Rick Steves’ Europe: Algarve, Portugal

On Portugal’s south coast, The Algarve is home to both sun-seeking tourists and working fishermen with their colorful boats

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Robert Harding Picture Library Ltd / Alamy

Algarve, Portugal

Algarve Portugal rocky coast
(Robert Harding Picture Library Ltd / Alamy)

The dramatic coastline of the Algarve still bears visible traces of its Moorish past while it lures sun worshippers to its beaches.

Salema

Algarve Portugal Salema Natural Park
(Cro Magnon / Alamy)

The idyllic fishing village of Salema features unspoiled shore and small cafes.

Salema Beach

Salema Beach
(Robert Wright)

In Salema, fishermen and tourists alike are laid back. Visitors find perfect weather and friendly residents.

Beachside Bites

Squids in Algarve Portugal
(Paul C. Pet / Corbis)

Octopuses dry in the sun. In Portugal, restaurants are allowed to build temporary, summer-only beachside restaurants.

Algarve, Portugal

Algarve Portugal map
(Guilbert Gates)

Five hundred years ago, Sagres Point marked the end of the world for Europeans.

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