Algarve

Eco-friendly travel guide to Algarve advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Algarve, Portugal.

The Algarve coast

Air quality: 2 / 5

Bus connections: 3 / 5

Train connections: 3 / 5

Hitchhiking: 2 / 5

National parks: 2 / 5

Outdoor activities: 2 / 5

Locals' English level: 2 / 5

Safety: 3 / 5

Accommodation: US$10 - $40

Budget per day: US$30 - $150

Responsible Travel

It is the southernmost region of Portugal, with land covering 4997 km2 with 451006 people. This region has around 16 municipalities. The capital of this region is Faro. Faro is a place where the main airport and a public university is present. This region is the most developed region of Portugal. There are also some famous kitesurfing spots available in this region where you can kitesurf.

Air Quality and Pollution

Air quality in Algarve is moderately safe. But it can be affected by the apparel and tourism industry, ship construction, and vehicle emissions. Although it may be hard to cover everywhere, Algarve is safe for tourists and local people. Thus, the air quality in Algarve depends on where you are visiting. Everyone here is taking some sort of necessary steps to reduce air pollution and increase air quality. Sensitive people are also safe here.

Respect the Culture

The majority of the citizens in Algarve are Catholic, nominally if not in practice. The people in this region also love when a person is assertive. Here people are so lovely that they will guide you throughout your trip to Algarve. You will get to so many cultural sights in the Algarve region of Portugal. You can learn so many things from local people here, as they are very helping and they always help everyone who comes here for the first time. You can also trust them entirely with everything.

Top 10 Places to Visit

Cape St. Vincent: It is a sacred place present in the municipality of Vila do Bisp, which is in Algarve. It is a holy place since the Neolithic time. During Greek times, this place was called Ophoussa, which means land of serpents. The end of this land is connected with the Atlantic, and the height of this cliff is 75 meters upwards. There is a lighthouse in this place that guards one of the busiest shipping lanes and has a powerful lamp of 1,000 watts.

Serra de Monchique: It is a mountain range with a length of 32 kilometres, and the highest point is 902 meters. It is present in the western part of the Algarve. These mountains are covered with forest in which eucalyptus, pine, and acacia trees and plants surround the entire forest. There is a town in this range called Monchique, after which these ranges were named. There is a slate of rocks available around the Late Cretaceous age.

Caves: There are some caves in this region, but the two most famous caves are Benagil and Zorreira. There is no land here through which you can visit these caves; the only ways to reach inside these caves are through kayaking or canoe through which you can get here. This cave is present in the municipality of Lagos in Algarve and near the Atlantic coast. One of the fascinating things about the beach is a hole on the roof of this cave. Different tour agencies can arrange a tour to these caves by boat taking additional charges and time to stay at that beach.

Zoo marine Algarve: It is a theme park which is located in Guia and was opened in 1989. This park is spread on Friday and Saturday from 10 in the morning till 5 in the night. There are many rides in this park such as Jurassic river, Rapid river, Zoo marine Express, Aqua splash, Big Wheel, Pirate Ship, Aqua tube and Body Slide, CarousselAtlantida, Giant Wheel, Buffalo, and Harakiri. There are shows of different animals such as Lau, Lotus, Toni, Alpha, Missy, Sam, and Ariel. There is a Zoo marine beach present in this city, 4D cinema, and aquariums with sharks.

Lagos Zoo: There are around 150 species of animals present in their natural habitats. There are certain feeding times of animals which you should not miss, along with penguin beaches and bat enclosure. Zoos can help a person know about the animals, their habitats, and their lifestyle. Other than this, zoos also help in saving different species if they are feared to get extinct.

Faro Old Town: It is a municipality present under Algarve and is also the biggest city in Algarve, with 118,000 people living in this area. There is an ancient town which is present in this country. This town can help you provide different histories, architectures of Rome, Portugal, and Greeks. Other than this, this area was under the Romans during the second and the eighth century. The primary and historical centre of Faro is Manuel Bivar Park.

Castle of Alvor: It is a castle which is present in the Faro district in Algarve since medieval times. It was built in 7thcenture BCE and is now opened to the public as a famous tourist spot. You must visit this castle if you love to explore the architecture of different times and also historical monuments. You can again hire a guide if you want to know about this castle in detail, he can tell you many things about the court, including its history.

