Per month

Activities Algarve each month

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

September

October

November

December

January

The stunning Algarve is the perfect holiday destination, and while January may be out of season, there are many reasons why this is a great month to visit. With miles and miles of truly breath-taking coastline, bustling cities, pretty towns and villages and plenty of arts, cultural and entertainment activities there is much to see and do here. The Algarve really has something for everyone, and whether you are looking for a relaxed family holiday, an active and action packed break, or a place where you can enjoy tourist attractions by day, and bustling bars and clubs at night, the Algarve offers all this and more.

So what is there to do in the Algarve in January?

While the temperature will drop in the winter months, the sun should still be shining in the Algarve in January. You can expect the temperature to remain around 16-20 degrees in the shade, though temperatures do drop at night so make sure you have layers packed in your suitcase. Because of the warm climate, there are plenty of fantastic outdoor activities that you can still enjoy if you head to the Algarve at this time. While it may not be warm enough to swim, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches in the Algarve region, and for a fun day out why not take a boat trip out along the coast? If you are lucky you may even spot a dolphin or two! Other seaside activities that you can enjoy in the Algarve in January are surfing, sailing and many other water sports, or simply take a walk along its edge and admire spectacular views. Families will enjoy one of the theme parks in the region, and you can also take a jeep safari and explore the local countryside and wildlife this way.

In January spring is truly on its way and the spring flowers should be in full bloom, covering the landscape in a rainbow of colour. Check out the cliffs at Ponta da Piedade in Lagos which are stunning at this time of year.

January Events in the Algarve

There are several great events taking place in January in the Algarve which are brilliant fun if you can fit them into your schedule.

The Festival of “Chouriças” (sausages), which is otherwise known as the Festival of S. Luís, the patron saint of animals is held in Querença on the 13th January this year. Festivities usually begin with a night of Fado (a traditional evening of music and song). During the day there is a religious procession through the streets followed by more music, sausage tasting and a local auction for the prize sausage or ‘queen chouriça.’

Janeiras Festival in Silves is another wonderful, family friendly festival taking place in January. The Janeiras (seasonal songs) is a tradition which dates back to Roman times, this is where at the beginning of each year citizens would greet each other to summon Janus - the Roman god of beginnings, transitions and doorways.

Visiting the Algarve in January may not be a typical beach holiday, but can be lots of fun, and with cheaper flights and holiday deals, and a quieter ambience, January could be the perfect time to visit.

February

What to do in the Algarve in February

A visit to the Algarve in February makes for a fantastic holiday. This time of year is considered ‘out of season’ due to the cooler climates and there being no school holidays. However there are many advantages visiting the Algarve in February during these quieter periods. The weather is still warm and pleasant (around 18-20 degrees) which means you can still enjoy the areas stunning coastline, take walks on the beautiful beaches, go on a boat trip and hike around the area to admire the breath-taking landscapes, flora and fauna that are blossoming at this time of year. Spring flowers are in full bloom so make for a rather spectacular sight, check out the cliffs at Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, for example, for a remarkable rainbow of colors. Last but not least, you can get good bargains on villa rentals! Contact us for more info!

Many visitors also enjoy taking part in water sports in February in the Algarve, where the water is less crowded so it is easy to surf, waterski, body board and swim -if perhaps a little chilly depending on what the temperature is like!

Resorts, towns and villages and the cafe’s restaurants and bars within them do tend to be quieter in February. Some even close out of season so be sure to check before you leave to be certain that you will have everything you require. The good news is that if places are less busy it can seem as though you have the whole place to yourself which is rather lovely, and can expect personalized attention from staff who are warm and welcoming and will be less rushed and stressed than they are in the most popular tourist months. Of course in the cities you can expect everything to be open all year round.

