1. Ponta da Piedade

Stunning golden cliffs and sea stacks near Lagos that form the Algarve’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded viewpoint at the lighthouse and instead take the wooden staircase 100 meters east of the main entrance to access the hidden grotto that local fishermen call “The Cathedral.”

2. Benagil Cave

Famous sea cave with a natural oculus skylight illuminating a pristine beach inside.
Insider Tip: Rent a kayak from nearby Praia de Carvalho instead of taking expensive boat tours, and paddle there early morning (before 9am) when you might have this natural wonder entirely to yourself.

3. Old Town of Lagos

Historic center with cobbled streets, ancient city walls, and traditional Algarvian architecture.
Insider Tip: The unmarked door at the far end of Praça Gil Eanes opens to a hidden courtyard café where local artists gather on Thursday evenings for impromptu fado performances.

4. Praia da Marinha

Often ranked among Europe’s most beautiful beaches, featuring limestone formations and crystal-clear waters.
Insider Tip: Follow the narrow dirt path east along the cliff top past the beach’s edge to find “Submarine Rock,” a formation perfectly shaped like a U-boat that most tourists never discover.

5. Cape St. Vincent

Europe’s southwesternmost point with dramatic 75-meter cliffs overlooking the vast Atlantic.
Insider Tip: While everyone watches sunset from the lighthouse, walk 800 meters east along the cliff path to the abandoned radar station for equally stunning views without any crowds.

6. Ria Formosa Natural Park

Coastal lagoon system with barrier islands, salt marshes, and incredible biodiversity.
Insider Tip: The tiny fishing community on Culatra Island serves the freshest seafood in the Algarve at Café Olhanense, where there’s no menu—just ask for “prato do dia” (plate of the day).

7. Silves Castle

Impressive red sandstone Moorish fortress overlooking the ancient capital of Algarve.
Insider Tip: The small door in the northern wall leads to a rarely visited archaeological site where ongoing excavations frequently uncover Moorish artifacts—visitors can often chat with archaeologists at work.

8. Tavira Town

Charming riverside town with Roman bridge, 37 churches, and stunning architecture unspoiled by mass tourism.
Insider Tip: The Camera Obscura housed in the old water tower provides the most unique view of any Algarve town—a 360° living panorama projected onto a concave disc.

9. Serra de Monchique

Mountain range with lush forests, natural springs, and picturesque villages offering respite from coastal heat.
Insider Tip: The abandoned spa complex at Caldas de Monchique features healing thermal waters where locals still collect the mineral-rich water from a small fountain hidden behind the derelict main building.

10. Barreta Island (Ilha Deserta)

The only truly uninhabited island in the Ria Formosa, offering pristine beaches and total seclusion.
Insider Tip: The island’s only restaurant, Estaminé, looks touristy but serves the region’s best arroz de marisco (seafood rice) using ingredients caught that morning within sight of your table.