Sao Lourenco Church: This church is present in Faro, the length of this church is 19.55 meters, and the width is 18.14 meters. This church is built in an architectural style of Baroque architecture and is dedicated to Saint Lawrence. In 1968, this church was renovated, and reconstruction of some church parts was done, including reparation of doors, frames, and replastering done during this time. This church suffered damage such as cracks in walls and other such damages in1969 due to an earthquake.

Vicentine Coast Natural Park: It is a natural park present in the Algarve and one of the 30 natural parks under Portuguese protection. Institute of Natural Conservation and Forests manages it. There are guides available in this park and caravan, which can help you get details about the natural park. This natural park has a dramatic coastal with various cliffs, beaches, and fauna, including raptors and sea otters.

Ria Formosa: It is a lagoon present in Algarve. It is a barrier system of the island that Out of these inlets, 5 are natural inlets, and the sixth is an artificial inlet built to allow access to Faro. It is also a natural park which is present oven an area of 170 km². You can see a lot of birds of different types, especially during spring and autumn. The cities which are near to this area are Tavira, Faro, and Olhao.

The view from Serra de Monchique

Explore

The Algarve is Portugal's southernmost region and one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations. The beach is blessed with a gorgeous coastline and the most beautiful beaches; the province enjoys hot, dry summers and short, mild winters. Warm sea temperatures and gentle winds add more beauty to it. The Algarve is a land of contrast, and there is a lot to do. More than one-half of all visitors to Portugal spend their holidays here. The popular and more developed central district offers lively coastal vacations, top-notch tourist facilities, and some of Portugal's best golf courses. Farther east, a series of sandy islands and lagoons form part of a beautiful and sheltered natural park, and a distinctive Spanish atmosphere spans the border towns and villages. In the West, it calls for a very different Algarve. Wilder and farther is a place to escape the crowds and where surfers seek congregation with the unsettled Atlantic Ocean.

City Parks

Aquashow Park: This spirited vacation construction with the water park is preparing to the N three96 route and is three kilometres from Loulé railway station. It's together fifteen kilometres from Cidade DE capital of Cape Verde district attorney Falésia, a sandy beach. The lively, fashionable rooms have a sideboard, flat-screen TV, and free web. Cots available on request; Most rooms have a balcony. Family rooms with pool views are also available. Space service is available. A complimentary breakfast is served among the posh eatery. There are also 2 rods. Completely different facilities embrace a seasonal water park with slides and waterfalls, excursions, live exhibits, a spa, and a kids' club. There is together a fitness centre, indoor and doors pools.

Sand city Lagoa: Sand city Lagoa is currently the foremost important sand sculpture park in the world. Prosandart has been organizing FIESA, the world's largest sand sculpture pageant, that transpires in 2019 on the foremost necessary sand, SAND CITY, for the past sixteen years. By travelling the continent and learning regarding their traditions in nature, history, art, culture, cuisine, cinemas, sports, and music, with the experience of "Sand World Trip".

Family Golf Park: The family golf park in Vilamoura, not just like the opposite within the Algarve, offers a mini-golf experience with a pair of 18-hole courses, a diffusion of facilities, and even cool holes to refresh you throughout the summer months. Much care and a spotlight have been paid to Via city's creation with a Roman theme and the two stages, complete with very few editions of some Roman landmarks and Via region icons, with a classic piece. The field and facilities unit of measurement throughout an outstanding condition and keep accessible to younger players, whereas providing a decent challenge for older players. Play one or every course, then use the bar, playground, and games space at a reasonable value and procure on the tour bus that leaves the planet all day if you want to explore Vilamoura.

National Parks

Peneda-Geres National Park: Peneda-Gerês is located in the north of Portugal and is the only national park in the country. It is fascinating to discover the hospitable and wild Serra do Gerês created to preserve this unique landscape. Although there are several mountain peaks in the park, the two highest peaks (i.e., Gerês and Altar doe Cabroes) offer the area's best views. The paths and roads meander around the park's seamless surroundings. There are many exciting places to visit, from the peculiar rock formations to the first settlers' old warehouses. In Peneda-Gerês, there are many beautiful waterfalls to see, and one of the most memorable places is the ruins of Vilarinho das Furnas. This ancient village was deliberately flooded when a local reservoir gets filled, and the remains were unprotected when the water fell during the drought. Strange to see but strangely beautiful, the ruins are a must in this unforgettable garden that perfectly captures all the natural wonders of Portugal.

Arrabida Natural Park: With its beautiful white sandy beaches, beautiful rocky cliffs surrounding the beach, and low mountains covered with lush vegetation in the interior, Arrábida Nature Park has many natural gems for guests. The warm Mediterranean climate has created numerous wildlife and flora that paint the landscape in countless colours. Inland, the yellow plains give way to the dark green forest along the white coast hills. The pristine beaches like Figueirinha and Galapinhos are a popular haven for those living in Lisbon and are especially beautiful among all the other riches they possess. Lovely and quiet walks are beautiful in this natural setting, and a fun walk along the coastal paths will relax the soul while a gentle sea breeze cools the skin. If you go on a boat trip on the open sea, you can admire the beauty of the beach from afar, and the beautiful panorama stretches endlessly under the beautiful sun.

Serra da Estrela Natural Park:A lot is going on in this beautiful natural garden. Serra da Estrela is also home to the tower, which is the highest point in Portugal and less than 2000 meters high with its most extensive mountain range. Beautiful valleys and valleys follow the countryside, and due to the park's diverse landscape, lots of wildlife and vegetation thrive at different heights. Lakes and forests are scattered among the mountains and stumble across crystal clear water or beautiful secluded forest paths; visiting this nature park a magical experience.

This is a trail in Peneda-Gerês National Park where you can rent a kart and see this beautiful lake

Beaches

Praia Da Marinha: 8 km from Lagoa, it is present in the southeast, and this beach stands out with its impressive brown appearance created by dissolved limestone. For this reason, this is an ideal beach for those who want to enjoy the sea. Beaches here are unique places to enjoy your weekend with your family members and friends. You will get attract to shores here automatically.

Praia De Odeceixe: Odeceixe, the northernmost beach in the Algarve, is also one of the region's best beaches. The beach, located in Rota Vicentine, one of the best walking routes in the area, is ideal for those who want to walk. As it is a safe beach, families with children often prefer it. Must-visit beach in Algarve, because of its environment and beautiful scenes.

Praia De Vale Figueira: If you are hanging out alone or looking for a beach where you can spend unforgettable moments with your lover, we have to say that this is one of the most romantic spots you can find around. The most unique and beautiful beach you will ever get to see in Algarve. You can bring your family members here with you to spend some quality time with them—a lovely and fantastic place to relax during your whole trip to Algarve.

The beautiful beach of Praia da Marinha

Landmarks

Vila Real de Santo António: There are chances that you can hear Spanish-speaking Spanish here because this is a place close to Spain without crossing the border. Indeed, Vila Real de Santo António's shops and markets are geared towards visiting Spaniards, but this pleasant border town also has many tourist attractions worth exploring. The excellent Arquivo Histórico Municipal Avenida da República brings together a freely designed, spirited interactive exhibition for visiting the nearly vanished sardine and tuna canning industry in the region. The handsome main square, Praça Marques de Pombal stunning mosaic sunburst spreading from a central obelisk and is surrounded by orange trees and inviting cafes and restaurants. A fun-filled diversion is a ferry from the pier next to the harbour to the Spanish border city. Ayamonte with its colourful tapas restaurants and traditional style delicatessen. The ferry, which also carries cars, takes about 20 minutes to cross the Guadiana River.

Alcoutim: The eastern Algarve's barren and sparsely populated interior is rarely visited and often avoids the tourist map. But about 40 kilometres north of Vila Real is Alcoutim, a scenic village with great views. The driver alone is worth the road change. Instead of using the IC27 dual path, the Guadiana River may be a broad, meandering waterway that forms a natural border between Spain and Portugal. A stain of whitewash reveals this riverfront, and the tiny hamlet looks like it was created from the dream of an extremely talented artist. After a strategic river port was controlled by the Greeks, Romans, and especially the Arabs, Alcoutim later played a role in the peace treaty signed between King Fernando I of Portugal and Enrique II of Castile 1371. Still a sleepy and calm Alcoutim that greets visitors today. The best way to start wandering is to date back to the 14th century. Fort (entrance fee includes access to a small archaeological museum at the main gates). The castle walls offer great views of the surroundings and take in the Spanish village. Sanlúcar de Guadiana is located on the opposite bank of the river. There is a regular ferry service between the two towns, but there is an alternative and refreshing way to cross the river. Above Sanlúcar, on the Spanish side, it is the world's only cross-border zipper line operator. In addition to speeding from one country to another, you also cross a time zone - there is a time difference of one hour between Spain and Portugal.