Carnival in the Algarve

Of course February in the Algarve, you can take part in one of the most anticipated events in the whole of the calendar year, Carnival (Carnaval, or Mardi Gras) falls on the 9th of February this year and is a spectacular celebration, and one which the entire family can enjoy. The festival falls on the weekend leading up to Shrove Tuesday, and is a colorful and friendly street party where music, dancing and stalls of food and drink are all in abundance. Loulé in central Algarve (Portugal) is the most well-known for its Brazilian style Carnival in the Algarve. However if you are holidaying in a different area, or even in a quieter town or village, it is still likely that there will be some sort of celebration taking place.

This year the carnival theme is ‘The Great Shipwreck’ so expect many amazing costumes and incredible floats. Friday is kids day and there are plenty of child-friendly activities taking place that children will just love.

February in the Algarve is a fantastic time of year to visit. So if you are looking for a great deal, pleasant weather and plenty of fun, the Algarve could be the perfect choice for you. 

March

What to do in the Algarve in March?

Is March the perfect time to visit the Algarve? It might just be. Still considered an ‘out of season’ month, March in the Algarve is actually a fantastic time of year to visit where the weather is warming up, yet you are free of the crowds. This means that glorious beach days, exciting afternoons exploring the towns and cities, as well as sampling the delicious local food and drink all with personal attention from the waiting staff are just some of the elements you can enjoy on your trip to the Algarve in March.

While the Algarve has a great programme of events available to holiday makers and locals alike all year round, the Algarve in March has a few particularly special events which make it well worth looking into this as your holiday destination this Easter.

Did you know that the Algarve boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year? And with the colder, more wintery months out of the way you can expect warm, sunny days which are perfect for exploring the stunning beaches and exquisite countryside that the Algarve has to offer. The Algarve in March is the perfect month to go on boat trips, and to admire the beautiful cliffs, as well as the glorious spring flowers that can be found in abundance at this time of year. Remember to back a warm jumper or two for the evenings though!

The colder months can mean that many usually bustling tourist attractions close, as there simply aren’t enough people visiting to make it worth their while staying open. However March see’s many of those opening their doors once more, which is particularly useful for families who may want to schedule in some fun, family friendly activities as well as soaking up the sun, sea and sand and enjoying the local history and culture of the area.

One of the most anticipated events that takes place 9 March in the Algarve is the Festival of Hot bread and fresh cheese (Feira do Pão Quente e Queijo Fresco) which takes place in Vaqueiros- Alcoutim. This is a celebration of delicious food, and many market stalls will line the streets where you can sample local produce. The fair has a fun and friendly atmosphere which makes it perfect for families with children too.

The Traditional Sausage Fair in Monchique is another great March event for food lovers, and the Gastronomy Festival of the Serra in Tavira (March/April) is also sure to delight.

Of course, this year Easter falls in March and so why not celebrate in style at the Feira de Doces d'Avó at Easter in Alcoutim? This is a fantastic event for adults and children alike where you can not only stuff yourself silly with delicious local homemade treats, but also sit back and relax, listening to live local music. There are plenty of activities for the kids too, such as children's games, traditional egg painting and face painting too!

So there you have it, some fantastic tips on what to do in the Algarve in March. It really is a wonderful time of year to explore this beautiful part of the world, so what are you waiting for?

April

Things to do in the Algarve in April

April in the Algarve is when the region starts to get busier ahead of the summer months. The Algarve is a popular destination, and many of the tourist attractions which close down over the winter start to open again during this time.

The weather in the Algarve in April is usually bright and warm, with over 9 hours sunshine a day and very little rainfall. If you are looking for a place where pleasant weather is practically guaranteed during April, then the Algarve is a wise choice. While it may be a while off swimming season, visitors can still enjoy days on the regions stunning beaches, boat trips and water sports, as well as outdoor dining. During the evening the temperatures will drop to around 11 degrees though so it is important to make sure you bring layers to stay warm when the sun goes down.

During April there is plenty to see an d do. Here are some things not to miss:

9-17 April- Algarve Spa Week

You want to pamper yourself in the Algarve in April?

