely spot during the summer holidays. Are you planning a family holiday to Carvoeiro in the Algarve? Then I'm happy to share my personal tips. I've been coming here since I was little, and these days
The most beautiful beach towns in the Algarve
Looking for the perfect beach town to stay during your Algarve trip? With so many stunning options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide. That's why I've narrowed down the list for you and selected my top picks for the most beautiful beach towns in the Algarve. From sandy beaches to picturesque scenery, these towns have it all. So sit back, start planning your trip, and discover the best beach towns in the Algarve.👇 My favorite booking platforms: Holiday homes: VRBO
The Algarve for families: discover where to stay and what to do
The Algarve in South Portugal is a popular vacation destination for families, and for good reason. With its beautiful sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of fun activities for kids and adults alike, it's the perfect place for a family getaway. Uncover the secrets of the Algarve and ensure your family creates lasting memories under the warm sun. What's in this blog? 1. The best towns to stay for families 2. Kids friendly hotels 3. The best time to travel for families 4
The 7 hanging valleys trail in the Algarve: A hiker’s dream
If you’re looking for the ultimate coastal hike in the Algarve, let me introduce you to the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail. This stunning coastal trek is often ranked as one of the best hiking routes in Europe, and trust me, it’s easy to see why! With jaw-dropping cliffs, hidden beaches, and turquoise waters that stretch as far as the eye can see, this trail is an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of southern Portugal. Whats in this article? Starting point Difficulty H
The 5 best car rental companies in the Algarve at Faro Airport
Looking for the best car rental company in the Algarve at Faro Airport? It can be overwhelming to choose the best option, considering the numerous car rental companies available. After thorough research and lots of personal experience, I've listed my top 5 car rental companies that offer the best services in the region. Good to know: this is not sponsored and non of the companies have paid me to post their car rental offers in this list. Key takeaways All my recommendations c
High season in the Algarve: where to stay for the best summer ever!
Planning a summer in the Algarve? You are not alone. The Algarve is one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe. And yes, it gets busy. But with the right tips, you can still enjoy a relaxed and unforgettable trip . I have been coming here my whole life, often for weeks or even months at a time. So this guide to the summer Algarve is based on real experience, not just a short visit. In this blog, you will find: The best areas to stay in the Algarve in summer Hidden
The best cafes and restaurants in Carvoeiro
If you're staying in the beautiful beach town of Carvoeiro and looking for the best places to eat, you've come to the right place. From the perfect sunset cocktail to traditional Portuguese cuisine, I've got you covered with the top cafes, bars, and restaurants in and around Carvoeiro. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner or a laid-back lunch with friends, there's something for everyone. So, check out my list of favorite local food and drink spots, and get ready t
Algarve travel tips I always share with friends
I’ve been coming to the Algarve since I was only 3 years old and these days I spend several months there every year. Over time, I’ve discovered so many beautiful places, hidden beaches and local spots that most tourists completely miss. So if you’re looking for real Algarve tips, the best beaches, cute towns and amazing things to do, this guide is for you. These are honestly the places and experiences I recommend to all my friends before they visit the Algarve. 1. Western Alg
The most kid-friendly restaurants in the Algarve (parent-approved by me 😉)
Eating out with kids in the Algarve doesn’t have to mean stress, screens, or rushed meals. Over the years, I’ve discovered that the Algarve actually has some fantastic kid-friendly restaurants where children can play freely and parents can genuinely relax and enjoy good food. For me, the perfect family-friendly restaurant in the Algarve has: Space for kids to move and play A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere Good food for both kids and parents A location near the beach, lagoon,
The best car rental booking sites (from an experienced user)
If there’s one thing I book for almost every trip, it’s a rental car. From road trips to family holidays, having a car gives me freedom, flexibility, and a lot less stress , especially when travelling with kids. Over the years, I’ve booked rental cars all over Europe, especially in Portugal and dealt with last-minute changes, insurance confusion, hidden fees, and pickup desk surprises. Through trial and error, I’ve narrowed it down to a handful of car rental booking sites I a
When is the best time to visit the Algarve? (month-by-month guide)
In my opinion the best time to visit the Algarve is April – May and September– October . These months offer warm sunshine, fewer crowds, nice temperatures, and better prices than summer, making them ideal for most travelers. That said, the “best” time really depends on what you want from your trip . Below is a clear breakdown by season, interests, and month. Let me tell you more about all the seasons in the Algarve and why! Hiking the 7 hanging valleys trail, Algarve Shoulde
Quiet towns in the Algarve
Are you dreaming of a peaceful escape to the Algarve, away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy hotspots? While destinations like Albufeira and Vilamoura are undeniably gorgeous, they can be overrun with crowds during peak season. The good news is that there are still plenty of gems to discover in the Algarve, with breathtaking natural scenery waiting to be explored. In fact, most of the Algarve remains unspoiled by tourism, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy th
The Algarve with a baby: a complete travel guide for parents (including hotels)
Ah, the Algarve – a sun-soaked haven where golden beaches meet turquoise waters. But what about exploring this paradise with the tiniest adventurer in tow? Fear not, intrepid parents! As a young parent myself, let me share my journey with you as I share tips and practical info from our Algarve escapades with a baby. What's in this blog? 1. Baby-friendly accommodations 2. Ideal times for your Algarve getaway 3. Family-friendly Algarve beaches 4. The best car rentals 5. Baby pr
Is the Algarve good for hiking? A guide for nature lovers
Yes, the Algarve is a great destination for hiking . From dramatic coastal cliffs and wild Atlantic scenery to peaceful mountain trails in the interior, the region offers an impressive variety of landscapes for hikers of all levels. While many people associate the Algarve mainly with beaches, it’s also one of the best places in southern Europe for scenic walks and multi-day hikes. Whether you prefer ocean views, rugged nature or forested mountains, hiking in the Algarve will
Do you need a car in the Algarve? An honest travel guide
Driving on around the point of Sagres, Algarve Whether you need a car in the Algarve completely depends on what kind of trip you’re planning and what you want to get out of it . In general, I would definitely recommend renting a car . The Algarve is a wide region, towns and beaches can be far apart, and public transport coverage is limited, especially outside the main tourist hubs. That said, you don’t always need a car . Below I’ll explain when you do, when you don’t, and w
The Algarve in May: what it's like and where to stay
Are you looking for a stunning vacation destination with beautiful hotels and vacation homes, great weather, and plenty of activities? Then head to The Algarve in May! This is one of the best months to visit this beautiful region, as the landscape is still green and lush, temperatures are perfect, and it's not too crowded. In this post, I'll cover everything you need to know about The Algarve in May, from the weather, to what to pack, things to do, and where to stay. What's i
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Looking for the best travel tips, encounters and recommendations for your Algarve trip? Look no further than my Algarve travel blog! As an avid traveler and Algarve enthusiast, I share my top recommendations and insider tips to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful region.
But I'm always looking to add more unique experiences to my blog, and I need your help! If you've discovered a hidden gem in the Algarve - whether it's a new restaurant, a magical beach, a great surf shop, or a yoga school - I want to hear about it.
Send me a message at anna@totheseastories.com and let's share these incredible experiences with other Algarve travelers
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