Algarve — living and buying a home with a view between Lagos, Vilamoura and Tavira
NUTS II region · Atlantic South Algarve Golden cliffs, marinas and golf. The southernmost region of mainland Portugal.
The Essence
The Algarve is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal. To the west are the cliffs of Lagos and Sagres; in the centre, Vilamoura and the Golden Triangle; to the east, the Ria Formosa and Tavira.
It has an international airport in Faro, golf courses, marinas and a large international community, with life all year round in the main towns.
Why Live Here
Sunshine
More than 300 days of sun a year and mild winters.
Beaches
From the cliffs of the Barlavento to the sands of the Ria Formosa.
Golf
Dozens of courses, mainly between Vilamoura and Quinta do Lago.
Faro Airport
Direct flights to many European cities.
Marinas
Lagos, Portimão, Vilamoura and Albufeira.
International community
International schools and services in several languages.
Culture & Festivals
February, Loulé
Loulé Carnival
One of the oldest carnivals in the country.
June–July, Loulé
MED Festival
World music in the historic centre.
August, Olhão
Seafood Festival
Seafood, concerts and the lagoon in the background.
August, Portimão
Sardine Festival
Grilled sardines by the Arade river.
Regional Calendar
The cuisine of the Algarve
Cataplana
Seafood and fish cooked in the copper pan that gives the dish its name.
Santa Luzia Octopus
Octopus from the «octopus capital», near Tavira.
Xarém
Cornmeal porridge with clams or wedge shells.
Almond and Fig Sweets
Regional sweets shaped like fruit and animals.
The Algarve on the map
Map © OpenStreetMap
Areas of the Algarve
Price/m²: median value of home sales over the last 12 months in the municipality shown (INE, Q2 2026). Time to the airport: by car, without traffic (OSRM and OpenStreetMap, measured on 24/10/2026). These are references, not valuations.
What You Need to Know
What is the Golden Triangle?
It is the area between Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, in the municipality of Loulé, known for golf and luxury homes.
What is the difference between Barlavento and Sotavento?
The Barlavento is the western part, with cliffs. The Sotavento is the eastern part, with the Ria Formosa and sandy beaches.
Is there life in the Algarve outside summer?
Yes, especially in Faro, Portimão, Lagos, Loulé and Tavira.
Other Regions You May Like
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