Do not miss The Algarve Spa Week - 9th to 17th April. This year’s theme is “Spa and Sports”  with great discounts for the areas 5 top spa resorts. A free sports workshops also takes place. For more information visit Algarve Spa Week on Facebook.

10 April- Loule

Festa da Mãe Soberana in Loulé 10th April: This wonderful Algarve festival is centered around the “Festa Grande” in honour of Mãe Soberana, the Sovereign Mother. There is a fantastic procession and a wonderful fireworks display at midnight too,

24 April- concert Portimao

Marco Paulo concert which takes place on the 24th April. This fantastic Portuguese singer, is sure to delight and will be playing a  one night only performance at Portimão Arena in western Algarve. Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketline. 

30 April-Flamenco Festival Faro

The Faro Flamenco Festival -on the 30th April - this fantastic celebration delights locals and visitors alike. With wonderful traditional and flamboyant flamenco dancing this is an event not to miss. It is taking place at the Figuras Theatre in Faro and tickets cost 12€.

Zoomarine Albufeira

For family fun there is Zoomarine theme park, which is a sure fire hit for all the family where children can enjoy an exhilarating afternoon on all the rides, and meeting the various animals such as aquatic birds, and even alligators!

Zoo Lagos and karting

The Zoo Lagos is another great trip and on a sunny day children and adults alike will enjoy having great fun on the karting tracks in Almancil, Portimão (at the Autodrome) and Olhão.

Waterslide parks

Aqualand is another hugely popular family attraction, and the Algarve in April is just about warm enough to enjoy the outdoor rides and pools. Aqualand is popular with children of all ages and has rides and attractions catering to all, with fun gentle rides for the little ones right up to thrilling white knuckle rides for older children, and grown ups of course!

Golf

For the dads the Algarve is hugely attractive due to its celebrated range of golf courses. The most famous is the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course, or "The Penina" which can be found at the Penina Hotel & Golf Resort. It was the very first resort to be built in Portugal and is popular with tourists and locals alike.

Culture

Of course if you are looking for a bit of culture than the Algarve will not disappoint. The region boasts a huge number of castles, churches and monuments to visit where visitors can learn about the fascinating history of the area.

Nature and activities

The stunning natural landscape is perfect for those who love a more active holiday in April in the Algarve and the breathtaking scenery will impress those who love lengthy walks and hikes. The Algarve is the perfect place for those who love to explore, and there are many ways you can get out there and enjoy all that the region has to offer. Wonderful horseback rides are available through the beautiful landscapes or on the stunning beaches, or you can hire quad bikes to get further afield and explore the more rugged parts of the area.

For adrenaline junkies the good weather means there are plenty of outdoor extreme sports to get involved with and ski diving and coasteering proving particularly popular.

Dolphin watching

Boat trips also are popular in the Algarve in April and shark and dolphin watching trips are a particular highlight. If you don’t fancy having a dip in the sea just yet you could try your hand a kayaking or hire a pedal to get out there onto the water!

April is a fantastic time to visit the Algarve, with the weather heating up and plenty to see and do, whether you are a family looking for a fun April break, or a couple looking for that perfect mix of activities and lounging in the sun, the Algarve has plenty to offer.

May

Things to do in the Algarve in May

May is a wonderful time to visit the Algarve. The flowers are in full blossom, the climate is wonderful, and it’s just got warm enough to swim in the sea and lounge on the beautiful beaches that can be found all over the region. 

There are plenty of things to do in the Algarve in May, so whether you are heading there as a family, or with a partner or a group of friends there really is something for everyone. Here is a selection of the best events taking place in the Algarve in May.

May Day, 1^st of May

May Day takes place on the first of May and is a fantastic celebration where you’ll find lots going on all over the region. Here you can join in the fun by heading into the countryside along with the locals and enjoying a picnic lunch in the sunshine. Or, if you prefer to get into the hustle and bustle of it all, then head into the cities for a fiesta style atmosphere where you can enjoy street music, food and dancing.