Tavira: Close to the beach in the Eastern Algarve, Tavira is one of the most beautiful towns. The end roofs that define much of Tavira architecture are unique to this part of the Algarve. Therefore, the number of churches that adorn the old city is 21. The graceful bridge that enters the river was built in the 17th century on Roman foundations. Amble along a riverside Tavira is one of the best ways to appreciate factors; The palm-lined gardens are stained with color in the summer, and the nearby market is full of fresh fruit and vegetables. Ilha de Tavira is a favourite place for sun-seekers and one of the few islands in the area where camping is permitted from the ferries pier. Alternatively, you can join a sightseeing cruise. Ria Formosa A beautiful pristine waterway and part of a protected natural park.

The main square Vila Real de Santo António

Museums

Museu Regional Do Algarve: The Algarve Regional deposit is one in each of the only places to seek out heaps of regarding Algarve's science's social and cultural side. The artefacts among the deposit mirror Associate in Nursing ancient and long-forgotten Algarve from a piece of furniture to field tools and handicrafts, and mirror the whole region from the ocean to the within, encompassing ancient and presently extinct villages.

Museu Municipal Diamond State game: Once housed throughout a beautiful cloister, the Municipal deposit of game exhibits archaeological artefacts chemical analysis back to prehistoric times and covering each significant quantity, chemical analysis back to the 20th century. Intrinsical in the late 1800s, the deposit dedicated to Henry Navigator in the European nation is the second oldest among the Algarve and was named the only Portuguese guarantee among the early 2000s. If you are bobbing up with a visit to the game, confine mind free admission on Sundays; Otherwise, the value price tag costs two units of measurement.

Museu Diamond State Portimao: Portugal is moneyed in fishing and maritime history, and additionally, the Portimão deposit focuses specifically on the industry's impact on the city. , the promise opened in 2008 and served to show guests on, but the maritime trade affects the lives of native people socially and economically. The major exhibition is termed Portimão, Territory, and Identity and covers a quantity spanning thousands of years past to the present. You can see many temporary exhibitions also here.

Eat

For food lovers looking for a truly authentic experience, then Algarve is the perfect place. Whether you're looking for a Michelin star experience or to enjoy simple, freshly prepared local food, you'll always find something special in the cuisine of Portugal's Algarve. Street foods in Algarve are similar to other regular traditional foods. It happens in the sense that they have gained popularity worldwide. If you ever plan your trip to such a beautiful place you must try their best traditional foods.

Drink

You will get customary drinks in Portugal worth talking about; some are very traditional and differ from region to region. Beer is ubiquitous everywhere you go, and Portugal is no exception to this rule. There are several brands we can point out. Portugal also has one of the most luxurious wine production industries in the world. You will get so many famous and traditional bars here that serves the best beer, wines, and alcoholic drinks.

Tap-water

Tap-water in Algarve is generally safe and healthy to drink if you go to any restaurant or food centres, they will serve you bottled water, which is perfectly fine, yet you can ask for tap-water according to your wish. You can even drink directly from the tap itself wherever you go. There’s no harm either way. The tap-water is of good quality that you drink without a second thought. Bottled water is also cheap in Portuguese cities; hence you can prefer it according to your needs. Being an eco-friendly citizen, you must keep in mind that bottled water increases plastic consumption, which pollutes the environment. Therefore, you must consume less use of plastic to save the city from plastic consumption. You can keep a steel water bottle or, say, thermal water bottles to fill it with normal tap-water for your journey. You can use this city's tap water for other household purposes, such as washing clothes, dishes, cleaning purposes, and many more. Ensure the water supply is 'mains' (supplied by the local council) if you are staying in a rural area because if the water supply is coming from a borehole or cisterna, then the water may not be safe to drink from the tap.

