Charming Villages & Must-See Spots
The Algarve is packed with beautiful places — from quaint villages with narrow, winding streets to vibrant towns full of history. Here are some great spots we think you’ll love to explore.
Whether you’re up for a relaxing walk through traditional villages, want to check out some impressive sights, or plan a day trip to one of the bigger towns, you’ll find plenty of ideas here — plus handy distances to help you plan your day.
Loulé – Market Buzz & Moorish Charm
Loulé is best known for its lively market — and that’s what makes this town so special! The market hall, with its unique Moorish-inspired design, is one of the Algarve’s iconic sights. Saturdays are the best time to visit, when the whole old town turns into a colorful bazaar filled with fresh local produce, handmade crafts, jewelry, and little artisan stalls.
But Loulé isn’t just about the market. Wander through the charming streets of the Moorish old town, where you’ll find cozy boutiques, authentic crafts, and unique shops perfect for browsing. It’s a great spot to pick up special souvenirs — from handmade ceramics to stylish fashion. Definitely worth a visit!
By car: around 25 minutes
Check out this guide for the best markets in the Algarve.
Buddhist Stupa – A Place of Peace
This Buddhist center is a calm and peaceful spot, sitting high above the landscape with stunning views over the Algarve countryside all the way to the coast and Faro.
Sunsets here are truly magical — when the sky fills with warm colors, the whole place feels extra special. The Stupa is open to everyone, offering a perfect chance to pause, breathe, and soak in the moment.
You can reach the Stupa by car in about 25 minutes.
More info: Stupa Paz no Mundo
Alte – A Charming Village with Natural Springs
Alte is known as one of the most typical and beautiful villages in the Algarve. It’s especially famous for its natural springs, Fonte Pequena and Fonte Grande, which attract many visitors, especially in the summer months.
Around Alte, you can enjoy lovely hikes through peaceful countryside. A real highlight is the small lagoon with the Queda do Vigário waterfall — perfect for a refreshing break on warm days.
From Quinta do Vale, it’s just a 15-minute drive to Alte.
Silves – Historic Charm & Impressive Castle
Silves captivates with one of the best-kept castles in the region — a massive 13th-century fortress built from red sandstone and visible from afar. This vast fortress complex tells the story of the region’s rich history and offers fantastic views over the town.
But there’s more to Silves than just the castle: explore the fascinating archaeological museum, the impressive Sé Cathedral, the Praça do Município with its historic town hall, the lively market hall, and the charming Romanesque bridge over the Rio Arade. The old town’s narrow streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll, letting you soak up the unique atmosphere of Silves.
Plan to spend half a day or even a full day here to fully enjoy the town at a relaxed pace.
It’s about a 25-minute drive from Quinta do Vale to Silves.
Lagos – The Algarve’s Beloved Coastal City
In the charming old town, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and lively squares, you’ll feel the authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Quaint cafés, boutiques, and traditional whitewashed buildings invite you to explore every corner.
Highlights like the Igreja de Santo António and the colorful azulejos add a special touch to Lagos’s charm.
Just a short drive away are some of the Algarve’s most stunning beaches: the famous Praia Dona Ana, the peaceful Praia do Camilo, and the breathtaking rock formations at Ponta da Piedade.
It’s about a 45-minute drive from Quinta do Vale to Lagos.
Albufeira – Vibrant Coastal Town with Stunning Beaches
If you’re looking for lively vibes and a bustling atmosphere, Albufeira is the place to be. This Algarve town perfectly blends a charming old town with a buzzing nightlife and beautiful beaches. Narrow streets are lined with restaurants, bars, and small shops, while beach clubs and sea-view spots along the coast invite you to relax and soak it all in.
The beaches are as varied as the town itself: Praia dos Pescadores is right in the center and perfect for those who love the buzz of activity. For a quieter experience, head to Praia da Falésia, where an endless stretch of sandy beach meets striking red cliffs. Whether you want to chill by the sea or be in the middle of the action, Albufeira has it all.
About a 25-minute drive from Quinta do Vale.
São Bartolomeu de Messines – Experience Authentic Algarve Life Nearby
Just 5 km from Quinta do Vale, São Bartolomeu de Messines is a typical Portuguese town away from the tourist crowds. Here, you can enjoy the true Algarve lifestyle with cozy cafés, restaurants, small shops, and a market hall offering fresh local products. Well-stocked supermarkets, doctors, and a gas station ensure convenient everyday services.
Ferragudo – Charming Fishing Village with Postcard Views
Ferragudo is one of the prettiest coastal towns in the Algarve, almost like time has slowed down here. Whitewashed houses, colorful fishing boats, a small church perched on a hill, and narrow cobblestone streets winding their way through the village create a truly picturesque scene.
The Big Highlights
If you’re craving the buzz of big cities, Lisbon is just about 2 hours and 15 minutes away, and Seville around 2 hours and 20 minutes by car.