Markets & crafts in Algarve

Algarve - Algarve 4x4 Off-road Safari

Away from the coastal resort towns, the Algarve is still a very rural and rugged region. Explore its winding dusty trails and sleepy villages on this off-road 4x4 adventure. You can choose either a full-day excursion, or one that takes just an afternoon.

Algarve - Algarve coastal tour with wine-tasting

Some of the Algarve's hardest-to-reach areas are in the spotlight on this scenic day tour. Your adventure kicks off in Porches at a pottery workshop where you can see traditional crafting techniques. From here, you'll make a few quick stops at Praia da Marinha, Benagil and Algar Seco, to see the different cliff and rock formations there. Then, you'll visit the fishing village of Ferragudo. Here, you'll have plenty of free time for lunch at the harbour, before ending the day with a wine-tasting session.

Algarve - West Algarve tour with Lagos, Sagres and Cabo de Sao Vicent

The rugged coast of the western Algarve is crammed with dramatic cliffs sheltering sandy coves and characterful towns. On this trip you'll have ample time to explore the historic city of Lagos and see some of the Algarve's most picturesque points, including Sagres, the ‘end of the world' and Baleeira fishing village. Beatriz, one of our expert local guides, says, 'Lagos has a long history, and was once an important hub for maritime traffic in the 15th century during the Portuguese Age of Discovery. You'll get a sense of its history as you mander through the old town on patterned cobbled streets flanked by handsome buildings.' Sheltering by a river mouth, the town of Lagos has a great location by the beach and within reach of all that amazing scenery. Get your culture fix with a tour of Lagos town, plus free time to enjoy the vibrant streets and cafés. Your guided tour takes in Praça do Infante to see Henry the Navigator's statue, as well as the building that served as Portugal's first slave market. Afterwards, you could choose to spend your time having lunch, shopping or exploring.Next, we'll visit Cabo de São Vicente, also known as the ‘end of the world' – Europe's most south-westerly point. This place is famous for its sheer cliffs, panoramic views, and the iconic lighthouse perched at its tip. Soaking up these views looking out over the fishing harbour of Baleeira is the perfect way to round off this tour.

Algarve - Dreamer Cave and Dolphins Boat Tour Albufeira

The Atlantic waters off the Algarve are home to a multitude of wild dolphins. On this short dolphin-watching excursion from Albufeira, you'll explore the Carvoeiro sea caves by boat before heading out to ocean in search of these friendly and captivating creatures.

Algarve - Eastern Algarve day tour with Faro visit and live Fado music show

The east is one of the jewels in the Algarve's crown, and this full day excursion offers a flavour of its local culture as well as a chance to get to know its biggest city. You'll visit Faro, Olhao, and Tavira and travel through beautiful countryside in the Ria Formosa National Park. Sofia, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘This excursion is special because it brings the local culture to life. You'll see a performance of Fado music which is the heart of Portuguese tradition, a soulful singer fronts a group of musicians and together they convey passion, struggle, and longing. It's a hugely significant part of Portuguese culture.'We'll begin in Faro, the regional capital, where you'll have free time to explore the old town – the cathedral is a must-see. Next up is Olhao, a village on the banks of the Ria Formosa. You'll visit its famous fish market and then enjoy free time for lunch and shopping. Sofia adds, ‘As well as showcasing the fruits of the sea, the market is a good place to make contact with smallholders selling their own produce, such as honey, jams, cakes, and liqueurs.'In the afternoon, we'll head to Tavira to see its top sights and visit the castle for a stroll along its ramparts. Along with the castle, the seven-arched Roman bridge and a pair of historic churches are just a handful of the best things to do in Tavira. Cap off the day by dropping into a church for a live show of fado singing – the melancholic music genre that is a national treasure.

Algarve - Guadiana River Cruise with BBQ

As the natural border between Spain and Portugal, the River Guadiana cuts through areas of natural beauty. You'll navigate your way upriver from Vila Real de Santo António to Foz de Odeleite and Quinta do Rio, and enjoy a barbecue and live music on board.Once you arrive at Vila Real de Santo António, you'll board the boat ready for a relaxing cruise up the Guadiana. Take a seat and enjoy the passing scenery and once we reach the timeless village Foz de Odeleite, we'll anchor up, and you can stroll around at your own pace. Back on board, we'll cruise a bit further to Quinta do Rio.Here you'll have views over the river and village, and you'll even be able to cool down with a swim and a drink at the bar. We'll then serve up a barbecue lunch, complete with local wine and live music in the background. The rest of the afternoon is for relaxing on the sun terrace and cruising back downriver.

Algarve - Algarve Villages 4x4 Safari Tour

With valleys that dip and dive, coastal roads that swing by craggy bays and villages suspended in time, the Algarve has so much more to offer. This half-day 4x4 tour sees you travelling off-road and along tracks to hidden places, tasing local produce along the way. First on the agenda is the village of Paderne before you hit the trails inland towards Esteval dos Mouros past orange groves and almond, fig and olives trees. You'll make it to Rocha Amarela for panoramic views and an insight into life as it was centuries ago, then continue on to Nave dos Cordeiros where you'll see first-hand how cork is harvested. Next stop will be Nave das Sobreiras to taste some local honey and medronho before it's back on the road to Picota via vineyards to gaze out over the Algarve coastline.

Algarve - Half Day Monchique & Hidden Algarve 4x4 Tour

If you're after some different photo opportunities of the Algarve, then look no further than this half-day 4x4 excursion. You'll travel off road and along country tracks to see hamlets set in the Monchique hills – an area famed for medronho, honey and cork – with tastings included.