Activities

There are plenty of activities you can do in this beautiful Portuguese city. Its mild climate tempered by the Atlantic coast gives another vibe to indulge in every bit of the place. On farther east, you can see a string of sandbar islands and lagoons, and meanwhile, on farther West, you will see a very different Algarve beckons. You'll see visitors in large numbers as more than fifty per cent of all the visitors to Portugal spend their holiday here because Algarve is undoubtedly a land of contrast where there are plenty of things to do. This popular beach destination also serves you mouth-watering cuisines. From cruise tours to island tours by boats or buggies, from unwinding on dreamlike beaches to exploring coastal caves, from first-rate tourist amenities to some of Portugal’s best golf courses, you can enjoy to the fullest once you enter Algarve. Here you can tee-off at some of Europe's top golf courses and get lost in charming old towns. Since it's a fantastic beach destination, Algarve is more to enjoy than purely sand and waves. You will get plenty of opportunities to keep yourself busy and have fun, and be involved in the most adventurous activity you ever had. Here are some shortlisted activities you must do when you're in Algarve:

Cruising
Paragliding
Dolphin watching
Kayaking
Island tours
Boat tours
Surfing
Snorkelling
Cliff-jumping
Buggy tours
Jeep safari

Accommodation

In Algarve, there are various accommodation options available depending on the facilities and luxuries of your concern. These luxuries vary from price to price depending on the aura of the place. You can find such amenities in the resorts and villas of the city. Using various modes of accommodation might make your trip a memorable and adventurous one. Algarve is one of Europe's sunniest regions with the long gorgeous coastline of cliffs dotted along with sea caves and long stretches of golden yellow beach. The place gives you plenty of beach resorts, hotels, guest houses at all affordable prices that you might not expect to find in such a widespread region. In addition to these facilities, you might find free Wi-Fi connections in some locations and a permanent person at the reception. You can select any room of your preference within the budget you have, and there are plenty of options for having your perfect room with the perfect view of this beautiful city. You can escape your daily routine and enjoy the magic of nature in these secluded getaways set in fantastic surroundings. Top accommodations in Algarve include the following:

Hotel PortoBay Falesia
Vila Gale Albacora
Hotel Baia Grande
Rocamar Exclusive Hotel & Spa
CASA 19
Vila Monte Farm House

Green Hotels

Algarve is Portugal’s most popular holiday destination because of its clean beaches with cheap hospitality. The city is rich in culture and diversity – an excellent option for tourism. Mentioned below are some certified hotels, which makes them different from the usual hotels. These hotels adopt methods that protect and support nature, like electricity provided by them are usually self-generated by solar light or wind energy. You will also notice that these hotels' bedsheets and blankets are made up of cotton and are hand-stitched. They also provide organic and herbal cosmetic products suitable for all skin types. Make sure to learn in advance the availability of your desired accommodation as you might find it difficult to book rooms in peak seasons as most of the locations are full during this specific time. Green hotels are exceptional for some tourists because they promote an eco-friendly environment; hence they choose to stay in such hotels for their comfort, freshness of trees, and love for nature.

Hostels and Guest Houses

Hostels and Guest Houses are best for solo travellers as many of the hostel rooms are available here. The rooms here provide you with the best facilities, including a bed, a cupboard, personal space, and 24/7 room service. Some may come with a balcony where you can have a splendid view of the sea, also pocket-friendly. These places are shared rooms with only the necessary facilities. However, you must keep in mind the rules and regulations adhered to by them. It would be best if you did not create disturbances as many tourists are accommodating here. If you're travelling alone, you must make sure of your belongings and take good care of what you say and where you say it. Although, you might not get complete privacy if you get a shared room with some strangers. It might be a problem for some, but for those who love to interact with other people, hotels and guest houses is a perfect option to stay in Algarve. There are plenty of opportunities for hostels and guesthouses because most travellers prefer to stay in low-cost hotel rooms. Some of them are:

Luxury Beach Guest House
Bertolina Guest House
Sagres Sun Stay
O Castelo Guest House
Demo House B&B
O Mirante Guest House

Apartments

Apartments here are somewhat semi-furnished and fully furnished with two bedrooms with attached washrooms, a hall, and a kitchen. In one or the other way, travellers consider booking an apartment because it gives them independence in privacy to work, clean on their own, cook by themselves, and perform every activity on their own, which boosts their self-confidence. Apartments are all well secured with cameras and guards as well. Some may also provide you with swimming pools, game rooms, indoor sports area, fitness centres, and many other facilities. They also have an extensive space or, say, garden areas where you can go for morning walks or do yoga or other activities. You can share apartments with strangers to know more about their culture and beliefs; it will help you build a bond with other people.

