With 200 kilometres of coastline, the Algarve is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. Its excellent golf courses and pleasant year-round climate are just some of the reasons to visit this area in the south of Portugal.

The Algarve covers 4,986 square kilometres, is kissed by the Atlantic and is separated from the rest of Portugal by a range of low mountains. To the east, the Guadiana River forms a natural border with neighbouring country Spain. The region’s capital, Faro, is built around a charming port on the banks of a large lagoon. Its main attractions include the Maritime Museum and a 13th century cathedral.

-Curious fact:
The seven periods of European architectural history are represented on the banknotes. The bridges symbolize the dynamics of cooperation and communication, whilst the gateways symbolize the European spirit of openness. Each banknote has a dominant colour for easy identification. The larger the banknote's value the greater its size.

-Recommended Visit:
In the Algarve, both the quality and the variety of the cuisine deserve a special mention. As a recommended visit, we suggest that you try one of the region’s restaurants and discover the marvels of Portuguese cooking.
Grilled fish and goose barnacles on a beach in Cabo de San Vicente, ”cataplanas” (seafood stews), fish soup, baby squid sprinkled with lemon, Portimão’s traditional roast sardines accompanied by a “montañesa” salad in Cacela, Tuna steaks in Tavira, octopus in Santa Luzia, clams, razor clams and oysters from Baleeira, Alvor and the Ria Formosa, squid and baby squid from all across the Algarve, as well as all the seafood delights that a land of fishermen has to offer.
Nonetheless, the Algarve also has mountains and therefore also boasts traditional inland dishes such as chick-pea stew, fruits and nuts such as almonds, oranges and figs used to flavour desserts such as “morgados” and “Dom Rodrigos” cookies. Among these fruits are also those that are used to flavour liquors and “aguardientes” such as berries from the mountain “strawberry trees” and bitter almond. These drinks taste best very cold.  Click Here for More Factoids...