The May Fair in Azinhal is an event not to miss and if you head to the picturesque village of Azinhal, you can soak up the atmosphere, stroll through the market stalls and sample local foods. In addition to this you’ll find beautiful examples of bobbin lace, basketwork, embroidery, tapestry and weaving of esparto grass - all perfect souvenirs to take home with you and remind you of your memorable trip.

Festa da Pinha- Algarve

Festa da Pinha - this lovely festival celebrates the humble pine cone and takes place on the second of May to commemorate the coming of spring. Here witness men in traditional dress riding proudly through the streets on brightly decorated donkeys. Music is a core part of the festival and you’ll enjoy many bands playing as well as be able to watch the procession of burning torches and an excellent fireworks display.

Tavira sea food festival

"The Gastronomy of the Sea" -is a fun filled festival in Tavira held throughout the month of May where the local restaurants come together to bring you a wealth of culinary delights all inspired by the fresh seafood ingredients on their doorstep!

Sand sculpture Festival- Pera

If you love arts and culture then the international sand sculpture festival at Pêra starts in May  and runs right through until  October. Here you can admire the beautiful sand sculptures created by talented artists. It is in fact known as the largest sand sculpture festival in the world and has been running since 2003!

Sounds of the Atlantic- Ferragudo

Sounds of the Atlantic - For those who love traditional and folk music the Sounds of the Atlantic is a celebration which they will not want to miss. Throughout the whole of May you can enjoy wonderful concerts that take place each night at the Centro de Congressos do Arade in Ferragudo. This is one for the party goers though as music doesn’t usually start until 10pm.

These fantastic events will leave you with lots to do on your holiday in the Algarve in May, so now all that’s left is to remember to bring the sun cream!

June 

Things to do in June in the Algarve

June weather is georgeous if you like warm weather, it is not yet high season, so not so busy, plenty of space at the beaches, and villa rentals are cheaper than the next month when the high season starts. But what to do in June apart from enjoying the sunsine and the beaches? Algarve Housing likes to share with you a few things to undertake in June in the Algarve.

There is plenty to do like dolphin safaris, mountain bike trips, or play a round of golf at one of the renowned golf courses in the Algarve. Or have a lovely  treatment at one of the many Spa hotels, before or after shopping in one of the many large shopping malls.

Here a few events worth going to in June in the Algarve:

Black and White night carvoeiro

18 June

Carvoeiro Black and White Night

The charismatic seaside town of Carvoeiro will be transformed into a fabulous party venue for the 2016 Black and White night. Expect music, dancing, street entertainment, food and drink, and more…. If you’re going, make sure you dress in Black and White!

Goldra Festival

19 June

Goldra Summer Festival- Sao Bras

Take part in this charity event or go along and support the cause! The second Goldra Summer Festival is in aid of the Goldra Dog Sanctuary and promises to be a fun and entertaining event for all the family. Email if you are a musician, band or performing artist and would like to perform on the day.

From 2 pm til 2 am.

Jazz Fest Lagoa

24,25, 26 June

Lagoa Jazz Festival- Fontes de Estombar

This international festival promises three days of quality Jazz music from Big Band sounds to solo artists. A internationally recognized event, Lagoa Jazz Concert is set in the unique and magical Sitio das Fontes. Open each day from 7pm with concerts at 10pm.

Auto Track Day

26 June

Auto Track Day –  Autodrome International do Algarve

This is a great chance to drive your car on one of the best modern-day tracks. Accelerate around a FIA version of the Algarve International Circuit. Participants will be divided into 3 groups: Up to 2000cc | Over 2000cc | Competition. PRICE: €150 – includes lunch, personal accident insurance, timing and photography. For full details and to register for the event, contact AIA.
Email: racingschool@autodromodoalgarve.com Tel: (+351) 927 244 694.

Enjoy the sun, sea and the beaches, and all the things to do in June in the Algarve.