Albufeira Jardim
Apartamentos Turisticos Clube Vilarosa
Lagos Charming Vilas
Aparthotel Alfagar
Patio Village Apartments
Four Seasons Vilamoura
Quinta da Colina

Couchsurfing

Portuguese people are very welcoming; hence Couchsurfing can be a safe option for people who wants to be locals and learn about their culture and habits. The whole concept of Couchsurfing is to get involved at any local's house with their permission, and in exchange, they don't ask you for fees or rent; instead, you are allowed to help them in their daily chores. There are more than thousands of hosts that would enable Couchsurfing. According to recent reports, there are approximate 1,667 hosts in Algarve. The sole benefit of Couchsurfing is that your host guides you about all the dos and don'ts for your safe and pocket-friendly tour in Algarve. You can save a lot of money on tour guides or travel agencies with this. So if you're thinking Couchsurfing, go for it. There are plenty of options available for this platform.

Camping

Camping in Algarve is something you’d see almost in every beach destination. It is a beautiful city for camping, although the entire country is suitable for camping, so you need not have to worry as wherever you go, you'll get plenty of options for camping. It can be adventurous and thrilling, and you also have plenty of camping sites available on the beach sides of the Algarve. From beautiful mornings to peaceful nights of sleep, you will have pretty unforgettable memories camping in this part of the country. There is a good selection for campsites in many areas with free camping in underdeveloped areas around the beaches, especially on the Atlantic coast. Make sure to pack all necessary items if you plan to set a camp near hillsides, as there will be a shortage of things like foods or appliances in the hilly areas. For campsites, you’ll have to pay around 2 to 10 euros per person, per night. Some places suitable for camping are listed below:

Salema Eco Camp
Camping Algarve
Camping Quinta de Odelouca
Algarve Safari Lodge
Parque de Campismo da llha de Tavira

Regions

Cities

Getting There and Moving Around

Algarve is a place where you can come anytime by any means of transportation. It's a beautiful part of the country and the most popular tourist destination in Portugal and hence getting around in Algarve is undoubtedly the easiest way to reach your goals. You can come here through many means of transport, including buses, trains, intercity, taxis, or other transportation methods. To your surprise fares are a lot cheaper than in the United Kingdom. Being a nature lover, you must avoid taxis or motorcycle rides as engine cars or similar transports create a lot of pollution by emitting a lot of smoke leading to air pollution, which you must avoid.

Air

If you're in the country, you can land at any of these international airports such as Seville, Lisbon, or Porto, from where you can reach Algarve in few hours by renting cars or local trains. These airports cover the entire country and provide numerous international routes. There is this one major airport in Algarve, Faro Airport, capable of handling nine million passengers a year as there are 22 stands, of which 16 are remote, with 60 check-in desks and 36 boarding gates. If you can't find flights to Faro Airport, there are plenty of other flights from where you can reach here in a short period.

Outside the Faro Airport Terminal

Bus

If you're planning to get around by bus, you can pick up a timetable from a bus station or city centres or shops. Bus travel in Portugal is an extensive network of privately-owned companies providing you with the best services with affordable bus fares depending on your travel distance. Bus routes, namely 14 and 16, run each day between Faro Airport and the airport's city centre bus stations. There are various connections to most other Portuguese cities, from bus stations to some Spanish destinations. Just for knowledge, this airport bus route is run by a known company named "Proximo" It might be time-consuming, but with bus tours, you can view different ways from within the city. You can have fun interacting with Portuguese people and learn many new things about their culture or tradition.

A bus in Algarve

Train

Lisbon's Barreiro Station on the south side of the Tagus River serves in Algarve and is very clean, comfortable, cheap, and always on time. You can reach here by ferries. You can purchase tickets from the respective boarding stations or at the automatic selling machines. Make sure to buy the tickets or otherwise you will have to pay a high fine. You have to know the main towns from where the train passes: Lagos, Albufeira, Portimao, Faro, Loule, Olhao, Vila Real de Santo Antonio, and Tavira. You must also be aware that the train stations are not entirely in the city centres, like for some stations you have to travel a bit to reach the train station. Train journeys are the best as you can experience the beauty of the landscapes that you get to see on the way to your final destination.

