Alvor

Travel Guide
Tres Irmaos Beach which includes general coastal views and a sandy beach
Found in the western part of Algarve, Alvor is a charming ancient village on the southern coast of Portimão. Situated at the mouth of the Alvor estuary it offers incredible scenic views, with the Atlantic Ocean to one side and the calm lagoon on the other.

With narrow streets, whitewashed houses, golden beaches and rocky cliffs this fishing village is the perfect match between heritage and natural beauty.

Castle of Alvor

The castle was constructed in the 7th Century AD and would become the basis of a Roman settlement. It was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, however, the wall remain and offer visitors a fantastic panoramic view of the sea. Plus, if you are with the kids, you have the bonus of a children's playground.

Megalithis Monuments in Alcalar

The megalithic tombs of Alcalar are old memorial temples, which date back to the 3rd millennium. They were left undiscovered until the late 19th Century. Today, some of these tombs are now open to the visiting public. There is also a visitor centre where you can learn more about the day-to-day life of this prehistoric community.

Church of the Divino Salvador de Alvor

The Church of the Divino Salvador de Alvor is a magnificent Catholic church with an impressive 18th century Manueline style entranceway. The interior has an intriguing mixture of Baroque and Rococo influences. It’s an impressive attraction that’s well worth taking an afternoon to explore.

Morabito de São João

The St. John Morabito is a curious hermitage-like mosque situated in the local graveyard. There is an inscription that marks the Christianization of the temple:

Ego sum vox clamantis in deserto – ‘I am a voice clamouring in the desert’

A singular attraction, you won’t want to miss getting a snap of this unique piece of architecture.

Villa Abicada

Inhabited between the 1st and 4th century AD, the ruins of this Roman Villa has a geometrical plan with wide views of the lagoon and the sea. Be sure to check out the colourful and beautifully preserved mosaic floors.

Sculpture tribute to the Fisherman

On the waterfront of Alvor, visitors will find a stone sculpture by respected Portuguese sculptor, João Cutileiro. A tribute to the fishing community, this 4 metre tall sculpture depicts a fisherman holding his prized catch of fish aloft in the sky.

Beaches

There are four beaches within easy reach from Alvor: Alvor, Torralta, Three Brothers and Prainha Beaches.

Alvor Beach marks the division between the ocean and the estuary. With great facilities, such as bars and restaurants, and easy parking, this is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve.

Torralta has clear, warm waters, with a long sandy beach. It’s close to several hotels and restaurants, making it very convenient and a favourite with families.

Three Brothers Beach is located on a long, wide sandy stretch, bordered by rocks from which you can view a pretty spectacular sunset. Prainha has a beach club with a nice swimming pool, and a chillout area and bar serving snacks and drinks.

Activities

There’s plenty to keep the active holidaymaker occupied in Alvor. Alvor Beach’s scenic boardwalk is a gem for any runner. If you really want to get the adrenaline pumping, skydiving in the area is spectacular and offers amazing views of the coastline. There’s also plenty of boat tours that let you explore the scenic coastline and local marine wildlife swim to the caves and, if the tide is right, stop at a sand bank to collect shells.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Alvor has a lively bar scene where you can enjoy live music, top DJs, or just have a quiet drink before the setting sun. There’s also a great selection of restaurants serving both traditional Portuguese fish dishes and international cuisine.

Where to stay in Alvor

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Alagoas

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Alagoas and surrounding area, you can visit Alvor Boardwalk and Tres Irmaos Beach.

Alagoas
Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach
Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach
4 out of 5
Rua do Barinel Praia de Alvor, Portimão
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P3,535 per night from 15 Nov to 16 Nov
P3,535
P3,873 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Stay at this 4-star beach hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (130 reviews)
"The property is in great condition, perfect location-- close to supermarket & just few mins from the Alvor beach and very pleasant staff 💙 Highly recommend if you are seeking a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of a city life. Thank you for the wonderful stay🙏"

Reviewed on Oct 23, 2024

Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach
Tivoli Alvor Algarve - All Inclusive Resort
Tivoli Alvor Algarve - All Inclusive Resort
5 out of 5
Avenida José Saramago, Amoreira, Portimão, Portimão
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 6 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (122 reviews)
"It was an amazing experience for me and the kids. From the warm welcome to the luxurious rooms, every detail was perfect. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the views were stunning. The dining options were outstanding—each meal was delicious and beautifully presented. The facilities, including ..."

Reviewed on Oct 29, 2024

Tivoli Alvor Algarve - All Inclusive Resort
Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel
Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel
5 out of 5
Praia dos Três Irmaos, Alvor, Portimão
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P7,419 per night from 15 Nov to 16 Nov
P7,419
P7,991 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Stay at this 5-star beach hotel in Portimão. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (431 reviews)
"Food was beyond excellent. The hotel was beautiful. The room was clean. The hotel staff were very nice and helpful. My only small disappointment was there was no hot tub. There was a cold tub outside of the gym. I am not sure if that was supposed to be a hot tub and it was just broken or not? Would ..."

Reviewed on Oct 22, 2024

Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences
Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences
3 out of 5
Praia de Alvor, Alvor, Portimão
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Alvor Beach and Rocha Beach are located ...
8/10 Very Good! (212 reviews)
"Beautiful beach close by lots of free parking our room was updated and very clean would stay again."

Reviewed on Nov 1, 2024

Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences
Alvormar Apartamentos Turísticos
Alvormar Apartamentos Turísticos
4 out of 5
Rua D. Sancho I, n 9 / 11, Alvor, Portimão
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (79 reviews)
"A central location but quiet at night! Great views, really clean rooms, modern bathroom! Staff weren't overly friendly, polite but a little stern."

Reviewed on Nov 3, 2024

Alvormar Apartamentos Turísticos
Dunas do Alvor - Torralvor
Dunas do Alvor - Torralvor
3 out of 5
Estrada da Barca, Dunas do Alvor, Bloco C, Recepção, Portimão, Faro
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Portimão. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Alvor Beach and Rocha Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (24 reviews)
"Great place to stay, beautiful town, easy laundry facility and clean beautiful pool. Easy drive to other popular locations. Friendly and helpful front desk staff."

Reviewed on Jul 15, 2024

Dunas do Alvor - Torralvor
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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