EuropeFamily, cliffside coves, golf, chilled

The Algarve

Europe's best coastline per euro spent

150km of dramatic ochre cliffs, sea caves and hidden coves. Cheaper than Spain, warmer than Cornwall, better organised than Croatia. Perfect for a first family beach holiday abroad — everyone speaks English, direct flights from every UK/EU airport, and grilled sardines cost €8.

Best months

May – October

Water temperature

18–22°C (Atlantic — cooler than Med)

Realistic daily budget

$90–150/day mid-range apartment, rental car, tavernas

Country

Portugal

Why go

Benagil Cave — the world-famous sea cave (kayak tour, book early)
Direct low-cost flights from 40+ EU airports to Faro
Cheaper eating out than Spain or Greece
Perfect for renting a car — no highway tolls if you pick coastal routes

The beaches worth your day

Praia da Marinha

Consistently voted top-10 beach in Europe. Small, cliff-backed, snorkel-friendly.

Praia da Falésia

6km of red-cliff beach — never feels crowded even in August.

Praia do Camilo

200 wooden steps down. Empty by 6pm — golden-hour swim is unreal.

How to book smart

Faro (FAO) has aggressive low-cost fares via Aviasales. Rent a car — public transport barely reaches the beaches. Skip Albufeira's strip if you don't want a party crowd.

The honest downside

Atlantic water is 18–20°C even in July — cooler than the Med. Great for hot days, less so for long swims.

Country guide

Portugal overview

Itinerary

Portugal day-by-day plan

Entry rules

Portugal visa & entry