Train in Algarve

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking can be dangerous, but if you're in Europe, it is generally a safe option. Although you have to be precautious for your safety, so do keep that in mind. It is not something for everyone, so if you're doubtful, contact any travel agency for your convenience. As I said earlier, Portuguese people are outstanding in welcoming newcomers or travellers. Hence drivers here are used to picking up hitchhikers but remember to take care of your physical safety at all time. You must not stand on dangerous roads and must be prepared to have no strict timetable if you're opting for hitchhiking.

Others

Other categories include hired cars or two-wheel rides, taxis, etc., to discover Algarve in the closest possible way. According to your convenience, many rental companies are ready for you to provide their best services at affordable prices. For renting cars, you need a driving license, rest you can relax and enjoy the backseat. Also, renting a car might be expensive than other public transport, but renting a car is a great way to explore the city if you value freedom over costs. For renting motorbikes, you have to be at least 18 years. Taxis are available everywhere, so you need not have to worry. Taxi fares vary according to your destination's distance; at an affordable and cheap price as well.

Sustainable Shopping

Sustainable shopping is something every nature lover loves to do in every new city they travel in. It includes buying fresh and organic items, whether it be second-hand. It recognizes that everything you buy creates a healthy, environmental, and social impact in your locality. It is mainly a chance for you as a traveller or tourist to support what is important to you and avoid products and services that do not align with your ideologies and beliefs. Eco-friendly items make people realize how much harm all the packed and frozen item does to your body. You can find such things in local markets, second-hand stores or eco-fashion stores. Some great places for sustainable shopping are:

Kozii Shop – for aesthetic clothing
Biological – grocery store
Graos de Amor – organic store
Fair Bazaar – shopping centre
Flavia Aranha - boutique
Organic – beauty store

Recycling

Recycling waste produce reduces the need for extracting, processing raw materials, and refining, which creates substantial air and water pollution. It also helps in saving energy and plays an essential role in the overall garbage of the country. These recycled items don't even require an excessive amount of fuel or power, making waste products reusable and eco-friendly. In Portugal, you’ll find many recycling plants and units or factories present in different cities. It clearly states that the Portuguese government is trying to create awareness by supporting recycling.

Waste

The waste management in Algarve is quite efficient in reducing pollution levels in the city. The waste management process requires a lot of time, like it involves treating solid and liquid waste and is extremely vital for all households and businesses. The Portuguese government has set up various means to reduce pollution, such as garbage disposal containers like dustbins, dumpsters, garbage trucks, etc. As a traveller or tourist, it is your responsibility to dispose of your waste correctly and honestly, leading you to impact tourism in Portugal positively.

Work and Study Abroad

In Portugal, the international student rate is outstanding in Europe's rating ninth in the country, with an average of 8.9 out of 10. Even international students are allowed to work in Portugal without any restrictions or time limit. They either take part-time employment (up to 20 hours/week) or full-time job during holidays. Students might be quite surprised by the Portuguese universities' tuition fees as they offer quite affordable degrees in Europe. Also, here you can enjoy the warm weather with beautiful beaches and unique landscapes.

Exchange Student

According to the reviews by exchange students, the universities in Algarve contributes to the individual's professional and personal development so well. They get to experience a contemporary culture, food, and extraordinary places. The rent in universities is somewhat around 140 to 240 euros per person. The educational institutes offer various international and local student programs to study in their respective colleges or institutes. These programs include several scholarships that you can avail of if you meet their eligibility. The whole concept of the Exchange Student Program is a great way to promote studies in a different part of the world, helping individuals learn about other cultures and interact with new people.

Au Pair

Au Pairing is a type of employment that provides a place to stay and earn money and befriend the local family that employs you. Au pairing is available in Portugal in vast numbers. There are plenty of websites to register on such platforms. It would be best if you were aged between 18-26 years and experience in this job to qualify for an Au Pair job. There are many places in Algarve as well. If you're looking for such a platform, go for it. Local families here don't always trust foreigners, but they'd allow you to prove your worth. Hence it would be best if you create a pleasant and kind image in the first meeting.

Volunteering

The people in Algarve will help you plan your trips to various essential destinations by helping you out in any way they can. The best way to thank them for their hospitality by making their city or country a better place. You can contribute by volunteering in various organizations or NGO's, which will help you in interacting with different people and understand their lives and culture. These organizations will allow you to indulge in activities that will lead you to spread awareness about ordinary people's various issues and problems. You can also give valuable ideas to help local communities and groups by participating in volunteering activities. By this act, you can travel responsibly and create an exemplary tourism image in the locals' eyes.