Algarve - Insonia Cave and Dolphins Speedboat with Transport from Albufeira

The mysterious sea grottoes and stunning rock formations of the coastline near Albufeira can't be properly appreciated from land. Witness their splendour by speedboat, and then go in search of wild dolphins on this two-hour nautical adventure.

Algarve - Ophelia Catamaran & BBQ with Transport

The Algarve coastline is in a class of its own. On this boat trip aboard the Ophelia, you'll spot its most secluded beaches, eye-catching rock formations and fishing villages. Highlights include Ferragudo castle, Carvoeiro lighthouse and Benagil beach. And to round things off, there's a barbecue on the beach, too.

Algarve - Lisbon tour from the Algarve with sightseeing bus and free time

Few capitals are as diverse as Lisbon. From the tightly packed alleys of the old town to the elegant boulevards of Baixa Pombalina, it's a city bursting with charm and life – and classic yellow trams. Gonçalo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Much of Lisbon was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, and was then rebuilt under the Marquis of Pombal's guidance into the first city with innovative earthquake-resistant designs – hence today's name for the district: Baixa Pombalina.'Things kick off reasonably early, allowing you to reach Lisbon in good time. Get ready for spectacular views over the city as you cross the Golden Gate-like 25th April Bridge over the River Tagus to the seafront district of Belém. You'll get to see Belém Tower, the Monument of Discoveries and much more. Gonçalo says, 'Belém Tower was built in the early 16th century and is an iconic symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. It once stood on a small island near the riverbank, but as the river's course changed, it now sits near the shore. Over the years, it's served as a defence point, a lighthouse, a customs house, and even a prison.'Next, sightsee by bus passing by the Basilica Estrela among other sights. Your guide will then point out the best areas of the city to check out during your free time – whether you prefer to shop, dine or simply stroll streets lined with impressive buildings from Portugal's imperial days. You'll return to the Algarve via the Vasco da Gama Bridge – the longest in Europe.

Algarve - Loule Markets Tour

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

Algarve - MAR Shopping and Designer Outlet Algarve

Get ready to shop ‘til you drop with this transfer to the Algarve Commercial Complex, your new shopping destination in Loulé. Here, you'll find a full price retail centre, MAR Shopping, and an outlet village, Designer Outlet Algarve, selling all your favourite brands. There's a leisure area with restaurants, bars and fun for the kids when you need a break. Then, your return transfer is at 14:00, just in time to hit the sunloungers in the afternoon.

Algarve - Full-day Seville tour from the Algarve with a local guide

Bursting with glorious buildings, dotted with leafy parks and drenched in Andalucian colour, Seville is a must-visit. Some of Spain's most important monuments are in the spotlight on this guided tour, including the bullring, Santa Cruz and Plaza de España. You'll also have some free time to explore. Mariasol, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘I always feel uplifted when I visit the Plaza de España because it's so colourful. It is full of painted ceramic tilework, known as azulejos. Each azulejo depicts Spain's regional culture and heritage and every province is represented.'You'll strike out early for the Andalusian capital, allowing plenty of time to explore some of its cultural and architectural highlights. Once in Seville, your walking tour begins at the Moorish Torre Del Oro. You'll see Seville's bullring, the Real Maestranza, the Triana Bridge, and the Plaza d'America. Next, you'll visit the colonnaded Plaza de España – and the surrounding Maria Luiza Park. After a rest in the park, we'll continue our walking tour, which takes us to Barrio de Santa Cruz – once known as the district of Moors and Jews. This most characterful district of Seville, right in the historic centre, is overflowing with orange trees, pretty plazas and jasmine-scented patios. And before heading back, you'll have some free time to explore on your own to grab some tapas – and maybe a souvenir or two.

Algarve - Full-day trip to Seville from the Algarve with free time

As the heart and soul of Andalusia, Seville makes for a mesmerising daytrip. You'll explore the city's cobbled streets, secret patios and colossal cathedral on a panoramic bus tour. There'll also be free time to indulge in some shopping.

Algarve - Guided Silves and Monchique mountains tour in the Algarve

The Algarve is famed for its beautiful beaches, yet the area's countryside is also filled with historic and natural gems that are well worth discovering. You'll head into the mountains to visit Silves, Foia and Monchique, and taste some local treats along the way.

Algarve - Guided evening 4x4 tour of Monchique Hills with dinner

This trip has to be one of the best ways to discover the real Algarve. Jump into a 4x4, leave the coast behind and make your way up into the Monchique hills. You'll discover the real heart of the region, one that most visitors never get to see. Ines, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘These hills feel almost untouched by time, with little farming villages where life moves at a slower pace, offering a glimpse of traditional Portuguese life.'Travelling in small groups winding along earth tracks and past tiny villages, you'll get a sneak peek of a peaceful lifestyle that's quickly disappearing. One of the highlights is the whitewashed village of Alferce, home to a pretty church dating back to the 16th century. Any cultivatable patches of land in the area are filled with citrus orchards and eucalyptus groves. Next, you'll continue on your journey to explore the natural wilderness of Barrancos dos Pisoes.There'll be plenty of stops along the way to capture those perfect holiday pictures and then we'll travel up to the highest point in the Algarve. At this special viewpoint, you'll watch the sky change colour as the sun sets and toast the view with a glass of sparkling wine. Hop back into the 4x4 and as darkness blankets the landscape, you'll head to a local restaurant for a traditional dinner including specialities from the Monchique hills.

Algarve - Algarve Off-Road Safari & Boat Cruise Tour

How about enjoying two completely different perspectives of the Algarve in one action-packed day? This exhilarating excursion takes you to the hidden parts of the region with an off-road safari and then swaps the hills for the waves with a cruise.