July

Things to do in July in the Algarve Portugal

Beach Party Algarve

Almost July, cannot believe how fast the time files! Summer season started, beaches filling up, sea warming up, almost every night somewhere live music playing… the Algarve is boosting lots of things to do in July in the Algarve, like festivals and partys  For every ones tast there is something, if you want to party till dawn on the beach or enjoy and relax with jazz and classical outdoor music events. Combined with nice food and drinks.

We like to give you a few option of things to do in July in the Algarve, of the many choices you have.

Fest Med 2016

30 June-2 July-Festival Med-Loule

This excellent annual festival celebrating world music, is organised by the Municipality of Loulé and is inspired by the Mediterranean culture. During the event, the historic centre of Loulé is transformed into a parade of artistic events and fusion of cultures. Enjoy on 5 different stages the world music.

1-3 July-Almeda Beer Fest-Faro

Are you a beer lover? – the international craft beer and brewers festival returns to Faro this summer!

This is a chance to taste over 120 types of beer. There will also be various cooking shows and concerts throughout the festival. Entrance is FREE. Cheers!

2 July-Waterfest-Albufeira

Everyone is invited to join the party for this great annual boating event boarding in Vilamoura, with top sounds from Dj’s Carlos Manaca, China, King Bizz and Double B.

Four catamarans will be taking part. Check in 15.30! Do not miss the boat!`

7-10 July-Mercado de Culturas Luz das Velas- Lagoa

This traditional annual cultural market in Lagoa is a magical event illuminated by 12,000 candles. This year the theme is the Celtic culture. There will be Celtic music performances, workshops Celtic, photo exhibitions and Celtic masks, food, crafts and witchcraft rituals.

15-17 July – Ferragudo- live music

3 days music Festival, large stage at the beach, Club Nau, Praia Grande

Moonlight Reggae

22 July – Praia da Falesia, Albufeira – Reggae

Moonlight Reggae Festival with DJ Ben and the Pirates.

Epic Sana Hotel

Jungle book outdoor movie

26 July – Quinta do Lago – Movies in the Park- The Jungle book

With the beautiful backdrop of the Driving Range you can relax in the warmth of an Algarvean summer night, to watch this animation film in 3D on a giant outdoor screen. What’s more, there will be popcorn too – perfect!

Power Boat Race

29-31 July – Power boat Racing- Grand Prix – Portimao- Arade River

Spectacular!

The F1H2O Powerboat World Championship 2016 will be back in the Algarve this July. The F1H20 competirion started in Dubai in March, and will continue in June in Evian, France before returning to Portimão for a fast and furious 3-day Grand Prix on the Arade River.

All summer -No Solo Agua

Portimao, Albufeira and Vilamoura, almost daily partys, from sunset parties till sunrise!

 September

September in the Algarve, is a good month for your holiday in Portugal, for either a beach based holiday or tour of the region.

Why visit the Algarve in September?

We will give you a few reasons:

Less crowded
September in the Algarve, is just after the height of the summer season, which lasts from June to August, and the resorts and facilities are still fully open but the entire region feels less crowded and hectic.

Less warm

The intense summer heat of the Algarve also decreases during September making it more pleasurable for touring, exploring and all adventure activities. The reduced heat and less intense sun make the Algarve much more suitable for families with young children or toddlers.

Lower prices

Visiting the Algarve in September is that the price of the holiday, mainly the cost of flights and accommodation, will be significantly less than in the summer season. There can be bargains in September even so close to the height of tourist season.

Weather in September

The weather of the Algarve in September reflects that of the weather in late spring. A typical day has over 10 hours of sun, reaching a maximum of 26-28°C while cooling to 17-19°C at night. Rain is very infrequent with an average of 2-3 days experiencing some rain per month.

Things to do in September in the Algarve

14-18 September

BPM Festival
Marina de Praia da Rocha

BPM Music Festival

The BPM electronic music festival makes its European debut in the Algarve, Portugal this September at Praia da Rocha, Portimão.

