The Algarve, with its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture, ranks as one of Europe's premier destinations. Whether you're traveling with family, your significant other, friends, or going it alone, the Algarve promises an unforgettable experience. For solo travellers, in particular, this Portuguese gem should be at the top of your list. The most southern region in Portugal, the Algarve offers amazing beaches and scenery, fabulous food, a vibrant yet relaxed vibe, and generally very safe travel experiences – Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

Check out this ultimate guide for solo travellers. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, the Algarve has you covered. So, let's dive into what makes this region a solo traveller's paradise.

Safety First - is it safe to travel solo in the Algarve?
Safety is paramount, especially for solo travellers. The good news is that the Algarve is not just safe; it's consistently ranked among the safest places in the world. Crime is relatively low, and you can explore with confidence.

Portuguese people are known for their warmth and willingness to help. If you ever feel unsure or need assistance, don't hesitate to ask. Even if you don't speak Portuguese, English is widely spoken in the Algarve. Local law enforcement, including the GNR and PSP, typically speak English and are usually helpful.

Transportation between major towns is convenient and affordable, thanks to a well-connected network of buses and trains. Stations are centrally located, and information on schedules and prices is readily available online.




 
Getting around the Algarve
Solo travellers can easily get around between the bigger towns in the Algarve, by train or bus. There are good connections between Faro, Albufeira, Portimão and Lagos. You can catch local buses or trains to travel, both are inexpensive. You can find information about schedules and prices online and check out this info on public transport in the Algarve. 
 
The bus terminals and train stations are generally quite central in the cities, so you can always ask at your accommodation how to get there. Bus drivers and ticket sellers usually speak some English, so you can ask for help or more information if needed.

Alternatively, renting a car gives you a lot more freedom to explore, travelling at your own speed and where your whims take you. This is a great way to discover the hidden gems of the Algarve and to see the best of the coastline, as public transport coverage in less densely populated areas can be spotty.

• Check out these great scenic drives you can enjoy by yourself.
• Take a look at our tips on what you should know before renting a car in Portugal

If you prefer not to drive, you can join guided trips to places like the renowned Benagil sea cave or the stunning Ria Formosa - see our in-depth guide to the Ria Formosa. Boat tours, off-road jeep safaris, and captivating walking routes abound, offering diverse ways to explore the Algarve's beauty.

• Find out more about some of the best walks in the Algarve.
• Find amazing experiences in the Algarve

 
How to meet people
When travelling solo in the Algarve, it's always nice to meet new people from all over the world and make deep connections during the time spent together. In the Algarve, this is super easy and you will be able to find people from every corner of the planet to connect with! In Albufeira and Lagos especially, there are large backpacking communities, and the cities are filled with hostels and opportunities for meeting people! 

There is a growing population of digital nomads in the Algarve, in Faro, Portimão and other towns, with regular networking events and meetups which are a great way of finding new friends.
 
Did you know that Lagos and Albufeira are also famous for the buzzing nightlife? Lagos, particularly, is a magnet for travellers looking for a fun time, and funny enough, it is full of Australians during summer! But not only Aussies, Americans, Asians and of course people from all over Europe love to stop by Lagos and spend some time there, thanks to the fun vibe the city has to offer day and night. Oh, and of course also because of the stunning beaches that are all within walking distance from the centre. Lagos is also the last stop on the train service in the western Algarve, so it is an obvious spot for travellers to congregate.


 
Things to do in the Algarve as a solo traveller
When travelling the Algarve by yourself there are plenty of things you can do that don't require any company at all! First off there are of course the most amazing beaches all along the coast, blessed with white sand and turquoise waters. In all the coastal towns there are many beaches that you can simply walk to when staying around the town. So if you love the beach, you will have plenty of them to choose from during your time in the Algarve. 
 
But even if you're not a beach bum you can do a lot of fun things around the region. Watersports in the Algarve are very popular, and there's a lot to choose from! No matter if you would like to do a Kayak Tour to Benagil, a Stand-Up Paddle Tour around the Ponta da Piedade or maybe even try out Flyboard in the Algarve - there's something for everyone and all around the Algarve!
 
Surfing in the Algarve is also a big thing, and people from all over the world come here to enjoy the consistently good conditions and the broad variety of excellent surf spots. You can join one of the local surf schools around the coast to learn how to surf in the Algarve, which is a really good way to meet new people! 
See our guide to the best surf spots in the Algarve


 
Best places in the Algarve to stay for solo travellers
 So as you can see, the Algarve is a real paradise for solo travellers. But the Algarve is also quite big, and there are many different places you can stay. However, we definitely have a Top 3 of best places in the Algarve to stay for solo travellers:

1. Lagos 

Lagos is the ultimate backpacking destination in the Algarve and heaven for everybody looking for a vibrant town with stunning beaches and endless possibilities. There are amazing beaches like Praia da Batata, Praia Dona Ana, Porto de Mos or the amazingly long Meia Praia beach, that are all within walking distance from the charming city centre. Plus, you have a lot of different hostels to choose from, at fair prices and with very international clients. And for those seeking some adventure, there are a lot of different activities to choose from when staying in Lagos. Did you know that you can even do dolphin watching from Lagos? Oh, and not to forget the buzzing nightlife and interesting events Lagos has to offer! All in all, Lagos is a real paradise for solo travellers in the Algarve.

 

2. Albufeira

Albufeira is even more of a party hotspot than Lagos and is one of the busiest Algarve towns, but that of course also means more people you can meet! In Albufeira you can spend the days relaxing at one of the close-by beaches like Fisherman's Beach, Praia da Oura, Praia do Inatel, and the nights going loco at the numerous bars and clubs along The Strip. Albufeira is (in)famous for the wild nights it has to offer, so if you're looking for a lot of party, Albufeira is the place to be! To top up your Vitamin D and sunshine levels, and to get some refreshment after a wild night, you can also enjoy a boat tour or even a SUP Tour in Albufeira!
Read our detailed guide to Albufeira.

3. Sagres

Often overlooked, but definitely worth being on the top list of places for solo travellers in the Algarve is the small coastal town of Sagres, in the far west end of the Algarve. Especially those looking to start surfing during their stay in the Algarve and like to be around the surfer vibe, Sagres is a great destination. There are a lot of small hostels around Sagres and a big surfer community comes with a lot of cool cafés and fun bars to hang out at, making it a great spot to meet people while traveling solo. 
Read our detailed guide to Sagres.


 
One thing is for sure, the Algarve has a lot to offer for solo travellers and should be on the bucket list of anybody looking for some fun beach time and meeting great new people in one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe!