Two stretches of golden Algarve coastline

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Which Algarve town is right for you?

Side-by-side, honest comparisons of atmosphere, beaches, nightlife, families, food and more — curated by our editors.

Golden sandstone cliffs rising over turquoise water near Lagos

Lagos

Sun umbrellas lined along a golden beach in Albufeira

Albufeira

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Lagos vs Albufeira

The two most popular bases in the Algarve take opposite approaches to the same coastline: Lagos wraps dramatic cliffs in a historic old town, while Albufeira turns beach-and-bar energy into an art form. Both work brilliantly — for different travellers.

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Golden sandstone cliffs rising over turquoise water near Lagos

Lagos

Cliff-backed cove with clear water near Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro

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Head to head

Lagos vs Carvoeiro

Two towns defined by the same golden cliffs, at different volumes. Lagos is a small city with a marina and a walled centre; Carvoeiro is a single whitewashed bay that grew a promenade. The choice is really about scale.

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Clear turquoise water along the coastline close to Tavira

Tavira

Boats moored in the marina of Vilamoura

Vilamoura

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Tavira vs Vilamoura

East versus central, soul versus polish. Tavira is church bells and island ferries; Vilamoura is yachts, fairways and linen. They bookend what the Algarve can feel like — often within the same holiday week.

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Cliff-backed cove with clear water near Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro

Sun umbrellas lined along a golden beach in Albufeira

Albufeira

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Head to head

Carvoeiro vs Albufeira

Neighbouring towns on the same golden stretch of coast with completely opposite tempos. Carvoeiro keeps its fishing-village manners; Albufeira hosts the biggest party on the peninsula.

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