Said to be one of the best electronic music festivals on the planet with world class artists from across the globe, this promises to be a non-stop party held at several venues in Praia da Rocha.

Motorcycling Algarve

15-17 September

Superbike World Championship

The biggest motorcycle race of Portugal. The best riders will compete at the autodromo International Algarve

Mexhiloeira Grande, close to Portimao.

Price: 10 euros.

17 September

Charity BBQ lunch at the River Arade, Silves

Charity lunch Canil Silves

Enjoy this BBQ lunch with nice food, music and other entertainment to raise money for the street dogs and cats of Portimao.

Price: 27.50, including food and drinks.

More information contact: moniquegieling25@gmail.com

18 September

Chiringuito Chic

Armacao de Pera

Praia Dourada Beach restaurant

11am-4pm

22.50 euros ex drinks

Enjoy Praia Dourada’s modern and relaxed atmosphere, with the Spanish-style “Chiringuito Chic” lunch, including live paella cooking, as well as tapas and cocktails, accompanied by the sounds of a live DJ.

27 September-1 October

Algarve Smooth Jazz festival

Algarve Jazz

Vila Vita Parc

Armacao da Pera/Porches

The biggest and best names in Jazz, Soul and Funk will be performing.

65 euros for 1 ticket.

27 September-8 October

Octoberfest at Vila Vita Biergarten Porches

Beerfest at Biergarten

If you thought you had to be in Germany to enjoy a traditional Oktoberfest, think again! All the great tradition of this lively German beer festival is right here in the Algarve!!! Live music and German specialties to eat and ofcourse German beers!

Ofcourse there is much more to do in September in the Algarve!

October

October in the Algarve, the weather can still be nice, but it is a bit of a risk, so bring some warmer clothes with you, as evenings get more chilly. If you lucky you still can sunbathing during the day! Beaches are less crowded, but bars and restaurants are still open, plus cheap deals for rentals! Ideal for your half term holidays!

Algarve Housing, villa rentals Algarve, found a variety of things to do in October in the Algarve, we mention a few, please read below. Have fun, and enjoy the October Algarve, and extend your summer with one of the nice villas we rent!

4-8 October

Sagres Birdwatching Festival

In October, on the west coast of the Algarve, the Sagres peninsula becomes the main crossing point in Portugal for many varieties of migratory birds, as they head towards the warmer climes of Africa.

Birds Algarve

The Sagres Birdwatching Festival is an annual event with some of the best opportunities in the world to observe migratory birds from both the land and the ocean.

7 and 8 October

BLIP-Better Living in Portugal

Portimao Arena- the largest exhibition of its kind I Portugal.

Blip Algarve

Organised by Afpop, BLiP Expo has been bringing businesses and visitors together for 15 years, to raise awareness of products and services available in Portugal

There will be a wide range of exhibitors from a diverse range of sectors including health, financial services, outdoor living, leisure, fashion, security, property, food and wines, and much more. Plus there will be lots of prize opportunities for visitors!

Free entrance, and free parking.

10 October

Leonard Cohen

The Songs of Leonard Cohen – Cine-Teatro Louletano

A tribute to Lenard Cohen marking his 83rd birthday

21.30, Loule

17 October till 1 November

Halloween at Zoomarine

Halloween Algarve

Witches, ghouls and zombies will be out and about at Zoomarine to spook the whole family!

Zoomarine park will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland for 15 days. There will be scary themed decorations, surprises and fun performances. Prepare yourself for a day shrouded in dark mystery – if you’re brave enough!

Zoomarine is one of the biggest Algarve attractions and it gets better every year. It’s a fun day out for all the family and the chance to interact with the dolphins is unmissable.

7-28 October

Classical Concerts by Orquestra Classico do Sul

Classical Music Algarve

Orquestra Clássica do Sul (OCS) celebrates the arrival of autumn with a new musical tour and concert to mark the opening of the new academic year. The tour will continue with a programme of concerts throught October, with chamber music, a guest conductor and a concert honouring John Avery being some of the autumn highlights for lovers of classical music.

Concert Programme
OCS will being their “Light Classics” tour with an ‘opening’ concert at the Municipal Auditorium of Albufeira on October 7th and at the Municipal Museum of Faro on October 8th.

“Stories and Characters” is the opening concert, directed by young conductor Nil Venditti. The young orchestra director is a native of Italy and will be performing for the first time in Portugal.

7th – Albufeira – 9:30 pm
8th – Faro – 6pm

OCS’s “Musical Autumn” cycle features “Baroque Inspirations”, an intimate moment played by a string quartet in the auditorium of the School of Management, Hospitality and Tourism at Penha Campus.

12th – Faro – 7pm
Entrance is free and the event is organised by the University of the Algarve.

Chamber music returns to the Noble Hall of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia in Faro with “American Composers”, which aims to mark the centenary of the death of Scott Joplin and the 150th anniversary of the birth of Amy Beach .

13th – Faro – 7pm

The Chamber Music cycle continues in Silves, in the Church of Alcantarilha with the concert “Baroque Inspirations”.

14th – Alcantarilha – 9pm

OCS will perform the “Concert of Nations” at Cineteatro Louletano as part of the “Loulé Clássico” series. Dedicated to the United Kingdom, the concert will feature works by great British composers. Conducted by Maestro Rui Pinheiro, this concert will feature the solo violinist Jennifer Pike.

19th – Loule – 9.30pm

The John Avery celebration concert will close the October programme.Led my OCS’s Associate Conductor, the concert will be performed at the Grande Auditório de Gambelas and will be presented by well-known writer and storyteller Jorge Serafim.

20-22 October

European Le Mans Series Weekend

Autódromo Internacional do Algarve will be hosting the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) Weekend.

This 3 day event is much more than a race, it’s a great day out for all the family!

Tickets cost €10 each.

November

What to do in the Algarve in November?

The beautiful Algarve is a fantastic place to visit any time of year. If you fancy an out of season holiday you can take advantage of cheaper flights and a quieter time of year. A late autumn holiday can be just the thing to get you refreshed and relaxed in time for the party season, and despite the slightly cooler temperature, the Algarve still boasts a wonderful climate, with over 300 days of sunshine each year, so you are still likely to have some pleasant t-shirt weather (around 17-20 degrees in the shade), so do remember to pack a jumper or two to keep you warm during the slightly chillier evenings.

Algarve Housing like to inform you about what is there to do in the Algarve during November? Well there is still plenty going on, and with wonderful landscapes, cozy cafe’s and great places to eat and drink in the evening you are sure to find plenty to keep you entertained. In fact, one of the great benefits of coming to the Algarve in November is that the cafe’s and restaurants will be less busy, they may have shorter opening hours, but friendly staff will have plenty of time to give you a warm, personalized service, and will happily share their knowledge of the area, and give you fantastic tips on must-see places to visit, and things to do.

In November the Algarve starts to blossom with beautiful flora and fauna, and the cooler temperatures make this a perfect time of year to go on long walks, admiring the landscape, spotting wildlife, or heading down to the stunning stretches of coastline where you can laze on the beach, make sandcastles and take a dip in the beautiful aquamarine sea.

The wonderful festive markets begin to come to life at this time of year too, so when exploring the local towns you are sure to find these, with stalls selling local products such as arts and crafts and food, which make for lovely souvenirs to take home with you. While you are there make sure you grab a bag of warm roasted chestnuts which will put you in the festive holiday spirit! The 11th of November is in fact Dia da São Martinho – the day of St Martin, and if you happen to be in a busier town, or city such as Faro, the streets will come alive for the celebration where roast chestnuts are in abundance, music is played and lanterns are lit and people enjoy tasting the new year’s wine. Traditionally this day is also the last day of the 40 days fast known as Quadragesima Sancti Martin, therefore a fantastic opportunity to eat, drink and be merry with the local residents.

Some wonderful places to visit include the peaceful tranquility of the Barragem de Bravura reservoir where you can take walks through the magnificent national forest and also admire the quaint architecture of the local village of Barao de Sao Joao.

Further inland you can immerse yourself in nature even more by heading into the Sierra de Monchique, where you are sure to be impressed by the dramatic mountainous landscape. The town of Monchique itself is also charming with little cafe’s and shops to explore. While you are there why not take a little detour to the little hamlet of Caldas de Monchique, where the ancient spa waters are said to have fantastic healing properties.

November is a brilliant time of year to visit the Algarve, and with fewer crowds you can enjoy your holiday at a relaxed pace, away from the hustle and bustle and stresses of everyday life. With its temperate climate, activities and sightseeing is far more pleasant, so you can really get out there and see the best that the Algarve has to offer.

December

Things to do in the Algarve in December

December is a wonderful time to visit the Algarve with many wonderful things to see and do. The beaches may not be quite as packed, and a dip on the ocean not quite as appealing, but heading to the Algarve during the winter months means the streets are less busy, the tourist attractions are quieter and you will be able to enjoy your holiday at a more leisurely pace. So what kind of activities and events can you expect to enjoy in the Algarve in December? Read on to find out!

Vila Real de Santo António Christmas Village, Aldeia de Natal

Each year this charming town transforms into a magical Christmas village which both adults and children will enjoy. With quaint market stalls selling homemade goods, an ice drink and live entertainment, if you are in the Algarve in December, this village is well worth a visit.

Christmas Market in Almancil

This will be held at the Jardim das Comunidades, Rua do Centro Comunitario. This annual event features some great entertainment, festive stalls and music from the Salvation Army Band. This year the market will be held on the 6th December, with a special visit from Father Christmas and all proceeds going to Associação Social e Cultural de Almancil (ASCA), which supports local people in need, you are sure to leave feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.

Holiday Inn Hike, Armação de Pêra

Each year the Holiday Inn Algarve put on a fun itinerary of events to get you into the festive spirit. The  Great Father Christmas Walk at Armação de Pêra takes place in December where people are invited to donate their walking shoes, pull on their Christmas jumpers and hike together. They usually host two swimming events too, so for the bravest among you it is a chance to take a dip and raise some money for a good cause. Donations are welcome and go to help buy shoes for children who are in care.

Zoo de Lagos, Barão de São João, Portugal

Every December the Zoo de Lagos turns into a winter wonderland. This is the perfect place to visit if you have children, who will be enthralled with the events and entertainment provided here, as well as the huge ice skating ring of course!

Christmas Shopping

The Algarve is the perfect place to pick up charming and thoughtful Christmas gifts for your loved ones back home. There are some wonderful places to shop in the Algarve from massive department stores and designer boutiques to independent arts and crafts shops, to street markets and fairs. Traditional sweets such as marzipan sweets, and the wonderful Christmas cake ‘Bolo Rei’, which has a topping of candied fruit, along with a glass of mulled wine will give you the energy to shop until you drop!

Concerts and Music

Throughout December be sure to catch a Christmas concert in the Algarve. They are held all over the region, but usually the Philharmonic Association of Faro put on a good show, and the The Algarve Rock Choir, who teamed up with the Sâo Bras Sally Army last year are a real treat.

So if you are visiting the Algarve in December with these great activities you are sure to have fun and really get into the festive spirit! 

Villas for rent

All our villas Algarve are unique and each one offers something special. You can choose from holiday villas located in orange groves, hilltop windmills with outstanding views, luxury villas and manor houses with tennis courts. It's your choice!

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Special Offers

Did you just decide to pack your bags and rent a nice holiday villa in the Algarve? And are you looking for a bargain? Check out our last minute super deals for available weeks left in one of the beautiful holiday villas we offer. Book your private sun lounge now!

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